Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle sits on two small islands in a lake near Maidstone, Kent. A Saxon structure existed here by 857, rebuilt in stone by Robert de Crevecoeur in 1119. Eleanor of Castile acquired it in 1278, and Edward I enhanced the defences, probably creating the surrounding lake and adding a barbican. Henry VIII transformed it in 1519 for Catherine of Aragon.
In 1978 it hosted preparatory talks between Egyptian, Israeli, and US foreign ministers for the Camp David Accords, and in 2004 it was the venue for Northern Ireland peace negotiations led by Tony Blair. Open to the public, it features a yew-tree maze, a birds of prey centre, and the world's only dog collar museum.
Visitor information
- Location
- United Kingdom
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Tier
- B (Great castles)
- Coordinates
- 51.2489, 0.63
- Official site
- http://www.leeds-castle.com/
Frequently asked questions
- Where is Leeds Castle?
- Leeds Castle is in United Kingdom, United Kingdom (approximately 51.2489, 0.63).
- Can you visit Leeds Castle?
- Yes — Leeds Castle is open to visitors; see the official site at http://www.leeds-castle.com/ for hours and tickets.
- What tier is Leeds Castle on the Castle Atlas?
- Leeds Castle is rated B tier on the Castle Atlas — Great castles.
- What can you see at Leeds Castle?
- Leeds Castle sits on two small islands in a lake near Maidstone, Kent. A Saxon structure existed here by 857, rebuilt in stone by Robert de Crevecoeur in 1119. Eleanor of Castile acquired it in 1278, and Edward I enhanced the defences, probably creating the surrounding lake and adding a barbican. Henry VIII transformed it in 1519 for Catherine of Aragon.
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