Hever Castle, a stunning 13th-century castle nestled in the heart of Kent, England, offers a delightful array of dining options for visitors. From charming cafes to elegant restaurants, the castle’s culinary offerings cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the diverse dining experiences available at Hever Castle, ensuring you can make the most of your visit.
Dining Options at Hever Castle
Hever Castle boasts a variety of dining establishments, each with its unique ambiance and menu. Let’s explore the key options:
The Waterside
Located just a mile from the castle and gardens, The Waterside offers a picturesque setting overlooking the tranquil waters. Open daily from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm (with the kitchen closing at 5 pm), this establishment serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a delectable afternoon tea. Reservations are required for afternoon tea, which can be made by calling 01732 701010 at least 48 hours in advance.
Moat Café
Situated within the castle grounds, the Moat Café provides a cozy and convenient option for visitors. Offering a selection of hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, cakes, and hot snacks, the Moat Café is a popular spot for a quick refreshment. Please note that the opening times for the Moat Café are subject to short-notice changes or closures, so it’s best to inquire about the current hours on the day of your visit.
Guthrie Pavilion Café and Restaurant
The Guthrie Pavilion, located within the castle grounds, houses both a café and a restaurant. The café and restaurant’s opening times are also subject to short-notice changes or closures, so it’s recommended to check the current status on the day of your visit.
Ice Cream Kiosks
During peak periods, you’ll find several ice cream kiosks scattered throughout the castle grounds, offering the delicious Solley’s Ice Cream. These kiosks are open seasonally, and their hours may vary, so be sure to inquire about their availability on the day of your visit.
Tudor Towers Kiosk
The Tudor Towers Kiosk, situated within the castle grounds, provides a convenient option for food, hot and cold drinks, and ice creams. As with the other dining establishments, the opening times for the Tudor Towers Kiosk are subject to short-notice changes or closures.
Doughnut Van and BBQ Kiosk
Depending on the season and events taking place, you may also find a Doughnut Van and a BBQ Kiosk operating within the castle grounds. These seasonal offerings add to the variety of culinary delights available to visitors.
Picnics and Afternoon Tea
In addition to the on-site dining options, Hever Castle also caters to visitors who prefer to bring their own picnics. The castle grounds offer numerous picnic areas where you can enjoy your homemade meals while taking in the stunning surroundings.
While afternoon tea is currently not available at Hever Castle, the team is developing a new takeaway option for 2024, which will allow visitors to enjoy this quintessential British experience during their visit.
Nearby Restaurants
For those seeking additional dining options beyond the castle’s offerings, there are several notable restaurants in the vicinity:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| The Guthrie Pavilion @ Hever Castle | British | Moderate |
| The Ivy Royal Tunbridge Wells | Contemporary British | Expensive |
| The Vineyard Fine Dining | English | Expensive |
| The Dorset Arms Pub | Gastro Pub | Expensive |
Contact Information
For more information about dining at Hever Castle, you can reach out to the castle’s team:
- Hever Castle & Gardens: Tel: +44 (0)1732 865052, Email: [email protected]
- The Waterside: Tel: 01732 701010
References
- Hever Castle Eat & Drink
- Dining at The Waterside
- Eating at Hever Castle
- Restaurants Near Hever Castle
- Restaurants Near Hever Castle
Hever Castle’s diverse dining options, from charming cafes to elegant restaurants, offer visitors a delightful culinary experience. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal, a refreshing snack, or a quintessential British afternoon tea, the castle’s establishments cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. As you explore the castle’s rich history and stunning grounds, be sure to indulge in the culinary delights that make Hever Castle a truly remarkable destination.