day trip from london to hever castle

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Lady’s Day Trip to Hever Castle Guide

Today I want to share my guide to taking a day trip to Hever Castle from London. This is a great place to spend a day taking in the fortress and its gardens in Kent.

Day Trip to Hever Castle

There’s something magical about a castle. Fairy-tale romances, gallant chivalry, and courtly intrigues pervade the thick stone walls.

It’s particularly true of a castle that was home to a wife of Henry VIII, one of the most famous kings of England.

I’ve been meaning to take a day trip to Hever Castle for years, and I’ve finally traveled to Kent to see Anne Boleyn’s childhood home in all its regal splendor.

How to Get from London to Hever Castle

I’m a big fan of taking day trips from London , not least because they’re great ways to escape the city and immerse myself in a different part of England.

Hever Castle is an easy one, too. A short train ride from central London, the nearest stations are a quick taxi trip or—even better—a nice country walk away through the local fields.

Visiting Hever Castle on a Day Trip

Now that I’m here, I find myself in exactly the fairy tale I hoped for. This is one of the best castles near London for a lot of reasons, and I soon discover them.

A moat hugs the stately stone structure of Hever Castle, and whimsical deer-shaped trees surround it.

A life-size yew maze and topiary chess set add an Alice-in-Wonderland ambiance, and suddenly I’m five years old and seriously in awe of something spectacular again.

Hever Castle Tour

Inside Hever Castle, I tour the rooms where Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII once frequented.

Many of them feature a mix of historical styles from the 16th century and the 20th, when the famous Astor family bought this English castle and made it their home.

Hever Castle Gardens

But for me the real magic lies outside the castle walls. The gardens are the highlight, and no day trip to Hever Castle would be complete without seeing them. They make this place one of the best garden day trips from London .

Beyond the hedges and topiary deer sit picture-pretty bridges and a larger-than-life water maze where children of all ages run across floating blocks that send geysers shooting into the air as they pick their way to the tower in the center.

Then there’s the Italian Garden. Of everything on the 125 acres surrounding Hever Castle, it’s by far the most beautiful.

Tulips of every shade line expansive landscaped lawns while giant urns overflow with the excesses of spring. This is one of the best spring travel destinations and top spring day trips from London for good reason.

Hedges surround secret reflecting pools, and at the very end of the garden a loggia overlooks a placid lake. It’s straight out of a fairy tale, only this time I’m in it.

Hever Castle Day Trip

And maybe that’s the best part about taking a day trip to Hever Castle. Sure, it’s nice to imagine the intrigues of Anne and Henry all those centuries ago. But it’s even more fun to live the dream myself.

Have you taken a day trip to Hever Castle? What did you like best?

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29 Comments on Lady’s Day Trip to Hever Castle Guide

This looks amazing – I’m a bit of a Boleyn fan so have wanted to visit here for ages. Thanks for the reminder!

You’re welcome! If you’re a Boleyn fan, you’ll love it there!

I do love English castles!:) nice photos as ever!:)

This was one of the very first castle’s I ever went to in England almost 40 years ago and it still holds a very special place in my heart. It was and is the best. We were in London this past December and if we had had more time I would have made sure I got there. Another special place to stop by and maybe visit is Gravetye Manor in East Grinstead. It would be right up your alley!

That’s great! I can see why you like Hever Castle so much. Funny you mention Gravetye Manor, too. I went a few years ago and loved it. You know me well!

I’m kinda sad I went to school for a semester in London and I never explored half of these places! So much like a fairytale, I need to go back 🙂

Aw, yeah! I hope you can come back and see more!

Loved reading this! I’m a big fan of day trips too and have always wanted to visit Hever Castle! It looks like spring is a beautiful time to go. Thanks for sharing, Julie 🙂

You’re welcome! I hope you’re able to visit someday!

On my last two trips to England, I’ve thought about taking a day trip to Hever Castle, but it just hasn’t worked out. I really need to make it a priority next time!

Yeah! I hope you can go next time.

Look at those flowers! What a picturesque castle.

I so want to go there as I’m a big fan of Anne Boleyn 🙂

Nice! You’ll really enjoy it then.

These pictures look beautiful! I’ll definitely keep this in mind the next time I’m travelling to London!

Thanks! Hope you can make it out there!

Hello, when I went there last June, it was very hot. I saw one of Henly 8th’s wives ghost ! She was outside and smiled at me! She was very pritty lady though( Anne Boleyn). I also saw Kalmia latifoli flower first time. I enjoyed your blogs, thank you very much(^^) and sorry for my poor english.

Wow, seeing a ghost must have been quite an experience! I’m glad you enjoy the blog!

I am reading “The Secret Diary of Anne Boyeln” now, so would love to visit Hever. Your pictures are beautiful.

Yeah, you would love it. I hope you can go sometime!

Looks gorgeous – perfect timing as I’m hoping to visit this month!

Nice! I hope you have a good time!

Beautiful place to spend a day outside London, especially during the Spring. I’m totally in love with those tulips! Thanks for sharing!

You’re welcome! I love the tulips, too!

Love those tulips 🙂

Perfect. I’m adding it to my itinerary for late April. Along with your Hampstead, south of Westminister Abbey, and some mews walks! Thanks so much!

You’re welcome! I’m so glad to hear that. Have fun!

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Hever Castle Private Tour from London

A Hever Castle private tour from London is the perfect way to explore this iconic medieval fortress and childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and Mother of Elizabeth I. Our private tours from London come with experienced guide and luxury transportation. Choose between a full day excursion to Hever Castle or combine a trip with other nearby places such as Chartwell, Bodiam Castle or Leeds Castle.

hever castle private tour:

This 13th-century double-moated castle is perfect for a day out from London. Dating from around 1270, highlights of the castle include its beautiful interiors and magnificent gardens.

• Discover the fascinating medieval rooms that make up the castle’s interior. Admire the unique decorations, furnishings and antiques and view the impressive Tudor artwork and two prayer books signed by Anne Boleyn
• Highlights include the Inner Hall, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Entrance Hall, Library, Queen’s Chamber and Staircase gallery.
• Walk around the award winning Hever Gardens, set in over 125 acres of grounds. The garden is a celebration of colour and smell and inspires thousands of visitors every year. Highlights include its lake, grottoes, fountains, maze garden and quintessential English Rose Garden.

places to visit near Hever Castle:

A Hever Castle private tour from London can be combined with other nearby places to make a full day trip. Some suggestions include:

• Leeds Castle, one of the most beautiful castles and a great way to complement a visit to Hever Castle. Highlights includes its impressive interiors and stunning gardens. See here for more information on private tours to Leeds Castle.
• Bodiam Castle, another impressive moated castle dating back to the 14th Century. Its considered an architectural masterpiece and surrounded by stunning green English countryside. See here for more information.
• Chartwell, the adult home of Winston Churchill. It is now a National Trust property, and visitors can get a glimpse into the life of this giant of British history, with a series of fascinating displays, artefacts and collection of original Churchill paintings.

All our private tours are fully customisable and include an experienced guide and transportation. For more information please contact us using this enquiry form below:

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Hever Castle & Hampton Court Henry VIII

An extraordinary journey through time and history.

This captivating expedition invites you to explore the charm of Hever Castle, a 13th-century country house that once graced the Boleyn family, and to relive the royal splendour of Hampton Court Palace, famously linked to Henry VIII and his many wives. With our expert chauffeur at the helm, you'll be guided through the enchanting landscapes of Kent and the regal allure of Hampton Court, all in the lap of luxury. Book now to create unforgettable memories steeped in English heritage, culture, and elegance. Join us for a Hever Castle and Hampton Court Palace tour – where history comes alive and the past becomes your present! Important information: Your preferred drop off and collection point will be agreed with your driver prior to the tour start date .

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Price from: £595.00 per day

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Private chauffeur guide

Free bottled water

Hever Castle

Hampton court palace, discover the historic wonders of england .

Join us for a Hever Castle and Hampton Court Palace tour and let the magic of England’s past sweep you off your feet.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of English history and culture as our expert chauffeur guides you through the enchanting landscapes of Kent and the regal allure of Hampton Court. Book your unforgettable journey now!

Historical Elegance Begin your adventure at Hever Castle, an architectural gem nestled in the charming village of Hever, Kent, just 30 miles south east of London. Built in the 13th century, it exudes an aura of timeless beauty. Boleyn Family Legacy From 1462 to 1539, Hever Castle was the cherished seat of the Boleyn family. Walk in the footsteps of Anne Boleyn and explore the history and intrigue of this fascinating era. Stunning Landscapes Journey through the picturesque countryside of Kent, offering breath-taking vistas and a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Royal Romance Uncover the secrets of Hampton Court Palace, the famous seat of Henry VIII and his many wives. Marvel at the grandeur and elegance of this palace, which underwent exquisite Stuart-era modernization. Time-Traveling Experience Step into history as you wander through the opulent corridors and magnificent gardens of Hampton Court Palace. Feel the presence of the past in every corner. Expert Chauffeur Guide Enjoy a seamless and informative tour with our expert chauffeur, who will narrate the stories and legends surrounding Hever Castle and Hampton Court Palace. Tailored Luxury Experience the tour in unparalleled comfort as you travel in style and luxury with our chauffeur service, leaving all the planning and logistics to us.

