Hever Castle dates back to the 13th century and is best known as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, containing many historic items associated with her. The oldest part of the castle was built in 1270, comprising the Gatehouse together with a walled Bailey surrounded by a moat. Despite the fact Hever Castle had been the home of two queens, (Anne Boleyn and Anne of Cleves) the castle fell into disrepair until finally, in 1903, the Castle was bought by an American, William Waldorf Astor. He invested time, money and imagination in restoring the castle, building the ‘Tudor Village’ and creating the garden and lake. The Astor family’s contribution to Hever’s rich history can be appreciated through the superb collections of paintings, furniture and art objects.