Summer has just begun, it’s time to get out and explore!
Dad’s favourite day of the year, Father’s Day, is almost here. This year we’ve got a fantastic display of cars, an axe throwing contest (additional cost) as well as a number of food offerings which are guaranteed to tickle his fancy.
And arguably the best time of year to see the gardens is upon us. Hever in Bloom takes centre stage at the end of June. Not only is it considered our rose week – the best time to see the beautiful blooms; but a riot of colour runs through the grounds, making it the perfect time of year to visit for garden lovers and wanderlusters alike.
With summer so close, why not start to plan your family days out. This month we’re hosting Hever’s Home Front. Go back to the wartime era with a replica full size Hurricane, dancing and vintage stalls. The jousting season is also just around the corner, see full details and dates on the jousting pages.
Head to Hever Castle Golf Club for an alfresco dining experience at The Waterside Bar, Restaurant & Terrace. There is a pond and fountain, a decked area for 50 people as well as a soft seating for around 20.
What’s on in June and beyond:
Show your dad just how much you love him with a wonderful family day out to Hever Castle on Father’s Day Weekend. Come and see a display of vehicles from famous F1 champion the late Sir John Surtees as well as displays of cars through the ages.
Plus new for 2021, you can take part in an axe throwing contest (additional cost) with a fun target practice. Don’t worry, this activity is being run by professionals in a controlled manner!
Hever in Bloom showcases the glorious award winning gardens at the height of their summer beauty. You will be able to enjoy one of the finest displays of more than 4,000 roses in Kent, the Garden of England.
This year there will be daily floristry workshops at 14:00 where you will be able to create a round floral arrangement in oasis with the guidance of Emma, an ex-gardener at Hever turned florist.
Make sure to head inside the Castle to see the stunning English floral displays by in-house florist Pamela Brise.
Step back in time and experience a taste of wartime Britain at Hever’s Home Front in this 1940s event.
Experience the sights and smells of the time with authentic cooking along with displays of US military vehicles.
Move 1940s style with a swing dance in the tea dance tent, tap your toes to music from vocalist Miss Annie or browse stalls selling vintage wares and refreshments.
Get into the nostalgic spirit by dressing up in period costume with prizes for the best dressed visitors. Finish off your outfit with a trip to our 1940s hair salon for a fitting do.
Meet Winston Churchill and enjoy displays of period model boats on the Moat. Plus, you will even be able to have a selfie with a grounded life-size model Hurricane.
The Knights of Royal England return to battle it out at the annual Hever Castle Jousting Tournament. Spectators will be treated to a thrilling show as the brave knights compete for points to find this season’s champion. Witness spectacular displays of action, stunts, falls and fights in an authentic arena complete with Royal Box.
The annual Summer Jousting Tournaments begin at Hever Castle on 10 and 11 July.
Jousting is taking place on the following dates:
10 & 11 July
17 & 18 July
24 & 25 July
31 July & 1 August
14 & 15 August
21 & 22 August
27 & 30 August
To find out more about the summer jousting tournament, follow the links above.
Keep up to date with the jousting leader board throughout the season.
From 1 July to 31 August follow the brave knight on his quest through the Castle*, come across mythical beasts and learn the best way to protect yourself.
Head into the garden and see if you can find all the shields hidden in the gardens. These shields help to protect you and your little ones from the creatures found in the Castle. Discover how each shield will protect you as you wander through the grounds.
MYTHICAL CREATURE QUEST SHIELD HUNT
* Castle ticket required.
If you can’t make it to the Hever Shop in person, a selection of items can be found on our fabulous online shop.
Throughout the year Hever Castle’s Head of Retail, Ashley works on creating bespoke ranges for Hever. In fact, we have just launched Hever Castle’s very own gin. Ashley worked with award winning distiller Silent Pool who are based in Surrey. On the online shop you will also find an array of other local produce from Kent, Surrey and Sussex.
Follow the Hever Castle Shop on Instagram.
The Waterside is located just one mile from the Castle & Gardens at Hever Castle Golf & Wellbeing and is open to all.
Starting on Sunday 4 July, you will be able to enjoy a leisurely lunch every Sunday between 12pm and 5pm at The Waterside. Discover the Sample Menu here.
Don’t forget, if you are an annual member you receive 10% discount on food and drink at The Waterside.
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.
