First time at Leeds Castle? Here’s a practical guide to Leeds Castle opening hours, ticket prices, parking and how to get there, with clear tips to help you plan a smooth day out.
Brief history of Leeds Castle
Founded on an island site, Leeds evolved from a Norman stronghold to a royal residence for medieval queens, then to a country house remodelled in the 19th and 20th centuries by Lady Baillie, who opened it to the public in the 1970s. Today it’s a broad estate with gardens, play areas and seasonal displays.
How to get to Leeds Castle
How to get to Leeds Castle by car: leave the M20 at Junction 8 and follow brown signs to ME17 1PL. The entrance is well signposted from the A20.
By rail, the nearest stations are Bearsted and Hollingbourne. If you travel car-free (train, bus or bike) the castle offers 20% off entry. Use the Good Journey website to plan a visit using public transport.
Day tours taking in the best of Kent are also available from London.
Why book the Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Dover Day Trip?
- 🏰 Explore Leeds Castle, known as the “loveliest castle in the world,” with its 900-year history and stunning lakeside setting
- ⛪ Visit Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture
- 🌊 Admire the White Cliffs of Dover, iconic symbols of Britain with breathtaking coastal views
- 🚌 Enjoy a comfortable, guided journey through the scenic Kent countryside
- ⏱ Duration: approximately 10 hours, with ample time at each location
Leeds Castle opening hours
Opening hours (typical)
- Grounds & gardens: 10:00–18:00 (last entry 16:00)
- The Castle: 10:30–17:00 (last entry 16:30)
Hours vary on some dates and reduce in winter and for special events. Always check the day’s timetable before you travel.
Leeds Castle ticket prices
Discounted online prices vs on-site (pay once, visit for 12 months)
| Explorer Ticket (grounds, gardens & attractions) | Adult £33 online / £36.50 on-site Child (3–15) £23.50 / £26.50 Family 1 (1 adult + up to 3 children) £83 / £92.50 Family 2 (2 adults + up to 3 children) £109.50 / £122 |
| Ultimate Explorer (includes Black Swan ferry trips and round of adventure golf) | Adult £43.50 online / £47 on-site Child (3–15) £31.50 / £34 Family 2 (2 adults + up to 3 children) £109 / £118.50 |
Concessions: Adult Disabled + Carer £28.50 online / £33.50 on-site (child disabled + carer available). Tickets are valid for unlimited repeat visits for 12 months.
Parking at Leeds Castle
Parking at Leeds Castle is included in your admission ticket; the main car park opens shortly before the grounds. There are accessible spaces close to the pathway towards the entrance.
Best time to visit and how long to allow
For a quieter experience, go on weekday mornings outside school holidays. Early entry lets you reach the castle rooms before tour groups, then loop back through the gardens after lunch.
Allow 4–5 hours for first visits, including the castle, maze, Bird of Prey Centre and a café stop.
Nearby attractions to combine in a day
- Kent Life, a family farm and heritage village on the River Medway.
- Maidstone Museum for quick culture and a café stop.
- Mote Park for lakeside walks if you want more green space after the castle.
Other attractions in Kent worth considering include Dover Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Hever Castle, Chartwell and the Chatham Historic Dockyard.
FAQ: Practical questions
- Are the paths wheelchair-friendly? Many outdoor routes are step-free; wheelchairs are available to borrow free of charge from the estate team. The castle website has an admirably detailed accessibility section, allowing you to judge according to your own needs.
- Is there accessible parking? Yes. Parking is included with admission and accessible bays are provided in the main car park.
- Are pushchairs allowed in the castle? Pushchairs aren’t permitted inside the castle; use the buggy park at the Gate Tower. Consider a baby carrier for the rooms.
- Are photos allowed? Hand-held photography is allowed inside and out; no flash in the castle.
- Can I bring my own food? Picnics are welcome in the grounds; there are also cafés and the Castle View Restaurant on site.
- When is it quietest? Typically early on weekday mornings outside school holidays and special events.
- Do I need to pre-book? Not required if you already have a valid ticket, but booking online gives the best price.
