В Кенте открыли пять исторических замков для летнего сезона

Kent is home to some of England's most fascinating castles, with stories stretching from Saxon Britain and Norman rule to Tudor intrigue and the Second World War. Whether you want to explore royal palaces, wander through award-winning gardens or enjoy a packed programme of summer events, there is plenty to discover across the county this season. Each of these castles are within a two-hour drive of south east London. From the famous White Cliffs of Dover to the romantic ruins of Scotney Castle, here are five Kent castles to visit this summer and what you can expect when you get there. READ MORE: I visited the Kent safari park where I got up close with rhinos and giraffes Leeds Castle Often described as the "Castle of Queens", Leeds Castle has a history spanning more than 1,000 years. A wooden fort first stood on the site in 857 AD before being rebuilt in stone by the Normans. It later became a royal palace for Edward I and Queen Eleanor of Castile, housed six medieval queens and was transformed by Henry VIII for Catherine of Aragon. During the Second World War it was used as a military hospital before opening to the public in 1976. Today, visitors can explore more than 500 acres of parkland, tackle the famous hedge maze and underground grotto, visit the aviary and vineyard, take the Castle Train or hop aboard the Black Swan Ferry. Families can also make the most of the Knight's Stronghold playground and adventure golf. Dover Castle Standing guard above the English Channel, Dover Castle is known as the "Key to England" and has defended the country's coastline for more than 900 years. Its remarkable history includes one of Britain's oldest surviving Roman structures, a lighthouse dating back to the first century AD. The castle was expanded by Henry II in the 1180s, survived a major medieval siege and later played important military roles during both the Napoleonic Wars and the Second World War. Visitors can tour the impressive Great Tower, explore medieval tunnels, learn about the famous 1216 siege through a new exhibition and enjoy panoramic views across Dover and the Channel from The Spur viewpoint. A new siege-themed play area also gives younger visitors the chance to "storm" the castle themselves. The Great British Summer at Dover Castle runs from July 18 until September 6, with daily performances bringing medieval history to life. Hever Castle Hever Castle was formerly the childhood home of Anne Boleyn making it one of Kent’s most popular castles to visit. Dating back to 1383, the moated castle was owned by the Boleyn family for generations and was later associated with Henry VIII and Anne of Cleves. After falling into decline, it was restored in the early 20th century by American millionaire William Waldorf Astor, who helped create many of the gardens visitors enjoy today. There is plenty to see beyond the castle walls, including the Yew Maze and Water Maze, Tudor Towers adventure playground, Acorn Dell play area, woodland trails and a collection of Tudor portraits. Sissinghurst Castle and Gardens Although now best known for its world-famous gardens, Sissinghurst has a history stretching back to medieval times. The estate originally hosted a manor house before later serving as a prison camp during the 18th century. Its transformation came in 1930 when writer Vita Sackville-West and diplomat Sir Harold Nicolson bought the property and created the series of garden "rooms" that have since become internationally renowned. Now owned by the National Trust, visitors can climb the Elizabethan Tower where Vita once wrote, explore the library, wander through the famous gardens and enjoy walks around the wider 400-acre estate. Exhibitions and visitor facilities, including a restaurant, add to the experience. This summer's programme includes the Sissinghurst Summer Fête from July 18 to September 6, featuring lawn games, craft activities and nature trails inspired by 1930s garden parties. Visitors can also follow the Sissinghurst Stories history trail and enjoy a range of open-air theatre productions. Scotney Castle With its picturesque ruined castle reflected in a moat, Scotney Castle is one of Kent's most photographed historic sites. The estate appears in the Domesday Book and the surviving moated Old Castle was built in the late 14th century amid concerns over French invasion. In the Victorian era, the Hussey family built a new mansion overlooking the ruins, creating the romantic landscape visitors see today. Visitors can explore the gardens, discover the Victorian mansion, join rare Old Castle tours and view special exhibitions showcasing the estate's history. Throughout the summer, Scotney's Summer of Play offers activities across five themed zones, including sports, creative workshops, nature activities and games. Outdoor theatre productions and a packed programme of live music events also take place during August.