Hever Castle & Gardens is a historic castle in Hever, England, located in the Sevenoaks District of Kent. The castle, which dates back to the 13th century, is a popular tourist destination and UK heritage site, and is renowned for its beautiful Tudor architecture and stunning English gardens. Hever Castle is a great family day out, and one of the top attractions in Kent.
History of Hever Castle
Hever Castle was originally built in 1270 by William de Hever, a wealthy landowner. It was then expanded in the early 1500s by Sir Geoffrey Boleyn, the father of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII. After Anne Boleyn was executed in 1536, the castle was passed down through several generations of the Boleyn family until it was sold in 1903. The castle was then extensively renovated by the new owner, American businessman William Waldorf Astor, who added the Italianate Garden and many of the castle’s other features.
What to See at Hever Castle
Hever Castle offers a variety of attractions for visitors, including:
- The magnificent double-moated castle, with its grand entrance, turrets, and towers
- The picturesque Italianate Garden, with its ornamental lake, topiary, and fountains
- The Tudor-style Rose Garden, with its abundant roses and fragrant herbs
- The tranquil Yew Maze, which is over 100 years old
- The Astor Wing, which houses a collection of artifacts and antiques
- The Hever Castle Adventure Playground, which is perfect for children of all ages
What to Expect on Your Visit
When you visit Hever Castle, you can expect to have a wonderful day out. There are a variety of tours available, including guided tours of the castle, gardens, and grounds. You can also take a self-guided audio tour, or explore the castle and gardens at your own pace. The castle also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as outdoor theatre performances, concerts, and family activities.
Admission & Tours
Admission to Hever Castle & Gardens is ticketed, and tickets can be purchased online or at the castle. There are various ticket options available, including day tickets, family tickets, and season tickets. For those interested in taking a guided tour, there are a variety of tour packages available, including garden tours, castle tours, and special events tours.
Tips for Tourists
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Bring a camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities.
- Pack a picnic lunch, as there are plenty of spots to enjoy a meal.
- Check the website for special events and offers.
- Allow plenty of time to explore the castle and gardens.
Practical Information
Hever Castle & Gardens is open every day from 10am to 6pm, except for Christmas Day. The castle is located just off the A21 in Hever, England and is easily accessible by car. There is ample parking available on site, and the castle is also accessible by public transport, with the nearest train station being Edenbridge Town.
Hever Castle & Gardens is a must-see for anyone visiting England. With its beautiful Tudor architecture, stunning English gardens, and rich history, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kent and a UK heritage site. Whether you are looking for a family day out or a romantic getaway, Hever Castle & Gardens is the perfect place to explore and experience the beauty of England’s past.
