Hever Castle: Anne Boleyn's Childhood Home in Kent, England

Hever Castle sits in the village of Hever, in the Edenbridge district of Kent, England—about 30 miles southeast of London.

Historical Significance

• 13th-century origins; fortified manor expanded in 1462 by Geoffrey Boleyn.
• Childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII's second queen.
• Later owned by Anne of Cleves (Henry's 4th wife) as part of divorce settlement.
• Restored 1903–1910 by William Waldorf Astor; now a major tourist attraction.

Visitor Highlights

• Tudor interiors, Anne Boleyn's prayer books, Henry VIII's bedchamber.
• 125-acre gardens: Italian Garden, Rose Garden, lake, maze, water maze.
• Jousting tournaments, seasonal events.

Easily reached by train (Hever station, 45 min from London Bridge) or car.