Leeds Castle Avis 

I was very disappointed and upset by the way I was treated by Melissa, Reception Manager.

When I was discussing the check-out time, instead of politely explaining the hotel’s check-out policy, Melissa spoke to me in an extremely rude and intimidating manner. She told me to “check out or I will ask security to come.” I found the way she spoke to me completely unnecessary and unacceptable.

I explained that I understood the normal check-out time and that I was simply asking whether a 30-minute late check-out might be possible. I also mentioned that late check-out requests are normally something guests can ask about, particularly when there appeared to be plenty of rooms available.

What concerned me most was not being told about the policy itself, but the aggressive and disrespectful way I was spoken to. I felt humiliated and, because of the way I was treated in comparison to how I would expect any guest to be treated, I experienced the interaction as discriminatory and racist.

I am leaving this review to warn other guests and, more importantly, to bring this behaviour to the attention of the hotel management. Guests should be treated with respect, courtesy and professionalism, even when a request cannot be accommodated.

I sincerely hope the management investigates this incident and addresses the way guests are spoken to by staff. A senior member of the reception team should set an example of professional and respectful customer service.

We visited Kent this summer and chose to visit Leeds Castle above other castles due to it's combination of beautiful grounds and history. Unfortunately we were really disappointed with our visit and only stayed a couple of hours in the end.

Leeds Castle is undeniably beautiful from the outside and the grounds leading up to the castle were stunning. Unfortunately that is the only positive thing I can say for our party.
Upon entering the grounds and getting our ticket the member of staff who served us let us know that multimedia guides were available and if not members of staff would be around to tell us about the castle. Whilst in the Castle we saw 2 members of staff, one who stood at the entrance to ensure the one way system was followed and one on the upper level who ensured people were not wearing backpacks, other than that there were no members of staff to ask questions or get further information about the rooms.
The only way to access any information about the grounds or inside the castle was via their 'multimedia tours', which was a headset and handheld device. If listening to an audio guide is inaccessible for you then you will not get any information. One of our party was hard of hearing and another has sensory issues and gets overwhelmed with things on their head (headphones). Initially we did not think this would be an issue but once in the Castle there was little to no information available around the castle in a written format. We walked room to room with absolutely no idea what we were looking at due to the lack of information available. However, there was information available in several rooms that showed how the venue could be booked privately to host events/weddings.
The only way further information could be retrieved about one of the previous owners of the castle was an AI projection that could answer questions conversationally. Personally I found this a bit dystopian and quite sad as previously members of staff would be employed to share this knowledge/dress up/tell historical stories.
We visited as a party of 2 adults and 2 teenagers, therefore a lot of the child-friendly activities such as the 'little people' trail was not of interest to us, but to their credit the activities put on for younger children and the parks did seem good.
It is the most expensive castle to visit in Kent with a family ticket (2 adults, 3 children) costing £128.50 for basic entry or £166.50 for access to additional areas and activities. The price of the tickets and the historical promise of this castle meant we had high expectations but left really disappointed and honestly a bit ripped off.

An extremely unpleasant experience taking elderly frail disabled people for what should have been a lovely day out. The most unfriendly, unhelpful and at times intimidating staff spoiled the day from the outset. Family had come along for the day to help were left feeling like their loved ones were treated with total disrespect. Shame on you Leeds castle for your lack of understanding and support for the disabled.

A stunning Castle and grounds, beautifully maintained. Lots of activities, and the history was fascinating, enhanced by very knowledgable Guides.
The standout though, apart from value for money, were all the Staff. They were very friendly and went the extra mile to explain everything.
The only slight downside for me was the vegetarian roast in the Restaurant. It was a too sweet and a little indigestible.,
Overall, a really enjoyable day out.

I used to bring my children to Leeds Castle regularly with the annual pass and the they loved the Castle the History the armour on the walls the cellar and the big barrels. So today as National Lottery ticket day we took our grown up son back as he'd mentioned how he'd like to go back to the place he fell in love with History. The grounds are beautiful and he was impressed hiw landscaped they had become our disappointment came on going over the moat by nit going down the steeps to the cellar to enter. We queued a bit to get in then started a very static and " feminine/ Downton Abbey style" tour of the castle all the History of the Castle was missing nothing showing the kings that had used Leeds Castle the armour and things that grabbed a small boy to love History are missing. As we were talking when we left it has concentrated on the 1930s that's not even 100 years ago Leeds Castle is so much more. They grounds are lovely. Cafe very expensive. Not sure why the birds are in short shed like averies instead of the beautiful large ovaries which were there before. It was a nice few hours out but im glad we didn't pay to go in id have been very annoyed. Leeds Castle cater to all not just females lets get kids enthused for History from an early age esp boys

Unfortunately our visit was spoilt by the insistence of having our photograph taken to enable us to visit again this year. When queried we were told that it was necessary so that the tickets are used only by the purchaser. We refused so we will not be able to visit again. We were signposted to the terms and conditions but these state “ For validation purposes each Admission Ticket incorporates photographic
identification of the bearer. The image is stored securely and is not used for any
other purposes.” We don’t think this means the same thing. A very expensive and disappointing day.

