!and it really was! Originally built as a country house, the castle later became the seat of the Boleyn family between 1462 and 1539. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. No matter what time of year you visit you are guaranteed a breath-taking display. top ten best things to do in South East London with kids! The castle was used as the location for a music video by Libera in 2006. To help our visitors with accessible needs enjoy a more memorable experience, we ask that they/you pay the normal entry fee and admit their/your carer free of charge on a 1:1 ratio. Trains run from London Victoria and London Bridge (via Oxted or East Croydon) to Edenbridge Town Station. Unfortunately because of the situation at the moment with the virus, we had to queue for 1 hour and 20 minutes to actually get into the castle as they were limiting the number of visitors, which is understandable, but very tiring. There's more than enough to do at Hever Castle, both inside and out, to fill at least a day and maybe more. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Soak in the beauty and serenity of the peaceful lake that is situated within Hever Castle. /* horizontal */ You can hire arowingboator pedalo for thelake during some summer monthsand the whole area feels simply magical and special. In the latter half of the 15th century, the castle was bought, along with Blickling Hall (in Norfolk) by Geoffrey Bullen. We recommend booking Hever Castle & Gardens tours ahead of time to secure your spot. Ive reserved a room in the Anne Boleyn wing but wondering if the Astor Wing is inside the actual castle and would be better? About Hever Castle Dating back to the 14th century, Hever Castle was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and Mother of Elizabeth I. Read below for everything you need to know about Hever Castle. It takes a great team with wide-ranging skills to look after and manage the Hever Castle Estate. The property came into the possession of Henry VIII after the death of Anne's father, Thomas Boleyn, in 1539. The castle gardens contain a wide range of features, including an Italianate garden (including Fernery), rose gardens, herb garden, and topiary. There have been three main periods in the construction of this historic castle. Here's what you need to know to plan your visit. Ghost of Anne Boleyn at Hever Castle. [6], In 1903, it was acquired and restored by the American millionaire William Waldorf Astor, who used it as a family residence. We were sorry to hear that you were disappointed by your visit. A cloakroom or lockers or something? he must have liked the location so much that he spent 6,500 on it for the duration of 9 years between 1179 and 1188, which was most of his income! Attractions at Hever Castle & Gardens [9], The castle has been Grade I listed since 10 September 1954; that was after the addition of the Tudor village, "a picturesque cluster of guest cottages".[10]. 17 Historic Facts About Dover Castle | The Ultimate LIst Upon Sir Thomas' death, Hever Castle went to . Reasonably interesting place, positives: some history to see. During our visit we noticed several family friendly/children activities taking place, such as archery and children's 'slaying the dragon'. Experience 700 years of history at the romantic double-moated 13th century castle once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and Mother of Elizabeth I. Hever Castle & Gardens - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Tripadvisor The afternoon tea looked really nice although we did not have one. It also includes several brides scolds, contraptions used to prevent gossiping women from talking. Guard the gates, patrol the turrets and walk the grounds: here are 10 Medieval strongholds and Early Modern fortresses that visitors can spend the night in across the UK. Hever Castle was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the 2nd wife of Henry VII. You should have no problems. What hotels are near Hever Castle & Gardens? Thomas and Elizabeth had three children which survived childhood: George, Anne and Mary. [5], The property subsequently passed through various owners, including the Waldegrave family from 1557 to 1715, the Humfreys family to 1749 and the Meade-Waldo family from 1749 to 1903. History of Hever Castle The gardens are for some family fun in a place teeming with history, much like Warwick Castle. The feature rooms have to be booked six months or more in advance but are relatively moderately priced for the quality of the attraction. Join our Adventure: Get all ourtips for kids outdoor activities and grab your FREE nature scavenger hunt! It was I think 2.00 extra to do the castle and garden together. The Castle itself was lovingly restored by the Astor family with multiple original features remaining including the impressive Long Gallery details of which are presented on our multimedia guides (included in the price of entry). Anti-Slavery and human trafficking statement. Hever Castle is a proper English Castle with a moat drawbridge, pillars, stone walls, and huge topiary guarding the entrance. According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Hever Castle & Gardens: 100% of travelers recommend this experience. It covers an area of almost 600 square metres, and has hedges up to 2.75 metres high. Receive the latest offers, stories & lessons straight to your inbox from Hever Castle. [7] He completed a restoration, added the Tudor village (also known as the Astor Wing)[8] and also added the Italian Garden to display his collection of statuary and ornaments. If you visit Hever in the Spring, like we did, youll be greeted with a gorgeous spread of daffodils! . Wed definitely recommend it theyve never been so quiet! I was worried about taking Archie (aged 3) into the castle I wasnt sure theyd be impressed with a little one running around but the staff were very friendly. Broadland Properties purchased Hever Castle and its collection from the Astor family in 1983. We have kids aged 11, 9, 6 and 3 so sometimes its hard to find a play area which they all enjoy. In the 14th century Hever was further crenellated during which time the walls, towers, moat, and Great Hall were constructed, before in 1462 it came into the possession of the Boleyn family. Comprehensive information on the history of Hever Castle can be found in the guide book and audio tours are available from the Hever Shop, Visitor Centre or castle entrance. