GROUP & TRAVEL TRADE GUIDE 2018/19

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1 GROUP & TRAVEL TRADE GUIDE 2018/19 leeds-castle.com/groups 1

2 CONTENTS Introduction 5 The Castle 6 Private Guided Castle Tours & Specialist Talks 8 Grounds and Gardens 11 Private Guided Garden Tours 12 Attractions 14 Overseas Student Groups 17 Eating and Drinking 19 What s On Plan Your Visit 22 Prices and How to Book 23 How to get to Leeds Castle

3 INTRODUCTION Leeds Castle offers something for groups to discover every day. Open all year, there is a seasonal programme of activities including falconry displays and punting on the moat, themed tours of the Castle and walks with the gardeners. There are also specialist talks for groups to pre-book covering a variety of fascinating topics. Step back in time and learn about the role Leeds Castle and the surrounding countryside played during the Second World War at Battle for the Skies. The popular Festival of Flowers returns in September and other events and activities including the Fireworks Spectacular are available for groups to pre-book. We pride ourselves on the services that we offer for group visits and this guide will provide you with an introduction to Leeds Castle and highlight the additional services available. We look forward to welcoming your group to the loveliest castle in the world. GROUP BENEFITS Discounted admission rates Free visit for group leader and coach driver Ample free hardstanding coach parking Easy drop-off and pick-up for coaches Free meal voucher for coach driver Dedicated Bookings Department to help plan your perfect day Special group menus (prior arrangement only) Specialist group talks and Castle tours 4 5

THE CASTLE Leeds Castle was built in 1119 by Robert de Crèvecoeur, descendant of one of William the Conqueror s lords, to replace the earlier Saxon manor

It 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

Over the course of 150 years it was owned by six medieval queens: Eleanor of Castile, Margaret of France, Isabella of France, Joan of Navarre, Anne of

The last private owner of the Castle, Olive, Lady Baillie, left an indelible mark on the place.

4 THE CASTLE Leeds Castle was built in 1119 by Robert de Crèvecoeur, descendant of one of William the Conqueror s lords, to replace the earlier Saxon manor of Esledes. It 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. Major improvements were made during this time, including the barbican, drawbridge, gateway and portcullis. Over the course of 150 years it was owned by six medieval queens: Eleanor of Castile, Margaret of France, Isabella of France, Joan of Navarre, Anne of Bohemia and Catherine de Valois. Other former royal owners include Henry VIII and Edward VI. The last private owner of the Castle, Olive, Lady Baillie, left an indelible mark on the place. Lady Baillie bought the Castle in 1926 and embarked on a complete refurbishment using the finest French architects and designers to create an elegant country residence. Upon her death in 1974, Lady Baillie left the Castle to the Leeds Castle Foundation, a private charitable trust whose aim is to preserve the Castle and grounds for the benefit of the public. The Castle was opened to the public in Margaret of France Catherine De Valois Olive, Lady Baillie 6 7

PRIVATE GUIDED CASTLE TOURS & SPECIALIST TALKS Let experienced guides lead you through the fascinating history of Leeds Castle - a remarkable

Tours last approximately 1 hour and can be given in English, French, German and Dutch.

45am and 10am (subject to availability). Visitors are divided into groups of no more than 25, with one tour guide per group.

5 PRIVATE GUIDED CASTLE TOURS & SPECIALIST TALKS Let experienced guides lead you through the fascinating history of Leeds Castle - a remarkable survival of a moated medieval Castle with an unparalleled 1920s interior. Tours last approximately 1 hour and can be given in English, French, German and Dutch. Castle tours must be pre-booked and are conducted outside of normal opening hours, commencing at 9.15am, 9.30am, 9.45am and 10am (subject to availability). Visitors are divided into groups of no more than 25, with one tour guide per group. We also offer a selection of new specialist afternoon talks, which take place in the Education Suite. Lasting just 40 minutes, these talks are ideal for groups wishing to extend their knowledge of the Castle s history. Pre-bookable from 2.30pm onwards, groups receive a special rate of just 3 per person. Suitable for a maximum of 40 people per talk. 8 9

GROUNDS & GARDENS Leeds Castle is set within 500 acres of beautiful grounds, in the heart of the garden of England.

