Leeds Castle

Having successfully invaded England in 1066, the Normans needed to build fortified castles to protect themselves against the angry English rabble. Leeds Castle is a fine example of their defensive architecture. Edward I, Edward III, Richard II and Henry V all held court at Leeds Castle but it was from the time of Henry VIII that it became a renowned royal residence.

King Henry and his Queen, Catherine of Aragon, visited frequently with their entire court on the way to the tournament of the Field of the Cloth of Gold. He spent lavishly transforming the castle into a Royal Palace for his wife, and the Henry VIII Banqueting Hall is a fine example of his work.

Take your time wandering around this magical castle and its leisure grounds, encircled by a shimmering lake. With its 900 years of alterations, from a 12th century cellar to the 20th century Yellow Drawing Room, Leeds Castle takes you on a journey through British history.