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. For authenticity, the museum is designed to resemble a military operations tent, so that visitors feel as if they have been transported through time to observe the true military experience of the past and present of the Kent and Sharpshooters Yeomanry. Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana. The castle also operates three restaurants, located in the gardens.[18]. Bullen came from Norfolk and began his career as an apprentice mercer. The Meade Waldo family bought Hever Castle in 1749. For garden it was Around 14.00 for adult & 9.00 for child. Enter American-born William Waldorf Astor. Henry often met Anne at the castle, as well as at nearby Bolebroke Castle. It began as a country house, built in the 13th century. We booked on the Easter weekend so I felt nervous of how busy it was!! In later years the castle passed through many different hands before in 1903 it was acquired by American-British millionaire William Waldorf Astor, who restored it to its former glory and adopted it as a family residence. Enjoy the challenge of finding the best way out of the sculpted hedges of the 100-year old Yew Maze. When Anne's father, Thomas Boleyn, died in 1539, the house reverted to the CrownHenry VIII. Before your visit download enjoyable and informative trails to follow with young visitors whilst exploring the Castle, Gardens and Lake Walk. During the 14th and 16th centuries, the Boleyn family-owned Hever. Hiya, One of my most favourite places in England.Hever is just beautiful. Are you trying to find the best British castles to capture with your camera? The bedroom believed to have belonged to Boleyn may too be explored with her bed also on display as well as the room Henry VIII stayed in during their courtship. A number of rooms may be explored throughout Hever Castle that each represent the elegance of the Tudor era and the wealth of its past inhabitants. A separate self-catering cottage that sleeps eight can be rented as well. all set within the stone structures. Its a great option to visit as a day trip to bring some of what kids learn in KS2 History to life! There are many things to do including taking a walk around the lake or looking at some of the exhibitions that may be on show. It is signposted from Junctions 5 and 6 of the M25 or junction 10 of the M23. Hever Castle is very much worth a visit for the history, the beauty and the amazing play areas it geniunely has something for everyone. Ferne Arfin is a freelance travel writer who covers the U.K. and Greece for TripSavvy. I was worried about taking Archie (aged 3) into the castle - I wasn't sure they'd be impressed with a little one running around but the staff were very friendly. We felt it was a bit of a missed opportunity, especially given that the tickets cost 50 for the two of us! We also got a childrens audio guide for the kids to listen to as they walked around the castle- something Ive not done before but they loved it! Spanning more than 600 years, the history of Hever Castle is rich and varied. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. In 1983, the Astor family sold the castle to John Guthrie (1906-1992), chairman of the family-run business, Broadland Properties Limited. Good location, lovely room, excellent breakfast, helpful staff, what more could you ask of a b&b plus the added attraction of being able to enjoy the castle grounds with nobody else around. And if not does anyone know if there are restrictions on bag sizes in the castle? 5 Best Mountain Biking Locations in Chicago, Illinois, 20 Best Cenotes in and near Tulum to Visit in 2022, 12 Abandoned Ghost Towns in Arizona You Can Explore, 10 Best Tandem Kayaks For Every Adventurer In 2020, 12 Best Travel Adapters and Converters for Every Traveler, 10 Toddler Travel Beds That Can Do Wonders To Any Parents & Kids. Anne Boleyn, the second queen consort of King Henry VIII of England, spent her early youth there after her father, Thomas Boleyn, inherited it in 1505. For any history buffs with a specific interest in the Tudor period, Hever Castle is an inimitable opportunity to spectate and observe a different and more personal facet to the period. This years unprecedented heatwave has identified the need for air conditioning in public spaces however we are not permitted to install units in all buildings within the grounds, notably the castle itself. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. From 1462 to 1539, it was the seat of the Boleyn (originally 'Bullen') family.[1]. Discover magnificent award-winning gardens set in 125 acres of glorious grounds. Dance around the Maypole with brightly coloured ribbons intertwined, watch a Robin Hood Play on the Castle forecourt . Check out our selection here. A superior selection of unique, self-catering holiday cottages situated throughout the UK in areas of outstanding natural beauty. The oldest part of the castle is the outer fortified wall and the massive gatehouse. However, the kids did get very wet as they had so much fun going in and out of the fountains so make sure you pack waterproofs or a spare change of clothes for a family day trip. Coupled with some amazing play areas for kids of all ages its a brilliant day out for families. 