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Immerse yourself in the stories shared by our experienced guides, who will transform your trip into an unforgettable saga of discovery. We would love to hear from you regarding your tour requirements. If you cannot find the perfect tour on our site we can create a custom itinerary for you.

Hever Castle: The Ultimate Autumn Day Trip From London

Visiting Hever Castle on An Autumn Day Trip From London

Getting there.

Embarking from the bustling heart of London, a one-hour train ride from London Bridge station transports you to Hever Station, a stone’s throw from the castle’s gates. Upon arrival at Hever Station, a one-mile stroll through the road guides you to the castle’s entrance. Beware there’s no pathway on the road, so you may need to take a taxi in case this walk is a problem for you. For those who prefer the scenic route, a relaxed one-hour and twenty-minute drive unveils the picturesque English countryside, culminating in the town of Hever.

A Glimpse into History

Within the castle’s labyrinthine chambers, a treasure trove of Tudor portraits, exquisite furnishings, tapestries, and antiques awaits your exploration. The Book of Hours Room reveals prayer books that once graced Anne Boleyn’s hands, bearing her writing and signature. This intimate connection to history sends shivers down the spine, a tangible link to the past. The Astor Suite, conversely, immerses you in the castle’s more recent history, with memorabilia from the Astor family and the Edwardian era.

Gardens that Enchant

Engaging Activities

For the young and young-at-heart, the gardens offer two mazes that promise hours of entertainment. Lose yourself in the twists and turns as you navigate these charming labyrinths. The laughter of children and the occasional shout of triumph fill the air… If you’re inclined towards aquatic adventures, rowboats and pedal boats can be hired to set out onto a small pond at the end of the gardens. The gentle lapping of water against the hull provides a soothing soundtrack to this idyllic scene.

Why You Should Visit Hever Castle in Autumn

Breathtaking Foliage

Autumn brings a symphony of colors to Hever Castle’s expansive gardens. The ancient trees that dot the landscape transform into living canvases, painting the grounds with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. A leisurely stroll through the gardens becomes a visual feast, as each step unveils a new tableau of natural beauty.

Photography

For photography enthusiasts, autumn at Hever Castle is a dream come true. The play of light and shadow against the backdrop of the brilliantly hued foliage creates a myriad of stunning compositions. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or simply enjoy capturing moments, the autumn scenery at Hever Castle provides ample inspiration.

Cozy Interiors

While the gardens are undoubtedly the star of the show in autumn, the castle’s interiors offer their own brand of allure. As the air turns crisper, the warm and inviting rooms within the castle provide a cozy retreat. Admire the intricate tapestries, period furnishings, and Tudor portraits, all while basking in the comforting ambiance.

Seasonal Delights

Autumn brings its own culinary delights, and Hever Castle is no exception. The on-site cafes and the historical pub nearby offer a selection of seasonal treats, from hearty soups to freshly baked pies. These delectable offerings provide a perfect accompaniment to your day of exploration.

Special Events

Hever Castle often hosts special events that are tailored to the autumn season. From harvest festivals to guided walks focusing on the changing flora, there are numerous opportunities to engage with the unique features of this time of year. Be sure to check the castle’s event calendar for any seasonal offerings during your visit.

Exploring Beyond Hever Castle

Should you wish to extend your day trip, the surrounding area offers a wealth of attractions to explore. Chartwell, Winston Churchill’s former home, beckons with its historic significance and picturesque gardens. There, you can walk in the footsteps of one of Britain’s greatest leaders, gaining insight into the life and legacy of the man himself. Penshurst Place, a historic manor house and gardens that once belonged to Henry VIII, invites you to stroll through its charming grounds.

A Relaxing Pause in Hever Village

Before concluding your day, take a moment to explore Hever Village. Its small size belies its charm, offering a well-regarded pub, the King Henry VIII, for a restful pause. The warm hospitality and traditional fare provide a taste of local life, a perfect way to wind down after a day of exploration. A nearby church adds to the village’s picturesque ambiance, its spire reaching for the heavens.

Hever Castle promises a day trip brimming with history, natural beauty, and engaging activities. Whether you’re captivated by Tudor tales or seeking a serene garden escape, this Kentish treasure offers an experience that lingers in the memory. With each step, you’ll find yourself transported through time, a willing traveler in the story of centuries past. As the sun sets and you bid farewell to this enchanting realm, you carry with you not just memories, but a deeper understanding of the layers of history that shape our world.

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Day Trip From London: Exploring Hever Castle & Gardens

Hever castle & gardens: a day trip from london.

When it comes to castles and palaces I had always thought bigger was better. But a recent visit to Hever Castle sure proved me wrong! Compact can actually be as cute, charming and impressive…as long as you know what to do with it.

Here is what to see inside Hever Castle on a daytrip from London.

Inside Hever Castle

Once you walk over the drawbridge (yes! It comes with a drawbridge and not just one, but two moats!) through the courtyard and into the castle you’ll follow a route from room to room where you can explore how the Boleyns (you might know them from the Anne Boleyn tragedy) lived there in Tudor times and then the Astors in the early 1900s.

Though it’s a short route, it’s far from boring: everything from family portraits and a secret chapel to instruments of torture will keep you immersed in medieval and modern history. And for your inner child there is a little ‘can you spot it’ game in each room and let me tell you…it was hard sometimes.

Sadly there’s no rooftop access, so I wasn’t able to brace the winds and let my hair blow majestically atop the battlements (so back to Dover I must go!)

Hever Castle Gardens: Walking Route, Lake & Maze

Taking in the nature alongside the calm waters all at my own pace was one of the favourite things I’ve done recently. I also enjoyed the mini pier where I got to recreate my own Dawson’s Creek moment (though it should have been called Pacey’s Creek in my opinion…).

How To Get There – Train from London To Hever Castle

The best bit? Hever Castle is only 1-hour train from central London and a 20-minute walk to the castle grounds so it’s perfect for a fun day out to escape from the city! Trains run from Victoria Station and London Bridge Station.

You can also take a taxi from the station, but it’s a really easy walk.

And even better? You can book a room in the Tudor Village that the Astors built and actually let your inner princess out. I loved parading around in my favourite dress through the grounds once they were closed for the public…but more on that later.

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Visiting the “Anne Boleyn Castle” – Your guide to a Perfect Visit to Hever Castle in Kent

This year, because of how life has changed, I have had more staycations than ever, and I’ve learned how to discover and appreciate my own “back yard”. Located only a 40 minute drive from my home, this summer I explored Hever Castle, Anne Boleyn’s childhood home. Often referred to as the “Anne Boleyn Castle”, visiting the Tudor mansion at Hever is a fantastic history lesson and a great way to immerse yourself in the Tudor era.

Hever Castle makes a great day trip from London , and a lovely escape in the countryside. Its gardens are a pleasure to walk through and the grounds are large enough for social distancing.

Directions to Hever Castle

Hever Castle is located 30 miles south-east from London and is easily accessible both by private and public transport.

By car from central London, it takes around an hour and a half to reach Hever Castle, depending on the traffic. As you get out of the city and enter the countryside, the drive is very pleasant on small roads passing picturesque villages.

Parking at Hever Castle is free of charge. 

The easiest way to get to Hever Castle from London is by train. There are several trains each hour leaving London Bridge towards Uckfield, stopping at Hever. The fastest journey time is approximately one hour. An off peak day return ticket, purchased in advance, costs £13.40.

The castle is located about one mile away from the train station. You can walk half way, then take the TW8 bus towards Edenbridge until Hever Church, or make the entire journey by foot.  In total, it’s a 20 minute walk from Hever station to the Castle.

Tickets to Hever Castle

The entry ticket to Hever Castle can be booked online directly on the castle’s website, by clicking here . Due to the most recent regulations, you must book a time slot for your visit. An adult ticket for the gardens and grounds costs £15.55, with a £3.25 supplement for the castle.

Who was Anne Boleyn? 

Hever Castle is the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, but if you are not very familiar with English history, you might wonder who she was. Anne Boleyn was King Henry VIII’s second wife, executed for treason by beheading, in the Tower of London. She was the mother of Queen Elizabeth I and a key figure in the start of the English Reformation, when the Church of England broke away from the Vatican’s authority. 

She lived on an off at Hever Castle in Kent, firstly during her childhood, and later as an adult, before and during her marriage with Henry VIII. The castle, built in the 13 th century, has been in the Boleyn family for 77 years. After Anne father’s death, Henry VIII took over its possession and gifted it to his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves, as a divorce settlement. Yes, Henry VIII was quite the lady’s man.

