Leeds Castle
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Port
Dover (London), England, UK
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$200
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Monarchs and seasons may change, but Leeds Castle's enchanting and very English beauty is everlasting.
Your tour starts with a drive directly to Leeds Castle -- one of the most romantic and ancient castles in the United Kingdom. In the 9th century, Leeds was the site of a manor belonging to the Saxon royal family. Listed in the Domesday Book, this castle was a Norman stronghold, a royal residence to six of England's medieval queens, a playground and palace to Henry VIII, and a private home. Today, lovingly restored, it is the seat of a magnificent collection of medieval furnishings, paintings, tapestries and treasures, and visitors of the present mingle with the ghosts of lives past.
You will enter through the 13th-century Gate Tower, which stolidly guards the only access to the castle's interior. As you pass from room to room, well-informed castle guides are stationed to answer your questions.
Situated on two small islands in the middle of an encircling lake, it is surrounded by a green arc of parkland, thick with trees and hills that tumble gently down to the water's edge. Take a delightful walk along a flat path that follows a meandering stream through a belt of stately trees. A series of small lakes are the natural habitat for a fine collection of waterfowl.
Reboard your coach for a transfer back to Dover and the ship.
Please note: This tour is available only to guests whose cruise does not begin or end in Dover. Your time at Leeds Castle is self-guided. Tour requires some walking. Terrain includes uneven surfaces, steps, inclines and cobblestones. Wear comfortable walking shoes. For guests with mobility limitations, there is a small wheeled train available for the journey through the parkland to the castle's entrance.