Hever Castle & Gardens
Royal heritage meets horticultural splendour in 125 acres of award-winning gardens and a 14th-century castle.
A magnificent 14th-century castle set within 125 acres of award-winning gardens in Kent, England. Once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII, Hever Castle offers visitors a journey through over 600 years of history. The estate features Italian and English Rose Gardens with over 5,000 rose bushes, a 38-acre lake, historic mazes, and extensive woodland walks. Perfect for families and history enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive day out combining heritage, horticulture, and outdoor recreation.
A brief summary to Hever Castle & Gardens
- Hever Rd, Edenbridge, Hever, TN8 7NG, GB
- +441732865224
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 8 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-8:30 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-8:30 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-8:30 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-8:30 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-8:30 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-8:30 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-8:30 pm
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues and receive discounted pricing. Garden-only tickets are available if you prefer to skip the castle interior.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the 125-acre grounds involve significant distances. Allow at least 1.5 hours for gardens alone; a full day is recommended to experience all attractions.
- Visit during spring or autumn for optimal seasonal displays. Autumn offers spectacular red ivy on castle walls and vibrant foliage, while spring showcases fresh blooms.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy at scenic spots like Horse Shoe Lawn or Half Moon Lawn. On-site catering can be pricey, and numerous picnic areas throughout the grounds offer peaceful settings.
- Use the audio guide when exploring the castle interior for comprehensive historical context. Staff are available throughout the grounds to answer questions about the gardens and attractions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car from London
From central London, take the M25 motorway southbound and exit at junction 5 or 6, following signs toward Edenbridge. Alternatively, use junction 10 of the M23 and follow signposted directions. The journey takes approximately 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. The castle is accessible via the Hildenborough exit of the A21. Free parking is available on site across multiple car parks, with accessible parking near the main entrance. Note that double-decker coaches require prior contact for alternative directions due to low bridges in the surrounding area.
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By Train and Taxi from London
From London, take a train from various stations to Edenbridge Town Station or Hever Station (approximately 50–70 minutes depending on departure point). From either station, a taxi journey to the castle takes approximately 10–15 minutes and costs roughly £15–25. This option avoids parking concerns and is suitable for visitors without access to a car.
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By Organised Tour from London
Several tour operators offer full-day excursions from London to Hever Castle, typically departing in the morning and returning in the evening. These tours generally cost between £575–£830 per person and include transport, entrance fees, and sometimes guided commentary. Tours typically last 7–10 hours and may combine Hever Castle with nearby attractions such as Chartwell House.
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By Bus from Edenbridge Town Centre
Local bus services connect Edenbridge town centre to the castle, with journey times of approximately 15–20 minutes. Services run several times daily, though frequency varies seasonally. Single fares typically cost £2–£4. This option is economical for visitors staying in the town or arriving by train.
Hever Castle & Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hever Castle & Gardens
A Castle Steeped in Royal History
Hever Castle stands as a remarkable testament to English heritage, dating back to the 14th century when it was constructed as a fortified manor house. The castle gained international prominence as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I. This double-moated fortress witnessed pivotal moments in English history and remains one of the most historically significant residences in the country. Visitors can explore the castle's intimate rooms and chambers, each telling stories of the Tudor period through carefully preserved interiors and period furnishings. The castle's architecture reflects the evolution of English domestic design, with later additions and restorations maintaining its authentic character while ensuring visitor comfort and accessibility.Award-Winning Gardens Across 125 Acres
The gardens at Hever represent one of England's finest horticultural achievements, spanning 125 acres of meticulously maintained grounds. The Italian Garden, designed with classical elegance, features the impressive Pompeian Wall, formal flowerbeds, and classical statuary that evoke the grandeur of Renaissance Italy. The English Rose Garden showcases over 5,000 rose bushes in a quintessential English setting, providing spectacular blooms throughout the growing season. Beyond these formal spaces, the estate encompasses diverse landscapes including the Blue Corner, Rhododendron Walk, Tudor Garden, and the peaceful woodland trails of Anne Boleyn's Walk and Church Gill Walk. The gardens are renowned for their seasonal transformations, with autumn particularly striking when red ivy clings to the castle walls and deciduous trees display fiery hues.Water Features and Lakeside Exploration
The 38-acre lake forms the heart of the estate's natural landscape, offering visitors a serene setting for contemplation and recreation. The Loggia, positioned overlooking the water, provides an ideal vantage point to appreciate the lake's beauty before embarking on the scenic Lake Walk. The water features throughout the grounds include cascades, grottoes, and fountains that punctuate the landscape with both visual interest and soothing soundscapes. Visitors can hire rowing boats to explore the lake from the water, discovering the Japanese Tea House Folly and experiencing the estate from a unique perspective. The lakeside setting provides numerous picnic spots with sun and shade, making it an ideal location for families to relax and enjoy the grounds.Interactive Attractions for All Ages
Beyond the castle and gardens, Hever offers a diverse range of attractions designed to engage visitors of all ages. The Yew Maze, a classic topiary challenge featuring a giant chess set cut from golden yew, provides traditional garden entertainment. The Water Maze offers a more playful experience, though visitors should be prepared for potential splashing. The Tudor Towers Adventure Playground features three towers to climb and two fireman's poles, while Acorn Dell provides natural play areas for younger children with a 2-metre-high willow structure and giant sandpit. The Military Museum showcases historical artefacts, and miniature model houses offer architectural interest. During warmer months, jousting tournaments, have-a-go archery, and seasonal events provide additional entertainment and engagement with the estate's rich heritage.Seasonal Beauty and Visitor Experience
