hever castle fun facts

As one of only a few traditionally designed mazes in the United Kingdom, the Yew Maze is certainly a feature that one has to experience when visiting Hever Castle. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Multisport Event Kent | Hever Castle | Castle Race Series The third period of repair and renovation was in the 20th century, when it was acquired by William Waldorf Astor. The first phase of building at Hever was in about 1270, and the design of the castle reflects the defensive architecture of that time. For more fun days out and historical sites try some English Heritage properties to visit! She was the lucky one. He added a Tudor dwelling within the walls. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. It really was the day of my dreams! The castle is still there today, and you can visit it and see the rooms and grounds where Anne and her siblings would have played! Hever Castle still has one of Henry VIII's private locks, taken with him on his various visits to noblemen's houses and fitted to every door for his security. We showed him the website where it clearly said it was and he said, "But the moment you pass this kiosk, you are entering the gardens and for that you have to pay" I was, and still am, totally perplexed. There have been three main periods in the construction of this historic castle. The Hever Castle Estate has a wealth of history; most recognisably it was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Thank you for taking the time to feedback on your experience. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Hever Castle & Gardens England is the childhood home of Anne Boleyn the second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I. The gatehouse was built in 1270 and is the oldest part of the castle. The afternoon tea looked really nice although we did not have one. In August 1535, Henry VIII visited Thornbury for 10 days with his new queen Anne Boleyn, supposedly staying in an octagonal tower room known today as the Duke's Bedchamber. Unlike similar attractions, our lighting experience is free flow, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves within the environment at their own pace, prioritising what is most important to them at the time. It was Henrys love for Anne and her insistence that she became his wife rather than his mistress that led to the King splitting from the Church in Rome and creating the Church of England, forever altering the course of English and European history. Within the shop we sell a wide range of award winning bespoke items with Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII and Hever Castle images, these appeal to many visitors who would like a memento of their visit. 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. Upon Sir Thomas' death, Hever Castle went to . We were sorry to hear you were disappointed by your visit. Loved that I would walk in the gardens after the tourists had gone home. Disclosure: If you happen to make a purchase after clicking though any links from Thimble and Twig, I will receive a small commission. There are also an adventure playground and water maze on the grounds. Enjoy your stay as it is amazing there. 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. It takes a great team with wide-ranging skills to look after and manage the Hever Castle Estate. It later came into the possession of King Henry VIII's fourth wife, Anne of Cleves. Discover magnificent award-winning gardens set in 125 acres of glorious grounds. There is also a museum of the Kent and Sharpshooters Yeomanry. It is not known if Anne was born at Hever (the year of her birth is not certain), but she lived there until she was sent to the Netherlands in 1513 to receive an education at the court of the Archduchess Margaret. A luxurious four bedroom five star gold rated property, forming part of the Astor Wing and accommodating up to 8 guests. Hever Castle: Facts and Information - Primary Facts 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. The gardens and lake were beautiful and boat trips and boat hire were available, although we did not participate in either. Ferne Arfin is a freelance travel writer who covers the U.K. and Greece for TripSavvy. The Meade Waldo family bought Hever Castle in 1749. Thomas and Elizabeth had three children which survived childhood: George, Anne and Mary. No matter what time of year you visit you are guaranteed a breath-taking display. Whilst putting and playing, golfers can also enjoy the stunning sights of the lush greenery and placid lakes that the Hever Castle Golf Club offers. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Fun for Kids At Hever Castle. In the 15th century, Geoffrey Bullen, great grandfather of Anne Boleyn, acquired Hever. [12], Hever Castle is now a tourist attraction, drawing on its links to Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII, its mazes, gardens and lakes. In 1983, the Astor family sold the castle to Broadland Properties Limited, which is run by the Guthrie family. info@hevercastle.co.uk, Receive all the latest news, events and fantastic offers straight to your inbox.'. 