One of the most photographed castles in England, Leeds Castle sits on two small islands in the middle of a lake five miles south-east of Maidstone. It looks almost too good to be true — and it is genuinely beautiful, with good gardens and grounds to explore. The interior has been heavily restored and is perhaps less interesting than the exterior, but the setting alone makes the trip worthwhile. Accessible by bus from Maidstone town centre.
Leeds Castle
A story
Leeds Castle was a favourite residence of six medieval queens of England. Henry VIII spent considerable money making it a comfortable retreat, and Catherine of Aragon stayed here before the annulment of her marriage was finalised.