The “Anne Bolyen Castle”

When you get the first glimpses of Hever Castle you can’t stop wondering if it’s real, because it looks so much like it’s out of a fairy tale, or an animated movie. It’s not a big castle, but it’s quite tall, with compact towers, and a wooden door suspended from massive chains over the moat. On the outside, the vegetation has taken over the façade of the castle, decorating it in beautiful shades of green.  Inside, a small courtyard leads to the main entrance.

Hever Castle is a wonderful example of Tudor architecture, extremely well preserved by the extensive renovations conducted by the American millionaire William Waldorf Astor (the creator of the luxury hotel chain Waldorf Astoria), at the beginning of the 20 th century.

My visit inside Hever Castle took around one and a half hours. I highly recommend picking up the audio guide to immerse yourself in the history of the castle. The visit starts downstairs, with the modern study and library where William Waldorf Astor liked to entertain his guests. With decorated wood panel walls, tapestried couches, retro armchairs, a piano and a hidden drinks cabinet, I could only imagine what a party would have looked like here, at the beginning of the 1910s.

Stepping from one room to another is like jumping back and forth though the centuries. Next to the newly restored drawing room is the dining hall, where Henry VIII would have had dinner and was entertained after a successful hunting spree, when visiting Hever Castle to court Anne Boleyn. Whilst many of the original décor elements in this room don’t exist anymore and the furniture has been restored in the late 20 th century, there is one item here that belonged to Henry VIII himself. Because he was so afraid of being assassinated, he brought his personal locksmith to Hever Castle to install a special lock for his bedchamber. This original gilt lock now hangs on one of the dining hall doors.  If you are interested in learning more about the Kings and Queens of England, you must visit Windsor Castle as well, which exhibits the original armour garniture of Henry VIII for the field and tilt. Windsor is also where Henry VIII is buried, in St George’s Chapel.

Back to Hever Castle, upstairs the story of Anne Boleyn comes to life. The oldest part of the castle is the ceiling in King Henry VIII’s bedchamber, dating from approximately 1462. The portraits in the Queen’s chamber make one of the most impressive collections that tell the story of the Tudors, and displays the portraits of five of Henry VIII wives. The mannequins in these rooms bring history to life, making it easier to imagine how life at Hever Castle used to be in the 16 th century.    

Who Owns Hever Castle Now

Hever Castle has had various owners, among which are the Waldegrave family and the Waldorf Astor family. The last sale of the castle and its collection was in 1983, when the Astor family sold it to the Broadland Properties Limited. Today, Hever Castle is owned by the Guthrie family.

The Gardens at Hever Castle

The gardens at Hever Castle are some of the beautiful I have ever seen in England. They are so attentively landscaped and full of colours during every season, stretching over 125 acres of land. I’ve spent a couple of hours just enjoying the different hidden corners, the woodland, the gorgeous rose garden or the Italian corner. Strolling along the alleys in the late afternoon captures sweet aromas of delicate jasmine, the flower symbol of love and beauty.

I visited Hever Castle in summer, and I couldn’t get enough of the colours. There are always peaceful corners where you can enjoy some quiet time alone. In autumn, the experience is different, with warmer shades of reds, orange and yellows. 

Summer and autumn are always great seasons to enjoy the flower meadows, which decorate the ground in a rainbow coloured carpet.

Hever Castle also features a stunning yew maze, which is an attraction in itself for both adults and children. Built in the Edwardian era, the hedges are eight feet tall. The approximate half a mile of pathways inside take around 45 minutes to complete. Unfortunately, when I visited the yew maze was closed due to the pandemic, so I didn’t get to experience it.

Another fun maze is the water one, where most of the visitors who attempt to reach its centre, get wet. It’s a fun activity, especially on a hot day. The best time to experience the water maze is at 10:30, when it opens. Later, the waiting times in the queue can be over one hour.

The Grounds at Hever Castle

Besides the gardens, the ticket to Hever Castle allows you to explore the entire grounds, including the woods and the lake. You can spend the entire day here. There were many people with picnic baskets who were just enjoying a day out with nature.

Hever lake stretches over 38 acres and makes a lovely walk for bird lovers. In summer you can rent a rowing boat or a kayak, and explore the grounds from the water in your own pace.

For the little ones, the castle organises different events such as archery lessons or shield painting.

Where to Eat at Hever Castle

You are probably going to spend the entire day at Hever Castle, so it’s good to know that there are a few places to eat in the grounds.

The Moat Restaurant serves sandwiches and cakes, together with coffee and tea, just next to the castle. You can either sit inside or take your food and eat it on the grass nearby.

The Guthrie Pavilion Restaurant is open for lunch with hot food, serving classics such as fish butties, chicken burgers or mac and cheese.

In the grounds of Hever Castle there is also a pizza van and a few ice cream kiosks. You can enjoy a prosecco at the newly opened Loggia bar which overlooks the Italian Gardens.

For a unique experience, if you are visiting during the weekend, prebook the afternoon tea in the Tudor Suite Dining Room and Sitting Room.

You are always welcome to bring your own picnic and enjoy the grounds of the castle.

Stay at the Hever Castle Hotel

William Waldorf Astor has not only renovated the castle to bring it back to its Tudor roots, he has also built an entire new wing which now hosts 28 luxury bedrooms which can be booked for overnight stays.

I would love to be able to tell what it’s like to stay in a castle, but unfortunately the price doesn’t fit my budget. However, from what I saw in the movie I watched at the end of my visit to Hever Castle, the experience must be one of a kind, with four poster beds and roll top bathtubs.

Not only will you feel like a queen (or a king) by staying overnight at Hever Castle, you will also have unlimited access to the private grounds after hours, when all the visitors have left. And that’s pretty cool.

You can check the reviews of the stay on TripAdvisor or find the latest prices per night on Booking.com by clicking here .

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29 thoughts on “ Visiting the “Anne Boleyn Castle” – Your guide to a Perfect Visit to Hever Castle in Kent ”

Good afternoon My name is Radko Shopov. Last year on 20 August I visited the Hever Castle. I made a video of my visit which is one of the most viewed on my channel. One of the viewers noticed something quite odd – a hand resembles of beast. I checked out my pictures as well taken with my camera Sony. The object is there. I do not know what to think so I kindly as you to check out my video at 42:57 The Queens’ Chamber below the Henry VIII’s portrait. Here is the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfQO4KB15XE&lc=UgyhtjN2O2P2DBp-nSh4AaABAg I didn’t see anything such that object on your picture of the Queens’ Chamber. Can you please comment that?

Best regards

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I’m a massive fan of the Tudor period and have always wanted to visit Hever Castle. This post is the next best thing to visiting since we can’t travel right now. My husband was actually an extra in the Tudors TV series!

I love UK castles. Kent’s Hever Castle looks gorgeous! I’d love to visit on a sunny day like this

I’m a big fan of Anne Boleyn especially after watching Tudor’s, can’t believe there is an actual Castel named after her. Really enjoyed reading this

I’m unashamed to say one of my goals is quickly becoming this: visit every castle in the world. Ambitious? Maybe. But thank you for helping me add this lovely one to my list!! I don’t know that I would’ve guessed or even thought about Anne Boleyn being associated with a castle, so it’s awesome to know that now too.

Ooo, I’d love to visit here someday–the gardens are so pretty!! I’ve only ever been to the castles in Scotland so far!

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Private Trip to Bodiam Castle, Hever Castle and High Weald

Day trip to bodiam castle and hever castle.

Would you like to visit the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII? Would you like to see the picturesque Bodiam Castle, built in 14th century by one of the most powerful knights, Sir Edward Dalyngrigge? Would you like to feel the charm and magnificent beauty of one of England's finest landscapes of High Weald? If yes, then the day trip to Hever Castle and Bodiam Castle is definitely the adventure that you are looking for!

Duration of the trip: 11 hours

TOUR ITINERARY

The trip starts early in the morning from London. The first stop is Hever Castle.

HIGH WEALD (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty)

High Weald is an area in south-east England, characterised by an attractive, small-scale landscape containing many small farms and woodlands, historic parks, sunken lanes and ridge-top villages. It covers an area of 560 sq miles (1450 sq km) and it extends across the counties of Surrey, West Sussex, East Sussex and Kent. You will pass by the central part of this area on the way to Bodiam Castle. You will enjoy many breaks in picturesque areas and be delighted by the beauty of its scenery.

BODIAM CASTLE

Set in the heart of High Weald, Bodiam castle has spiral staircases, outstanding medieval architecture, battlements and a portcullis. Built in the 14th century, it is one of Britain’s most beautiful and romantic ancient monuments. Encapsulated in adventurous stories and legends, the castle continues to inspire the imagination of all visitors with secrecy, mystery and majesty. It was built in 1385 by the knight, Sir Edward Dalyngrigge. Its purpose was to defend the area against French invasion during the Hundred Years’ War. Enough of the interior ruins survive to give an impression of its great beauty and significance. You will enjoy a tour of the castle, exploring its hidden secrets.

The tour ends back in London at around 19:00h.

