As November's crisp air settles over Kent, there's no better time to lace up your walking boots and embark on a journey that will ignite your Christmas spirit. This circular route around Leeds Castle offers the perfect prelude to the festive season, inviting you to be among the first to witness the transformation of this historic landmark into a wonderland for winter.
Enjoy frost-kissed fields stretching as far as the eye can see, woodland paths carpeted with fallen leaves in rich autumnal hues, and the promise of twinkling lights and seasonal magic just around the corner. As you traverse the 5.7-mile route, soak up the anticipation of the coming festivities with each step.
The walk takes you through a tapestry of Kentish landscapes, from rolling countryside to serene woodland, all culminating in the breathtaking view of Leeds Castle itself. By late November, the castle grounds will be adorned with festive decorations, offering walkers a sneak peek of the Christmas spectacle to come. Whether you're walking hand-in-hand with a loved one, gathering the family for a pre-Christmas adventure, or simply seeking a moment of solitude to reflect on the year gone by, this walk caters to all.
● Start facing The George Inn on Lower Street in Leeds village. Turn down George Lane to the right of the pub.
● Follow the lane uphill to a junction, then turn right onto Burberry Lane.
● After about 750m, turn left onto Park Barn Road. Pause to admire the winter views across the countryside.
● Look for a public footpath sign on your right before reaching the farm buildings. Follow this path through the field to a woodland clearing.
● Enter the woods and follow the narrow path to a T-junction. Turn left onto the wider woodland path.
● At the next junction, take the right path until you reach a fence.
● Exit the woodland onto Broomfield Road, turn left past the bungalows.
● At the National Speed Limit signs, cross to the right and follow the woodland path.
● At the clearing, turn right and continue for about 700m to a six-way junction. Take the second path from the left.
● At the end of this path, turn left (staying in the woodland) past a cottage.
● About 100m after the cottage, take a narrow right path into a field.
● Follow the marked path through the fields, eventually reaching a metal kissing gate.
● Pass through St Margaret's Church churchyard and turn right onto Broomfield Road.
● Look for a gap in the hedgerow on your left, just past the River Len.
● Enter the parkland of Leeds Castle, crossing a footbridge and wooden gate.
● Follow the edge of the Great Water lake, veering right at the far end through another gate.
● Stop to admire the castle view, then follow the drive away from the castle.
● Go through a wooden gate on the right and follow the path to the cricket pitch.
● Skirt the cricket pitch to the far right corner, exit onto a tarmac lane, and enter the final field.
● Pass through St Nicholas Church churchyard to reach Lower Street.
● Turn left and head downhill back to The George Inn.
Perfectly placed pit stops
After your invigorating ramble, warm up at The George Inn, your start and end point. This charming village pub, with its roaring fire and cosy nooks, provides the perfect retreat from the winter chill. Settle in with a mulled wine and peruse their seasonal menu featuring hearty dishes ideal for replenishing your energy. georgeinnleeds.co.uk/
For a refined dining experience with a view, consider the Castle View Restaurant at Leeds Castle. Housed in a 17th-century barn, it offers unrivalled views of the illuminated castle - a magical sight as twilight falls. The menu celebrates Kent's seasonal bounty, with the chef crafting daily specials that showcase local ingredients. leeds-castle.com/visit/eat-drink-and-shop/
Make a day of it
Extend your visit by exploring Leeds Castle's enchanting Christmas offerings. From November 22, as dusk falls, you can follow the illuminated trail through the estate for the Christmas Lights at Leeds Castle event. Here, trees sparkle with thousands of lights and enchanting installations bring magic to the winter landscape. Starting November 23, step into a fairytale with the Nutcracker Christmas at Leeds Castle, where the castle interiors are adorned with decorations inspired by the classic ballet. Each room tells a part of the story, from the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets. Don't miss the chance to browse the Leeds Castle shop for unique gifts and souvenirs, from locally made crafts to luxurious Christmas decorations. For nature enthusiasts, keep an eye out for deer in the parkland or waterfowl on the moat - don't forget to bring binoculars for a closer look! Finally, challenge yourself in the castle's famous maze before discovering the underground grotto at its centre. In winter, the bare hedges create an ethereal atmosphere, adding an extra touch of wonder to your visit.
Steps, stats, stiles
This 5.7-mile (9.3km) circular walk typically takes around two and a half hours to complete. The route is relatively gentle with no stiles, making it accessible for most walkers. However, be prepared for muddy conditions, especially in woodland areas. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential for negotiating potentially slippery winter terrain.
As November days are short, it's advisable to start your walk in the morning or early afternoon. If you plan to enjoy the Christmas lights or evening dining afterwards, bring a torch for any dark stretches of the return journey. Dress in warm layers - weather can be changeable in late autumn.
Route followed
This walk follows the Leeds Castle and Kingswood Circular route, which can be found on the AllTrails app. For more information about Leeds Castle and its Christmas events, visit https://www.leeds-castle.com. Whether this is your first festive outing of the year or part of your annual tradition, this Leeds Castle winter walk promises to be a memorable start to your festive season in Kent.
