Hever Castle and the Eden Valley Trail offer a unique combination of history, nature, and scenic walks. From the picturesque lake walk around Hever Castle to the serene Eden Valley Walk, this region provides a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key features and practical information to help you plan your visit to this captivating destination.
Hever Castle: A Glimpse into the Past
Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring the area. The castle’s grounds offer several enchanting experiences, including the Lake Walk, which takes approximately 1 hour to complete at a leisurely pace.
The Lake Walk
The Lake Walk is included in the admission price and features several notable attractions:
- Anne of Cleves Bower House: This folly, bearing Anne of Cleves’ crest, is located near the riverside bower. Its origin is a mystery, but it is believed to have been built by William Waldorf Astor or possibly even Anne of Cleves herself.
- Japanese Tea House: Rebuilt in 2013, this folly showcases traditional timber framing techniques and locally sourced timber. It can be best viewed from the Loggia and accessed by boat or on foot via the Lake Walk.
As you stroll along the lake, you’ll be captivated by the serene beauty of the surroundings and the rich history that permeates the castle’s grounds.
Exploring the Eden Valley Trail
The Eden Valley Trail offers a variety of walking routes, each with its own unique charm and challenges. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike, the trail has something to suit every preference.
Hever and Eden Valley Pub Circular
This 8.0-km loop trail is moderately challenging and takes approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes to complete. The route takes you through farmlands, over the River Eden, and past Hever Castle, providing lovely views and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Hever Circular Walk
The Hever Circular Walk is a 4.5-mile route that takes around 2.5 hours to complete. This walk takes you through quiet woods and meadows, offering a variety of trees and birdlife. The starting points are Hever Station or the Hever Castle car park, and the route includes a short stretch on a road.
Eden Valley Walk
For those seeking a more extensive adventure, the Eden Valley Walk is a 15-mile trail that follows the River Eden and the River Medway. This walk takes you through parkland, woodland, open fields, and villages, showcasing historic castles and houses such as Hever Castle, Chiddingstone Castle, Penshurst Place, and Tonbridge Castle.
Practical Information
Accessing the Hever Castle and Eden Valley Trail is relatively straightforward. Hever Station can be reached via East Croydon, Hurst Green, or Oxted from London, with trains running hourly. By car, the best route from south-east London is through Biggin Hill and Westerham.
For those who wish to explore the Eden Valley Walk, OS Explorer Map 147 is available to borrow from Kent Libraries, providing a helpful guide for navigating the trail.
Conclusion
Hever Castle and the Eden Valley Trail offer a unique blend of history, nature, and scenic walks, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich heritage and stunning landscapes of this region. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful outdoor adventure, this area has something to captivate and delight you.
References
- https://www.hevercastle.co.uk/visit/things-to-do/hever-lake/lake-walk/
- https://www.alltrails.com/trail/england/kent/hever-and-eden-valley-pub-circular
- https://kentwalksnearlondon.com/walk-9-hever-circular-nr-edenbridge-5-miles/
- https://explorekent.org/activities/eden-valley-walk/