Yes, Hever Castle still exists and is open to visitors. Located in the village of Hever, Kent, England, it is a Grade I listed castle that dates back to the 13th century. The castle has a rich history, having been the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I.
The History of Hever Castle
Hever Castle was first constructed in the 13th century as a country house for the Boleyn family. Over the centuries, it underwent several periods of construction and restoration, with the most significant being the work done by William Waldorf Astor in the early 20th century.
During the 15th century, the castle was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, who later became the second wife of King Henry VIII. This connection to the Tudor dynasty has made Hever Castle a popular tourist attraction, as visitors can explore the rooms and gardens where Anne Boleyn once lived.
The Architectural Features of Hever Castle
Hever Castle is a Grade I listed building, which means it is a structure of exceptional interest. The castle features a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic and Tudor elements. Some of the notable features of the castle include:
- The gatehouse, which dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest parts of the castle
- The Tudor-style buildings, which were constructed in the 16th century
- The Astor Wing, which was added in the early 20th century by William Waldorf Astor
The castle also features a collection of antique furniture, paintings, and artifacts, including Anne Boleyn’s prayer books.
The Grounds and Gardens of Hever Castle
In addition to the castle itself, Hever Castle is known for its beautiful gardens and grounds. The estate covers over 600 acres and includes a variety of gardens and features, such as:
- The Italianate garden, which was created in the early 20th century by William Waldorf Astor
- The rose gardens, which feature over 4,000 roses
- A yew maze and a water maze
- Several lakes and ponds
Visitors can explore the grounds and gardens, which offer a peaceful and picturesque setting for a day out.
Accommodation at Hever Castle
For those who want to extend their visit, Hever Castle offers accommodation in the form of a bed and breakfast. The castle has 28 rooms available for rent, allowing visitors to experience the historic setting firsthand.
The rooms are located in the Astor Wing of the castle and feature a range of amenities, including en-suite bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can also enjoy access to the castle’s gardens and grounds during their stay.
Visiting Hever Castle
Hever Castle is open to visitors throughout the year, with the gardens opening at 10:30 am and the castle itself opening at 12:00 pm. Visitors can explore the castle’s historic rooms, gardens, and grounds, as well as enjoy a range of events and activities.
Some of the key information for visiting Hever Castle includes:
- Location: Hever, Kent, England
- Opening Times: Gardens open at 10:30 am, Castle opens at 12:00 pm
- Admission Prices: Vary depending on the time of year and type of ticket
- Parking: Free on-site parking is available
- Accessibility: The castle and grounds are partially accessible, with some areas only accessible via stairs
Overall, Hever Castle remains a well-preserved and historically significant landmark in the English countryside. Its rich history, beautiful gardens, and unique accommodation options make it a popular destination for castle enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
References:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hever_Castle
- https://www.hevercastle.co.uk/visit/hever-castle/
- https://www.hevercastle.co.uk