insideKENT Magazine Issue 50 - May 2016 | Page 112

DAYSOUT
The Year of the English Garden at Leeds Castle cont.

Stroll along the Mediterranean terraces to the nearby Yew Maze, designed
by Randall Coate and Adrian Fisher and planted in 1987. The Maze consists
of 2,400 yew trees and when viewed from the centre, part of its plan mirrors
a queen’s crown. It is set in a square, and yet, when seen from the mound
or the air, the pattern is circular; this is unique to Leeds Castle and adds
to the difficulty in solving it. The mythical grotto is the prize for solving the
maze and is believed to be a unique combination in the world of mazes
and labyrinths.

In the winter months, far from going into hibernation, the gardens at Leeds
Castle are open daily, with plenty of colour and interesting plants for visitors
to enjoy.

Leeds Castle is owned by the Leeds Castle Foundation, a charity who
aim to preserve the Castle for future generations. The gardens are a
must-see for any visitor to “the loveliest castle in the world”.

On the other side of the Castle’s 500-acre estate, you will find the Wood
Garden. In spring, this is a particularly lovely way to approach the Castle,
following the meandering streams of the River Len. Its carpet of daffodils,
narcissi and anemones presents a vibrant burst of colour. Later in the year,
visitors are treated to the splendour of azaleas and rhododendrons.

Entry to the grounds and gardens is included in the price of admission.
Book your tickets online before you visit to save time and 10% off!
Leeds Castle is located near Maidstone in Kent just off Junction 8 of
the M20 within easy reach of London. Grounds open at 10am daily and
the Castle is open from 10.30am. Last admission is 4.30pm and gates
close at 6pm.

With so much to see and explore in the gardens and grounds at the Castle,
make the most of your annual admission ticket to return in all seasons and
see the colours and plants change throughout the year.
Tours of the Leeds Castle gardens were so popular in 2015, they have
increased the number of tours this year, with a weekly tour now available
between April and September. Check the website for details of larger group
and new foreign language garden tours.

www.leeds-castle.com
/leedscastle
@leedscastleuk

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