The Starting point is from your hotel/accommodation. Your pick-up and return drop-off is included in your price. Your pick-up point and drop-off point (if different) have to be in the area of Greater London. If you haven’t booked a hotel yet, or you are not sure of its exact location, we can arrange the pick-up arrangement at a later stage.

Hever Castle

Bodiam Castle

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• The private day trip can be booked via email, by phone or just by filling our enquiry form (recommended).
• If you have special requirements, please let us know them in advance! 
• If you would like to visit some other museums or attractions, we can include them in your private tour as an extra. We simply have to know it in advance, in order to plan the time schedule of the program.
• We accept secure online payments via Stripe, once we confirm you availability for the trip

ROUTE OF THE TOUR

THE PRICE INCLUDES

   Private Tour Guiding Services 

  Private Transportation with private driver from London to Hever Castle, Bodiam Castle and return to London

Admission to Hever Castle

Admission to Bodiam Castle

Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel /accommodation 

A bottle of water

THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE

Food and Beverages

  Gratuities (optional)

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Visiting Anne Boleyn’s Hever Castle, The Complete Guide

Looking for a guide to visiting the fairytale Hever Castle? Look no further!

If you’re a Tudor enthusiast, the castle is a must visit attraction in England. Hever is a petite double-moated castle with a craggy romantic visage that’s largely unaltered by time.

It’s famously linked to the ill-fated royal couple, Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII. Their story is a fascinating one, one of the most dramatic in English history.

Hever was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry’s second wife. It’s also linked to Henry’s fourth wife, Anne of Cleves, who was installed there after Henry divorced her.

On a visit to Hever Castle, you can walk in the footsteps of these famous Tudor monarchs. And you can admire the castle’s medieval keep and gatehouse, Tudor rooms, original portraits, and exquisite gardens. 

Alas, while the castle is the real deal, the interior isn’t authentic. The furnishings, period gardens, and Tudor village were added, quite imaginatively, by William Waldorf Astor in the 20th century.

History Of Hever Castle And Its Famous Tudor Occupants

No guide to Hever Castle would be complete without a brief history of the castle.

The history of Hever stretches back 700 years. It first pops up as a fortified manor home owned by the Norman de Hever family. They secured themselves against small scale attacks by adding a moat and drawbridge.

In the 1300s, Sir John de Cobham took over. By that time, the property had crenellated curtain walls, battlements, and a gatehouse.

All the crenellation was meant to threaten. Hever Castle was never involved in any serious medieval warfare. But the family needed protection from marauding bands of vagabonds.

In 1462, Sir Geoffrey Bullen purchased Hever Castle. He was a forerunner of the Boleyn family and the great-great-great grandfather of Queen Elizabeth I.

He constructed the huge three story gatehouse you still see today and created a comfortable Tudor home for his family.

Thomas Boleyn

The Bullen family began to climb the social and political ranks of the era. Geoffrey’s grandson, Thomas, was an ambitious knight. He married the aristocratic Lady Elizabeth Howard and changed the family name to Boleyn.

Thomas was blessed with two exceptional daughters, Mary and Anne. Mary was the first to catch the roving eye of a womanizing Henry VIII.

Mary Boleyn

At the time of his infatuation, the king was married to Catherine of Aragon. But after 20 years of marriage, the Spanish queen had failed to give Henry the thing he most craved: a male heir. The marriage soured.

Mary became a lady in waiting to the queen. This made it much easier to conduct their illicit affair. He wooed Mary at Hever Castle as well.

If Mary’s father Thomas had qualms about the unconventional arrangement, Henry quelled them by heaping property and honorifics on Thomas, including the prestigious Order of the Garter.

Anne Boleyn

Meanwhile, Thomas’s other daughter, Anne, spent her adolescence in France in the cultured court of Queen Claude. When she returned to England in 1521 or 1522, she was popular at court, dazzling everyone with her wit, sophistication, charm, and musical abilities.

Henry was perhaps the most smitten of the lot. But Anne didn’t plan on being a pawn in Henry’s amorous adventures.

A cat-and-mouse game began, with a randy Henry bombarding Anne with passionate love letters, many sent to Hever Castle. Anne refused to give in to his advances and would settle for nothing short of marriage.

The problem? Henry was Catholic and couldn’t divorce Catherine.

Nonetheless, Henry was determined to have Anne no matter the cost. He began the “Great Matter” of extricating himself from Catherine.

It would last several years, during which time Henry courted Anne at Hever. The castle became one of the most gossiped about addresses in England.

Desperate to marry Anne, Henry first had the influential Cardinal Wolsey try to procure an annulment from the Catholic Church in Rome . This plan failed. Pope Clement VII sided with Catherine, a devout Catholic from a devoutly Catholic country.

Enraged, Henry took the drastic step of breaking away from the Catholic church and founding the Church of England, his most lasting legacy. In 1533, Henry divorced Catherine and married Anne after 7 long years of waiting.

Rome ex-communicated Henry. But he didn’t care. It only made Henry richer when he dissolved the monasteries and seized their land and treasures.

Anne gave Henry a daughter in 1533, who would eventually become  Elizabeth I , the Virgin Queen. They were both disappointed.

When Anne miscarried a son in 1536, Henry had had enough, after just 3 short years of marriage. Anne, like Catherine before her, had failed to deliver the goods.

Plus, Henry’s passion had waned, with the thrill of the chase gone. Henry was already interested in another woman who would become wife #3, Jane Seymour.

To get rid of Anne, Henry arrested her on trumped up charges of treason and adultery. Anne was executed on the Tower of London green in 1536. Today, a memorial marks the spot.

Henry married Jane 11 days later. They were only married 18 months. She died in childbirth after giving birth to a son, Arthur, who only lived to 15.

If the Boleyn family shot to fame because of a besotted suitor, they fell from grace with breathtaking speed after Anne’s execution. When Thomas died two years later, a heartless Henry promptly confiscated Anne’s childhood home.

Hever Castle would come in handy as a bargaining chip when Henry opted to get rid of his fourth wife, Anne of Cleves, who Henry dubbed the “Flanders Mare.”

When Henry divorced Anne, he gave her the castle as part of the divorce settlement and she went quietly. Given Henry’s ruthlessness, she was lucky to keep her head.

When Anne died in 1557, her stepdaughter Mary Tudor gifted the castle to Sir Edward Walgrave. By the turn of the century, the castle had faded from the limelight.

In 1903, William Waldorf Astor, the richest man in America, bought Hever Castle. He immediately embarked on lavish full scale renovations lasting 5 years.

He renovated the interior and added some Tudor cottages, the beautiful gardens, and a lake. A stickler for detail, he used the same materials and tools as Tudor era craftsman. So, while it’s not exactly as Anne and Henry saw it, it has an authentic feel.

Waldorf’s son John inherited the castle upon his father’s death in 1919.

In 1963, John’s son Gavin opened the castle and gardens to the public for the first time. The castle was then sold to the Broadland Properties and the Guthrie family in 1983.

They took over the running of the castle and built up the portrait collection. The purchase price wasn’t disclosed, but the castle was valued at $24 million.

Legend holds that the ghost of Anne haunts the castle grounds on May 19, the anniversary of her death. She’s also been spotted during Christmas-time under an oak tree where she and Henry used to tryst.

Hever Castle is not only a favorite of travelers to England but is also a favorite of filmmakers. It’s been a filming location for the movies The Great , The Princess Bride , Inkheart , and Anne of a Thousand Days.

Guide To Hever Castle: What To See

You enter Hever Castle across a drawbridge over a 15 yard wide moat. Astor restored the bridge.

The portcullis (the latticed grill that slides down across the entrance) is one of the oldest working portcullises in Britain.

Inside, you’ll find cozy and inviting Tudor rooms — massive wooden beams, ornate columns, wood paneling and carvings, and rich colors. There aren’t really a lot of exhibits. The highlight for me was the Tudor portraits.

1. Morning Room

In Tudor times, the Morning Room was originally a private retiring room. You’ll find stunning paneling, furnishings, and a mahogany fire pole dating from the 17th century.

The lovely library overlooks the Anne Boleyn Orchard in the gardens. It houses 2,500 leather books marked with the Astor coat of arms and printed on private presses. The ceiling was copied from Hampton Court Palace .

3. Drawing Room

This room once contained domestic offices during the Tudor period. Astor transformed it into a drawing room in 1905. You’ll see beautiful oak paneling and an ornate plaster ceiling.

4. Henry VIII’s Bedroom

Historians believe that Henry stayed in the castle when courting Anne. The room is the largest bedroom in the castle, so may have been where Henry stayed. It’s an Astor recreation with Tudor period elements.

The 16th century carved walnut frieze above the fireplace was originally the front of a chest. The coffered ceiling is original and one of the oldest in the castle, dating from 1462.

5. Tudor Portraits In The Long Gallery

Built by the Boleyns in the 16th century, the 98 feet long Long Gallery extends across the entire width of the Castle. This was my favorite space.

