As the hot weather continues across the UK we are all looking for ways to stay cool.
If you are planning a visit to Hever Castle there are plenty of shady picnic spots and we have lots of ideas to keep the whole family from the kids to the dogs hydrated and refreshed:
Water Maze:
Perfect for kids and adults, you’re guaranteed to get wet! Cool down in the Water Maze but don’t forget to bring a towel! Situated on Sixteen Acre Island it is a maze with a difference that 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.
Shady Walks:
If you’re looking to escape the summer sun, there are plenty of cool, shaded corners to discover. Wander along Fern Bank beneath the Golden Stairs to the Arbour, where you can pause and enjoy views across Two Sisters’ Border. Sunday Walk and Church Gill Walk meander alongside a gentle stream through tranquil woodland, offering a peaceful retreat beneath the trees and lots of benches from which to sit and take in the stunning scenery.
The grottos on Pergola Walk are a much-loved feature of the Italian Garden. With the gentle trickle of water over the moss-covered rocks, a stroll along the water feature is one of the most tranquil and cool places to be in the gardens.
For a longer stroll, follow Lake Walk to the Japanese Tea House, a serene spot overlooking the lake with refreshing shade and spectacular views.
Food & Drink:
Choose from the myriad of tempting ice cream flavours from traditional chocolate and vanilla to salted caramel at one of our many kiosks across the site. The perfect way to stay cool on a hot day!
Our Cafes have water bottle filling stations and there are plenty around the grounds too that are all marked on our map.
Picnic Spots and Places to Relax:
Bringing a picnic and wondering where to lay your blanket to help everyone stay cool? We recommend finding a spot beneath the magnificent copper beech on Horseshoe Lawn or under one of the many trees lining Anne Boleyn’s Walk and Lake Walk.
Picnic benches can be found throughout the grounds and have been relocated to shadier spots where possible. Additional shade has also been provided on Half Moon Lawn.
Hever Shop:
Visit the air conditioned Hever Shop to stay cool and browse the range of gifts and local produce.
Dogs:
Please consider the wellbeing of your dog before deciding whether to bring them along on a hot day. Drinking bowls for dogs are located at the Moat Restaurant and Pavilion Cafe.
Dog Hot Weather Safety Tips & Help from the Dogs Trust
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.
