Dating back to the 13th century, Hever Castle was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and Mother of Elizabeth I. It formed the unlikely backdrop to a sequence of tumultuous events that changed the course of Britain’s history, monarchy and religion.

Its panelled rooms house fine furniture, tapestries, antiques and what is regarded as ‘one of the best collections of Tudor portraits after the National Portrait Gallery’ by David Starkey. The Book of Hours Room beautifully illuminates two prayer books which belonged to Anne Boleyn and bear her inscriptions and signature.

Today, much of what you see is the result of the remarkable efforts of William Waldorf Astor, who used his fortune to restore and extend the Castle in the early 20th century. The Astor Suite is dedicated to its more recent history, showcasing pictures and memorabilia relating to the Astor family and the Edwardian period.

Hever Castle is what every child wants a castle to be: crenellated, moated and haunted. A permanent exhibition in the Long Gallery brings the 16th century to life with costumed figures illustrating key events in Anne’s life at the Castle.

Discover magnificent award-winning gardens set in 125 acres of glorious grounds at Hever Castle. Marvel at the Pompeiian wall and classical statuary in the Italian Garden; admire the giant topiary chess set and inhale the fragrance of over 4,000 rose bushes in the quintessential English Rose Garden. The Loggia, overlooking the 38-acre lake, is the perfect spot to relax before exploring the many cascades, grottoes and fountains. A stroll through the Tudor Garden, Blue Corner or Rhododendron Walk, provide colour and interest throughout the year. Wander further afield and enjoy Sunday Walk and Church Gill Walk that follow the course of a stream through peaceful woodland or Anne Boleyn’s Walk, with its impressive collection of trees planted more than 100 years ago.

Witness spectacular jousting in an authentic arena, complete with Royal Box. Jousting tournaments take place throughout the summer holidays every year when the brave Knights of Royal England return to battle it out.

Each tournament begins with a procession from the Castle forecourt when Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn lead visitors across the grounds to the Jousting Arena complete with a Royal Box and professional compere. Bring a blanket or watch the joust in style from the medieval spectator stands, available for a small cost on a first-come first-served basis at the Event Field (No pre-booking). Then choose which knights you support and cheer them to glory.

Spectators will be treated to thrilling displays of action, stunts, falls and fights as the brave knights compete for points to find the season’s champion knight. Points are awarded in competitions including riding against the quintain, riding to spear enemy heads from the ground and lancing the smallest of rings, all followed by foot combat with weapons of their choice. The highlight of the competition is the duel on horseback between two knights riding against each other on their beautiful Spanish horses at full tilt armed only with a 4-metre lance and a shield. Maximum points are scored for unseating their opponent in this dramatic finale.

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