The theme for this week’s #FeatureFridays with Historic Houses is Mazes.
Hever Castle has not one, but two Mazes in its 125 acre grounds.
The Yew Maze was created by former owner William Waldorf Astor in 1906 who along with a number of other wealthy people followed the fashion of creating mazes for their own enjoyment.
Comprising more than 1,000 individual yew trees imported from Holland, it measures 80ft by 80ft (24.4m) and is 6,4000 square feet. The hedges reach 8ft (2.4m) in height and there is almost a quarter of a mile (0.4km) of pathways inside.
It is one of only a few traditionally designed mazes in the country but is currently closed.
The more modern but equally unusual Water Maze is a popular challenge for all ages.
Built in 1997 on Sixteen Acre Island by the current owners, the Guthrie family it is a maze with a difference – try and reach the stone grotto in the centre without getting wet!
The Water 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.
If you enjoyed this item on Mazes, then why not discover the previous #FeatureFridays news items:
• Secret Passageways
• Bedrooms
• American Connections
• Weapons
• Follies
• Priest Holes
• Orchards
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.
