Hever Castle Lake is a captivating 38-acre body of water located within the historic Hever Castle Estate in Kent, England. This picturesque lake offers a variety of recreational activities and natural wonders for visitors to discover, making it a must-visit destination for castle and nature enthusiasts alike.
Open Water Swimming at Hever Castle Lake
One of the primary attractions at Hever Castle Lake is the opportunity for open water swimming. Starting from Tuesday, May 14, 2024, the lake will be open for swimming sessions organized by TriSwim, an external company. These sessions will take place every Tuesday evening from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, allowing swimmers of all levels to enjoy the tranquil waters of the lake.
Boating on the Hever Castle Lake
In addition to swimming, the lake also offers a range of boating activities for visitors to enjoy. The Edwardian Boathouse provides access to the lake, where you can embark on the Lady Astor Boat Trips. These boat tours are available from March 29 to September 22, 2024, during school holidays and weekends, weather permitting. Tickets can be purchased on the day and cost £12 for adults and £6 for children.
For a more hands-on experience, visitors can also hire rowing boats or pedalos for up to 1 hour. The cost for rowing boats is £20, while pedalos are available for £23. These rentals are available during the same periods as the Lady Astor Boat Trips.
Exploring the Hever Castle Lake Nature Trail
The Hever Castle Lake is surrounded by a picturesque nature trail that offers a leisurely 1-hour walk. Along the way, visitors can discover the Anne of Cleves Bower House folly and enjoy stunning views of the lake and its diverse wildlife. The lake is home to a variety of bird species, including owls, blue tits, robins, woodpeckers, kingfishers, swans, herons, and crested grebes. The surrounding area also features a flower meadow with 14 species of flowers, providing a serene and natural setting for visitors to explore.
Additional Attractions at Hever Castle Lake
Beyond the swimming, boating, and nature trail, Hever Castle Lake offers several other unique features and attractions. At the far end of the lake, visitors can witness a captivating waterfall, which was created when William Waldorf Astor converted the 38-acre low meadow into a body of water. Additionally, the lake features a stone and mechanical weir, which was originally built when the lake was created.
One of the most intriguing structures on the lake is the Japanese Tea House Folly, which can be viewed from the Loggia or by hiring a boat to row across the lake.
Hever Castle: A Rich Historical Backdrop
Hever Castle, the stunning backdrop to the lake, has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. The castle has been associated with the Boleyn and Astor families, and it is now owned by the Guthrie family’s Broadland Properties. Visitors to the Hever Castle Estate can explore the castle, its gardens, and the enchanting Hever Castle Lake, creating a truly immersive and memorable experience.
Conclusion
Hever Castle Lake is a captivating destination that offers a diverse range of activities and natural wonders for visitors to discover. Whether you’re interested in open water swimming, boating, or simply exploring the serene nature trail, the lake provides a unique and enchanting experience within the historic Hever Castle Estate. With its rich history, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural beauty, Hever Castle Lake is a must-visit destination for castle and nature enthusiasts alike.
References:
- https://www.hevercastle.co.uk/news/open-water-swimming-hever-castle/
- https://www.hevercastle.co.uk/visit/things-to-do/hever-lake/boating/
- https://www.hevercastle.co.uk/visit/things-to-do/hever-lake/lake-walk/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hever_Castle
- https://www.alltrails.com/trail/england/kent/hever-castle-lake-circular