Leeds Castle

We took advantage of the slight break in the weather to visit one of my favourite stately homes. Though it is a castle, and fortifications have been here since 1080, its more of a very large rambling house .. Well it does have a moat.. Ok.. It has a portcullis as well, and a courtyard.. Damn it.. Ok.. Its a castle..

I digress.. The moat is filled with fish, and the birdlife teaming along its banks.  They have some magnificent swans and gorgeous peacocks strutting about.

We spent our time today in the gardens and at the maze. The kids also took advantage of the chilly weather - and that no-one else brought kids along - to dominate the wooden forts and structures which make up the kids playgrounds.

We have toured the castle inside before, so didn't feel it necessary to do it again today.  As we have year passes, we will attempt to get back here before they run out and spend a warmer day picnicking by the lake.