Are you looking for a new place to explore?
Hever Castle and English Garden in Edenbridge is a beautiful place to visit. The gardens are filled with vibrant colors, scents, and sounds that will delight your senses. You’ll be able to enjoy the perfect view of the castle from every corner of the garden. And if you’re feeling hungry after all those fresh air and exercise, there’s also a cafe where you can sit down for some tea or coffee while enjoying their delicious homemade cakes.
There are so many things to do at this garden – explore its history through interactive exhibits in one of their newly renovated buildings; take a guided tour around the grounds, or just wander around on your own and soak up nature’s beauty as it unfolds before your eyes!
What is Hever Castle and Garden
Hever Castle and Garden is a popular tourist attraction in Edenbridge, England. The castle was originally built in the 13th century and has been remodeled and enlarged over the years. The garden features beautiful landscaping and a variety of plant life.
The History of Hever Castle and Garden
Hever Castle was originally built between 1270 and 1278 by William de Hever, after who the castle is named.
William de Hever’s family came to England with William the Conqueror in 1066; he became a Norman Knight and fought alongside his King at Hastings. As well as owning lands and manors in Kent, William de Hever also received many other favors from the King.
The family continued to grow in power and influence throughout the centuries that followed. It was during this time that they built Hever Castle as their main residence. The De Hevers continued to live at Hever until 1292 when they moved to nearby Bodiam Castle.
The castle was then passed through many generations of the De Hever family, who sold it in 1372 to John Boleyn and his wife Lady Ann Hoo, who gave the land to their younger son, William.
He died two years later without issue. However, during this time Henry had become infatuated with Anne and agreed to marry her if she would give up her current position as a lady-in-waiting to the Queen, Catherine of Aragon. In 1532 Henry broke from Rome and created the Church of England so that he could have his union with Anne sanctioned by the church, thus making their son legitimate in the eyes of the law. When Anne became pregnant she was crowned Queen of England, but tragically died soon after giving birth to Elizabeth I on September 7th, 1533. Henry went through five more wives after Anne, who all met tragic ends.
Henry VIII loved Hever Castle and visited it frequently throughout his reign. It was here that he and Anne conceived Henry Fitzroy, Duke of Richmond; the only illegitimate child ever acknowledged by Henry VIII.
It is thought that it was during one of these visits to Hever Castle that Henry witnessed a jousting match on the grounds. The outcome was extremely important for it laid down how such events would be run in the future. Henry was so impressed that he ordered all other jousting matches to be run in the same way as those at Hever.
Hever Castle and Gardens is first and foremost a family home. The first record of Lord Astor owning Hever Castle was in 1880 when it was bought by William Waldorf Astor II during the sale of the Henry Addington, 1st Viscount Sidmouth estate.
For the next five decades, his descendants continued to live at Hever Castle; however, in 1929 William Waldorf’s son John (known as Tommy) decided to sell the Castle and surrounding land.
Lord Astor was an American who became Britain’s first-ever MP to sit in the House of Commons. At the time of his death, he was one of the wealthiest men in America and owned many other properties, including another historic castle – Cliveden. Hever Castle was also at that time let for short periods to various tenants, but by 1939 it had once again become empty.
In 1938 William Waldorf’s eldest son Frederick bought Hever Castle from his brother Tommy. In 1947 he gave it as a wedding present to his son, who became the fourth Viscount Astor.
In 1966 his sister Anne was given Hever Castle by her father, which she turned into a hotel and now runs with her son, William Waldorf Astor (the present Viscount).
Today, Hever Castle is now open to the public to visit and try their hand at jousting. source
The Grounds at Hever Castle and Garden
The Grounds at Hever Castle and Garden are a sight to behold. The expansive gardens stretch out before the castle, and there are plenty of places to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The grounds are also home to a variety of different plants and flowers, which can be seen in bloom throughout the year. The gardens are the ideal location to enjoy family time, spend some time with friends or simply relax on your own.
How to get to Hever Castle and Garden
Hever Castle is 30 miles southeast of central London, on the B2026 between Sevenoaks and East Grinstead in the community of Hever.
It is accessible through M23 junction 10 and is signposted from M25 junctions 5 and 6, as well as the A21 Hildenborough exit.
By rail
Trains travel from London Victoria and London Bridge to Edenbridge Town Station (via Oxted or East Croydon), where you can then hire a cab for three miles to the castle. Relyon Taxis is located near the station and may be reached at 01732 863800. We recommend that you book a cab for both legs of your travel in advance.
The castle is a one-mile countryside walk from Hever Station (next online, unattended, and no taxis). (Map shows the route from the station to the castle.) As you depart the platform, another map will appear on your left. This will lead you to Hever Castle, but all you need to do is keep an eye out for red and white wooden posts.
Hever Castle does not have a regular bus service.
The Eurostar terminus in Ashford is 112 hours away by road, although Ebbsfleet International is only 1 hour away.
By air
Heathrow airport is one hour distant and Gatwick airport is 30 minutes away. Then, as previously said, Hever may be accessed by road or train.
