Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle, near Maidstone in Kent. The first fortified castle was built here in 1119. From 1278 it became the Queen of England’s dower – reserved for the widows of medieval kings. Six queens lived here over the next 150 years. The castle was popular with Henry V, and in 1520 his son Edward VI gave the castle to one of Henry’s courtiers as a gift. It has remained in private ownership ever since. There are several distinct parts of the castle – all surrounded by a very large moat.