Leeds Castle has defended its decision not to extend season tickets, saying the virus restrictions has left it facing a financial black hole.

The tourist attraction, near Maidstone, announced that the grounds and gardens will reopen on Thursday, June 25, but is facing fierce criticism, because it will not extend annual tickets for current holders, who haven't been able to visit during the closure, or the tickets which expired during lockdown.

However, those who do renew their passes or buy a new one, will see the 12 months extended to 15, with the offer in place until December.

Many people took to Facebook to air their complaints. Leah-Jean Faulkner said: "What an absolute joke that you are offering 'new' customers three months for free, but you are not willing to extend your existing customers tickets by three months.

"I wish we had never purchased a ticket now, and we certainly wont be renewing our ticket either."

Kaye Travers said: "I understand this is out of your control but really think that for the good will if nothing else, your tickets should be extended. Once we are in we are spending money in the cafe and gift shop. Rather think this leaves a bad taste."

Karen Alabaster said: "We purchased a family ticket literally four weeks before lockdown. I see your now extending tickets brought from now on giving them 15 months.

"Are you able to extend mine to give us our full year please as we didn't even get to use it as a full family prior to lockdown."

One woman said: "I'm not skint but these tickets aren't cheap and I couldn't just donate £100 to a charity willy nilly.

"I go because it saves me trying to find somewhere nice to entertain the kids, pay for parking and entry in a nice clean, safe environment. I think they would gain a lot more re-purchasers of tickets if they acted fairly."

The decision has also been labelled by others as a "joke" and "completely unfair".

One person told Kent Online: "This is such poor customer service and certainly no way to look after their customers."

'We are asking a lot of our supporters, as every charity is doing in these difficult times...'

In an email to disappointed customers, the castle said: "We do understand your frustration at not being able to visit during lockdown, but COVID-19 has devastated us all and left Leeds Castle Foundation, an independent charity, with a financial black hole when attempting to meet £7m per year running costs.

"We are asking a lot of our supporters, as every charity is doing in these difficult times, your continued help will make sure the foundation is able to reopen the estate for everyone to enjoy and preserve our special heritage."

In a statement it added: "Whilst we are not able to extend existing tickets, or those which expired during the lockdown, we are offering 15 months on all new tickets bought before December 31. Meaning that a new ticket purchased in June will not expire until the end of September 2021."

Some have commented in support of the charity on Facebook.

Jamie Baldry said: "The castle has still had its own bills and finances through lockdown. I thought we were trying to support businesses instead loads of you are moaning because you’re missing out on a few months and you should be compensated."

Others said on Facebook much they missed the castle and they were planning their first visit in months.

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