Hever Castle & Gardens

Things to do

The castle itself is open for tours, and visitors can explore the various rooms and see how the castle has been restored and furnished. There are also several exhibits on the history of the castle and its residents, including Anne Boleyn and the Astor family, who owned the castle in the 20th century.

Its panelled rooms house fine furniture, tapestries, and captivating displays of antiques and what is regarded by some as ‘one of the best collections of Tudor portraits after the National Portrait Gallery’. You really get to see how the other half(...of the century) lived!

One thing you cannot miss on your visit is Hever Castle's much-loved gardens! Hever Castle is surrounded by magnificent gardens, including a formal Italian garden, a rose garden, and a water garden. There are also several large ponds and a lake on the property.

Take a leisurely stroll around the castle grounds if you want to explore the whole of what Hever Castle & Gardens has to offer. Spot funky horticultural creations like the topiary bushes that are dotted around the castle grounds. They have been crafter into the shape of octopus', a rabbits, tortoises and so much more.

Looking for an adventure? Head over to the Tudor Towers Adventure playground where you’ll find three slides and lots of interactive features to keep your family busy. From Easter to October your family will be able to wander at the 100-year-old The Hever Castle maze (also known as the Yew hedge maze). It is made up of over 2,400 yew trees and takes about 20-30 minutes to complete. There are also lots of magnificent birds to spot in the trees, so make sure to bring yourbinoculars with you!

Pop over to Sixteen Acre Island for a water maze, or have a go at archery for the first time. Rowing boats and canoes are available for hire so you’ll be able to explore the beautiful nearby lake. There is also a mini golf course!

Finish off your day with a trip to the gift shop - there's lots of treats from Anne Boleyn cushions to tasteful tableware, scented candles, chutneys, chocolates, and toys!

Special Events

Here ye, here ye! Don't forget to attend a castle event! Families can enjoy a number of events throughout the year, including medieval jousting tournaments, falconry displays, and Christmas markets. Keep checking online for any upcoming events or nature trails.

Ever felt like tapping into the supernatural side of the Historic Hever Castle? With over 800 years of history behind it, it's no surprise people flock to the castle each you to attend the Ghost Walk events. The tour takes visitors through the castle's dark corners and tells the stories of the ghosts that are said to haunt the castle...

Food & Drink

In terms of food facilities, there are several options for you to choose from. The Hever Castle restaurant is a formal dining option that serves lunch, hot food options, and afternoon tea.

For a more casual option head over to The Astor Grill. It offer lots of great lunchtime snacks from sandwiches to hot food items like burgers, and other light meals. The castle also has a Japanese tea room, which serves a variety of sandwiches, cakes, and hot and cold drinks.

Hever Castle has plenty of grassy areas where visitors can enjoy a picnic. There are also several cafes and restaurants on the grounds where visitors can grab a bite to eat.

In addition to these options, there are also several food and drink stands scattered throughout the castle and gardens. These stands offer a variety of snacks and refreshments, including ice cream, cold drinks, and hot drinks.

Accessibility

Hever Castle is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities. There is a lift to the first floor of the castle, and the gardens and grounds are wheelchair accessible. There are also several designated disabled parking spaces on the property.

Travel & Parking for Visitors

By Car

It can be reached via junction 10 of the M23, and is signposted from junctions 5 and 6 of the M25 and the Hildenborough exit of the A21.

By Rail

Trains run from London Victoria and London Bridge (via Oxted or East Croydon) to Edenbridge Town Station, and then take a taxi for three miles to the castle.

Country Hire and Go Taxis – telephone 07723 054863Relyon Taxis – telephone 01732 863800(Taxi's get booked quickly so make sure you book in advance)

Hever Station (next on line, unmanned and no taxis) is a one-mile rural walk to the castle. (Map of walk from station to castle). As you leave the platform you will also see another map on your left. This will guide you to Hever Castle, but you simply need to look out for red and white wooden posts.

There are no regular bus services to Hever Castle.

Eurostar terminal at Ashford is 1½ hours drive by road or Ebbsfleet International 1 hr by road.

Parking

Parking is free and accessible parking is available. Please note that Hever Castle cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage to vehicles or their contents whilst you are parked on site.

By Air

Gatwick airport is 30 minutes away, Heathrow airport is one hour away. Hever can then be reached by road or rail as above.

• A castle that’s over seven hundred years old
• Special audio tour just for children
• 100-year-old Yew Hedge Maze & special events throughout the year