We have been to Leeds Castle a few times and loved the whole experience. This year we visited the Christmas lights. Wow, wow, Wow. Absolutely stunning. So well thought through and the staff and volunteers must have worked so hard to put this amazing event together. Every turn had something new and beautiful. We will definitely be visiting again as this was something spectacular. I would highly recommend and not listen to some of the negative reviews . We loved it. Hats off to all involved who made it as magical as it should be this time of year. Thankyou.

Visited as part of a Kents Historic Highlights tour so cant comment on entry costs but were disappointed there was an extra charge for the audio guide.
We actually learned more about the castles history from the courier on board our coach as we journied.
Very little authentic historic ambience inside with many rooms having been mocked up with pastiche displays. No information displayed in any rooms.
From the outside the Castle is picturesque and the grounds pleasant.
Good day out for families as the site is set up as a visitor attraction rather than as serious heritage with activities and play areas.
Inadequate seating provision for eating
Gift shops very pricey.
BUT an historic building is safe and in use so that is good

We went for out wedding anniversary and booked to stay in St Margarets Tower on site. We had an amazing stay and felt so well treated by everyone.
The accommodation was inside the Castle and this meant we were able to roam around at night and really immerse ourselves in the atmosphere. The breakfast was really tasty and all the products for both meals (including our drinks) were all very local products. I would absolutely recommend booking and staying as well as visiting this beautiful castle.

Just stayed for the first time. What a wonderful place to visit and see. Would recommend this place to anyone. So much to do there and see. Loads for children and adults alike. The gardens and land are endless, we stayed two nights and didn’t see all of it. All the staff were great. The place is very clean. Accommodation was excellent, we stayed in a deluxe courtyard room. Views over the gardens and the lake. Soak up the atmosphere at night. The view restaurant is lovely, not excellent but very good. Breakfast was excellent. The castle is wonderful, captivating and historically really interesting and very well presented. Two night stay, breakfast and dinner , free entry to everything included about £600 in total. My wife loved it. We will return with family next time.

Brilliant day out and great events! Would definitely recommend.

Tried numerous attempts calling and emails left voice mail trying to enquire about upcoming car show August 9/10 2025.
No response or reply at all.
Not impressed but tickets to display my car was not cheap £20! Paid for back in March

We visited Leeds Castle on 14 May 2025 and purchased the Ultimate Explorer tickets, looking forward to a full day of activities, including the Adventure Golf. Unfortunately, the golf course was closed for maintenance, which was a real disappointment as it had been a key part of our plans for the day.

There was no notice about this closure on the website beforehand, and since we're visiting from out of town on holiday, we couldn’t simply come back another day. If we had known in advance, we could have planned our visit for another day during our trip.

We were advised by staff at reception to contact customer service about the issue. We’ve now emailed twice and, unfortunately, have yet to receive any reply. This lack of communication has added to our disappointment.

It’s a beautiful location with lots to enjoy, but the poor communication and unresponsiveness really let the experience down.

Extremely over crowded with no upper limit on numbers. Not possibly to access refreshments or activities due to volume of visitors. Paths & walkways dangerously over crowded. Expensive. Staff stressed.

Chaotic traffic for the jousting at the bank holiday weeekend. Cars queuing to get off M20 in both directions causing total mayhem for residents and local community. Very poor management on Leeds Castle part considering the cost of entering the castle .One person on the gate directing traffic is woefully poor and very poor planning for the logistics department.

Visited Leeds Castle for a friends birthday treat.
Very expensive (£75 for two) to get in but it was a special occasion.
Gardens are gorgeous with loads of bird life with chicks.
Lunch was really bad however, the staff were more interested in planning a break. There was barely anything left to eat (at 12:30pm?) I had a dried up old tuna baguette and my guest had some half size sausage roll that had seen happier days and thats all they had and those cost more than a fancy pub lunch elswhere, it was poor quality, lacked choice and very pricey.
A lot of things were closed and the boat trip man when we asked about going just got in his boat and sailed off alone. I stood there laughing it was that rude.
Castle is lovely but as a history buff I was disapointed it hadnt made more of the medieval history, it was mostly just Lady Bailey and 1920s themed and I know so much more happened there. Great shame.
I would advise go to gardens and do your own food and drink.

We have been visiting Leeds Castle regularly and although it's expensive for a a one-off visit the ticket is valid for 12 months, so regular visits make it good value. We recently had a Bird of Prey Experience which was excellent. Our hosts Sam and Joe were very knowledgeable and gave us very interesting details of each bird at the castle. The flying experience with the birds was great and we fully recommend it. You won't be disappointed.

Leeds Castle has always been my favourite place we had such a fantastic experience with the Knights activity put on for the children at Easter. They always do different things for the seasons, which we love. And as if it couldn't better they have now opened a second hand bookshop! Perfect day out.

All I can say was in Windsor room was lucky we were first to stay since room refresh was a very nice room staff were so nice and helpful that extended stay by a day it is extra nice as early morning walk you feel like you own the place on nice days also in evenings

Absolutely love this place: the grounds, staff, facilities, and food. 🥰😍 We have an annual ticket so we can enter all year. 🎟️🎫 We visited on Mother's Day for afternoon tea; it was absolutely beautiful. 💐🍰🥂 The staff are so lovely and happy, always smiling. 😊😄 We go to all the events and will keep going; we absolutely adore it. ❤️👍