On our first major excursion, we spent 2 weeks in the UK, visiting family in the southeast area of England. Being complete noobs, we spent the whole trip in complete awe of everything we saw. The people we were visiting took us to Hever Castle one day as a quiet day. We had a pretty hectic schedule, but that in itself is another tale.
The castle itself is more of a living quarters. Historically speaking, it has major significance. It was home to the Boleyn family, notably that of Anne Boleyn. She was living here when she became Henry the VIII‘s mistress, then wife.
She was one of the wives who literally lost her head over Henry. The castle is a major museum, with exhibits throughout the structure. Unfortunately, pictures were not allowed inside the building. The picture below is of the entrance to the building.
Once we were done, we moved onto the grounds, which are beautiful. This picture is the landing area where a boat from Henry’s navy would land to either pick up Anne and take her to Hampton, or would bring Henry here for a visit.
The grounds are dotted with gardens and mazes. There are also fountains everywhere. The entire complex is very well kept.
These trees date back centuries and have been sculpted to be the pieces of a chess set. Yew trees are very slow-growing and lend themselves well to such projects.
This is an example of one of the garden areas. There is a main area and many smaller ones dotting the grounds.
We left this area and headed off to the Tournament. For the benefit of tourists, there are regular mock battles conducted on the grounds. It was quite entertaining to see some jousting and mock hand to hand combat.
My overall impression of Hever Castle is quite positive. If you are in the SE of England, it is well worth the time to spend a relaxing day at this attraction.
That looks amazing, and just the type of vacation I’d take. Thanks for the idea!
Been to the UK twice now and we have barely scratched the surface. It does help to have relatives as they can take you places off the beaten path with confidence. England is simply amazing.
Hi,
What a fascinating place. I love old places like this, they are always fun to explore, and I love learning about the history as well. Beautiful garden areas.
Spent a week in London a year or two ago. The English know how to rock a garden!
Sucks rushing on holiday. You come back needing a vacation to get over the vacation!
We learned a lot on that trip. We take our time now, savour every moment. The theory being, we likely won’t be in whatever place ever again, so drink in as much as one can.
I am not attempting to distract from the beauty and history of Hever Castle…but if you visit, make sure you play on the water maze!!!!
And put up pictures of YOUUUUUU
Oh my gosh! The whole Boleyn story is so cool. I love all of that Henry VIII stuff. I could do just a castle tour of the UK and be totally happy.
We had a lot of fun that day. Having English relatives really helps as well.