May, the month where the gardens awaken for summer, the days seem never ending and the temperatures begin to soar (hopefully!). The gardens spark into life with displays of wisteria, azaleas and rhododendrons – it’s most definitely the month to explore the Estate.
We also have a number of wonderful events including the Art Week for May Half Term, and then in June we have Cars at the Castle, Hever’s Home Front on Father’s Day Weekend and Hever in Bloom.
Find out what’s on in May and beyond at Hever Castle:
We are delighted to share that we are finalists in the Family Attraction and Weddings categories of the Muddy Stilettos Awards 2026
This is a fantastic achievement and a real reflection of the hard work across all teams. The Festival Theatre has also been nominated, making it an exciting moment for the whole site.
Now we need your help to bring it home! Voting is now open and every vote really does make a difference.
Please note, you will need to verify your vote by clicking the link sent to your email after voting.
On the 19th May 1536, Anne Boleyn was executed in the Tower of London after being the Queen of England for only 1000 days. At Hever Castle, we pay tribute to this enigmatic woman whose story forms an important part of the rich tapestry of the Castle’s history.
Anne Boleyn’s c.1450 Book of Hours will be opened to the page bearing her enigmatic inscription, ‘The time will come, je Anne Boleyn,’ accompanied by a small drawn astrolabe. To preserve this fragile signature, the page cannot be displayed permanently, making this a particularly rare opportunity.
In addition, the Book of Ecclesiastes, currently on loan from Alnwick Castle, will be opened to the page bearing Anne Boleyn’s astrolabe. This marks the first time the manuscript has been opened to the public while on loan this century.
This May half term, step into the adventurous world of historic plant hunters at Hever Castle and Gardens. Plant Hunters: Tales & Trails invites families to discover the fascinating stories behind the explorers who travelled the globe in search of rare and extraordinary plants.
Follow the Plant Hunters Trail through the castle grounds and discover the dangers faced by early explorers, and see the natural world through the eyes of history’s most daring plant collectors.
Young explorers can also enjoy Tales of the Plant Hunters, lively interactive storytelling sessions, as they set out on an exciting mission to travel to the ends of the Earth in search of the rarest plants and find a cure to save the King.
This much-loved event brings together an eclectic mix of vehicles, from beautifully restored vintage models to eye-catching sports cars. It’s a weekend where enthusiasts can spend time chatting with owners, while families enjoy the colour, character, and relaxed atmosphere across the grounds.
Car clubs from across the South East will be in attendance throughout the weekend, each bringing their own distinctive style and stories.
A highlight for younger visitors is the Hortons Austin Car Ride. Enjoy a ride in one of 10 genuine Austin J40 pedal cars on a traditional funfair-style circuit, complete with period road signs and flashing Belisha beacons.
Step back in time to wartime Britain at Hever’s Home Front at this 1940s event.
Treat Dad to a Father’s Day he won’t forget as you meet a variety of enthusiastic reenactors who tell the story of the era through living history.
Experience the sights and smells of the time with authentic cooking along with displays of military vehicles. Browse stalls selling vintage wares and refreshments.
Step into the shoes of those during the time by dressing up in period costume and finish off your outfit with a trip to a 1940s hair salon.
Get into the groove and take part in a dance lesson on the lawn.
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 5,000 roses in Kent, the Garden of England.
Featuring expert talks, a specialist plant fair and hands-on floral workshops, Hever in Bloom is a true gardening showcase.
The Festival Theatre at Hever Castle is about to reopen its doors for another enchanting season of open-air performance. Set within the castle’s breathtaking grounds, this much-loved venue offers audiences the chance to experience theatre, music and family entertainment in a truly atmospheric setting.
With a diverse line-up and something for every age and taste, May is the perfect time to discover the magic of live performance at Hever Castle.
We’re delighted to share that the new William Waldorf Bar is now open in the Astor Wing, welcoming guests staying at Hever Castle.
Open daily from 2pm to 10:30pm, exclusively for guests staying in our accommodation, the bar offers a carefully curated selection of fine wines, expertly crafted cocktails, local beers and premium spirits, all served in elegant surroundings.
Inspired by the legacy of William Waldorf Astor and the heritage of Hever Castle, the William Waldorf Bar provides a refined setting to unwind, celebrate and enjoy your stay.
Celebrate the season with a spring escape to Hever Castle’s luxury Bed & Breakfast. With the gardens now bursting into bloom, from vibrant azaleas and rhododendrons to cascading wisteria, there’s no better time to book your stay.
The new golf season is here and there’s no better time to elevate your game at Hever Castle Golf Club. With top course conditions and great weather, why wait?
Our 5 Day Championship Membership offers a flexible way to enjoy the course during the quieter times of the week.
Giving you access to outstanding facilities, a friendly and inclusive environment, and a stunning course, our membership offers an experience tailored to every golfer.
Spaces are filling up fast, enquire today and take advantage of no joining fees for a limited time.
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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.
