Day 1
Leeds Castle is about half a mile away and is one of the most picturesque castles in the world. Set on two islands on the River Len in the heart of Kent, has been home to royalty, lords and ladies for over 1000 years. Visitors are transported through 900 years of the castle’s history; an eclectic mix of period architecture, sumptuous interiors and family treasures waiting to be discovered.

www.leeds-castle.com

Day 2
Spend the morning in Biddenden Vineyard and then Tenterden for ecclectic shopping. Antiques, jewellery, unusual furniture and gifts, take a relaxing lunch at one of the many restaurants, bistros or pubs. In the afternoon take the steam train from Tenterden to Bodium Castle. A romantic and beautiful ruin with a carp filled moat.

www.kefr.org.uk

Day 3
Visit Great Dixter at Northiam, known as the ultimate English garden Then journey to Rye an ancient port with medieval and georgian architecture, cobbled streets, fudge shops and harbour. Pop over to Camber Sands where the film Longest Day was shot.

Day 4
A short drive too Chilham: and the coopers selling unusual barrel furniture, glass & iron work garden accessories plus homemade cakes, jams, pickles and an animal sanctuary. A snack perhaps at their tea shop and then on to Canterbury with its historic Cathedral, ancient castle walls and quirky shops.

www.canterbury-cathedral.org

Day 5
Visit John Aspinall's world famous animal park at Port Lyme. Gorillas, tigers, elephants, wolves and much much more. Set in 600 acres this park boasts the largest breading herd of Black Rhino outside of Africa.

http://www.aspinallfoundation.org

Day 6
Journey to Dover Castle and step back in time to the communications hub of the Second World War and take a boat trip round the harbour.

www.tourist-information-uk.com/dover-castle.htm .

Day 7
Immerse yourselves in naval history at the historic Chatham Dockyard. Explore the tunnels dug by Napoleonic prisoners of war at Fort Amhurst and then a short drive too Rochester. Take a leisurely meal at one of the many restaurants, visit the castle, cathedral and explore the banks of the river Medway. Wonder at the Guild hall Museum display replicating the living conditions for convicts housed on the hulks (Great Expectation) moored on the river.

www.chdt.org.uk

Other Attractions
- walk the many footpaths and bridal ways (Pilgrims Way) in an area of outstanding natural beauty, taking in the wild life and spectacular scenary. Bluebells end April/May, leaf-peeping (autumn colour) end of September/October.

- have a thrilling day out at Headcorn Aerodrome when the adventurous can parachute jump or take flight in a light plane, helecopter or balloon. For those who wish to keep their feet firmly on the ground watch the biplanes practice their stunts.

- Go go-carting at Bluebell Hill, enjoy rope walks in the air and swinging through the trees on aerial wires at Go Ape at Leeds Castle.

- Shop until you drop at Bluewater or Ashford Design Centre.

- Explore more gardens at Sissinghurst and Scotney Castle.

- Enjoy a slice of Leeds village life ie. Jazz in the Garden, Plays and Picnics, village panto see www.leedskent.co.uk.