Henry VIII once held court here. The gallery was also used for entertaining guests, taking exercise, and displaying art collections.

The ornate plaster ceiling is an early 20th century reconstruction in the Tudor style, which was added by Nathaniel Hitch.

The Long Gallery is now home to 18 portraits hung in dynastic order that tell the saga of the Tudor dynasty, starting from Henry VI and ending with Henry VIII. 

It’s a permanent exhibition curated by David Starkey. The portrait collection is one of the most famous in Britain, second in quality only to Britain’s National Portrait Gallery.

The gallery contains the only known portrait of Henry’s older brother Arthur, Catherine of Aragon’s first husband. There’s also a rare portrait of Mary Queen of Scots and another rare portrait of Richard III. The latter was never displayed in public before being installed in the Long Gallery in 2019.

The coats of arms in the Long Gallery’s stained glass commemorate the different residents of Hever Castle, including Anne of Cleves, William de Hever, Anne Boleyn, and Sir John Fastolf. 

6. Anne Boleyn’s Bedroom

Anne Boleyn was born in 1501 and spent her childhood at Hever Castle. A spiral staircase leads up to what is believed to have been her bedroom.

It has a carved Tudor bed, a 15th century half domed ceiling, and a portrait of Anne in her “B necklace.” You can even buy your own B necklace in the castle shop.

7. Anne Boleyn’s Prayer Books

The Room of Hours has some of the only remaining Anne Boleyn memorabilia. Henry VIII destroyed almost everything associated with her after her execution.

You’ll see an exhibition of two of Anne’s illustrated prayer books, one of which is signed. The queen most likely used it for her daily prayer services.

In one book, she wrote asking readers to pray for her, saying: “Remember me when you do pray, that hope doth lead from day to day.”

Digital consoles let visitors to “turn the pages” and see the different illustrations and autographs.

In the same room, you’ll see a large tapestry. It depicts the marriage of Henry’s sister, Princess Mary Rose, to Louis XII of France.

8. Great Hall

In the time of the Boleyns, the dining room was known as the Great Hall. This is where the Boleyns would have entertained Henry VIII.

One of the doors has his personal gilt lock. Henry was always worried about assassination, so traveled with his personal locksmith to keep him safe. He may also have used the lock to prevent any interruptions during his late night rendezvous.

The fireplace is made of ornately carved stone and topped with the Boleyn coat of arms. The massive dining table dates form the 16th century and the 24 chairs are from the 17th century.

This room is rented out for parties and weddings.

9. Queen’s Chamber

In the Queen’s Chamber, you’ll see five portraits Henry VIII’s wives. (The portrait of Henry’s other wife, Catherine of Aragon, is on display in the Long Gallery.)

There’s an ornate carved wooden bed. Astor bought it believing it was Anne Boleyn’s bed due to the inscription of her name.

You’ll also see mannequins of Anne Boleyn, her sister Mary, and Henry VIII in the room. There’s also a fairly newly-acquired portrait of Henry VIII that depicts him as the vigorous young king who courted Anne.

10. Staircase Gallery

The Staircase Gallery was created by Thomas Bullen in 1506 over the Entrance Hall.

It was meant to give access between the two wings of the house. In this gallery, you’ll find a rare portrait of Mary Queen of Scots, probably from the studio of French artist Francois Clouet.

11. Waldegrave Room

This room is named after the Waldegrave family, who lived at Hever in the late Tudor and Stuart dynasties. They were favorites of Queen “Bloody Mary” and moved in after Anne of Cleves died.

Inside the room, there’s a beautiful carved four poster bed dating from the late 15th century.

Hidden behind paneling, you can also see a small chapel with stained glass windows. This was where the Waldegraves secretly practiced Catholicism after Mary died.

12. Gatehouse

Your tour ends in the oldest part of the castle, the 13th century Medieval Council Chamber in the gatehouse. It has a Gothic fireplace with impressive tracery.

13. Special Exhibitons

The castle puts on special exhibitions from time to time.

Right now, to mark the 500th anniversary of Anne Boleyn’s arrival at the royal court, Hever Castle is hosting an exhibition exploring her early life and the culture in which she grew up.

The exhibition will run until November 2022. It’s included in your ticket.

14. Gardens

Your next stop on this guide to Hever Castle are the magnificent gardens.

If you’re a horticulture love, it’s worth a trip to Hever Castle just to see the heavenly gardens. The award-winning gardens are set over 125 acres.

The peerless Italian Garden is the highlight of the castle gardens. It’s the setting for a collection of classical statuary from Rome to Renaissance times.

There’s a loggia overlooking the lake where you can relax, which was modeled after the Trevi Fountain in Rome . You’ll see Apollo standing on a Corinthian column and walk through beautiful rotundas.

The 5,000 rose bushes put on a stunning display in the Rose Garden. A delicate light pink variety is named after Anne Boleyn, but it’s actually a modern creation.

There’s even a topiary chess set. You can also take the Ann Boleyn Walk through her orchard or walk in the footsteps of Princess Diana on the Diana Walk.

Aside from the myriad gardens, you may see butterflies, robins, and swans on the lake.

The gardens are for some family fun in a place teeming with history, much like Warwick Castle .

You can row boats on the 38 acre lake, wander through yew and water mazes, sniff roses, or try your hand at archery. There’s even an open water swimming course.

The popular yew maze is over 100 years old. The hedge is eight feet high and so dense you can’t see through it, making it a challenge to navigate.

The water maze consists of concentric stepping stones over the lake. When you step on the stones, hidden jets spray water up at random soaking maze-goers. Your goal is to reach the stone cave in the center without getting wet, which isn’t an easy task.

15. Tudor Village

The Tudor Village or “Astor Wing” was added on by Astor. It’s connected to the main castle by a charming covered bridge.

The houses are picture perfect images of thatched Tudor cottages with brown and white facades.

Parts of them house a 28 room boutique hotel that you can stay in, called Hever Castle Luxury Bed and Breakfast .

I didn’t stay overnight, so can’t comment on them myself. I imagine it’s quite posh.

16. Jousting & Falconry

Would you like to see some knights in shining armor? For the romantically-inclined, Hever Castle hosts an annual Summer Jousting Tournament in July.

The Royal Knights of England don costumes and entertain visitors with one-on-one combat and action packed displays. You can sit in the medieval stands for a small fee or bring your own blanket.

On selected summer days, there are also falconry displays.

Practical Guide & Tips For Visiting Hever Castle

Hever Edenbridge Kent TN8 7NG

2. How To Get To Hever Castle

Hever Castle is just 30 miles from London and makes the perfect half or full day trip. The easiest way to get there is by car. The drive takes about 1:15. There’s a free parking lot onsite.

You can also to get to Hever Castle by train. Trains run from London Victoria and London Bridge Stations to Edenbridge Town Station.

From there, you take a taxi for 3 miles to the castle. You should book a taxi in advance for both legs of the trip.

Alternatively, you can take the train from Victorian Station bound for East Grimstead, disembark in Oxted, transfer to the Uckfield-bound train, and exit at Hever Station. From there, it’s a one mile walk to the castle.

From Heathrow Airport:

It’s about a 40 minute drive from the airport.

By Guided Tour:

If you’d rather someone else handle the transportation and tickets, you can book one of several different guided day tours from London:

• a full day guided Tudor tour of Hever Castle and Hampton Court Palace
• a private half day tour to Hever Castle
• or a 6-8 tour of Hever Castle and Gardens

Click here to check out the different ticket prices. You can purchase a garden only ticket or a castle + garden ticket.

From the end of March until mid November, the castle is open daily until 6:30 pm in summer and 5:00 pm in winter. The gardens open at 10:30 am and the castle no later than noon.

The castle is also open during a short Christmas season from the end of November through Christmas Eve. Click here to see opening hours.

5. When To Visit Hever Castle

The gardens are beautiful year round.

In the spring, tulips, daffodils, and azaleas bloom. In the summer, the roses are brilliant. In the autumn, the orchard is full of fiery color and there is a dahlia border.

6. Places To Visit Near Hever Castle

Looking for some places to visit near Hever Castle? Since Hever doesn’t open until noon, there are some other delightful places that could be combined on visit or full day trip.

Harewood House

The Harewood House is a Grade 1 historic English manor home, just 25 minutes from Hever Castle. Harewood House presents the lifestyle of the British aristocracy in all its glory.

The first Baron of Harewood, Edwin Lascelles, commissioned the house in mid-18th century. The house remained with the family and the 8th Earl of Harewood, David Lascelles, currently lives there with his family.

Harewood House has interiors by Robert Adam, wall and ceiling paintings by Angela Kaufman, Chippendale furniture, and a garden by Capability Brown.

As befits a noble family, there are family portraits by notable English artists Joshua Reynolds, John Hoppner, and Thomas Lawrence. You’ll also find a fine art collection, with Renaissance masterpieces by Titian and Tintoretto.

Harewood House made an appearance in the Downton Abbey movie, where it was used to host a grand ball.

