This photograph was taken in the late 19th century and shows the rear of Hever Castle before the Astor Wing and covered bridge across the moat were constructed. The north east corner of the castle (to the left of the bridge) had recently collapsed under the weight of four huge chimneys, and this photograph shows the newly built corner with the addition of two smaller chimneys. These chimneys were later removed 1898.
The Long Gallery windows on the rear wall had been bricked-up to avoid the window tax. This tax was first introduced in 1696, but did not really begin to bite until 1789, when it was increased to 1/- (1 shilling) per window, with an extra tax on houses with more than ten windows. In 1797 the tax was tripled. All the windows were reopened by Captain Sebright in 1898.
To find out more about Hever Castle’s interesting history, please see our archives.
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.