By sea
The Channel Tunnel at Folkestone is 112 hours distant by car, as is Dover. source
Opening times at Hever Castle and Garden
The Castle & Gardens are now closed until Wednesday 9 February 2022. source
Entry Prices for Hever Castle and Garden
Under Garden only
- Adult is £16.35;
- Concession (Senior 60+ or student) is £14.75;
- Family (2 adults/2 children or 1 adult/3 child, not applicable to groups) is £44.90;
- Child 5 – 17 is £10.25; and
- Child under 5 is FREE
Under Castle & Gardens
- Adult is £19.80;
- Concession (Senior 60+ or student) is £17.40;
- Family ((2 adults/2 children or 1 adult/3 child, not applicable to groups) is £52.65;
- Child 5 – 17 is £11.25; and
- Child under 5 is FREE
Note: Prices differ if you are an annual member source
What to See and Do at Hever Castle and Garden
1. Snowdrop walk in February
The Snowdrop Walk at Hever Castle and Gardens is a popular event and a great way to see the grounds in all their winter glory. A lot of Snowdrop bulbs have been planted in the garden over the past years and you can see them during this event.
2. Dazzling daffodils in March
The Daffodil Walk is another popular event at Hever Castle and Gardens, and it’s a great opportunity to see the gardens in bloom.
3. Mother’s Day Weekend
This is a special weekend at Hever Castle and Gardens where mothers can enjoy free admission with their children. There are also special activities planned for the weekend.
4. Easter Family in May
Easter is a great time to visit Hever Castle and Gardens with special events and activities for the family.
5. Father’s Day Weekend
Fathers can enjoy free admission to Hever Castle and Gardens with their children during this weekend in June. There are also special activities planned for the weekend.
6. Festival of Endurance in July
The Festival of Endurance is a great event that brings people from all over the world together to compete in a variety of challenges in different locations. During this event, you can visit Hever Castle for free and if you make a donation, your name will be entered into a prize draw to win prizes. This is a great way to enjoy Hever Castle at no cost, have an entry for their raffle, support the cause, and keep abreast of future events.
7. Cars at the Castle Event in August
Hever will be having an event where they invite cars to come out and enjoy the grounds in their classic form. You can not only look at some great cars at this event, but you’ll also enjoy discounts in many different shops if you show your ticket for the event.
8. Autumn Craft Fair in September
The Autumn Craft Fair at Hever Castle and Gardens is a great way to enjoy autumn and to shop for some handmade crafts from local artisans! During this event, you can visit Hever Castle for free and come back any other time throughout the year when you can benefit from the same free entry offer.
9. Halloween Half Term Fun in October
Halloween is a great time to enjoy Hever Castle and Gardens with special events and activities planned for the family. There are also discounts on some of the shops which you can always take advantage of if you come back on another day during your visit at no cost.
10. Annual members bring a friend for free in November
Hever Castle and Gardens offer free entry to Annual members with their friends for this event! You can join as a member or sign up beforehand if you would like to attend this event.
11. Christmas at Never Castle
You can enjoy a magical Christmas at Hever Castle and Gardens every weekend in December. Come see the huge Christmas tree, take a picture with Santa Claus, and much more during this event! source
How to Get the Most Out of Your Visit to Hever Castle and Garden
- Make sure to plan your visit in advance
- Get there early to avoid the crowds
- Have lunch or dinner at the Garden Cafe
- Take a walk around the grounds after you’ve finished exploring the castle and gardens
- Take some time to admire the views
- You’ll want to visit the gift shop when you’re finished exploring
- Don’t forget your camera! Visit Hever Castle and Garden for a fun family day out.
Other Places Nearby
1. Eden Valley Museum
The first thing we wanted to share with you is the Eden Valley Museum which has lots of interesting exhibits, and it’s free to enter! It’s actually only a stone’s throw away from Hever Castle and Garden, so it couldn’t be easier to pop in and learn about the area or its history. The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day except Tuesday.
2. Bough Beech Visitor Center
The next attraction we wanted to tell you about is the Bough Beech Visitor Centre! It’s a little further away from Hever Castle, but it still only takes a few minutes to get there and it’s definitely worth a visit. They have lots of information about the surrounding area and you can borrow maps for free!
3. Pooh Corner
Now we’re going to share with you some famous local spots which haven’t been included in most tourist guides: Pooh Corner! As its name implies, it’s the place where Winnie the Pooh was discovered, and the inspiration for the stories written by A.A. Milne! There’s a lovely little bridge near to where it is believed that Pooh was first discovered too, so be sure to check it out while you’re there!
4. East Grinstead Museum
If you love vintage items then we recommend that you visit the East Grinstead Museum. In addition to having a wonderful display of vintage items, they also have a shop which sells all kinds of original old things! Some of the items are around 70 years old and can be bought for as little as £1. They’re open on Tuesdays from 2 – 5 pm and first Saturdays from 10 am to 1 pm. They’re closed on Sundays and Mondays.
5. Millenium Clock Tower
The final place we’d like to tell you about is the Millenium Clock Tower, which was installed in 1999! It’s actually just a few miles away from Hever Castle and Garden and it’s one of the most prominent landmarks in the surrounding area. If you don’t yet know what you’re going to do on your next holiday, perhaps Hever Castle is a good place for you to start! source
Conclusion
Hever Castle and Garden are wonderful places to visit for a fun family day out. There are plenty of things to see and do, and the staff is always happy to help. If you’re looking for other attractions in the area, be sure to check out some of the places we’ve recommended. We hope you enjoy your visit!
Learn more about Hever Castle and Garden