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GTOs react to new ‘tourist tax’ for day trippers to Venice
Group travel organisers have had their say on a new entry fee for Venice which aims to curb over-tourism.
Hever Castle in Kent is opening some of its doors not usually open to the public as part of a new tour just for adults, launching next year.
Up to 15 people at a time will be able to take part in the Hidden Hever tour where they will get to see Hever’s previous owner William Waldorf Astor’s study (with its secret panel), the boy’s bedrooms created by William Waldorf Astor, and Lord Astor’s bathroom (which is accessed via a secret panel).
Further highlights include Lady Irene Astor’s pink bathroom, which was designed by Godfrey Bonsack and features gold fleurs de lis on pink raw silk wall coverings, a pink bath and gold swans on the taps and lights.
Groups taking the new tour will be treated to stories and anecdotes relating to the rooms visited and discover more about the social history of Hever Castle.
The adult-only tour will be an hour and a half long, starting at 10am on the selected day of visiting. Following the tour, the group is welcome to stay in the gardens for as long as desired to explore Hever Castle’s outdoor features.
Group travel organisers can make a booking for the Hidden Hever tour by calling 01732-861701 or e-mailing groups@hevercastle.co.uk.
More for groups at Hever
People visiting Hever Castle can take advantage of discounted admission for parties of 15 or more people plus a host of group benefits, extras and packages to enjoy. Alternative tours include a general castle tour, where guests will learn all about the building and its claim to fame as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, and guided explorations of the gardens.
Groups seeking a Tudor-themed day out can opt for a joint package that visits both Hever Castle and Gardens and Penshurst Place and Gardens, another of Kent’s heritage sites.
For further information visit www.hevercastle.co.uk/groups.
(Photo credit: Hever Castle & Gardens).