Address : Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds LS17 9LG

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle  is one of Britain’s finest and oldest castles. It has a picturesque setting on a lake in the wooded countryside of Kent. It’s often called England’s most beautiful castle.

The castle was a royal residence until Tudor times. It was a favorite home of Henry VIII, who shuttled his ex-wife Catherine to live there after their divorce. 

In 1926, the castle was bought by American heiress Olive Lady Baillie. She saved it from centuries of neglect and restored it to perfection. She later bequeathed the castle to Britain.

You can  pre-book your castle ticket online . Leeds is just 45 minutes from Hever Castle.

Address : Broomfield, Maidstone ME17 1PL

Chartwell House

Just 15 minutes from Hever castle Winston Churchill digs, Chartwell House .

It was the country seat of Churchill for over four decades. Chartwell House isn’t a grand home.

Though Churchill could ill afford it, he did try to gussy up the place. Churchill almost lost the house twice because he was broke. 

His friends bought the house and presented it to the UK’s National Trust. Upon Churchill’s death, it opened to the public as a museum.

You can see five rooms where Churchill lived — the dining room, the library, the drawing room, his wife Clementine’s bedroom, and Winston’s study. Three other rooms are filled with Churchill memorabilia. You can also check out his painting studio.

Address : Mapleton Rd, Westerham TN16 1PS

Sissinghurst Castle

Just 40+ minutes from Hever, Sissinghurst Castle is a National Trust property and major highlight for garden lovers. Laid out in the 1930s, the castle boasts one of the world’s greatest romantic gardens.

Former owner and writer Vita Sackville-West designed the gardens to look like rooms of a house. Each one has its own color scheme and theme.

Address: Biddenden Rd, Cranbrook TN17 2AB

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to Hever castle. You may enjoy these other London travel guides and resources:

• 3 Day Itinerary for London
• 5 Day Itinerary for London
• Hidden Gems in London
• 30 Day Trips From London
• Tourist Traps To Avoid in London
• Best Museums in London
• Harry Potter Places in London
• Guide to the Tower of London
• Guide to the Churchill War Rooms
• Guide to Westminster Abbey
• Guide to St. Paul’s Cathedral
• One Day in Stratford-upon-Avon
• One Day In Canterbury

If you need a guide to Hever Castle, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on August 8, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Hever Castle: Tudor Day Trips From London.

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Visiting Hever Castle, Day Trip from London

Hever Castle is a quick day trip from London and provides a really fun outing; it’s privately owned and not affiliated to either National Trust or English Heritage. It’s very well taken care of and has a great deal to offer guests during their visit – from history to a well maintained castle and it’s beautifully manicured gardens.

There’s a variety of options for things to do and see while visiting the Castle:

• Historic Castle, once home to Anne Boelyn, with it’s beautifully maintained and curated collection.
• 2 Mazes can be found within the Gardens and will certainly keep children (and young-at-heart adults) thoroughly entertained.
• Row Boats & Peddle Boats can be hired to take out into a small pond at the end of the gardens.
• Jousting shows are put on as part of an events calendar, along with a variety of other events that the Castle hosts.

There is significant history at the Castle as well:

• Built-in 1270, and has over 700 years of history in a single beautiful building.
• It was the childhood home of Anne Boelyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII.
• It later became home to Henry’s divorced fourth wife – Anne Cleves.

How to get there from London?

• It sits in the county of Kent, south of London, and is accessible via train (1 hour journey) or by car (1 hour 20 minute journey).
• Trains depart from London Bridge (Southern Rail) to Hever Station.
• It is a 1 mile walk from Hever Station to Hever Castle.
• The Hever Castle website has some further details on how to reach the Castle.

Since moving to the UK many years ago I have been keen to make it to this castle and experience one of their jousting events, and finally had the chance to this summer. They host the jousting events several times throughout the year (and you can check their site for scheduling). It was a spectacular show during an overcast day but with plenty of ground to sit on with a picnic.

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Churchill's home, Chartwell and Hever Castle

Contrasts of hever castle with wonderful italianate gardens and country home of our wartime prime minister.

Full day duration (9 hrs)

Private driver-guided tour

Customisable itinerary

Luxury Sedan or Vans (Mercedes, Lexus, Jaguars)

Nestled down an old country lane is Hever Castle and Garden , a small romantic castle surrounded by spectacular award-winning Italian style gardens, once home to Queen Anne Boleyn. Churchill's beloved home, Chartwell , offers the visitor spectacular views and fascinating interiors with exhibits detailing Churchill's life and times. 

Kent, the garden of England , and the county of Sussex are now renowned wine regions. Wine merchants and critics particularly respect the sparkling variety. Take the opportunity to taste English wine and have lunch at a local vineyard.

Our expertly designed full-day tour itineraries include entrance tickets and professional driver-guide with a luxury vehicle. This day tour from London is fully flexible on the day and customisable. Let us help you make the adjustments to match your pace of travel, personal interests and lunch requirements.

Two famous historic homes in the garden of England

Two very different historic country homes..

Start your day at Hever Castle , and discover the story of one of Henry VIII's most famous wives. Anne Boleyn, the woman Henry VIII moved heaven and earth. Did she have six fingers, was she guilty of the charges of adultery, incest and treason? She lost her head for in May 1536.

Hever is Anne's childhood home and is full of treasures from the time of the Tudors. See Anne's illuminated prayer books, which she has made notes in and signed. In the 20th century the famous American millionaire, William Waldorf Astor renovated the entire estate and turned it into a place of entertainment.

• Childhood home of Anne Boleyn
• Award winning gardens
• English wine tasting option

The National Trust is the organisation that runs Chartwell, they offer good quality locally sourced food in the Chartwell eatery. If preferred you can head out into the countryside with your driver-guide and stop at a local inn. Alternatively, enjoy lunch at a local vineyard and taste English sparkling wine . Fine out more about England's Wine Country . 

 'A day away from Chartwell is a day wasted' Sir Winston Churchill.

Sir Winston Churchill is more than a Prime Minister; he is a national treasure and celebrated hero. Chartwell, his family home, provides an intimate portrait of a man away from his public life. Furnished as if the 1930's, when he lived there, there is 'frozen in time' quality to the place, and some, 140 of Churchill's paintings adorn the walls of the house and art studio. The gardens are a joy and the views from the house are were much loved by Churchill. 

Overnight option; Please consider staying overnight in the region and explore in more detail. Hever Castle has a delightful bed and breakfast style accommodation for your information, and South Lodge Hotel in Sussex has a spectacular spa. Our suggested Great Gardens of the South itinerary can be customised to match your interests and pace of travel.

Chartwell and Hever Castle gallery

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Day tour to York by train

Catch the early morning train to the medieval city of York, enjoy a private guided tour, lunch and dinner before returning.

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Tudor Day Out: Hampton Court Palace & Hever Castle Day Trip

Stunning Stately Homes, Amazing Gardens and Tudor Heritage

'Scratch' Britain and it 'bleeds' history!

What makes us different? SGT strives to get you off the beaten track so you can have an authentic experience, the opportunity to mingle with the locals. We do not like 'whistle stops' and it is our goal to have guests off of the vehicle exploring as much as possible.

Your SMALL GROUP day trip accommodates from a minimum of 2 guests to a max of just 16 guests per departure. Travel in (dependant on participant numbers) a standard car, MPV/SUV or mini-coach.

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PRIVATE HIRE DAYS OUT FROM LONDON, ESCORTED BY YOUR PERSONAL DRIVER/GUIDE

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Shakespeare Country: Stratford-Upon-Avon & Downton Abbey Cotswolds Villages

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Tudor Day Out - Hampton Court & Hever Castle

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Spiritual London: Multi Faith City

Dickens' Kent: Rochester and Chatham Historic Dockyards

Henry VIII’s masterpiece Hampton Court Palace is set in over 60 acres of gardens and parklands along the scenic River Thames. Another "Tudor gem" is the double moated Hever Castle but it actually dates back to about 1270. It is most famously known as Anne Boleyn's childhood home.

Full Day from London, 09:00 - approx 18:00

Henry VIII’s masterpiece Hampton Court Palace is set in over 60 acres of gardens and parklands along the scenic River Thames. You won’t want to miss the Great Vine (planted by Capability Brown,) the rose gardens and the famous Yew tree hedge Maze. There is one of the few ‘real’ tennis courts to be seen here too. Along with the Tudor Kitchens, Henry VIII's State Apartments are the most popular attraction inside the palace. The Great Hall is the palace's largest and most impressive room, with an ornate carved-wood ceiling and a collection of Flemish tapestries that date back over 500 years.

Another "Tudor gem" is the double moated Hever Castle but it actually dates back to about 1270. It is most famously known as Anne Boleyn's childhood home. Upon the death of her father, the property came to King Henry VIII who bestowed it to Anne of Cleves during their annulment proceedings. The most recent private owners were The Astors, who transformed the property and installed the gardens as what we see today. Inside the castle offers antique furniture, Anne Boleyn's prayer books, instruments of torture, and a large collection of Tudor paintings while the highlights of the extensive gardens include the famous yew maze, Tudor garden, rose garden and the Italian Garden, which was designed to display William Waldorf Astor’s collection of Italian sculpture.

