NEW HEVER LAKE WALK

This is the first time since 1939 that visitors can now walk the entire distance around the lake. 

Along the way see bird boxes that are home to owls, blue tits, robins and woodpeckers and look out for kingfishers, swans, herons and crested grebes on the lake.   At the foot of the lake sit three second world war pill boxes built to defend a key crossing point on the river Eden.    The walk around the lake will take approximately 1 hour and an information leaflet is available from the information centre highlighting the wildlife and points of interest.

YEW MAZE

Mazes are part of the Renaissance garden tradition, becoming part of formal garden design throughout Europe.  This became unpopular in the eighteenth century and was revived in Victorian times. A number of wealthy people created mazes for their own enjoyment and William Waldorf Astor was following in this tradition when he planted the maze at Hever Castle in 1906.

The maze measures eighty feet by eighty feet. The hedges reach eight feet in height and there is almost a quarter of a mile of pathways inside.  It is one of only a few traditionally designed mazes in the country and is open between April and October (weather permitting).

SPLASHING WATER MAZE

Situated on Sixteen Acre Island the maze consists of a series of concentric stepping stone walkways sitting  over water;  at intervals, the stones tilt when stood on and hidden water jets spring into action to soak the unwary visitor.  The aim is to reach the stone grotto in the centre without getting wet.  Few are successful although it is great fun and challenges young and old alike.  Open between April and October (weather permitting) last entry is at 5.pm.

ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND

The enclosed wooden playground is suitable for children up to the age of 14. Test your Tudor history and see if you can reach the slide in Henry’s Tower! There is also special equipment for the under 5’s.