Hever Castle Playground is a captivating destination that offers a delightful blend of adventure, exploration, and fun for children of all ages. Nestled within the grounds of the historic Hever Castle in Kent, England, this playground is a true gem for families seeking an unforgettable day out.
Tudor Towers Adventure Playground
At the heart of the Hever Castle Playground lies the impressive Tudor Towers Adventure Playground. Standing tall at 9 meters, this multi-level structure is a true marvel, featuring three towers to climb, two thrilling fireman’s poles, a moat and drawbridge, and three turrets. The central courtyard is a hub of activity, with netted tunnels, a well, and a secret passage leading to a Tudor Dining Hall and hidden dungeon. Children can also explore a roof maze and play with various musical instruments, making this playground a true feast for the senses.
Acorn Dell Play Area
For younger visitors, the Acorn Dell Play Area offers a delightful and age-appropriate experience. This section features a 2-meter high living willow structure, a giant sandpit, a grassy mound with three tunnels, a slide and climbing frame, and an impressive array of 42 play boulders. Lookout platforms and a clatter bridge add to the sense of adventure, making this area perfect for children up to 7 years old.
Additional Playground
In addition to the Tudor Towers and Acorn Dell, the Hever Castle Playground boasts a separate play area with classic playground equipment, including climbing frames, swings, an aerial runway, and a podswing suitable for both adults and children. This section caters to a wider age range, up to 14 years old, ensuring that all visitors can find something to enjoy.
Woodland Play Area
Nestled within the castle’s lush woodland, the Woodland Play Area offers a more natural and adventurous experience. Here, children can navigate an obstacle course, balance on beams, climb rope ladders, and explore a cozy den, all while immersed in the serene surroundings of the castle’s verdant grounds.
Facilities and Accessibility
The Hever Castle Playground boasts excellent facilities, including well-maintained toilets, baby changing stations, and step-free access, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all visitors. Multiple cafes and ice-cream vendors are available on-site, providing sustenance and refreshment throughout the day.
Cost and Timings
Accessing the Hever Castle Playground is included in the general admission fee for the castle and gardens, which is £15.55 for adults and £9.75 for children. Children under 4 years old can enter for free. Visitors can upgrade their ticket to include castle access for a small additional fee. The playground’s opening hours vary by season, so it’s recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Design and Maintenance
The Hever Castle Playground was designed by FRLA Ltd and constructed by Duncan and Grove, two renowned companies in the field of playground design and construction. The playground undergoes regular maintenance and upgrades, such as the installation of new swings in 2021, ensuring that it remains a safe and engaging destination for families.
Whether you’re seeking a thrilling adventure, a serene natural play experience, or a well-rounded day of family fun, the Hever Castle Playground is a must-visit destination. With its diverse range of play areas, exceptional facilities, and stunning setting within the grounds of the historic Hever Castle, this playground is sure to create lasting memories for children and adults alike.
References
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Bablands. (2020). Explore the Tudor Towers playground and take on the water maze at Hever Castle. https://bablands.com/2020/08/08/explore-the-tudor-towers-playground-and-take-on-the-water-maze-hever-castle/
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Hever Castle. (n.d.). Play Areas. https://www.hevercastle.co.uk/visit/things-to-do/play-areas/
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Hever Castle. (2017). New Adventure Playground at Hever Castle. https://www.hevercastle.co.uk/news/new-adventure-playground-hever-castle/
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Hever Castle. (2021). New swings for Hever Castle play area. https://www.hevercastle.co.uk/news/new-swings-hever-castle-play-area/
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Duncan & Grove. (n.d.). Hever Castle – Playground Design & Build. https://duncanandgrove.com/bespoke-playgrounds/hever-castle-playground/.