Please note that your final itinerary may fluctuate to accommodate variable opening times/days for listed attractions, special events and places of interest. Please discuss your needs with us for an individual itinerary with rate quote.

Oft imitated, never duplicated! This is an original SGT itinerary, property of Special Group Tours and to be used only with express permission/in conjunction with SGT.

This is a suggested tour itinerary and can be modified to best you your individual wishes.

A private/custom London day trip is a standard day up to 9 hours total, typically 09:00 - approximately 18:00 - variable by request. You would be picked up from and returned to your central London hotel.

Entrance fees and cost of lunch are not included in your up front rate quote and would be paid directly during your touring day.

The final price may vary per specific requirements but as a rough estimate, expect approximate rates for a private day trip to be:

Standard car accommodating from 1 - 3 guests, approx $755 USD flat rate

MPV/SUV accommodating from 4 - 7 guests, approx $875 USD flat rate

16 seat mini-coach accommodating from 8 - 15 guests, approx $925 USD flat rate

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A lovely day trip from London - Hever Castle & Gardens

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A lovely day trip from London

I'm a huge Tudor fan so I was excited that I was finally able to visit this site. It was such an easy trip from London on the train and the castle was surrounded by some lovely countryside. My spouse and I chose to take the train to Hever Station and walk the mile to the castle. It was so peaceful walking across the public footpaths and very quiet. I was worried that the castle would be too commercial from some of the brochures I had seen, but this was not the case at all. We went on a very wet, rainy day but we still enjoyed walking around the beautiful gardens after touring the castle. They had a cafe on the grounds which looked quite good. We chose to eat at the Henry VIII pub. Just a note to those traveling there on a Monday, the kitchen at the pub is closed and they only had a pizza. Not the greatest. Wish we had eaten at the castle cafe. All and all an enjoyable day out from London.

The road network to the castle is poor, some roads very narrow so beware! We had a good look round and we had lovely tea n cake at the restaurant, not cheap though but in a lovely setting! Toilets were clean! Hever castle itself, lovely old building and for me to see life size models of all of henry V111 ths wives was just the best! In all a good day ouy, if u have several children prob best to take a packed lunch and a flask !

Last visited with small kids in the 1970s so interested in how things have changed. Very busy - I guess 2 - 3,000 on a summer Wednesday. Coach/ car parking and access efficient despite being in the depths of the Kent Weald. The castle opened at 12.00 so plenty of time to explore the gardens; especially liked the small sunken garden in the Italian Garden. (Some areas roped off for, I think, corporate events, which seem to be a necessary evil to help funding.) There is a manageable walk around the lake, across bridges and past well hidden WW2 pill-boxes. The biggest change outside are the number of child-friendly adventures and attractions - a water maze enabled them to get wet and excited - and plenty of lawns for picnics. The castle, although partly an Edwardian invention, works very well with lots of explanatory boards, life-size models of the 6 wives, Anne Boleyn's fantastic Book of Hours, furniture and a superb collection of Tudor paintings. The history of the English, Scottish and European monarchies needs re-telling, like here, because it is quite complicated. The current owners, a Yorkshire property company, are to be congratulated for keeping the Castle and grounds in excellent condition; they are busy now conserving the hundreds of statues and sculpture around the gardens.

Had a fantastic five hour's walking round the castle and grounds - beautiful. Restaurant very clean and welcoming, with a good choice of food. The shop was extremely expensive which was a shame but that didn't spoil our day. Castle was great, although staff didn't seem very chatty. Overall a great day that was value for money.

The castle interior provides significant focus on the Astor family but many other parts are Tudorish, well furnished and nice to view. Though moated, the castle is really more like a very fine home than a traditional castle. The gardens are wonderful. Don't make a special trip but well worth a side trip if you are exploring SE England. And don't forget to stop in at the church and pub right next door.

This was a great day out with my 4 year old in that it combined some attractions for him that he found very fun and interesting with stunning gardens in which I very much enjoyed wandering round. From a 4 year old perspective on a sunny day, the water maze, with jets that squirt unexpectedly at you as you try to reach the middle of the maze has to be the top attraction of Hever - not huge, but well designed and my son took a lot of persuasion to leave after an hour and a quarter. Take a change of clothing. Other lovely things for kids are the adventure playgound, with a large and interesting fort/maze construction, and a pretty yew maze close to the castle. From an adult point of view, on an early June day with roses and rhodedendrons and azaelas all in bloom, the gardens are splendid, including gracious Italianate gardens of a kind not so often seen in England, a wonderful rose garden, a classic English walled garden and an appealing Tudor style garden close to the picturesque garden, as well as some vaguely amusing topiary. We found the food pretty good, including good quality children's options, while the service was typical of a busy self service restaurant. |'ve been to the castle before, though not this time - lovely medieval shell, interiors are for the most part a high quality Edwardian reconstruction, as the gardens are, but picturesque and interesting as an example of the transformation quite a few ramshackle old piles near London underwent a hundred years ago or so. Intriguing Edwardian mock-Tudor extension round the back too, now used as conference/wedding etc. facilities. Go to nearby Penshurst or Knole rather than here if you want intact, restrained and delightful interiors from 15th-17th century, come to Hever for a high quality family day out in a lovely environment.

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9 Castles Near London That You Can See During a Day Trip

From the Royal Family's home in Windsor to ancient fortresses with historic moats, these castles are all a short journey from London.

When people think of castles, they often imagine far-flung palaces surrounded by endless acres of land in remote corners of the world. And while many castles are set on massive plots, plenty of others are located near bustling cities like London.

In fact, you don't even have to leave London to visit one, as the British capital is home to two major working palaces as well as the legendary Tower of London , a medieval fortress complex that's home to a castle, a prison, and several other buildings dating back to the Middle Ages (where you can also view the Crown Jewels). Catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony outside Buckingham Palace , where the Royal Family lives and works. Nearby, Kensington Palace and its majestic gardens are worth a visit. Tour the palace, where Queen Victoria was born in 1819, and pay your respects at the Princess Diana statue in The Sunken Gardens. If time allows, head 30 minutes southwest of London to see Hampton Court Palace , the former home of Henry VIII and a beautiful baroque palace built in 1514.

If you're willing to go farther, here's a look at nine castles you can easily visit on a day trip from London , all reachable by car, public train, bus, or via an organized tour.

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Highclere Castle

With more than 200 rooms on over 1,000 acres of rolling land, Highclere Castle is a Victorian gem located about 90 minutes from London. Highclere Castle is known as the real Downton Abbey , as it was used as the on-screen home of the show's Crawley family. Visitors are able to see some of the 12 bedrooms on the first floor, plus the lavish library, saloon, drawing room, and smoking room, among other parts of the property. Highclere has been home to the Carnarvon family since 1679 when it was rebuilt as a castle from the site of the earlier house, which dated to 749.

Blenheim Palace

About an hour and a half from London, Blenheim Palace is a massive baroque masterpiece that served as the boyhood home of Sir Winston Churchill. It was built between 1705–1724 and gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1987. Designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, the storied palace — which remains in the Churchill family — is regarded as the finest example of Baroque architecture in Great Britain. An audio tour of the palace state rooms is available through the website. All tickets must be purchased in advance and visits are largely self-guided, though you can pay extra for several themed guided tours. Outside the palace, the Walled Garden, Formal Garden, and Marlborough Maze are a real treat.

Broughton Castle

Complete with a moat, Broughton Castle gives off major medieval vibes. The castle, about 80 miles from London, is built of local Hornton ironstone and was once a center of opposition to Charles I. While the house dates to 1306, most of what people tour today dates from the 1550s. Broughton was used as a filming location for "Jane Eyre" and "Shakespeare in Love." The castle, just a 90-minute drive from London, has remained in the same family since 1447 and its house, garden, and tearoom are open to the public.

Highgrove House

The long-time family residence of King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort, Highgrove House is about a two-hour drive from London. After the then-prince arrived in 1980, Highgrove saw a drastic transformation in the gardens, which now include a center for organic farming and are a haven for wildlife. While the house, a Georgian neoclassical beauty, is not open to the public, the gardens welcome thousands of people a year.

Windsor Castle

RORY FULLER/TRAVEL + LEISURE

Forty minutes west of London, Windsor Castle is home to the Royal Family and is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the site has more than 900 years of history and has been home to 39 monarchs. The castle is open to guests throughout the year, and The Queen spent most of her private weekends there.