9. Enjoy Easter Family Fun at Hever Castle, Kent - Easter Egg Hunts and Tickets - Hever Castle Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter with Transportation, Boutique Winery Experience in the Fredericksburg Texas Hill Country, Classic 3-Hour Food Tour in Colorado Springs, Evening Food Tour with Girl Power Riders in Ho Chi Minh City | Kiss Tours, See all 9 Hever Castle & Gardens tours on Tripadvisor, See all Hever Castle & Gardens experiences on Tripadvisor, View all hotels near Hever Castle & Gardens on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Hever Castle & Gardens on Tripadvisor, View all attractions near Hever Castle & Gardens on Tripadvisor. Day tickets can be purchased on admission or online. The majestic location of Hever Castle in Kent is inextricably linked to the doomed relationship between King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. For more fun days out and historical sites try some English Heritage properties to visit! Today Hever Castle is a popular tourist attraction that tells the story of Anne Boleyns life and her relationship with Henry VIII. Fun for Kids at Hever Castle & Gardens At other times of year, the house and gardens are open Wednesday through Sunday. The outdoor barbecue was very nice and there was ample picnic spaces throughout the grounds. Rent a canoe, rowing boat or pedalo from the Edwardian boathouse and glide serenely along the lake and take in the stunning views of the lake and its surroundings. After spending time at the court of France and Anne returned to England and lived at Hever until she became a Lady-in-Waiting to Queen Catherine of Aragon, the wife of Henry VIII. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. [2] The second period was when the castle, then in need of repair, was converted into a manor in 1462 by Geoffrey Boleyn, younger brother of Thomas Boleyn, Master of Gonville Hall, Cambridge. The gardens are massive, with multiple lawns, mazes, themed gardens and even a lake. Since castles weren't used much for defense by the 16th century, their additions were comfortable living spaces. The castle is well pitched for kids, its a great historical day out there are lots of armour and dungeon props to keep little people fascinated but the older kids enjoyed it too as there are interesting personal letters to read from Henry VIII and good facts about what living there would have been like. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Family fun includes jousting tournaments each summer, one of our most popular events. He and Anne initially enjoyed a loving relationship, however after around 1,000 days as queen she fell from favour and was beheaded in 1536. From 1462 to 1539, it was the seat of the Boleyn (originally 'Bullen') family. During this latter period of ownership, the castle fell into a poor state of repair, during which time it was leased to various private tenants. An open air venue set in the gardens of Hever Castle presenting a wide selection of shows. He added a Tudor dwelling within the walls. Day tickets can be purchased on admission or online. Hever Castle is located 30 miles from central London and 3 miles southeast of Edenbridge off the B2026. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. I didn't notice any lockers before entering the castle. All in all, very disappointing and we certainly wont be going back again next year. With a choice of four function spaces each venue has its own unique character and all areas are available for corporate and private events. We will send you the latest TV programmes, podcast episodes and articles, as well as exclusive offers from our shop and carefully selected partners. Dreadful. With Yvette Fielding, David Wells, Johnnie Fiori, Ciarn O'Keeffe. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC. A Head Gardener ticket costs 19.05 each. With a choice of four function spaces each venue has its own unique character and all areas are available for corporate and private events. You could spend an entire day on the grounds alone. You'd think (wouldn't you?) We were sorry to hear that you were dissatisfied with your visit. Perfect For The Kids more, Points of Interest & Landmarks Castles History Museums. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". By the late 19th century, the land was a tenanted Kentish farm estate, but the castle itself was falling into ruin. Bring over 600 years of Hever Castle history to life with private guided tours, guide books and enjoyable trails to follow with young visitors. 1 May Celebrate May Day at Hever Castle with a weekend of fun family activities & traditional May Day customs. Hever Castle, built in approximately 1270, consisted of a gatehouse and walled bailey surrounded by a moat. [17], The castle can provide accommodations for visitors who wish to stay overnight, including 28 rooms that can be rented in a B&B format. John Turner, Astor, William Waldorf, first Viscount Astor (18481919), rev. