RIKOLA Travel blog
The travel journals of a middle age couple
To get some time together Cola booked a night away for the second bank holiday in May. Time out …. and relax…
Hever Castle, nestled in the Kentish countryside, is a captivating historical site with a rich and varied past. Primarily known as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII, it holds a significant place in Tudor history.
Originally a 13th-century defensive structure, Hever Castle underwent transformations over the centuries. In the early 20th century, William Waldorf Astor undertook extensive restoration, adding the picturesque gardens that now complement the castle’s medieval charm. These gardens, featuring an Italian Garden and a stunning lake, are a major draw for visitors.
The castle itself showcases a blend of medieval and Tudor architecture, and its interior displays a collection of Tudor portraits and artifacts, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once resided within its walls. From the imposing gatehouse to the intimate chambers, Hever Castle evokes a sense of history and romance.
Today, Hever Castle is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical significance, beautiful gardens, and engaging exhibitions. It provides a fascinating insight into the Tudor era and the lives of those who shaped England’s history.
This was an absolutely fabulous stay, we couldn’t fault anything.
We arrived about 11.30 and was given the voucher to get into the castle and grounds. This is valid for the day you arrive and the day you leave and is included in the B&B price.
We did a self guided tour round the castle first and then paid £3 each for a behind the scenes tour. We also had a boat ride round the lake.
The gardens are absolutely stunning.
After a day of exploring we went back to reception to collect the key to the room. The room is absolutely gorgeous, spacious, big comfy bed. There are tea and coffee making facilities. The bathroom was modern with a huge bath and the toiletries are Moulton & Brown the overall feel of the room and bathroom is that of luxury.
As it was a Sunday the Henry VIII pub stopped food after 5pm. We therefore had a picnic in the courtyard and enjoyed a pleasant evening reading. Everything was so peaceful. We then went into a lounge area which had really comfortable sofas.
In the morning we got up at 7am for a walk round the grounds. Being a hotel guest means that you get to wander a lot of the grounds before the castle opens to the public. This felt really really special. We couldn’t get to walk round the lake but we did wander to the other side of the gardens we hadn’t seen yesterday. We eventually came across the church where Anne Boleyn father’s father is buried. As expected the church was all locked up so we couldn’t see his grave. We did see the grave of Caron Keating, we had no idea she was buried here.
After a nearly 2 hour walk we had a lovely breakfast. The staff were great, friendly and polite nothing too much trouble.
I thought the price of the room at £215 was amazing value, considering it’s a well known castle. Would thoroughly recommend.