From the Blackmore Vale area we take you directly to Leeds Castle which has been

• A Norman stronghold; the private property of six of England’s medieval queens
• A palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon; a Jacobean country house
• A Georgian mansion; an elegant early 20^th century retreat for the influential and famous; and in the 21^st century

It has become one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain.  Visit the Princess Alexandra Gardens which can be a carpet of daffodils, narcissi and anemones or it can be resplendent with azaleas and rhododendrons.  There is also the Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden Terraces to visit where you can sit and relax and enjoy the superb views across the Great Water.

There is an abundance of wildlife to see throughout the 500 acre estate of Leeds Castle.  Woodland, parkland and large lakes fed by the River Len provide natural habitats attracting great numbers of wildfowl and woodland birds all year round.  If you are brave enough take on the Leeds Castle Maze!  The Maze consists of 2,400 yew trees and when views from the centre, part of its plan mirrors a queen’s crown.  Once you’ve reached the middle of the maze, return to civilisation through an underworld grotto, complete with macabre forms and mythical beasts created from shells, minerals and wood.

You can also visit the Bird of Prey Centre which houses a variety of different species from the American Kestrel up to a Russian Steppe Eagle.

Included:

• Entry to Leeds Castle
• Complimentary drinks on the coach when feasible
• Packed lunch
• Return travel

Depart Stalbridge: 08:00
Return Stalbridge: 20:00 approx

All itineraries are approximate and subject to change