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. After your visit, download fun activities for children that will encourage them to apply what they have learnt from their day out. Hever Castle in Kent is a picturesque Tudor mansion famous for being the family home of Anne Boleyn, the ill-fated second wife of Henry VIII. The third period of repair and renovation was in the 20th century, when it was acquired by William Waldorf Astor. In 1271, a license to crenellate it in the manner of a castle was given, after which the eminent Gatehouse was constructed. Although there have only been a lucky few to achieve this, the maze provides endless amounts of entertainment and laughter to visitors of all ages. Online tickets cannot be purchased on the day of your visit. Heres what you need to know to plan your day trip to Hever Castle with Kids. Indeed, we were proud to offer our visitors 3 kilometres of lighting on site, our Festive Forest Trail (a unique concept that was written, illustrated, designed and handmade by our Design Manager), character actors, owl encounters, huskie encounters and Castle as part of their entry ticket with no additional charge for parking. The castle is very interesting, but it is the grounds that make the trip worthwhile. Gradually it fell into decline before William Waldorf Astor invested time, money and imagination in restoring the Castle. As you explore the gardens, there is a new gem around every corner everything from wild flowers by the lake through toformalItaliangardensplus a lovely lake walk and dog friendly. The first phase of building at Hever was in about 1270, and the design of the castle reflects the defensive architecture of that time. And the entrance fee is very reasonable for an entire day out. [11] The Loggia on the lake was used as the location for a peace conference in the comedy-drama The Great. Hever Castle in Kent intrigued the kids the most because theyve heard of Henry VIII and his infamous wives! It was Anne Boleyn's girlhood home, where Henry VIII courted her (as well as her older sister Mary who was his mistress first). [12], Hever Castle is now a tourist attraction, drawing on its links to Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII, its mazes, gardens and lakes. Hotels near Kent and Sharpshooters Yeomanry Museum, The 10 Tastings of Singapore With Locals Private Street Food Tour, The Jungle Book Trip (The Sundorbon Forest of Bangladesh), 'Magic Phantom' Black Light Theater Show in Prague, African American Heritage Tour of Chicago with Soul Food Meal included, Gaucho Day Tour Don Silvano Estancia From Buenos Aires, Black and White Desert Tour 2 Days 1 Night, Warner Bros. The last entry to the castle and grounds duringthe main season (31st March 26th October) is at 16:30 with the final exit of visitors scheduled to be approximately 18:00. In the 15th century, Geoffrey Bullen, great grandfather of Anne Boleyn, acquired Hever. If you happen to be a collector of military knowledge, then the KSY Military Museum is an opportunity not to be missed. She Grew Up In Hever Castle Anne, along with her siblings Mary and George, was brought up in Hever castle in Kent. It formed the unlikely backdrop to a sequence of tumultuous events that changed the course of Britain's history, monarchy and religion. Hever Castle - History, Rooms & Tours Day out in Kent at Hever Castle & Gardens John Guthrie, a chartered surveyor by training, chairs the private property group Broadland Properties founded in 1950. Your March/April issue of BRITAIN is here! Some believe that Anne was born at Hever, perhaps in 1501, although the evidence for this is sketchy at best. Spanning more than 600 years, the history of Hever Castle is rich and varied. Splash about the water maze to be found deep within the grounds of Hever Castle. 20 Most Interesting Fun Facts About Anne Boleyn | Beano There are approximately 115,000 snowdrops across the estate, the locations being marked on a map you would have received on arrival. In the early 16th century, it became the childhood home of. google_ad_client = "ca-pub-7771937797503341"; Anne Boleyn, the second queen consort of King Henry VIII of England, spent her early youth there after her father, Thomas Boleyn, inherited it in 1505. Hever Castle in Kent is a beautiful Tudor castle that is best known as the home of Anne Boleyn. Hever Castle was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the intriguing second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Thomas Boleyn and his wife Lady Elizabeth Howard raised their three children George, Mary, and Anne Boleyn at Hever Castle all three of whom would grow to become central figures of the Tudor court. that the guy at the kiosk would have said, there isn't actually much to see. One of the most amazing facts about Dover Castle is that Henry II spent virtually all of his money on the renovations. The barbecue stand ran out of burgers and the carousel and stalls in front of the castle were very overpriced (10 for 12 mini doughnuts) and did detract somewhat from the castle itself, which was decorated beautifully inside. its like something out of a fairy tale! Hever Castle ( pronounced HEE-vr) is located in the village of Hever, Kent, near Edenbridge, 30 miles (48 km) south-east of London, England. Family (2 children + 2 adults, 1 adult + 3 children). What's the best way to see Hever Castle & Gardens? Offering a range of topping choices on deliciously authentic, freshly made wood-fired pizzas, Hevers Pizza Van is nestled cosily within the grounds of Hever Castle, readily available for any history enthusiasts with a weakness for the Italian food. The castle passed to him upon the death of his father, Sir William Boleyn. Very disappointing! Manage Settings You can easily spend a whole afternoon just in the play areas- we spent the morning in the castle and maze and then the afternoon in the playground! [1] Winter is here! I suggest you email the website to see if you can enter with larger bags.However as there are some steep stone staircases I think it would be totally impracticable to take anything but a small bag with you. Totally delightful! William Shakespeares Wife: Who Was Anne Hathaway? This diverse offering and the independent ownership of the Castle make Hever a truly unique place to visit, stay, work and experience.