Page also designed and planted the beautiful Culpeper Garden, which takes its name from Sir Thomas Culpeper, who bought the Castle in 1632.

The Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden, designed by landscape architect Christopher Carter boasts an extensive collection of palms, cacti and succulents.

6 GROUNDS & GARDENS Leeds Castle is set within 500 acres of beautiful grounds, in the heart of the garden of England. The Castle Island sits adjacent to the Great Water, created by one of the greatest garden designers of the 20th Century, Russell Page. Page also designed and planted the beautiful Culpeper Garden, which takes its name from Sir Thomas Culpeper, who bought the Castle in With its informal layout and low box hedges as a border this very English garden features Roses, Lupins, Poppies and Lads Love, with exotic blooms mixed in to create a profusion of colour and scent. The Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden, designed by landscape architect Christopher Carter boasts an extensive collection of palms, cacti and succulents. Its south facing aspect offers visitors superb views across the Great Water. The nearby Yew Maze was planted in 1987 and consists of 2,400 yew trees. It is set in a square pattern, and yet, when seen from the central mound or the air, appears circular. This design is unique to Leeds Castle, as is the mythical underground Grotto, a reward for those who complete the challenge. On the other side of the Castle s 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

PRIVATE GUIDED GARDEN TOURS The gardens and grounds of Leeds Castle have always held a certain fascination to our visitors, their peaceful tranquillity conceals a wealth of riches just waiting for

7 PRIVATE GUIDED GARDEN TOURS The gardens and grounds of Leeds Castle have always held a certain fascination to our visitors, their peaceful tranquillity conceals a wealth of riches just waiting for the curious to discover. Join one of our experienced gardening team and follow a private guided tour through the beautiful Castle gardens. This is a perfect opportunity to find out more about the history of the grounds and gardens and talk to our gardeners about how they maintain them day to day all year round. Tours last approximately one hour and must be booked in advance

ATTRACTIONS The Gatehouse Exhibition A visit to our exhibition within the ancient Gatehouse of Leeds Castle will take you on a fascinating journey through the Castle s long history.

Punting (seasonal) See the spectacular Castle from an inspiring new perspective. Sit back, relax and float gently through the ancient arches in an elegant wooden punt.

Groups will be captivated by these shows starring owls, hawks, falcons and vultures. Meet the Owls Pre-book a fun session with the Falconry team for your group to meet the Owls of Leeds Castle.

The Dog Collar Collection The world s largest collection of dog collars on public display spanning five centuries, is brought together in a fresh and creative presentation.

8 ATTRACTIONS The Gatehouse Exhibition A visit to our exhibition within the ancient Gatehouse of Leeds Castle will take you on a fascinating journey through the Castle s long history. This extraordinary story is beautifully recreated through original artefacts, expert historical detail, illustration and film. Punting (seasonal) See the spectacular Castle from an inspiring new perspective. Sit back, relax and float gently through the ancient arches in an elegant wooden punt. Max 12 per punt, visit the website for times and prices. Falconry (seasonal) Come and see Leeds Castle s breathtaking falconry display featuring birds of prey from different continents. Groups will be captivated by these shows starring owls, hawks, falcons and vultures. Meet the Owls Pre-book a fun session with the Falconry team for your group to meet the Owls of Leeds Castle. Learn more about these magnificent birds, where they are from, how they hunt and find their prey. Additional costs apply. The Dog Collar Collection The world s largest collection of dog collars on public display spanning five centuries, is brought together in a fresh and creative presentation. Battle for the Skies (seasonal) Step back in time and learn about the role Leeds Castle and the surrounding countryside played during the Second World War. Experience a dramatic surround-sound display depicting the Battle of Britain taking place in the skies above Kent. Elsie the Castle Train Ride the land train from the main entrance to the Castle (small additional charge applies). Black Swan Ferry (seasonal) Take to the water for a unique way to see the Leeds Castle estate (max 12 people, small additional charge applies). Additional Activities Please visit the website to find out more about additional pre-bookable activities for groups including golf, Segway Tours and Go Ape! 14 15

