Grand tour
This summer, delight your senses with the spectacular gardens of the historical icon, Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle, located in Kent, was once described as ‘the loveliest castle in the world’ by historian Lord Conway, and it’s easy to see why when you set foot in its exquisite grounds. The castle boasts more than 500 acres of stunning gardens and parkland, an abundance of wildlife, and attractions and adventure aplenty – not to mention its rich history. No matter how many times you visit, there are always new wonders to be experienced and fresh sights to be marvelled at.
PAST AND PRESENT
Leeds Castle began as a Norman stronghold in the 11th century, before becoming the private property of six of England’s medieval queens. It was then used as a palace by Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon. When the Tudor dynasty ended, the building took on the identity of a Jacobean country house, but later reverted to a more traditional style of castle that is still evident today. Under the ownership of Lady Baillie in the early 20th century, it was transformed into a retreat for the influential and famous. When she died in 1974, she left the castle and its grounds to the speciallycreated charity, the Leeds Castle Foundation. Now, it is one of Britain’s most visited historic buildings.
GARDEN VARIETY
The Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden Terrace is a firm favourite among Leeds Castle visitors. Designed by landscape architect Christopher Carter, the exotic garden is an ideal spot for relaxing and enjoying the superb views across the Great Water. The Culpeper Garden, meanwhile, has a much more English feel to it, with roses, lupins and poppies dispersed among exotic blooms to create a sea of colour and scent. Originally the castle’s kitchen garden, it became a cut flower garden under Lady Baillie’s ownership, before being turned into a large cottage garden by designer Russell Page in 1980.
Last but not least, the Woodland Garden, which lies alongside the River Len, is a wonderful way to approach the castle. The carpet of daffodils and anemones offers a striking burst of vibrancy, and later in the year visitors can enjoy the splendour of azaleas and rhododendrons too. The Woodland Garden is currently undergoing a redevelopment, which over the next few years, will see it transform into six individual gardens that will excite the senses. Leeds Castle also has a moat that can be appreciated from a guided tour on a punt from April to October.