Hever Castle (Hever Castle)

Member Name: Katy_roberts85

Product:	Hever Castle
Date:	16/09/09 (24 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Lots to do and see, well preserved and maintained.

Disadvantages: Can be difficult to find - use sat nav if you can

Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Settled in the midst of Kent countryside Hever castle is set in beautiful, well maintained gardens.

There is the original stone castle filled with various antiques and artifacts from over the years. One of the items on show is Anne Boleyn's book of hours (prayer book) which is in immaculate condition and part of Anne Boleyn's bed. There are also lots of original paintings of various tudors including Anne, Henry and Mary Boleyn (Anne's sister and mistress to Henry VIII).

There is a yew tree maze, a water maze (more for children), an Italian garden, a rose garden (simply stunning) and a large lake (which you can boat on if you have a spare £10).

Be warned the food and drink is quite pricey form the cafe and the selection is not that great.

However, this is a simply amazing day out, there is a lot to do and see. I wouldn't advise it for young children as they may get bored looking around the castle. There is however a brilliant adventure playground which will keep children occupied and some good (but pricey) giftshops.

They have various events organised throughout the year such as jousting and costumed history days. It is well worth co-ordinating a visit when one of these days is on. Though they can get quite busy.

Hever Castle also has the facility to host weddings and other corporate events. How amazing to get married at Hever castle!!! (a little out of my price range though).

http://www.hevercastle.co.uk/home.aspx

Adult entry
Castle and Gardens £12
Gardens only £9.50

Children
Castle and Gardens £6.50
Gardens only £6.20

OAP
Castle and Gardens £10.00
Gardens only £8.00

Family ticket
Castle and gardens £30.50
Gardens only £25.50

(prices correct at time of writing).

After Anne Boleyn was beheaded, Henry VIII acquired the property which he then gave as part of his divorce settlement to Anne of Cleves, his 4th wife.

I really love this place, a brilliant day out.

Directions:
Hever Castle is situated three miles SE of Edenbridge off the B2026 in the village of Hever. It is also signed from the Hildenborough exit of the A21.

Summary: A good, educational day out. Lovely venue.