OVERSEAS STUDENT GROUPS Easily accessible from London and the Channel Tunnel Ports, Leeds Castle can play an important part in your students visit to England and their studies of English history.

9 OVERSEAS STUDENT GROUPS Easily accessible from London and the Channel Tunnel Ports, Leeds Castle can play an important part in your students visit to England and their studies of English history. Many of our daily activities are designed to be interactive and engaging to young people. A visit to the Castle and attractions typically lasts around 4 hours. We offer a special rate for English as a Foreign Language students. Students must be accompanied by a supervisory adult at all times. Adults will be admitted free of charge on a 1:10 ratio on the day and will be responsible for taking their groups around the Castle and Gardens. Any additional adults will be charged at a discounted rate. Private guided tours operating outside normal opening hours are available in different languages to pre-book. One guide is provided for every 25 students. A variety of educational worksheets and trails in a selection of languages are available to download from our website. Audio Tours Specialist audio tours of the Castle are available to pre-book for groups. You can collect these from The Gatehouse on the Castle Island throughout the day and listen at your own pace. Available in English, French, German, Spanish, Japanese and Russian. Guide Books Groups can receive a 20% discount on the compact Guide Booklet (available in a variety of languages) and the Souvenir Guide Book

EATING & DRINKING From freshly prepared hot and cold dishes to cakes and picnic lunches, there is something to cater for all tastes at the Leeds Castle food outlets.

10 EATING & DRINKING From freshly prepared hot and cold dishes to cakes and picnic lunches, there is something to cater for all tastes at the Leeds Castle food outlets. Visit the Fairfax Restaurant, Maze Café and Grill (seasonal), coffee outlets and seasonal kiosks dotted around the estate for delicious food and drink every day of the year. DISCOUNTED GROUP MENUS We offer free admission and a refreshment voucher to your coach driver Morning coffee / tea with pastries & cupcakes Group set lunches Picnics Cream Tea Traditional Afternoon Tea Start your day with a cup of fresh coffee or tea and a mini Danish pastry or cupcake Pre-order your hot or cold lunch option before you visit to save time Pre-order freshly made group picnics to enjoy in one of the many picturesque spots around the grounds Enjoy a delicious cream tea served in the oak-beamed Fairfax Restaurant, includes scones and a hot drink of your choice Indulge with a selection of teas and coffee, traditional finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with all the trimmings and a selection of fine handmade cakes Payments must be made two weeks prior to the date of visit. Pre-book your catering by calling +44 (0) SHOPPING No trip to Leeds Castle is complete without taking time to browse in one of the two shops located on the Castle Island and at the Main Entrance. Choose from a wide range of quality gifts including fine English-made bone china, local food and drink, scarves, souvenirs and beautiful homeware. You can now also shop online at the Leeds Castle e-shop

WHAT S ON 2018 FEATURED EVENTS Motors by the Moat Grand

Flowers Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular Christmas

28th May 14th July 15th to 20th September 3rd & 4th

16th December 1st December to 2nd January Please visit

11 WHAT S ON 2018 FEATURED EVENTS Motors by the Moat Grand Medieval Joust Leeds Castle Classical Concert Festival of Flowers Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular Christmas Market Christmas at the Castle 12th & 13th May 26th to 28th May 14th July 15th to 20th September 3rd & 4th November 24th & 25th November 1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th, 15th & 16th December 1st December to 2nd January Please visit leeds-castle.com/events for full details of all events coming up

