Hever Castle’s Off-Season Retreat: B&B Staycation Guide

January 23 2024 | Accommodation

Hever Castle is taking a well-deserved nap before the 2024 season kicks off on 7 February, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun. Forget the jostling crowds and imagine having Hever Castle all to yourself – or almost! Step inside the Estate during this unique period and unlock a treasure trove of experiences, exclusively curated for Bed & Breakfast guests in our new bespoke itinerary.

You can continue reading or download the full itinerary below. If you have any questions please get in touch with us via T: 01732 861800 | E: [email protected].

Day One

Arrival

• Arrive and check in from 3pm.
• Enjoy a complimentary bedroom upgrade (subject to availability) and a complimentary book about Hever Castle & Gardens.

Walk

• Wrap up warm and head out into the grounds* for a brisk walk around the Lake before dusk.
• A walk in the Gardens at this time of year will provide a welcome boost to flagging winter spirits.
• You are welcome to enjoy the Gardens both on the day of arrival and the day of departure.

Dinner

Our local recommendations are:

• The Wheatsheaf (approx. 6 min/2-mile drive)
• The Pheasant Plucker (approx. 15 min/6-mile drive)
• Squerryes Winery Restaurant (approx. 19 min/8-mile drive) Guests will receive a 10% discount on their total bill when they dine a-la-carte and quote ‘HEVER10’ at the time of booking at the AA Rosette award-winning restaurant located at this winery and vineyard just a short drive from Hever Castle.

Return

• Upon returning to the warmth of the B&B, relax and enjoy a night in five-star gold splendour.

Day Two

Breakfast

• Tuck into an award-winning breakfast between 8am and 9.30am.

Castle Tour

• Check out at Reception before 10.30am, after which you will be collected by one of our knowledgeable castle stewards at 10.30am and taken on a Behind the Scenes Tour of the Castle.
• You will have the rare opportunity to experience Behind the Scenes Access to rooms that are in the process of being re-interpreted. You will witness the works in progress to the Boleyn Apartments that will be unveiled on the 26 June to give visitors a unique and immersive experience of Tudor history.

Gardens

• Following this, at midday you can head out into the grounds to explore further.
• You can choose to take a self-guided stroll in the gardens or you can join a tour with one of our gardeners (Monday to Friday only – 29 January to 6 February).

*Some areas of the estate may be closed including the mazes & play areas

Extend Your Stay

Lunch

• Depart to enjoy lunch at the Waterside Bar Restaurant & Terrace at Hever Castle Golf Club with stunning views over the Kent countryside.
• You could even play a round of golf/enjoy a treatment at Hever Castle Golf & Wellbeing (pre-booking required).

Explore Kent

• Chartwell – Family home and garden of Sir Winston Churchill, located approx. 11 min/5-mile drive from Hever Castle.
• Chiddingstone Village – Beautifully preserved Tudor village, with buildings dating to the 15th century and village records even older, located approx. 9 min/3-mile drive from Hever Castle.
• Knole – Originally built as an archbishop’s palace, Knole passed through royalty to the Sackville family, who still live here today, located approx. 23 min/10-mile drive from Hever Castle.
• Emmetts Garden – An Edwardian estate and interesting hillside garden with year-round features, located approx. 16 min/6-mile drive from Hever Castle. Ightham Mote – Outstanding 14th-century moated manor house, gardens, and estate, located approx. 25 min/11-mile drive from Hever Castle.