Discover the design secrets behind one of the county’s most beloved castles with workshops, tours and exhibitions.

Design Month, which takes place at Leeds Castle near Maidstone this September, will give visitors a chance to find out how this magnificent country retreat came to be, from the sweeping parklands to intricate interiors.

For the first half of the month, from Thursday, September 1 to Friday, September 16, the focus will be on the landscape of Leeds Castle.

Visitors can explore the gardens, parkland and outdoor architecture of the castle with walks around the gardens, beautiful floral displays and fascinating facts about how the surroundings complement the architectural design of the castle and moat.

There will be a historical gardens and landscape tour running on select dates during the first half of the month, as well as perfume, photography and wicker workshops.

During the second half of the month, from Saturday, September 17 to Sunday, October 2, the focus will shift to inside the castle where the interiors and textiles will be showcased.

The recent introduction of the castle’s 1930s theme will give visitors a chance to step into a glamorous period where art, fashion and design were at the forefront. There will be unique French interior designs, luxurious rooms and insights into its gothic influences.

The second half of Design Month offers floral and bookbinding workshops, plus a number of talks about the castle’s aesthetic history.

The sculpture trail, which sees themed sculptures dotted throughout the grounds, will be open for the full month.

Those who visit Leeds Castle during Design Month can also explore the Queens with Means cinematic experience, which tells the stories of the castle’s seven historic queens, and watch impressive falconry displays in the grounds.

Design Month at Leeds Castle takes place from Thursday, September 1 to Sunday, October 2.

The exhibitions are included with a standard entry ticket but some workshops and tours must be purchased separately. Find out more here.