The estate's appeal transforms throughout the year, with each season offering distinct visual and experiential qualities. Spring brings fresh blooms and vibrant new growth, while summer showcases the full splendour of the rose gardens and provides ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Autumn delivers spectacular colour displays with the castle's ivy turning brilliant red against the stone walls. Winter, though quieter, offers a more intimate experience of the grounds and castle interiors. The estate receives approximately 1.5 hours of recommended exploration time for the gardens alone, though a full day visit allows comprehensive engagement with all attractions. The grounds are well-maintained with clear pathways, information boards, and staff available to assist visitors in navigating the extensive estate.Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
Hever Castle is a Grade 1 listed building and garden, with thoughtful provisions made for visitors with varying mobility requirements. Accessible parking is available near the main entrance, and wheelchair ramps provide routes through key areas of the castle and gardens. Multiple car parks serve different areas of the estate, with staff available to guide visitors to appropriate parking based on accessibility needs. The grounds feature numerous seating areas, sheltered spots, and picnic facilities distributed throughout the 125 acres. On-site catering options include cafés and restaurants, though visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics to designated areas such as Horse Shoe Lawn, Half Moon Lawn, or Two Sisters' Lawn. Dogs are permitted throughout the grounds on leads, including on the Lake Walk and Woodland Walk, making it a welcoming destination for pet owners.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maritime Greenwich a World Heritage Site
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National Maritime Museum Gardens
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1 Greenwich Church St
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Cutty Sark
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Cutty Sark Gardens
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Bellot Memorial Greenwich
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Anchor Iron Wharf
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Montague Square
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Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
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Upside Down House – Lakeside
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Falklands Island Monument
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Cannizaro Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Chartwell
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Deer Park
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Holy Trinity Church, Forest Row
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National Trust - Ightham Mote
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Ashdown Forest
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Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar
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Home of Charles Darwin - Down House
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Visit Down House, the historic home of Charles Darwin, and explore the gardens that inspired his theories in this captivating museum and historical landmark.
Biggin Hill Memorial Museum
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Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation
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Brands Hatch
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The George Inn
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Selhurst Park Stadium
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St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
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The Leather Bottle
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Box Hill
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Essential places to dine
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The Prince of Greenwich Pub
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Bill's Greenwich Restaurant
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Pho Street
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Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
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Goddards at Greenwich
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The Clink Restaurant Brixton
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Sefa Restaurant
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The Sail Loft, Greenwich
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Midpoint Restaurant
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Brunswick House
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Restaurant Story
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Sapori
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Osteria dell'Angolo
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La Dame de Pic London
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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La Boutique Vintage
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The Junk Shop
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Joli Vintage Living
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Arc Angel Boutique London
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The Cutty Sark Gift Shop
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Dragonfly Lifestyle
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Rare Books & Curios
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Made in Greenwich
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Greenwich Gifts Candy Land
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Painted hall gift shop
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Unique Store
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Lakeside Shopping Centre
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The Unique Maps Co.
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Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Lost Hour
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Kings Arms
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The Gipsy Moth
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Trafalgar Tavern
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The Courtesan
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The Whiskey Tumbler
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The Landor
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SIXTY/FOUR Cocktail Bar
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
