Kent Castles at Christmas

This enchanting winter tour combines two stunning castles in Kent with fantastic festive inclusions. Explore Leeds Castle, all dressed for Christmas with a festive light trail, and tuck into a tasty lunch at stunning Hever Castle. 

Friday 26th – Sunday 28th November 2027

Tour Price £475.00
Single supplement: £60.00

o Two nights dinner, bed and breakfast

o Full cooked breakfast

o Three course dinner menu

o Entrance to Christmas at Leeds Castle and the illuminated light trail

o Entrance to Hever Castle with two course lunch

o Escorted throughout

o All coach travel

FRI  We set off for Kent this morning, calling at Royal Tunbridge Wells on the way.  This historic spa town boasts elegant architecture and the pretty colonnaded 18th century parade known as the Pantiles, which will be transformed into a spectacular winter wonderland for the festive season. Enjoy a wander around the festive stalls, or perhaps explore the nearby traditional High Street with its boutiques and great eateries. We then continue our journey to our hotel, arriving in time for dinner.

SAT  After a leisurely breakfast this morning, we make our way towards Maidstone to visit the stunning Leeds Castle, which rises majestically from the waters of its moat. With its riveting history serving six of England’s medieval queens, to its elaborate transformation into an elegant 20th-century retreat by Anglo-American heiress, Lady Baillie, Leeds Castle’s rich heritage has secured its place as one of the most visited historic attractions in Britain. The Castle’s last private owner, Lady Baillie, bought the Castle in 1926 and transformed it into an elegant setting for glorious weekend parties. Sir Winston Churchill, Charlie Chaplin and John F. Kennedy are amongst the roll-call of many influential guests who enjoyed Lady Baillie’s hospitality during this time. Enjoy the castle at its best, decorated for Christmas, as you wander through perfectly decorated festive rooms with sparkling decorations. As dusk settles in, we embark on the magical Christmas Lights trail with enchanting illuminations, flickering flames and Christmas music bringing a fabulously festive atmosphere to the wonderful grounds where you can admire the magnificent castle lit up in colourful splendour.

SUN  We leave our hotel this morning and head to the romantic, double-moated Hever Castle. This 13th century castle is well known as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I. Inside the castle, marvel at the beautifully decorated rooms, welcoming log fires and twinkling Christmas trees. The castle oozes charm and houses historic 16th century portraits, paintings, furniture, tapestries and treasures which you can explore at your own pace. Make sure you wrap up warm to explore the grounds which are magnificent in all seasons. Take a stroll around the informal areas of Sunday Walk and Anne Boleyn’s Walk, see the Italian, Rose and Tudor gardens, topiary and yew maze. During our visit, we also tuck into a tasty two course lunch before departing and heading back homewards, arriving in the early evening.