Leeds Castle

Two cool features of this castle: a moat and a maze. Just over an hour from London, Leeds Castle formerly served as a Norman stronghold during the 11th and 12th centuries, the private property of six medieval queens, as well as a palace for Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. The maze has 2,400 yew trees and is set in a square, yet has a circular pattern when viewed from the air, which adds to its difficulty. After reaching the center, exit the maze through an underground grotto, complete with mythical forms. Save on admission by purchasing your tickets at least two days ahead of time online — they're good for a year so you can come back and see more of the estate and grounds anytime.

Hever Castle

It's hard to imagine that this grand castle is a mere hour south of London. Hever Castle , with 700 years of history and a double moat, was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII and the mother of Elizabeth I. The original medieval castle was built in 1270, while the Tudor dwelling and walls were added in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. The castle is set on 125 acres and is open daily.

Rochester Castle

Built starting in the 1080s to guard an important crossing on the River Medway, Rochester Castle consists of three floors above a basement, standing 113 feet high. In 1215, the site endured a siege by King John and was rebuilt by Henry III and Edward I. The castle endured three sieges in total and remained a fortress until the sixteenth century. Only 30 miles (or an hour's drive) from London, Rochester Castle is easy to tackle in half a day.

Arundel Castle

Mandy Haakenson/Travel + Leisure

Located about 65 miles (or 90 minutes) from London, Arundel Castle has almost 1,000 years of history, overlooks the River Arun, and sports immaculate gardens that are worthy of a visit alone. The oldest castle feature is the motte, an artificial mound constructed in 1068 that rises more than 100 feet above the dry moat. The castle has been the seat of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors for over 850 years. Pay a visit to the stunning castle and gardens in the spring, summer and autumn (they're closed seasonally during the winter) to visit the decorated state rooms, Regency Library, Drawing Room, and the Barons' Hall, as well as several medieval defense towers, the Keep, a 14th-century chapel, and several bedrooms and bathrooms designed in the Victorian and Edwardian styles.

Hever Castle & Gardens

Dates Available:

Wednesday 3rd of April 2024

Experience 700 years of history at the romantic double-moated 13th century castle once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and Mother of Elizabeth I. Discover magnificent award-winning gardens set in 125 acres of glorious grounds.

When booking please select your preferred pick-up point. Your pick-up time and routes will then be confirmed at least 1 week before date of travel.

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10 impressive UK castles to visit for a historical and memorable getaway

Posted: April 19, 2023 | Last updated: August 3, 2023

UK castles are some of the most impressive and beautiful in the world, so why not pay a visit to one this year? Whether you're booking a getaway to see what the UK has to offer or are a UK resident planning a day trip, these culturally and historically significant castles should definitely be on your must-see list.

The castles of the British Isles tower over some of our most spectacular landscapes, from castles in Scotland steeped in grandeur to pretty châteaus straight from a French fairytale, and each has a unique story. When visiting some of these majestic castles, you'll get insight into some of the most fascinating history England has to offer. 

By Helena Cartwright

1. HIGHCLERE CASTLE

Location:  Hampshire, RG20 9RN |  Website:  highclerecastle.co.uk

Downton Abbey fans will recognize Highclere Castle as the stately home of the aristocratic Crawley family. The Grade I-listed house was once the site of a medieval palace but was transformed in the 19th century by Sir Charles Barry—architect of London’s Houses of Parliament. The castle is set in 1,000 acres of parkland that was designed by landscape gardener Capability Brown and is also home to an impressive exhibition of Egyptian artifacts. 

For a real treat, book in for the castle’s delightful afternoon tea, with sandwiches, scones, and a glass of bubbly.

2. WINDSOR CASTLE

Location:  Berkshire, SL4 1NJ |  Website:  rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle

A royal residence for more than 900 years, Windsor Castle is the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle. To marvel at the castle’s full regal splendor, approach from the Long Walk, a three-mile tree-lined avenue that runs to the castle through Windsor Great Park, where 500 red deer roam.

Look out for the castle’s iconic Round Tower, which flies the Royal Standard when the Queen is in residence, and visit the elegant gothic masterpiece of St George’s Chapel in the Castle’s lower ward, where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex tied the knot in 2018.

3. BOLSOVER CASTLE

Location:  Derbyshire, S44 6PR |  Website:  english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/bolsover-castle/

Built on the site of a medieval fortress, the grand halls, fountains, and gardens of Bolsover Castle were always meant to impress. The Stuart mansion sits high on a ridge above the Vale of Scarsdale, with sweeping views across the Derbyshire countryside. Its interior is lavishly decorated, but Bolsover has also been voted English Heritage’s spookiest site, with staff reporting mysterious footsteps, slamming doors, muffled voices, and the ghost of a boy holding visitors’ hands. 

The castle is home to an indoor riding school, where regular performances of classical dressage take place.

4. TINTAGEL CASTLE

Location:  Cornwall, PL34 0HE  | Website:  https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/tintagel-castle/

Tintagel Castle is shrouded in magic and mystery. Teetering on the windswept north Cornwall coast, the castle’s ruins sprawl from the mainland across a rocky precipice above the Atlantic Ocean.

From the early Middle Ages, the headland was a stronghold of Cornish kings, and their tales inspired the legend that King Arthur was born here. This led medieval nobleman Richard, Earl of Cornwall, to build a castle at the site. After exploring the castle, head down to the secluded sandy beach below, where kids can paddle in rock pools and explore the magical Merlin’s Cave. 

5. EDINBURGH CASTLE

Location:  Midlothian, EH1 2NG  | Website:  edinburghcastle.scot

Perched upon a mighty volcanic rock in the heart of the Scottish capital, the towering walls of Edinburgh Castle cut a striking silhouette against the skyline. The 12th-century castle was a key fortress of the Scottish Kingdom and has the dubious honor of being the most besieged place in Britain.

The castle’s lofty position provides spectacular views that stretch to the wild hills beyond Edinburgh, while the castle is also home to the nation’s crown jewels, the Honours of Scotland. Finish a visit at the castle tea rooms, to enjoy cakes or local specialties such as haggis and cured Scottish salmon. Grab a window seat for views across the city. 

6. HEVER CASTLE

Location:  Kent, TN8 7NG |  Website:  hevercastle.co.uk

Set within 125 acres of Kent countryside, Hever ticks all the ‘fairytale castle’ boxes—and it's a great place for a UK staycation too.

The 13th-century building is surrounded by a large medieval moat, with a wooden drawbridge leading to a towering stone gatehouse. The castle was the childhood home of Henry VIII’s second wife, Anne Boleyn, and Tudor tapestries and portraits decorate its grand halls. The gardens feature a 100-year-old yew maze, boating lake, and mock Tudor village. Guests can stay overnight in a luxurious 5-star B&B within the castle grounds. 

7. CHATEAU RHIANFA

Location:  Isle of Anglesey, LL59 5NS |  Website:  chateaurhianfa.co.uk

The pointed turrets of Château Rhianfa emerge in glorious fashion from the hills of north Wales and are inspired by the chateaux of France’s Loire Valley.

Its ornate architecture, built in the mid 19th century, seems curiously at home on the Welsh island of Anglesey. The chateau enjoys spectacular views across the Menai Strait to the towering peaks of Snowdonia and has been tastefully converted into a stylish hotel and B&B, with 27 bedrooms and an award-winning restaurant too.

8. EILEAN DONAN CASTLE

Location:  Western Highlands, IV40 8DX |  Website:  eileandonancastle.com

This picturesque castle is one of the most iconic sights in the Scottish Highlands. Perched on a tiny island at the meeting point of three great lochs, the castle looks out to the Isle of Skye and over the wild, forested mountains of Kintail. It's without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in Scotland.

The original 13th-century castle was all but destroyed during the 1719 Jacobite uprising, but was restored to its former glory in the early 20th century, with the addition of a magnificent stone bridge that connects the island to the mainland. 

Book into the charming Eilean Donan Cottage that overlooks the castle, an ideal base for exploring the spectacular Highland surroundings.

9. BAMBURGH CASTLE

Location:  Northumbria, NE69 7DF |  Website:  bamburghcastle.com

Once the royal seat of the Kingdom of Northumbria, Bamburgh was a fearsome stronghold throughout the Middle Ages. The Norman-built fortress spans nine acres, and rests upon a rocky volcanic crag, with views stretching down the windswept Northumberland coast and across the North Sea to the Farne Islands.

Its fortified walls—11ft thick at points—were a formidable line of defense against marauding armies. Today, you can enjoy a more serene stay in the castle’s elegant, turreted guard towers, 150ft above the white sands of Bamburgh Beach.

10. WARWICK CASTLE

Location:  Warwick, CV34 4QU|  Website:  warwick-castle.com

On the banks of the winding Avon sits the towering medieval fortress of Warwick Castle. With a history dating back 1,000 years, the Midlands site was first home to a wooden fort built by William the Conqueror and was redesigned with stone ramparts and portcullis during the 12th century. 

Today, the castle’s medieval history has been brought vividly to life, and kids will love exploring the Horrible Histories Maze, castle dungeons, replica trebuchet, and impressive archery exhibition. There’s even medieval-themed glamping—perfect for a family getaway on site.

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