Leeds Castle

After a one night stay at Hythe we joined the M20 motorway for a quick drive towards Maidstone and Leeds Castle. English Heritage operated (ie expensive) but very interesting with plenty to see in well maintained grounds, walks, picnic areas and the castle itself. Not such an imposing castle as some, it was mostly designed as a residence, but in a very nice island setting. The castle has hosted some memorable parties in its past, Sinatra sang here and the grounds are the setting for summer concerts. With its grand setting and easy access from London and the continent the fine meeting rooms are still used for high level diplomatic meetings (eg the Camp David series). The tickets are valid for a year - so we could come back again I guess.

Drove part of the Kent tourist trail via Tonbridge and past many more stately homes before finding a CL for the night near Chartwell. Another warm sunny day - has summer arrived at last?