​​🇬🇧 UK | Leeds Castle: The Queens' Hidden Gem Near London​​ 🏰✨

Stumbled upon ​​Leeds Castle​​ in Kent on the map—its grandeur piqued my curiosity, and boy, did it exceed expectations! 🌟 ​​A Castle Fit for Queens​​ With ​​900+ years of history​​, this isn’t just any fortress—it’s a ​​royal retreat​​ on a serene island southeast of London. Originally a Norman stronghold, it became the private haven of ​​six English queens​​. King Henry VIII even revamped it for Catherine of Aragon! Later, an American heiress transformed it into a ​​lavish country estate​​. 🗝️ ​​Highlights​​ ​​The Grand Maze​​: A thousand yew trees weave a spellbinding labyrinth—Instagram gold 🌳📸. ​​The Opulent Study​​: Soft light, antique books, and Louis XVI-style paneling—so photogenic, even my awkward brother snapped a portrait-worthy shot. ​​Timeless Interiors​​: A blend of ​​medieval grandeur​​ and ​​1930s glam​​—think onyx walls, floral arrangements, and museum-quality art. 💡 ​​Tips​​ ​​Spend half a day​​ here (we lingered for 1.5 hours just inside the castle!). ​​Drive + park hassle-free​​—no stress. #UKCastles #RoyalEscape #HiddenHistory #LondonDayTrips