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CIArb SE Annual Dinner at Leeds Castle It's one of those things isn't it? You live near
to somewhere such as Leeds Castle and are always meaning to visit but because
it is on your doorstep you never get around to it. So thanks to Helena for
getting us organised and arranging a truly memorable visit. Philip and I had
decided to opt for an extended trip and stay the night and we felt very special
arriving after all the day visitors had left and experiencing the beautiful
grounds practically deserted. We were later told that there had been 4,000
visitors that day so this was a privilege indeed.
We were accommodated in very comfortable and well appointed rooms in a stable block around a picturesque courtyard and overlooking the black swans on the lake to the rear. It was here that we primped and preened and made ourselves beautiful before the short walk in the sunset across the moat to the Gatehouse where our select group was gathering. The rooms where we had pre-dinner drinks and then the function itself were beautifully appointed yet small and intimate enough to create a congenial atmosphere. The food was locally sourced and lovingly prepared and could not have been fresher - we witnessed the asparagus arriving from the producer only half an hour before it was served on our plates. Philip performed his usual party trick of finishing off anything which others could not manage and excelled himself on this occasion by eating four puddings!
Report by Amanda Lovell |
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We were lucky enough to wake the following morning to
one of the few sunny days of the summer and then had the whole day ahead of us
to wander round the castle and grounds once more. There was certainly a lot to
see. The castle itself features in the Domesday Book and Henry VIII was a
frequent visitor - when on the way to the Field of the Cloth of Gold, he
brought his entire court with him. Latterly it has been in private ownership
and has been a garrison, prison and convalescent home. The most recent owner
was a wealthy American heiress who completely refurbished the castle in 1926
which accounts for it being so well-preserved today. 
We had the added
bonus that the Kent Food and Wine Fair was being held in the grounds that day
so Philip was able to top up with tasters of local turkey, cheeses, preserves,
wine and beer as he was feeling a bit peckish only a couple of hours after his
full English breakfast. Finally we wandered around the extensive grounds once
again and admired the immaculately tended formal gardens, the aviary and
finally progressed to the maze and stunning grotto. Unfortunately I do not have
photographic proof of John and Helena standing on the mound in the middle of
the maze and refusing any help in finding their way out, but suffice to say
that they did eventually escape in time for their wedding a couple of weeks
later. Thanks once again to Helena for organising such a wonderful trip
especially when she was so busy with her wedding plans at the time. We wish her
and John a very happy future together.