insideKENT Magazine Issue 67 - October 2017 | Page 72

VISITKENT DAZZLING AUTUMN COLOUR AT HEVER CASTLE AS THE AIR TURNS CRISP AND A RICH DISPLAY OF AUTUMN COLOUR ENVELOPS THE COUNTRYSIDE, PACK YOUR WELLIES, WRAP UP WARM, AND HEAD TO HEVER CASTLE FROM SUNDAY 1ST OCTOBER TO ENJOY THE CRUNCH OF LEAVES UNDERFOOT AND SPECTACULAR AUTUMN TINTS. The castle is arguably at its romantic best in the autumn when the Boston ivy adorning the front turns a vivid shade of red, and visitors will be treated to glorious displays of autumn colour with the rich yellow, red and orange leaves of beech mingling with liquidambars, tulip trees and Japanese maples, all contributing to an explosion of colour. Throughout October collect an ‘Autumn Colour Trail’ guide on arrival and discover the top autumn walks and colour hotspots in the grounds. From 16th – 20th November, commencing at 11:30 am, visitors can enjoy a leisurely guided tour of Lake Walk with the gardening team too (tour duration approximately 60-75 mins). See parts of the grounds many visitors miss, including a stunning waterfall surrounded by vibrant autumn leaves, the new Monet-style bridge, three Second World War pillboxes built to defend key crossing points on the River Eden, and the impressive Japanese Tea House. Keep your eyes peeled on the walk for vivid wildlife, different fungi species and of course the changing trees. During the October half term (21st – 29th October), the grounds will be dressed for Halloween, so grab the kids and come along for ‘Fangtastic Halloween’, which features a spine-tingling programme of entertainment. 72 Round off your autumn adventure by warming up in the restaurant where a tempting selection of seasonal food, tasty treats and hot drinks is on offer. Visitors should note that parts of the gardens and Lake Walk are likely to be boggy in autumn, so wellies or walking boots are recommended. Many parts of the gardens are accessible to prams, however, you may find that an off-road buggy or child carrier is necessary to enjoy some parts of the grounds. Autumn Colour Trails are available throughout October. Hever Castle & Gardens Hever Edenbridge Kent TN8 7NG 01732 865224 [email protected] www.hevercastle.co.uk hevercastle hevercastle