London to Leeds Castle Day Trip Itinerary
Looking for a day trip from London that blends medieval history, lush gardens, and a touch of royal intrigue? A journey from London to Leeds Castle offers all that and more. Often dubbed “the loveliest castle in the world,” this Kentish gem is just over an hour from Central London and makes for an unforgettable countryside escape.
I’ve been visiting London since 2010 and return 2–3 times a year—it’s one of my favorite cities worldwide. I’m also a massive fan of the English countryside, especially the Cotswolds, and almost every trip includes a weekend getaway or a day trip beyond the city. While living in London in 2019, I took the opportunity to take many day trips out of London.
Leeds Castle was one of the most enjoyable trips that I took. If you are looking to visit a more off-the-beaten-path castle, Leeds Castle is the one! This may be controversial, but skip Warwick Castle. It is the equivalent of going to Medieval Times in the US. It is very commercial.
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Why Visit Leeds Castle?
- A medieval masterpiece with over 900 years of history
- Set on 500 acres of parkland with stunning castle grounds
- Home to a Bird of Prey Centre with free falconry displays
- Once a royal residence for England’s medieval queens, including Henry VIII’s first wife, Catherine of Aragon
- Recently restored rooms reflect the glamorous tastes of Lady Baillie, the last private owner
- Ideal for all ages, from romantic strolls to family-friendly adventures
Quick Overview
- Distance from London: Approximately 42 miles
- Travel Time: ~1 hour by car; ~1 hour 13 minutes by train
- Best Time to Visit: April to September for mild weather and blooming gardens
- Admission Tickets: Adult £26; Child £17 (Check official website for updated ticket prices)
- Great Way to Explore: Join a Leeds Castle tour with a private guide or private car transfers for a more personalized experience
How to get from London to Leeds Castle
By Train
- Depart from: London Victoria Station
- Arrive at: Hollingbourne Station
- Train Time: ~1 hour 13 minutes
- Final Stretch: Take a 5-minute taxi ride or a 30–40 minute walk to the main entrance
- Booking Tip: Use Trainline to check train tickets, compare advertised prices, and find frequent services
By Car
- Route: Take M20, Junction 8
- Travel Time: ~1 hour from Central London
- Navigation Tip: Follow white tourist signs as you approach the castle grounds
- Parking: On-site car parking available
by Coach Tour
- Departure Point: Victoria Coach Station
- Combine with: A Stonehenge & Bath or Canterbury Tales package for a broader history tour.
- Extras: Some tours offer private viewing areas or include access to UNESCO World Heritage Sites nearby
Best Things to Do at Leeds Castle
Tour the Historic Interiors
Explore the richly decorated rooms of this Norman stronghold, which evolved over the centuries into a Jacobean country house and later a Georgian mansion. The upper floor houses elegant rooms showcasing Lady Baillie’s 1920s lifestyle, complete with her art, furniture, and chic sensibilities.
Wander the Castle Grounds
The extensive grounds are a botanical delight. From carpets of daffodils in spring to the romantic Lady Baillie Garden overlooking the lake, this is an ideal place to take in the tranquil countryside. The sculpture trails throughout the parkland are a hidden gem for art lovers.
Attend a Falconry Display
The Bird of Prey Centre offers free falconry displays that are both thrilling and educational. Regular visitors love this immersive experience, which is often ranked as a highlight of the Leeds Castle tour.
Dive into Royal History
Leeds Castle has seen its share of drama. From Archbishop Thomas Becket seeking refuge to Henry VIII staying here with Catherine of Aragon, its halls echo with stories of power, politics, and romance. Later, it passed to Lord Conway and evolved into a stately private property.
Explore the Maze and Grotto
Find your way to the center of the hedge maze, then descend into the fantasy-like grotto underneath, complete with mythical carvings. It’s a fun and unexpected twist to your visit.
Sample Day Trip Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
| 8:00 AM | Depart from London Victoria |
| 9:15 AM | Arrive at Hollingbourne, taxi to castle entrance |
| 9:45 AM | Begin exploring the historic Leeds Castle |
| 11:30 AM | Walk the castle grounds and sculpture trails |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch at the Castle View Restaurant |
| 1:30 PM | See a falconry display at the Bird of Prey Centre |
| 2:30 PM | Wander the gardens, maze, and grotto |
| 4:00 PM | Afternoon tea or a walk around the golf course |
| 5:00 PM | Return to Hollingbourne Station |
| 6:15 PM | Arrive back in London |
Where to Eat
- Castle View Restaurant: Traditional English meals with views of the moat
- Fairfax Restaurant: Lighter fare, ideal for lunch or tea
- Nearby Pubs: Try one of the country pubs near Maidstone or Ashford International after your visit
Best Time to Visit Leeds Castle
- Spring (Mar-May): Enjoy daffodils and blossoms with mild temps
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Best for picnics and long days in the gardens
- Autumn (Sep-Nov): Fall colors and fewer crowds—great for photos
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Christmas at the Castle is a festive experience with fewer visitors
Tips for a Longer Visit
- Extend your trip with a night in nearby Canterbury or by the Channel Ports
- Take a Thames River cruise or add an afternoon Cotswolds tour the day before
- Look into short breaks with private transfers for a romantic countryside getaway
Key Takeaways
- Travel Time: Just over 1 hour from London
- Perfect for: Couples, families, and history lovers
- Plan Ahead: Book admission tickets and trains early for the best deals
- Make It Special: Upgrade with a private tour or a professional guide
- Accessibility: Easy to reach via public transportation or private car transfers
Looking for more London day trips?
- Ultimate 5 days in London Itinerary for first time Visitors
- Oxford Day Trip from London by Train
- Best Day Trip By Train from London Under 3 hours
Final Travel Tips for London to Leeds Castle
- Use Trainline to find direct trains and reserve seats
- Watch for combined day tours including Dover Castle and the famous White Cliffs of Dover
- Bring a rain jacket or umbrella—the South of England weather can shift quickly
- Download offline maps and Travelers Toolkits before arriving
FAQs: London to Leeds Castle
Is Leeds Castle worth visiting on a day trip from London?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most stunning castles in the UK, offering a mix of royal history, picturesque landscapes, and unique experiences like falconry and maze walks—all easily accessible from London.
How long should I plan to spend at Leeds Castle?
Plan for at least 4–5 hours to enjoy the interiors, grounds, gardens, displays, and a meal. You might want even longer if you have kids or want to explore slowly.
Can I take public transportation to Leeds Castle?
Yes! You can take a direct train from London Victoria to Hollingbourne Station, then grab a 5-minute taxi to the castle. It’s a smooth and scenic route.
Are there guided tours available?
Yes—Leeds Castle offers audio guides, and you can also book a private guide or join a coach tour from London with extras like Canterbury and Dover Castle.
What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring layers for changing weather, and don’t forget your camera. A light raincoat or umbrella is a good idea if visiting in spring or fall.
Can I combine Leeds Castle with another attraction?
Yes! Many day tours include stops at nearby highlights like the White Cliffs of Dover, Canterbury Cathedral, or even an afternoon Cotswolds tour.
Ready to discover the magic of one of England’s finest historic sights? A day trip from London to Leeds Castle is an unforgettable experience filled with history, romance, and countryside beauty just waiting to be explored.