June 27 - Leeds Castle


Today we took an hour train ride into Kent to see Leeds Castle, billed as the “Loveliest Castle in the World”.  It is truly a lovely castle surrounded by a wide lake/moat.

We had a nice walk through the grounds on the way to the castle.  
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In addition to the great garden we saw lots of birds including swans,
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peacocks, 
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and lots of geese.  
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The gardens were in full bloom with lots of flowers.

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The views of the castle were rather magical.

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The tour of the interior was very interesting.  Much of it dated to the Tudor Period.

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After touring the castle we had lunch and then headed out to the Maze and Grotto.  Chloe and a large number of French schoolchildren had a grand time in it. 
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There was a playground nearby where Chloe worked off some energy.


We also saw a demonstration on falconry.
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And an exhibition on the “Battle for the Skies” regarding the Battle for Britain fought at the beginning of WWII, much of it in the Kent countryside around Leeds.  Leeds Castle served as a hospital during WWII.

Mary spent some time wandering the spectacular flower beds.
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Then it was time for the long train ride back.  

We had dinner near Victoria Station and then took the Underground back to the hotel. 

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