Living history-Leeds Castle

It is always a bit of a challenge to find holiday activities for children ranging in age from 3 to 18 but this castle, that covers history from Norman times to the present day, has been a success.

Leeds Castle, in Kent, was recorded in the Domesday Book,  lived in by medieval queens and used by Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon.

 This produced plenty of armour, traditional castle features and pictures of Tudors to keep the two younger children happy. There was even opportunity to try on helmets, chain mail and to use a cross bow.

 More recently, it was the home of an heiress, Lady Baillie who had socialite parties in the 1920s. There is fascinating detail about the staff-42 were employed-and we spent time wondering about whether anyone now could afford to employ 42 people on their personal care. Why are we so fascinated about someone who didn't have a particular role beyond living on their inheritance?

The grounds are fantastic-a moat, beautiful gardens and a castle play area.

 We saw eels in the streams.

The downside-definitely the cost. This was eye watering although the tickets do last for a year-we will have to go back!

Thanks to the three older children for taking the photos.

This is linked to Field Trip Friday.