Set in 500 acres of beautiful parkland and gardens, Leeds Castle is one of the country’s finest historic properties and is also one of the Treasure Houses of England. A Norman fortress and a royal palace to the medieval and Tudor Kings and Queens of England, the development of Leeds Castle continued well into the 20th century. The last private owner, the Hon Olive, Lady Baillie, bought the castle in 1926, restored the castle and furnished its beautiful interiors. The castle has a fine collection of paintings, tapestries and antiques and is also home to an unusual dog collar museum. The park and grounds include the colourful and quintessentially English Culpeper Garden, the delightful Wood Garden, and the terraced Lady Baillie Garden with its views over the tranquil Great Water. Visit the Aviary, which houses approximately 100 rare and endangered species from around the world or get lost in the twist and turns of the yew Maze with its secret underground grotto. The Knights’ Realm playground delights younger visitors and the ‘World of Wings’ free flying bird displays are a spectacular sight. A highly popular and successful programme of special events is arranged throughout the year, details of which can be found on the website.