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. Take a taxi from the station for three miles to the castle. Hello~ I've reserved 2 nights in the Astor Wing for late July. In June 2013, a Japanese tea house folly was opened in the grounds of Hever Castle. Tripadvisor gives a Travelers Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor. He added the Italian Garden to display his collection of statuary and ornaments. Originally built as a country house, the castle later became the seat of the Boleyn family between 1462 and 1539. There is also a water maze, opened in 1999, the object of which is to reach the folly at the centre without getting wet, while in the children's adventure playground there is a tower maze (currently undergoing reconstruction). Attractions at Hever Castle & Gardens The first phase of building at Hever was in about 1270, and the design of the castle reflects the defensive architecture of that time. The oldest part of the castle is the outer fortified wall and the massive gatehouse. During the next few centuries, Hever Castle passed through several owners. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Sir Christopher Wren: Life and legacy. Watch this stunning video of the castle and gardens . In the 15th and 16th centuries the Boleyn family added the Tudor dwelling within the walls. The eighty-foot by eighty-foot puzzle provides huge amounts of entertainment and fun to all visitors, young and old. Parking at the site is free. Set in the Garden of England, it is the ultimate place to visit with historical beauty, and events going on all year round. 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. Day tickets include entry to most events except where stated, some additional charges may apply see WHATS ON pages. Part of their courtship is thought to have taken place Hever, with the king often staying at the castle itself and at the nearby Penshurst Place. Located on the grounds of Hever Castle, visitors can learn about the Kent and Sharpshooters Yeomanry through interactive displays that allows the stories of soldiers from 1794 to the present day truly come to life. There are many options for walks, suiting people of all ages and energy levels. The castle has also become the venue for a triathlon. In the Book of Hours room two of Boleyns personal prayer books are on display that both bear her signature, while in the Queens Chamber an impressive collection of Tudor portraiture may be found. By the late 19th century, the land was a tenanted Kentish farm estate, but the castle itself was falling into ruin. In the latter half of the 15th century, the castle was bought, along with Blickling Hall (in Norfolk) by Geoffrey Bullen. Bullen came from Norfolk and began his career as an apprentice mercer. Got off at Hever Station ( Trains run every hour back to London ) and walked across paths and grass, Look out for the signs for the castle, Which took about 20mins, I pre paid on line for my adult ticket (18.25 Concession cos I was over 60) Ticket price April 2023.. Great visit as always, but manage your expectations. Hello, It was lovely to see so many families enjoying the grounds but there was plenty of space and peace and quiet for everyone. The Guthries, a Yorkshire family based in Scarborough are the current owners of the Hever Castle Estate. +44 (0)1732 865224 Rediscovering Richard III with Matt Lewis, Rome and the Amalfi Coast with Tristan Hughes, she fell from favour and was beheaded in 1536, Stunning British Castles for Photographers, How Catholic Nobles Were Persecuted in Elizabethan England, Sex, Power and Politics: How the Seymour Scandal Nearly Ruined Elizabeth I, 10 Historic Sites Associated with Anne Boleyn, Viking Sites in Scotland: 5 Areas with Nordic History, 10 Historic Sites You Should Not Miss in 2023, Historic Sites Associated with Mary Queen of Scots, 10 Places to Explore World War Twos History in England, 10 Historic Sites Associated with Elizabeth I, Military Bunker Museums You Can Visit in England, The Duke of Wellington: Where History Happened. How much is it to get in to gardens but not 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. "Most Haunted" Hever Castle (TV Episode 2007) - IMDb Visit it today to explore its early medieval keep, its Tudor rooms, and its 125 acres of exquisite gardens. Today the Estate has something for everyone. $$ - $$$ British Pub Vegetarian Friendly. Brochure Hever Castle This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. There is no added cost to you as a consumer. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Discover the history of Hever Castle, its owners and inhabitants as you travel through time from its construction in 1383 to the present day. 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. There is also a water maze, opened in 1999, the object of which is to reach the folly at the centre without getting wet. She and Henry were married less than a year, and she managed to keep her head. The castle was used as the location for a music video by Libera in 2006. We struggled to find any. Hever Castle is located in Kent, near the village of the same name. The only slight thing is the price of the food but they are aware of that and encourage you to bring your own picnic so I'd definitely recommend doing that instead of paying nearly 20 for a drink, a couple of sausage rolls and a cupcake! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana. Whether if youre wanting to treat yourself to a quick cup of Joe or a full-fledged meal, the Moat Restaurant is the best place to dine and drink with all the family in tow. This place is bursting with vibes, memories and secrets untold. The castle itself is fascinating and you have the choice to just wander or listen to a tour using a headphone system. Is there anywhere to leave bags there? Chapter 2 : History of the Castle. all set within the stone structures. Bring over 600 years of Hever Castle history to life with private guided tours, guide books and enjoyable trails to follow with young visitors. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Hever Castle in Kent intrigued the kids the most because theyve heard of Henry VIII and his infamous wives! For any history enthusiasts who want to see a personal side of the Tudor period, visiting Hever Castle is an opportunity not to be missed. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. However, due to no taxi facilities at the station, it is a one-mile rural walk to the castle with guided signposts directing the route. Although it is called a castle it is more like a large stately home and the rooms are beautifully furnished and you can easily imagine the Boleyn family living here all those years ago. She Was Very Talented Discover some of the best Tudor sites in England, from Henry VIII's favourite residence of Hampton Court Palace, to Shakespeare's magnificent Globe Theatre. From 1462 to 1539, it was the seat of the Boleyn (originally 'Bullen') family. The original medieval defensive castle, with its gatehouse and walled bailey, was built in 1383. Anti-Slavery and human trafficking statement. The American millionaire William Waldorf Astor bought Hever Castle in 1903. 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. He lived there with his wife Lady Elizabeth Howard and their children George, Mary and Anne (the future wife of Henry VIII). Everything is open at Hever Castle during this current time and is now operating a pre-booking system and during peak times for access you may need to queue. Hever Castle Fact File (teacher made) - Twinkl Hever Castle is very much worth a visit for the history, the beauty and the amazing play areas it geniunely has something for everyone. He commissioned the Tudor Village, now called the Astor Wing and the construction of the magnificent gardens and lake. 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. Hever Castle is located in the village of Hever, 30 miles from Central London, 3 miles southeaster of Edenbridge off the B2026 between Sevenoaks and East Grinstead. Day out in Kent at Hever Castle & Gardens Hiya, But no, it seems all they want to do is take your money as if making up for the losses of lockdown as so many businesses are doing without providing the service you are paying for. Today the Estate has something for everyone. It would be like saying Pay 20 to come and look at my back garden and I'll throw in an unlimited view of the sky and all the air you can breathe for free! /* horizontal */ Hever Castle Facts for Kids - Kiddle About Hever Castle - Hever Castle People say her ghost still glides over the wooden bridge at Hever castle, spooky! Astor also planted the castles famous maze, one of only a few traditionally designed in the UK. There is a large lake where during some months to can ride on pedalos or row boats. During our visit we noticed several family friendly/children activities taking place, such as archery and children's 'slaying the dragon'. Beautiful grounds, especially the Italian garden. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Cruise Terminal to London with stopover at Hever Castle, Canterbury Cathedral Hever Castle and Dover Castle Private Tour, A winter adventure to the World's most Haunted Village & Haunted Castle, Coronation celebration at English Castles and Gardens. Hever later passed into the ownership of another of Henry VIIIs wives, Anne of Cleves, and from 1557 onwards it was owned by a number of families including the Waldegraves, the Humphreys and the Meade Waldos. Lots to do for the whole family and great place for children to discover English history. Its also a great time to visit the water maze. The 13th-century childhood home of Anne Boleyn is back in business and packed full of family fun. Lovely gardens and the roses were spectacular. A separate self-catering cottage that sleeps eight can be rented as well. 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. If youre local, you might like our favourite beaches to visit which are a short drive from South East London, many are in Kent or our top ten best things to do in South East London with kids! Hever Castle - History and Facts | History Hit Come join us on our mission to get kids outdoors more and off screens! However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. He bestowed it upon Anne of Cleves in 1540 as part of the settlement following the annulment of their marriage. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Hever Castle, 30 miles southeast of London, was the home of two of Henry VIII's queensone tragic and one luckyand the pet project and home of America's richest man in the late 19th century. Waldorf Astor, 2nd Viscount Astor | British politician | Britannica And if not does anyone know if there are restrictions on bag sizes in the castle? Absolutely fab experience! The castle passed to him upon the death of his father, Sir William Boleyn. There was a strange space themed light display in the forest walk, which had absolutely nothing to do with Christmas. Hever Castle - The Anne Boleyn Files Our hard work has been recognised by various organisations so we wanted to share the good news with you.