12 PLAN YOUR VISIT PRICES & HOW TO BOOK TIMING YOUR VISIT PRICES HELD FOR 2018/19 Attractions Castle & Gatehouse Exhibition Suggested Time 1 ½ hrs Adults Ticket Types Non- Guided Private Guided Audio Tour Specialist Tours & Talks Gardens & Grounds 2 hrs Senior Citizens (over 60 yrs) Tours / Talks / Audio Tour Maze & Grotto Falconry Display Punting 1 hr 30 mins 30 mins 20 mins Students (16-21 yrs) Children (4-15 yrs) Visitors with disabilities (includes one carer) EFL Overseas Students per person per person Dog Collar Collection Battle for the Skies 15 mins 15 mins Rates valid until 31st March Minimum 15 persons. Group tickets valid for one day only. Includes entry to Castle, gardens and attractions. Opening times and prices correct at time of going to press (June 2017). OPENING TIMES HOW TO BOOK 1st April - 30th September 2018 Open: 10am daily Last entry: 4.30pm Gates close at 6pm Castle Opening Times Open: 10.30am pm Last entry to the Castle is at 5pm 1st October st March 2019 Open: 10am daily Last entry: 3pm Gates close at 5pm Castle Opening Times Open: 10.30am - 4pm Last entry to the Castle is at 3.30pm Please pre-book your visit to save time and money on the day. We offer free admission for one leader per group. bookings@leeds-castle.co.uk or call +44 (0) for enquiries and bookings. Payment can be made at the Ticket Office by cash, cheque, debit or credit card. You may also pre-pay via bank transfer by BACS or CHAPS and invoice (for credit account customers only). The Castle and grounds are open throughout the year. Leeds Castle will be closed on 3rd & 4th November and 25th December Please check our website for up to date opening times before you visit. We regret that refunds will not be issued on payments made in advance of the visit or on pre-written cheques presented on arrival

13 HOW TO GET TO LEEDS CASTLE Heathrow Airport London Ebbsfleet International Station Canterbury Maidstone Ashford International Station Gatwick Airport Royal Tunbridge Wells Dover Folkestone Calais A16 Road Leeds Castle is located near Maidstone at Junction 8 of the M20 between London and the Channel ports. Satellite Navigation Users If you are using a satellite navigation system, then please input ME17 1RG as the postcode, or alternatively follow the brown and white tourist signs once you reach the A20. Rail Frequent rail services from London Victoria, Ashford International and Canterbury West to Bearsted Station. Plan your journey at leedscastlebytrain.com. A seasonal connecting shuttle service is available at a small charge. Parking A free hardstanding coach park is provided close to the visitor entrance. Sea and Eurotunnel Leeds Castle is just 25 miles from the Eurotunnel terminal, Folkestone and 38 miles from the port of Dover. Air Gatwick Airport, 45 miles (45 minutes). Heathrow Airport, 67 miles (80 minutes). Stansted Airport, 66 miles (65 minutes). Luton Airport, 85 miles (85 minutes). Accessibility A fully accessible mobility bus is available near the Ticket Office, running regularly throughout the day. Wheelchairs are available on loan free of charge. Assistance dogs are admitted into all facilities including the Castle. leeds-castle.com/groups Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent ME17 1PL Tel: +44 (0) The Trustees of the Leeds Castle Foundation reserve the right to close all or part of the Castle as necessary and to change dates and times published in this manual. All rates quoted in this manual are effective from 1st April As our admission rates are an exempt supply for Value Added Tax purposes, they do not include any reclaimable VAT and may be subject to change. June

SET IN THE BEAUTIFUL KENT COUNTRYSIDE

SET IN THE BEAUTIFUL KENT COUNTRYSIDE LESS THAN AN HOUR FROM LONDON 2018 hevercastle.co.uk CASTLE Experience 700 years of history at the romantic Castle once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The splendid