Year 8 took a trip to Hever Castle together with some pupils from Westbridge Academy. They learned about the rich history of the castle from Tudor times through to the second world war. Year 8 pupil, Beatrice, reported:
‘Our trip to Hever was filled with many interesting experiences such as simply having fun by playing in the maze, eating ice cream and heading to the water maze to get thoroughly soaked. However, there was also lots of information to take in as we explored the military museum and learned what was happening near Hever during the Second World War. We were, moreover, lucky enough to visit the miniature museum and learn about different styles of living throughout the years while seeing incredible models of houses through the ages. Nonetheless, the main reason for our visit was the glorious Hever Castle which we approached by walking past immaculate bushes trimmed into the shape of animals and a koi carp-filled moat surrounded by white doves. Crossing the drawbridge into a shaded courtyard, we met our guide, who treated us to a tour around the historic castle where Anne Boleyn spent her childhood. He explained the history of the building, telling us how it was renovated in the early twentieth century by the American millionaire, William Waldorf Astor, taking inspiration from numerous Tudor buildings around England. Indeed, some parts are exact replicas, for example a carved wooded balcony copied from Hampton Court Palace, as well as the replastered ceilings. Personally, I loved the fabulous Long Gallery where Tudor ladies would exercise by walking up and down whilst socialising. They would play skittles; gossip and the Lady of the House would show off her commissioned paintings that lined the walls. We were also able to see two priceless prayer books belonging to Anne, one of which, specially made to contain her favourite scriptures, she always carried with her. Leaving the cool confines of the halls we exited back into the sunlight, but not before glancing back to appreciate the ancient, ivy-covered façade of this magnificent castle.‘
