Location, location, location. It’s an oft used expression when it comes to purchasing property. But it felt just as pertinent for our night away in one of Leeds Castle’s new Lakeside Lodges.
Accessed via a private walkway that meanders through the Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden Terraces, a stay in one of the four Lakeside Lodges (named after an influential figure with links to the castle and county – ours was Daphne du Maurier) gives you a chance to enjoy direct entry to the historic Grade I listed Leeds Castle.
I doubt there are many places to staycation that offer such an idyllic escape – in such impressive surrounds. You’re literally nestled within 500 acres of historic parkland, immersed in nature, amongst 900 years of history.
The Lakeside Lodges have floor-to-ceiling windows – all the better to see the swans, ducks and wildfowl gliding across the expansive Great Water.
We watched the clouds race across the skyline and the sun break through to sparkle across the water from our private deck. And, as it proved to be a clear night, stargazed from bed through the rooflight.
And while you might feel like you have totally escaped the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life, with Blue Tits, Robins and Goldcrests chirping all around you, this is not a back-to-basics break in any way shape or form.
The distinctive soft furnishings adorned with an exclusive design, by Petronella Hall, are inspired by the enchanting local wildlife residing within the castle grounds.
And I’ve not even mentioned the outdoor sleek black bathtub! With no shortage of steaming hot water, whatever season you visit, a soak under the stars (or bathe in the sunshine) is an absolute-must!
Sustainability has been taken seriously with the lodges. They were built using UK-grown timber and home-grown charred larch to minimise carbon footprint, carbon dioxide is captured in the fabric of the building and actively removed from the atmosphere, creating a carbon neutral space.
And Leeds Castle’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond the cabins. There is a biodiversity and landscape strategy in places that nurtures thriving habitats for nature within the castle’s grounds. This includes the area under and around lodges and the water’s edge is managed to maximise its biodiversity and to protect and be of value to local wildlife populations.
Sustainable, serene, and stylishly snug… what more do you want from a summer staycation?
leeds-castle.com
A whole lot of history…
Leeds Castle is found seven miles southeast of Maidstone. It is built on islands in a lake formed by the River Len to the east of the village of Leeds. It is a historic Grade I listed estate.
A castle has existed on the site since 857. In the 13th century, it came into the hands of King Edward I, for whom it became a favourite residence; in the 16th century, Henry VIII used it as a dwelling for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon.
The present castle dates mostly from the early 19th century. Its last private owner, Olive, Lady Baillie, left the castle in trust to open it to the public. It has been open since 1976.
Food glorious food…
The aptly named Castle View restaurant is just moments away from the lodges. We stopped off there for breakfast and can confirm both the Eggs Benedict and the full English were top notch.
Take a leisurely wander through the castle grounds and you’ll find yourself in the idyllic village of Hollingbourne.
The Windmill is a wonderfully cosy pub offering wholesome food… perfect for a cosy dinner date.
Expect seasonal British ingredients sourced from local farmers. Pub classics with a contemporary twist. Plus the Windmill’s weekend barbecues have now made a welcome return. Who doesn’t fancy relaxing in the sunshine in the ambient beer garden, which has its own full outdoor kitchen? (thewindmillhollingbourne.co.uk)
