In summer 2023, Whippersnappers hired a large field and woodland area in the grounds of Hever Castle to host a pop-up play scheme for children and young people with disabilities. The site was transformed into a safe, accessible and inclusive space with fencing, portaloos, showers, bell tents, a Taj Mahal marquee and gazebos. It provided the perfect setting for adventures, creative workshops and communal activities, fostering connections with nature and each other.
This summer, the project returns from Tuesday 29 July to Friday 8 August 2025, with an expanded programme of activities across two weeks. These will include day trips from the Specialist Short Breaks Playscheme, a camping trip for Adventure Playgrounds in Lambeth, and a family camping trip for young people with disabilities.
Funds raised will go directly towards supporting the project, helping to cover infrastructure costs and enabling these camping trips to take place.
For more information about Whippersnappers, visit www.whippersnappers.org.
As part of this year’s project, Whippersnappers will host several public events in the beautiful surroundings of Hever’s woodlands and fields.
Hever Family Fun Day – Brazilian Carnival Theme
Families are invited to enjoy a day of activities during the summer holidays on Thursday 31 July 2025, from 10.30am to 2.30pm at Big Front Field, Hever (TN8 7NJ). Parking is available, and a shuttle bus will run from Hever Station.
The day will include storytelling in the woods, face painting, a Brazilian festival, costume making, a bubbles show, arts and crafts, live music, and free play stations with sand play, water play, chill-out tents and a picnic area.
Tickets: Child £10, Adult £5, Family (2 adults + 2 children) £25.
For more details and to book, visit www.whippersnappers.org/heverfamilyfunday/
An immersive theatre performance of Trixie Pixie and the Loch Ness Monster will take place in the Wyld Woods on Thursday 7 August, with shows at 11.30am and 2.15pm.
Visitors can make a magic willow wand with the fairies, enjoy live Pixie folk music, receive a sprinkle of fairy dust and take part in this magical production, which lasts one hour and fifteen minutes.
Tickets: Child £15.50, Sibling £9.50, Adult £12.
On Sunday 3 August at 4pm, Whippersnappers invite adults to experience a deeply restorative Gong Therapy session with Gong Mother in the peaceful woodland setting. This event offers an opportunity to relax and reconnect with nature.
Tickets: £12.50.
For more details and to book, visit the
For more information and to book tickets for any of these events, visit www.whippersnappers.org.
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.
