In photos: Christmas in ‘loveliest castle in the world’

KENT, United Kingdom — A big fan of "The Crown"? Ever wanted to spend the holidays in a real castle?

Touted as the “loveliest castle in the world,” Leeds Castle in Kent, United Kingdom was reportedly built in 1086 and since then, it served as home to some of Europe’s kings and queens, including England’s King Henry VIII and his first wife Queen Catherine of Aragon, whose statues, portraits, emblems and contributions to the castle’s interior designs can still be seen in the castle.

Today, the castle is an independently-run institution preserved by staff and volunteers. While it is no longer allowed to stay in the castle itself, it is possible to rent any of the rooms in its adjacent former house for ladies-in-waiting, and in a more modern complex that used to host VIP guests and royalty, including the former King Edward VIII of England.

A stay in the castle compound affords one a taste of royal life like in "The Crown" or "Bridgerton" — including a private tour of the main castle, its chambers and still operational moat; expansive wooden castle playground and mini golf for kids; manicured gardens; wildlife encounters with swans, ducks and falcons, among others; and an authentic Medieval outdoor maze!

The castle’s restaurant and café’s serve reasonably priced wine, steaks and other fine English cuisine fit for a king!

Come Christmas, the castle transforms into a winter wonderland — complete with snow and opulent decorations. But the castle and its surrounds have been a popular tourist destination all-year-round for hosting many fun events such as concerts, golf tournaments, and even jousting competitions, with guests living in Medieval tents for summer.