Lykkers, if we’re planning a trip to Kent, we should not miss this enchanting medieval site. Perched across two serene islands in a sparkling lake, the castle feels straight out of a storybook.

With over 500 acres of gardens, a maze, a grotto, birds of prey displays, and historic rooms inside, there’s something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to visit smartly, where to eat, where to stay, and how to make the most of our time.

Ticket Prices & Ticket Types

When we visit the castle, we need to choose the ticket type that suits our plan:

- Explorer Ticket (online): approx US$42

- On‑site Explorer: approx US$46

- Ultimate Explorer Ticket (online, includes extras like ferry rides or golf): approx US$55

- On‑site Ultimate Explorer: approx US$60

- Family Ticket (1 grown-up + up to 3 children): from approx US$105 online

- Family Ticket (2 grown-ups + up to 3 children): from approx US$139 online

- Tickets for visitors with disabilities are also available at reduced prices.

- Bonus: the ticket is valid for 12 months, allowing us to return anytime during the year.

Opening Hours — When to Visit

Knowing when to visit helps us plan better:

- Grounds & Gardens: Open daily from 10:00 AM

- Castle Interior: Opens at 10:30 AM

- Last entry is usually around 3:00–4:00 PM, depending on the season

- Certain dates may be closed for private events, though the grounds may remain open

How to Get There (Transportation)

We have several convenient ways to reach this historic site:

- By Train: The nearest station is Hollingbourne, about 2 km from the entrance

- By Car: Well signposted from Junction 8 of the M20 motorway

- Green Travel Discount: Arriving by train, bus, or bike gives 20% off entry

- On-site parking is free once we have our ticket

How Much Time to Spend & Best Time to Visit

- To fully explore the interior, gardens, maze, grotto, and birds‑of‑prey displays, allow 4–5 hours

- Weekday mornings (outside school holidays) are the quietest

- Spring or early summer is ideal — gardens are in full bloom, and lighting is perfect for photos

Accommodation Options

For an overnight stay, there are some excellent on-site choices:

- Castle Bedrooms: Sleep within historic walls — very atmospheric

- Stable Courtyard B&B: Comfortable rooms in the heart of the estate

- Lakeside Lodges & Glamping Tents: Outdoor charm combined with comfort

- Holiday Cottages: Private and cozy, some dog‑friendly, ideal for families

- Check-in usually starts at 3 PM, with early arrival from 1 PM possible

- Check-out is 10 AM, with late check-out available for an extra charge

Food & Dining Options

During our visit, we have several dining choices:

- Castle View Restaurant: Elegant oak-beamed dining with scenic views

- Daytime Dining: Seasonal lunch menu, cakes, desserts

- Stable Courtyard Kiosks: Casual meals like burgers, hot dogs, soups

- The Parlour (near the Maze): Quick bites — sandwiches, ice cream, coffee

- Evening dining at the restaurant does not require a castle ticket

Tips & Practical Advice

Some practical tips for our visit:

1. Book tickets online — usually cheaper than at the gate

2. Use the Green Travel Offer — 20% off entry if arriving by train, bus, or bike

3. Bring a picnic — a small picnic in the grounds can be relaxing

4. Accessibility — wheelchairs available, but some areas like the grotto or maze may be harder to access

5. Photography — allowed, avoid flash inside historic rooms

6. Visit during quiet times — weekday mornings are best

7. Check event calendar — parts may be closed for private events

Make It Unforgettable

Lykkers, this castle in Kent is not just a pretty sight — it’s a place where history, nature, and magic meet. We can spend hours wandering through the gardens, getting lost in the maze, or enjoying a cozy overnight stay. Every corner of the estate offers something new to discover, and the experience feels like stepping back in time. Let’s plan our visit, embrace the adventure, and create memories that will stay with us forever.