As a Castle Touring Enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to know that the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) membership offers a unique opportunity to explore the captivating gardens of Hever Castle in Kent, England. This historic site, once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, boasts stunning landscapes and a rich tapestry of horticultural delights that are sure to captivate your senses.
Free Entry for RHS Members
One of the primary benefits of the RHS membership at Hever Castle is the complimentary access to the gardens. As an RHS member, you can enjoy free entry to the gardens, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this enchanting estate. This offer, however, does not apply during the Christmas event (22 November 2024 – 1 January 2025) or certain special events, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
Restricted Access Days
It’s important to note that the free entry for RHS members is limited to Monday to Friday, from 7 February to 21 November 2024. Weekends, Kent school holidays, bank holidays, and group bookings are excluded from this offer. Additionally, there are a few exceptions for specific garden events on weekends, such as the Snowdrop Walk (24 & 25 February 2024), special weekends due to the M25 closure (16 & 17 March 2024 and 11 & 12 May 2024), and other events like Dazzling Daffodils and Hever in Bloom.
Booking and Membership Card
To take advantage of the RHS membership benefits at Hever Castle, you’ll need to book your tickets upon arrival, subject to availability and the stated terms and conditions. It’s crucial to bring your RHS membership card with you to avoid being charged the full entry fee. If you arrive on a restricted day, you’ll be required to pay the full price on arrival.
Other Membership Offers
In addition to the RHS membership, Hever Castle also offers discounts and benefits for other membership programs, such as Historic Houses Members and KSY Military Museum volunteers. Be sure to check the available offers and plan your visit accordingly.
Annual Membership Prices
For those interested in purchasing an annual membership directly from Hever Castle, the prices vary depending on the type of membership and whether it includes the castle and gardens or gardens only. The prices range from £61.25 for a Gardens Only online membership to £217.05 for a Family Ticket including the castle and gardens.
Annual Membership Benefits
As an annual member at Hever Castle, you’ll enjoy a range of benefits, including free daytime entry, discounts on food and drink, shopping, and golf activities, as well as exclusive access to certain events.
Joining the RHS
If you’re not yet an RHS member, consider joining to unlock the exclusive access to Hever Castle’s gardens, as well as numerous other RHS gardens across the UK. RHS membership provides a wealth of benefits, including discounts on RHS events and shopping.
By taking advantage of the RHS membership at Hever Castle, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the enchanting gardens, immerse yourself in the rich history of the site, and create lasting memories as a Castle Touring Enthusiast.