Sponsored Editorial

If you’re stuck for ideas on how to spend the summer bank holiday weekend, Hever in History makes for the perfect family day out.

There are plenty of attractions and events to keep the kids entertained and 150 acres of stunning grounds to explore.

At Hever in History, taking place between Saturday 27 and Monday 29 August, visitors of Hever Castle & Gardens will be fully immersed in different historical periods, with encampments, re-enactments, crafts, cooking and battle displays from the Middle Ages right up to the 20th century.

Let’s take a look at what’s on offer this year…

Jousting tournaments

Hever Castle & Gardens’ popular Summer Jousting Tournament, which runs on selected dates in July and August, will be coming to a close for the season. Grab the last chance to see the thrilling action, stunts and falls following the procession of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn from the Castle forecourt to the arena.

Battling it out in the saddle and on foot in one-to-one combat, the valiant knights will compete for points to find this season’s ultimate champion. You can bring a blanket or watch the joust in style from the medieval spectator stands and cheer on your chosen knight to glory.

Lots of goodies

Get into the spirit of the event by purchasing shields, swords, knightly armoury and other Hever-branded goodies. You can even discover real weaponry and suits of armour and try them on for size!

Spellbound Summer activities

Throughout the summer holidays (22 July – 31 August), take part in a series of interactive activities as part of Hever Castle & Gardens’ Spellbound Summer, which is included in the normal admission rates.

Find out how to cast spells and how to execute the perfect wand waving technique, pick up

your broomstick and defend the castle from the dragon, hunt for the shields in the grounds and find the dragon eggs in the castle. There’s also a prize for best dressed fairy-tale character, witch, wizard or brave knight!

Falconry displays

The August bank holiday weekend is also the last chance to be entertained by the magnificent falconry displays from Birds of Prey Willow Centre in Sevenoaks, with two displays a day on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

The Water Maze and play areas

At Hever Castle & Gardens, there are three play areas to explore, including the Tudor Towers adventure playground. And what better way to cool down on a hot summer’s day than by taking your chances at the Water Maze. With hidden water jets and other surprises, it’s great fun for all ages!

Archery or boating

During the school holidays, there is daily archery and boating on the Hever Lake. Available at a small extra charge, these activities offer a fun, memorable experience for the whole family.

Beautiful grounds to relax

While the children are entertained, you can sit back and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Hever Castle & Gardens. Find the perfect spot for a picnic or indulge in a selection of mouth-watering food and drink from outlets across the site.

Hever in History is included in a Gardens Only or Castle & Gardens admission ticket and is free to all Annual Members. Visit www.hevercastle.co.uk/visit/hever-castle-tickets to find out more and book.