My wife and I are taking our first trip to London. We had settled on Leeds Castle for a day trip to see a "real castle". After reading some of the posts it sounds like Warwick is a better example.<BR><BR>We welcome any insights.<BR><BR>Thanks

I have not been to Leeds Castle, but did visit Warwick Castle at Christmas. It was really incredible. I would reccomend staying until early evening becuase the lights at night make the castle look very romantic and mysterious. We then had a great dinner at a local pub.

Hi Bill,<BR><BR>Leeds Castle is actually more of a manor house focusing on a more recent prominent lady of England and her lifestyle. The house is mildly interesting; but the grounds are well worth seeing - particularly the aviary.<BR><BR>Warwick Castle is an historical castle with a deep history. It is diverse and holds the interest of adults and children. It includes demonstrations, and exhibits, and is very hands on. As an example; children are allowed/encouraged to put on chainmail.<BR><BR>The grounds and castle are equally enthralling, and are very well done.<BR><BR>Warwick is on our list of 'must see' in England where Leeds is on our third list 'if one has some extra time'. We would rate both Hampton Court and Windsor Castle over Leeds, but not over Warwick.<BR><BR>One of the choice issues may be location. Leeds is near London, where Warwick is not. Hampton Court and Windsor are about the same travel time as Leeds.<BR><BR>Have a great trip.<BR><BR><BR>

John is right -- Leeds is a castle in name only. Warwick is accessible by train, and a much better experience.

Leeds has acquired a "cult" following on this board. But is not really much. In fact it is only about the 6th or 7th best castle in Kent. Then best thing about Leeds are the grounds/gardens which are really lovely. But again - there are probably 5 or 6 better gardens in Kent.<BR><BR>Warwick is an entirely different kettle of fish - it is the best medieval castle in the country. Better than Windsor, better than Dover, better than any you can name.<BR><BR>Hampton Court is also fabulous. So if your time is limited go to Hampton Court. But if you have an entire free day - take the train to Warwick. See the castle, the grounds, the town, St Mary's Church - just everything. Then take the train back to London very tired and very satisfied.

Bill,<BR><BR>I've been to both. Each has it's own appeal. If you are into gardens, birds, and beautiful setting, Leeds is an absolutely lovely place. The castle is not a castle in the sense that there are battle towers and things like that. It is more of a 'retreat' castle. If you are interested in a peaceful setting with incredible scenery, Leeds is an excellent place. Warwick is what I think of when I think of 'castle'. It has all the atmosphere of a fortress, with towers and battle ramparts, lots of armor displays. There is definitely much more to see at Warwick. And it's not too far from Stratford so if you have time to take in a little bit of Shakespeare stuuf, you might be able combine both in a day, depending on the time of year you are travelling.<BR><BR>If you can only go to one, go to Warwick.<BR><BR>Safe journeys! Upon your return, let us know which castle you decided to visit and your impressions!

I vote for Warwick. I have seen both and plan to revisit Warwick, not Leeds

I'd agree with Janis. Leeds Castle is really not much more than a big house with lovely gardens - to be honest it's not really what you're probably thinking of as a "real castle." Usually when I visit Leeds Castle in the summer it's to have a picnic and a walk in the grounds and don't usually bother going in to the house.<BR><BR>Warwick is more like a "real castle", though, as is Hampton Court and Windsor Castle. Also, Windsor Castle is still in use as a Royal residence, so is probably more interesting.