LEEDS CASTLE CELEBRATES 900 years


LEEDS Castle, famously described as the “loveliest castle in the world”, celebrates a special milestone in 2019 – its 900th birthday.


A HOST of special events has been organised over the coming months which will not only toast this remarkable moment in time but allow even more people to discover its magic. From medieval jousting, open air theatre and cinema,


by royal appointment, no aspect of this special place will not


promises to be a glorious riot of summer colour. A procession of enactors in dazzling large-scale costumes will process throughout the castle and it parkland, culminating


Steel, have spent two years planning and executing this salute to one of the world’s great treasure houses.


SIR David Steel has been in post as chief executive of Leeds Castle for four years after a long career as a


Here opportunities presented by the 900th anniversary celebrations…


How far in advance of the 900th anniversary celebrations did you start planning? Just under two years ago. We have worked hard to create not only a range of events and activities which will be appealing to all ages and a broad range of visitors, but also that the history of Leeds Castle and its importance in British history reaches out to many more than those who can actually visit.


It looks like an enormous undertaking, what do you hope to achieve from it? We are blessed with many castles across the United Kingdom, each


with its own story. Leeds Castle, however, has a wonderfully varied history and our aim throughout 2019 is to encourage as many people as possible to visit, to enjoy this amazing estate and to learn of the relevance of Leeds Castle over so many generations. Any birthday is a cause of celebration and, engaging with the local and wider communities, we hope to deliver many events which will bring pleasure to as many people as possible.


What is the best part of the job? Being part of a great team. We are blessed with about 300 paid


leaving the Royal Navy I never expected again to work alongside a group of people as dedicated as those I had served with in the navy; I was quite wrong – I found them at Leeds Castle.


What is the most challenging? Leeds Castle is probably unique. An independent charity, with no external sources of income other than that generated by our own endeavours, the challenge is always to ensure that


while being sure that the particular character of such a famous heritage site is never compromised. My pride is reserved for all who work here, who labour so hard to sustain an ancient estate and bring so much pleasure to all who visit and stay.


How would you like to see Leeds Castle in 100 years’ time? In 1974 Lady Baillie, the last private owner of Leeds Castle, created a charity to ensure the stewardship of


of the public. My greatest hope is that her wishes continue


heart of the local community, not just over the next 100 years but forever.


16


Maidstone May 2019


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