Our journey begins with two of the most impressive fortresses in Kent: Dover Castle and Leeds Castle. Dover Castle, known as the 'Key to England,' is a monumental fortress towering over the white cliffs of Dover. With a history dating back to Roman times, this massive defense complex offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family. While visiting the castle, you can explore medieval chambers, underground tunnels dating back to World War II and climb the Great Tower for breathtaking views of the English Channel. For children, there are interactive exhibitions and historical displays that provide a fascinating glimpse of life in a medieval fortress. Dover Castle has received an impressive 4.7 rating from visitors, a testament to its exceptional appeal. It's worth reserving a full day to explore, as the complex is vast and offers many attractions. The price of admission (£33 per adult, as of 2023) may seem steep, but given the richness of the experience, it is an investment worth considering. Not far from Dover is another gem - Leeds Castle, often called 'the most beautiful castle in the world'. This romantic fortress, surrounded by a moat and extensive gardens, offers a very different but equally fascinating experience. Leeds Castle, with a rating of 4.7, impresses not only with its architecture, but also with its extensive collection of artwork and antiques. There are many attractions for families with children, including the famous maze and playground. The ticket price (£25 per adult, as of 2023) is slightly lower than at Dover, making it an attractive alternative for those looking for a more affordable option. Both castles offer a variety of experiences: Dover impresses with its military might and strategic location, while Leeds charms with its romantic atmosphere and beautiful gardens. When choosing between the two, it's worth considering not only the price, but also your family's interests and the time you have available for visiting. Regardless of your choice, both places guarantee an unforgettable experience and a fascinating history lesson for visitors of all ages.

Continuing our journey through the medieval castles of Kent, we move on to places that combine the charm of historic ruins with the beauty of English gardens. Hever Castle, the former home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII's second wife, is a true gem of Tudor architecture. With a rating of 4.8, it is one of the highest-rated castles in the region. Visitors can admire the richly decorated interiors, explore the Italianate and rose gardens, and play in the water maze - an attraction that will especially appeal to the youngest. Hever also offers the opportunity to stay overnight in luxury suites on the property, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this unique place. Ticket prices vary depending on the season and the tour option chosen, so it's worth checking the current offers on the castle's official website. Not far from Hever is another romantic gem - the National Trust-owned Scotney Castle. This castle, with a rating of 4.7, impresses with its picturesque location on an island surrounded by a moat. The ruins of the medieval fortification blend harmoniously with the Victorian house and beautiful gardens to create a fairy-tale setting. Scotney Castle not only offers tours of the historic buildings, but also strolls through the extensive landscaped grounds, making it ideal for a family picnic. Ticket prices are moderate, and National Trust members can enjoy free admission. For those who wish to combine a castle tour with a seaside setting, Walmer Castle and Gardens is an ideal option. Originally built as a defensive fort, this 16th-century castle has been transformed into an elegant residence. With a rating of 4.7, Walmer offers a fascinating journey through history, from the Tudors to Victorian times. The castle's gardens, including the famous kitchen garden and the Queen Mother's garden, are a true paradise for nature lovers. The castle also offers beautiful views of the sea, which adds to its special charm. Ticket prices are comparable to other National Trust sites. Each of the three castles offers a unique experience: Hever impresses with its Tudor architecture and rich history, Scotney charms with its romantic location and picturesque ruins, and Walmer combines elements of a fortress with the elegance of a seaside residence. When choosing among them, it is worth considering not only your historical interests, but also your preferences for the surroundings and the type of activities you want to engage in during your visit. Regardless of your choice, each of these places guarantees an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the county of Kent.

In the final part of our tour of Kent's castles, we will discover a few more fascinating sites that complete the picture of the region's medieval heritage. We'll start with Bodiam Castle, one of the most picturesque examples of medieval defensive architecture in England. With a rating of 4.7, this 14th-century castle impresses with its perfectly preserved outer defensive wall, turrets and moat. Bodiam offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family, including the opportunity to climb the towers, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding area. Ticket prices are moderate (about £11 per adult, as of 2023), and the frequent archery and knightly combat demonstrations are an added attraction. The next point on our itinerary is Rochester Castle, an impressive Norman fortress dating back to the 12th century. With a rating of 4.5, this castle stands out as one of the tallest surviving defensive towers in Europe. Visitors can explore the ruins, enjoy the city skyline from the height of the walls, and participate in the many historical events held on the castle grounds. Rochester Castle is particularly appealing to lovers of military architecture and the history of medieval England. For those looking for a less crowded but equally fascinating site, we recommend Tonbridge Castle. This 11th-century castle, with a 4.4 rating, offers a perfectly preserved gatehouse and ramparts. Visitors can participate in interactive exhibitions that provide an interesting look at life in a medieval castle. Ticket prices are affordable, making Tonbridge Castle an attractive option for families on a tight budget. For maritime history buffs, Deal Castle and Upnor Castle are fascinating examples of coastal fortifications. Deal Castle, with a rating of 4.4, is a unique Tudor rose-shaped fortress built on the orders of Henry VIII. Upnor Castle (rating 4.3), on the other hand, is an Elizabethan fortress on the River Medway that played a key role in the defense of the English navy. Both castles offer a fascinating insight into England's maritime history and coastal defense system. Ticket prices are moderate, and both sites are less crowded than more famous attractions, allowing for a leisurely visit. When comparing these castles, it's worth noting their diversity. Bodiam and Rochester offer a classic medieval castle experience, perfect for lovers of knightly tales. Tonbridge Castle is a great choice for families with children because of its interactive exhibitions. Deal and Upnor, on the other hand, will be fascinating for those interested in England's maritime history. When choosing among these options, consider not only ticket prices, but also location, accessibility and the type of experience you are looking for. Regardless of your choice, each of these castles offers a unique glimpse into Kent's rich history and guarantees an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.