Arrival to Leeds Castle...Simply Brilliant

Our flight arrived at 10:00 this morning, and while en-route we tried to sleep as much as possible, but it was slightly difficult with the main cabin lights in the back of the plane remaining on. Our plane had some mechanical issues, but they didn't want to delay it on a count of a lighting problem. Instead they offered up eye masks, but just happened to run out before I got one. 

Leeds Castle - Kent

Mike with Spot Travel was waiting for us with a special sign in hand once we landed and had collected our cases. When our journey to Maidstone began in the private transfer, we talked to Mike for a short while before Morgan and I were both passed out in the back. We were bound and determined to stay awake the entire day in order to adjust to the time change, but a quick cat nap would ensure it. 

Entering the gates to the castle was like entering into a fairy tale. All of the chrysanthemums were blooming and the sun was shining bright; not what we had pictured for a typical London Day. Upon arriving at the main castle, we were quickly greeted by Debbie, who is the Business Manager for Leeds Castle. We followed Debbie and the Butler, Duncan, to a room where we were pleasantly surprised by a beautiful display of tea sandwiches, scones, Victoria cakes, and tea. We felt like we were having afternoon tea at The Brown Palace (those of you from Denver will know what we mean). First, one cup, then two..."Wow, this tea is really good." Feeling revived, we were ready for the grand tour. The pictures of the castle were amazing, but seeing it in person was truly spectacular. So much history, from the Henry the VIII Banquet Hall to the Library. We toured all 24 bedrooms in both the main castle and the maiden's tower, including the bedroom that Pavarotti stayed in while visiting Leeds Castle. Later that afternoon we met with the General Manager, Executive Chef, and Butler regarding our menu for the 7-day affair. We also came to understand what a true English breakfast looks like, and although quite lovely, we will stick with American.

A Pint & A Half-Pint

Debbie and her husband, Douglas, took us to Dirty Habit in Hollingbourne for dinner tonight. It is a local pub, and the atmosphere and food were amazing. What made it even better was the hospitality of the General Manager, Kevin Weilding. He had us try the local brews and we realized there were two sizes of beer glasses. A half-pint and a pint. We both ordered a pint and had dinner with our new friends. Morgan was brave and ordered pigeon wellington. I was more interested in dessert, but I wanted to make sure that the Manager could “sell” them to us. Click Here to View the Video He passed with flying colors and we ordered crème brulee and an apple crumble. Douglas had given up chocolate for Lent, so he made sure to advise Kevin. We cannot wait to share the pub experience with all of the investors. 

Back at the castle, Morgan and I settled in for the night. With an entire castle to ourselves, we slept like angels.