The Saxon manor of Esledes was an ideal place for the descendant of one of William the Conqueror’s lords, Robert de Crevecoeur, to fortify and build a castle in 1119.

Leeds Castle passed into royal hands in 1278 and became part of the Queen of England’s dower - the settlement widowed queens received upon the death of their husbands. Over the course of 150 years it was held by six mediaeval queens: Eleanor of Castile; Margaret of France; Isabella of France, Joan of Navarre; Anne of Bohemia and Catherine de Valois.
In Tudor times Henry VIII visited frequently, notably with his Queen, Catherine of Aragon, and their entire court on the way to the tournament of the Field of the Cloth of Gold, which took place in France in 1520. Henry’s son, King Edward VI, granted the castle to one of Henry’s courtiers for his services.

Since then it has been in private ownership. It has been used as a garrison, a prison and a convalescent home, as well as being the home of the Culpeper, Fairfax, and Wykeham Martin families.

Duration: 12 hours



Leeds Castle

Described as the "loveliest castle in the world", Leeds Castle was once a Royal residence for 6 of England's medieval queens, a palace of Henry VIII and a retreat for the rich and powerful. The Norman castle sits on two islands in the middle of a lake, and is surrounded by a vast estate. The day begins with a private viewing of Leeds Castle before it opens to the public. Explore the chapel, galleries, courtyards and banqueting hall before taking time to enjoy the landscape and wildlife, including wildfowl and black swans.

Dover

Following a scenic drive along the old coastal road for lunch (additional cost) in the Lighthouse Inn, dramatically overlooking the White Cliffs of Dover. The Inn has provided hospitality for a range of people from smugglers to WWII soldiers and lunch includes traditional British fare, such as fish and chips, and bread and butter pudding.


Canterbury

Canterbury has been the center of Christian worship for almost 1,700 years. Its greatest treasure is the cathedral, infamous as the setting for the brutal murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170. Canterbury became the center of one of the most important medieval pilgrimages in Europe, immortalized by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales. Tour includes entrance to the Cathedral and allows free time to explore the old town.

Greenwich and Thames Cruise

With exquisite parks, gardens, and architecture, Greenwich has strong connections with the sea, science, sovereigns and time. As the evening approaches board your Thames River cruise, enjoy a champagne reception and cruise back to the center of London. Pass sights such as the Tower of London, Big Ben and Houses of Parliament, before arriving at Westminster pier where the tour ends.