Hever Castle
Hever Castle ♥♥, in Kent, is a superb desitination for a day-trip from London, as well as a popular place for locals to spend a lovely day at.
Having been built about 800 years ago, and at some point owned by the family of one of less fortunate wives of Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, it was acquired by the Astor family (of Waldorf-Astoria fame) at the end of the 19th century and exquisitely rebuilt.
The inside of the castle is not exactly spectacular, but boasts several beautiful period rooms (the library and the large sitting room are especially fetching). It also holds a couple of exhibitions, including an extensive one on the ubiquitous topic of six wives of Henry VIII.
The grounds are nothing short of spectacular, with pristine lawns (which are heavily used for picnics), several gardens (amongst them an absolutely magnificent Italian garden), a lake (where you can hire a paddle boat for a leisurely ride), a water-obstacle maze (be prepared for your offspring to end up head-to-toe wet – coming with bathing suits or additional sets of clothes is highly recommended), a children’s playground, and so on.
In a good weather, taking in the castle and all its attractions, plus a picnic on the side, will make the whole day go by in a flash…