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Step back to the 1940's at Hever Castle near Tonbridge for weekend of nostalgia

08:00, 03 June 2015

updated: 11:55, 03 June 2015

Step back to the 1940’s for a weekend of nostalgia at Hever Castle & Gardens this month.

'Hever’s Home Front: Wartime Britain' shows what it would have been like to live and work in the country during the Second World War when the Battle of Britain was fought overhead.

Look out for Home Guard re-enactors as they demonstrate training and drills using heavy weapons and sandbags.

Hever Castle has been awarded a certificate of excellence by TripAdvisor
Hever Castle has been awarded a certificate of excellence by TripAdvisor

Watch as an iconic RAF Spitfire flypast soars overhead commemorating the 75 anniversary of the Battle of Britain and the 70 anniversary of VE Day.

Take a selfie next to a grounded life-size Spitfire and look out for period model aircraft taking to the skies.

Guests will also be able to browse vintage stalls with antiques, toys, accessories and memorabilia or a special gift for the home.

The nostalgic weekend will be held at Hever Castle
The nostalgic weekend will be held at Hever Castle

People are being invited to come along in vintage dress and enter the spirit of the era.

Former owners of Hever Castle played their part in both World Wars. William Waldorf Astor’s younger son, John Jacob V, fought on the Western Front where he was wounded several times and lost his right leg.

His son Gavin Astor served in the Life Guards during WWII and was married to Irene Haig, Field Marshal Douglas Haig’s daughter, who worked for the Red Cross.

Visitors can find out more in an interactive exhibition about the Astors in the Castle’s Astor Suite.

On June 13 and 14 the gardens will open at 10.30am. The castle opens at 12 noon. Last admission is 4.30pm and final exit at 6pm.

For admission prices and more information click here or call Hever Castle on 01732 865224.

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