We’re well into Autumn and it’s not only leaves that are descending from the trees. Across the grounds at Hever Castle, Horse chestnut trees are dropping their precious little (and some rather large) conkers, providing a beautiful display, and the potential for hours of fun. So come along, and get conker collecting!
The conker is the fruit of the Horse chestnut tree, they originate from Albania and Greece, and were introduced into the UK in the late 16th century. The act of playing a game of conkers didn’t come until much later though. It actually evolved from a game called ‘conquerors’, which was played with snail shells, it was only by the 20th century that conkers were universally used.
Bring the children along for a fun day, walking through the grounds conker collecting, whilst taking in the breathtaking views. Here’s a tip: the walk through to the Water Maze is a very good place to start!
Dog walkers beware: conkers are poisonous to dogs, so please be extra vigilant when walking where conkers lay.
Also make sure you join us for Autumn Colour throughout October.
Garden Tours – FREE
Join the free garden tours of Faith’s Garden and learn about seed collecting.
Times: October 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 11:30am (lasts between 45 mins – 1 hour)
Leaf & Seed Collection Challenge
If your little ones collect 10 different seeds and leaves from Anne Boleyn’s Walk and Lake Walk, they will be given a bulb to take home and plant.
Times: From October 1
N.B. opening times change from October 27.
Book your visit to Hever Castle & Gardens.
Within the grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, there are two opportunities for you to stay the night with us.
Hever Castle has played host to many important events and celebrations for over 600 years. In 1903 when William Waldorf Astor set about restoring Hever Castle to its former glory, he added the Astor Wing, to accommodate his family and guests, before creating a lake and the spectacular Italian Garden to house his impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman statuary.
There are multiple places to eat & drink across the Hever Castle Estate. Select between the Castle & Gardens and Golf Club below to discover more.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, Hever Castle Golf Club is a 27 hole Kent golf course that will encourage and inspire all golf enthusiasts.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, the Wellbeing Centre consists of five smart treatment rooms.