Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle really knows how to put on a show. Granted, it's got a head start with almost 900 years of history and 500 acres of gorgeous Kentish landscaped grounds to show off about, but they don't rest on their laurels here. After you've toured the castle inside, there's the Black Swan ferry boat (which takes you to the yew tree maze and large play area) and Elsie the Castle Train to have a ride on, the wood garden that provides a riot of colour throughout the year and is teeming with wildlife and waterfowl – including the famous black swans. The pretty Pavilion Gardens are also great for sitting and drinking a civilised glass of chilled white on a blanket, the blazing rhododendrons and azaleas providing your backdrop. They also lay on many seasonal events such as the Jousting Tournament, the Festival of Flowers, the Christmas Markets and Easter egg hunts.