CASTLES FOR ADVENTURERS
Hever Castle
Spanning more than 600 years , both the history and architecture of Hever Castle is rich and varied . The original medieval defensive castle , with its gatehouse and walled bailey , was built in 1383 . In the 15th and 16th centuries it was the home of one of the most powerful families in the country , the Boleyns , who modernised the existing dwelling within the walls . The castle became the childhood home of Anne Boleyn , King Henry VIII ’ s second wife , who ruled as Queen of England for just 1,000 days , but whose influence left an important legacy that remains in Britain to this day - the idea that our monarch is head of the church . Hever Castle is what every child wants a castle to be : crenellated , moated … and haunted ! The permanent exhibition in the Long Gallery depicts the saga from the Wars of the Roses to the Reformation through its art collection and all other rooms are just as exciting and tell their own story . Today , thanks to William Waldorf Astor ’ s remarkable efforts and those of the gardening team that have rediscovered parts of the garden that had long been forgotten , the award-winning gardens at Hever offer many magnificent areas that are a pleasure to visit at any time of the year .
DOVER CASTLE
Dover Castle
Perhaps one of the best preserved and most iconic of all English fortresses , Dover Castle can be seen for miles around and overlooks the surrounding town , countryside and ocean from its mighty thronelike position . Visit the castle from a much closer distance and delve into its intriguing dramatic past that tells tales of knights , kings , queens and of battles fought , lost and won , plus much more of the castle and area ’ s rich historical tapestry . At Dover Castle , visitors can discover the story of Dunkirk in an immersive exhibition in the Secret Wartime Tunnels ; explore the medieval recreated rooms of the Great Tower and climb to the roof for amazing views ; visit the Port War Signalling Station to try your hand at Morse code ; roam 80 acres of castle grounds with mighty battlements , a Roman lighthouse and medieval tunnels .
Penshurst Place
More than just a mighty ancient house that saw many infamous guests , including Henry VIII who used it as his hunting lodge , Penshurst boasts an array of exciting things to see and do . Standing since the 14th century , the medieval Baron ’ s Hall was completed in 1341 and was crowned with an original 60ft high chestnut-beamed ceiling . This is still an unmissable sight for visitors today who may recognise the property as the setting to many TV dramas and big screen movies . After exploring the rest of the opulent state rooms , venture outside to be inspired by the beautifully designed gardens and grounds or use up extra energy at the adventure playground , woodland trail or with their country bike hire . Penshurst Place is also home to a charming toy museum , displaying interesting toys and books from across the centuries . Finish the day here with a trip to Porcupine Pantry , serving everything from drinks and cakes to sandwiches and paninis .
PENSHURST PLACE
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