Maidstone, Kent
Leeds Castle is most notoriously haunted by the 'Black Dog', a phantom hound whose appearance, according to legend, serves as a death omen. Other reported spectral activity includes the ghost of Lady Baillie, the castle's 20th-century owner, seen strolling the grounds, and a mysterious Lady in White sometimes glimpsed near the castle’s Maiden’s Tower. While the B&B area itself is relatively calm, guests have occasionally felt presences or heard unexplained sounds at night, possibly linked to the castle’s wandering spirits.
Black Dog of Leeds Castle (Omen Apparition, Animal Spirit), Lady Baillie (Apparition), Lady in White (Apparition).
A spectral black Labrador-like dog with curly fur, the Black Dog of Leeds is a famous omen. Its appearance is said to herald misfortune or death, a legend tied to Eleanor of Gloucester's imprisonment for witchcraft. Though rarely seen, its legend is a cornerstone of the castle's haunting.
The elegant spirit of Lady Olive Baillie, the 20th-century heiress who restored Leeds Castle, is said to gently roam her beloved home. Seen in 1930s evening wear, often in the library where she died, her presence is warm and protective, as if still hosting or ensuring all is in order. She is not a frightening ghost.
A classic castle ghost, the White Lady of Leeds is a mysterious female figure in a white dress, possibly a medieval queen like Joan of Navarre or another noblewoman who met a tragic end. Sighted near the Maiden’s Tower or by the moat, she exudes sadness and vanishes if approached, adding a romantic, tragic flavor to the castle's hauntings.
Castle founded 1119 (Norman); much rebuilt in 19th century. Stable Courtyard buildings date 16th-19th centuries, renovated 2014.
The castle was a royal medieval residence for Queens of England, later a private estate. The stable courtyard historically housed the castle’s equestrian complex and provided ancillary guest lodgings.
Often dubbed “The Loveliest Castle in the World,” Leeds Castle has an illustrious history, serving as a residence for six medieval queens of England and later becoming the cherished domain of Lady Baillie in the 20th century. It functioned as a Norman stronghold, saw action in rebellions, and was transformed into a lavish palace. The Bed & Breakfast accommodation occupies repurposed outbuildings adjacent to the main castle. The castle’s dramatic past, including battles and imprisonments (like Eleanor of Gloucester), provides ample fuel for its enduring haunting legends, most notably that of a spectral Black Dog.
The main castle is primarily an early 19th-century Gothic revival structure, clad over original Norman and medieval stone. The Stable Courtyard B&B wing consists of rustic Tudor and Georgian brick buildings, originally stables and cottages, which have been sympathetically renovated to provide modern guest accommodation. The interiors of these rooms blend modern classic design with preserved historic features like exposed beams, maintaining the old-world charm of the estate.
Sightings of the Black Dog, a phantom hound, often considered a death omen. Lady Baillie's apparition seen in 1930s attire, particularly in the library. A Lady in White seen near the Maiden’s Tower. Phantom barking and horse neighing/trotting sounds. Guests in the B&B have felt a dog brush past them or heard scratching at doors. Cold spots and unexplained noises are also reported within the castle.
Within the castle: the Library and Yellow Drawing Room for Lady Baillie. The Maiden’s Tower and moat vicinity for the Lady in White. The Gatehouse and lower hall for an armored knight presence (less reported). For B&B guests, potential encounters are in the Stable Courtyard at night (Black Dog, phantom hoofbeats) or if staying in rooms facing the castle. Room 3 in the B&B has had reports of odd scratching at the door.
In the 1990s, a night security guard, unaware of the legend, reported seeing a large black dog run across the lawn and vanish by the castle wall; shortly after, a colleague had a serious accident, reinforcing the omen theory. Tourists have captured photos with unexplained dog-like shadows. B&B guests have commented on feeling a presence or hearing footsteps in the courtyard at night when no one was there. A castle guide encountered Lady Baillie's ghost by a fireplace. Ghost hunters at the B&B reported EMF spikes near the old stable archway and heard a distant horse whinny.
Leeds Castle’s Black Dog story has been featured in TV documentaries on haunted castles. However, full public ghost hunts are not common due to its status as a major tourist site. A few paranormal groups have investigated after hours by special request, reporting unexplained dog barks on audio. Castle guides mention the ghost dog if asked, and the castle's blog often features the legend around Halloween. The B&B does not actively promote its ghosts, but staff might share stories discreetly.
📅 Sample dates:2025-06-06 to 2025-06-08 • 2 adults
Dates and guest count can be changed on booking sites
💰 Affiliate Disclosure: We earn a commission from some bookings at no extra cost to you. Learn more
Paranormal Tip: Book rooms within the castle: the library and yellow drawing room for lady baillie. the maiden’s tower and moat vicinity for the lady in white. the gatehouse and lower hall for an armored knight presence (less reported). for b&b guests for the best chance of supernatural encounters!
Address:
Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL, England
Phone: +44 1622 767823
Status: Open. Offering bed and breakfast accommodation within the historic Stable Courtyard on the Leeds Castle estate, providing a unique heritage stay.
The castle offers luxurious packages like Romantic Escapes and Medieval Banquets, but no specific ghost-themed packages. Guests interested in the paranormal visit on their own initiative. Requesting a room with a castle view might enhance the atmospheric experience.
B&B rooms are on the first floor of converted stables, accessible via stairs (no lift/elevator). Some ground-level rooms may be available upon request. The estate is vast with pathways, which can be dark and uneven at night. Staff can assist with golf carts during opening hours for mobility. Guests with specific accessibility needs should contact the castle directly.
In Maidstone, The Corn Exchange and The Museum both have ghost tales. Mote Park is rumored to have a headless rider. Allington Castle (private) supposedly has a ghostly nun. Pluckley village, England's most haunted, is about 20 miles southeast. Fort Amherst in Chatham runs public ghost hunts.
Book your stay and experience The Black Dog of Leeds and the other spirits firsthand. Many guests report paranormal encounters during their visits.