Hever Castle is delighted to announce that our Historian and Assistant Curator, Kate McCaffrey, has been recognised by History Extra, the official website for BBC History Magazine, in their prestigious list of 30 Under 30 for 2024. This accolade highlights young historians who are making significant contributions to the field of history.
Kate’s dedication and passion for history have been evident through her innovative research and engaging curatorial projects at Hever Castle. She has co-curated two celebrated exhibitions, written three books, and recently unveiled the newly reinterpreted and refurbished Boleyn Apartment at Hever Castle.
During her Masters degree Kate McCaffrey’s research on the Book of Hours volume owned by Anne Boleyn discovered never before seen names and words hidden in the pages of the historic prayer book.
Back in 2021, Kate made the link that Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn had copies of the same prayer book. She then discovered a third copy of the 1527 Book of Hours, which had been donated to Cambridge in 1660, and took Hever’s curatorial team to view it. This led to a remarkable discovery that this book once belonged to Thomas Cromwell, and together the curatorial team undertook ground-breaking research putting Hever Castle on the national and international stage.
The 30 Under 30 list by History Extra celebrates young historians who are pushing the boundaries of historical research and public history. Being featured on this list is a testament to Kate’s hard work, creativity, and impact on how history is understood and appreciated by our visitors.
Kate’s recognition is not just a personal achievement but also a proud moment for Hever Castle. She has been an integral part of Hever Castle for more than a decade. Her journey began as a 16-year-old work experience student, progressing to a Visitor Experience Assistant. She continued to work at the Castle during school holidays and university breaks while pursuing her History degree at the University of Warwick.
In 2021, after earning an MA in Medieval and Early Modern Studies from the University of Kent, Kate returned as Assistant Curator.
She reflects, “Hever has very much become my second home; I feel like I have grown up here.”
We are incredibly proud of Kate and look forward to seeing her continue to inspire and educate visitors with her exceptional work.
For the full list of honourees, visit History Extra’s 30 Under 30.
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.
