From extraordinary women to extraordinary cars – here’s everything waiting for you this summer.
If you’re looking for a summer day out that delivers something genuinely different – history, adventure, spectacle and the kind of memories that last well beyond the school holidays – Leeds Castle has you covered.
This summer, we’re pulling out all the stops. A world-first partnership with one of the most celebrated children’s book series on the planet. The return of our most spectacular automotive event yet. Daily falconry, adventure playgrounds, an amazing maze, and over 550 acres of Kent countryside to explore at your own pace. And all of it included with your admission ticket.
Here’s everything that’s waiting for you.
Discover Your Big Dream: The Little People, BIG DREAMS Inspiring Women Trail
22nd July to 31st August 2026 | Included with general admission
This summer, Leeds Castle is home to something brand new – and we couldn’t be more proud of it.
In partnership with the globally celebrated children’s book series Little People, BIG DREAMS, we’ve created a brand-new outdoor Inspiring Women Trail across the Castle grounds. Twelve extraordinary women. Twelve hands-on activity stations. One unforgettable summer adventure for every young dreamer.
Leeds Castle has always been shaped by remarkable women. From the medieval queens who made it their royal residence to Lady Baillie, whose vision transformed it into the iconic estate it is today. Bringing the Little People, BIG DREAMS series to life here felt like the most natural thing in the world.
Children can step into Marie Curie’s Science Lab and uncover hidden secrets, test their goalkeeping skills just like Lioness Mary Earps, shake it off at Taylor Swift’s rhythm zone, or make some noise for change with Emmeline Pankhurst. Every stop on the trail is hands-on, joyful and designed to spark something – in children and adults alike.
Pick up your trail sheet at entry, follow the 12 stations across the estate, and find your own big dream along the way.
High-Octane Thrills: Motors by the Moat
8th & 9th August 2026 | Included with general admission
If the Little People, BIG DREAMS trail is the heart of our summer, Motors by the Moat is the adrenaline moment.
Returning bigger than ever on 8th and 9th August, this year’s event brings over 600 extraordinary vehicles across the weekend to the Castle grounds. From cult screen replicas to timeless classics, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the iconic Leeds Castle and moat.
Highlights this year include stunning replicas of Steve McQueen’s Bullitt Ford Mustang, the James Bond AMC Hornet from The Man with the Golden Gun, and John Lennon’s famous psychedelic Rolls-Royce. World-record stunt driver Terry Grant – whose work features in Mission: Impossible and James Bond – will perform jaw-dropping high-speed demonstrations throughout the weekend.
There’s history here too. During the Second World War, Leeds Castle served as a military hospital for soldiers injured in the Battle of Britain. This year, War and Peace Revival will pay tribute to that legacy with an authentic military vehicle display and a replica RAF Supermarine Spitfire – a genuinely moving moment in the middle of all the high-octane excitement.
And over on Castle Island, a curated display of beautifully restored vintage vehicles from Lady Baillie’s golden era adds a touch of glamour that feels entirely at home at Leeds Castle.
8th & 9th August 2026. Included with general admission.
Always On: Summer Across the Estate
The headline events are just the beginning. All summer long, there’s something new to find every time you visit.
Annual Sculpture Trail (from 29th August)
From 29th August, a new sculpture trail winds through the grounds and gardens. With striking works by talented local artists hidden among the trees and pathways. It’s the perfect excuse for one more visit before the summer ends.
Daily Falconry Displays
Get up close with majestic birds of prey in our free-flying falconry demonstrations. One of Leeds Castle’s most beloved year-round experiences and always a highlight for younger visitors.
The World-Famous Yew Maze
Can you find your way through 2,400 yew trees to the centre – and back out again? The Leeds Castle maze is one of the most famous in the world. Complete with a mythical underground grotto waiting to be discovered beneath your feet.
Three Adventure Playgrounds
From the high-climbing Knights’ Stronghold to the Squires’ Courtyard for younger explorers. Our three adventure playgrounds offer hours of active, imaginative play across the estate.
Scenic Woodland Walks
Sometimes the best thing to do is wander. The Castle’s woodland walks offer sweeping views across the lakes, the Castle itself and the wider estate. Beautiful at any time of day and at any pace.
Plan Your Visit
All summer activities – including the Little People, BIG DREAMS Inspiring Women Trail and Motors by the Moat – are included with a Leeds Castle annual admission ticket, which gives you free return visits for 12 months.
The women who changed history are waiting. The cars are revving. The maze is ready.
What are you waiting for?
