Great British Heritage
Anne Boleyn: Life and Legacy Tour
Immerse yourself in the world of Anne Boleyn on this exciting tour. Join historian, author, and broadcaster Dr Owen Emmerson to explore some of the famous sites associated with the history of one of England’s most enigmatic queen consorts.
Discover the secrets of the historic properties, such as Hever Castle, where Anne Boleyn spent her childhood and where later King Henry VIII sent Anne many scandalous love letters.
We will also explore the magnificent sites where Anne rose to the throne of England, such as Westminster Abbey, before her dramatic downfall at the Tower of London. You will receive a bespoke lecture from Dr Owen Emmerson each day on the life and enduring legacy of Anne Boleyn.
From
£799
per person
what’s included
At A Glance
Meet Your Expert Guide
Dr Owen Emmerson
Owen is a historian, author and broadcaster specialising in the Tudor period, Anne Boleyn and the world of Hever Castle. His Travel Editions tours explore the Boleyn family, the Tudor court and the remarkable buildings in which their stories unfolded.
Through private visits, guided tours and bespoke lectures, Owen moves beyond familiar events to consider the personalities, relationships and domestic settings behind them. His detailed knowledge of Hever and its collections gives travellers an especially vivid and personal introduction to Anne Boleyn’s life and enduring legacy.
MEET YOUR EXPERT GUIDE
Dr Nicola Tallis
Nicola is an independent author and historian, a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and an experienced curator, researcher and lecturer. She specialises in late medieval and Tudor England, with particular expertise in the use of jewels and the lives of royal women.
The author of five books, Nicola is also a familiar contributor to television, radio and major historical events. Passionate about making history enjoyable and accessible, she combines rigorous research with lively storytelling, bringing queens, courts and the politics of power vividly to life.
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Day 1: Arrive Independently
Arrive independently from 15.00. Evening welcome reception, private dinner with wine and a talk by Dr Owen Emmerson: ‘The Boleyns: The Rise of a Dynasty’.
Day 2: Hever Castle & Penshurst
We start our touring with a morning visit to Hever Castle, Anne Boleyn’s childhood home in Kent. It was also here that she spent much of her courtship with King Henry VIII, and where Anne retreated to as a convenient refuge from her rivals and enemies at Henry’s court. After lunch (own expense) we visit Penshurst Place, the palatial residence near Hever which was used by the Boleyn family during Thomas Boleyn’s stewardship between 1522-36.
This evening there will be a second talk from Dr Owen Emmerson: ‘Anne Boleyn and the Great Matter’, and dinner at the hotel.
Day 3: Westminster Abbey & The Tower of London
We spend the day in London today, firstly visiting Westminster Abbey where Anne was crowned in 1533, and where her daughter Queen Elizabeth I was crowned in 1559 and is buried. After lunch we visit The Tower of London. It was here that Anne resided the night before her coronation in 1533. During the day, Owen will give his final talk: ‘These Bloody Days: The Downfall and Legacy of Anne Boleyn’. We return to the hotel around 18.30.
our guests say
Recent reviews
“I thoroughly enjoyed the evening talks at dinner, alongside visiting Penthurst Place. I would have loved to of spent more time there. Everything about the tour was great, i would definitely recommend this trip!”
Ms R, May 2025
“Hever Castle was a real highlight, made all the more special thanks to Owen, whose depth of knowledge brought Anne Boleyn’s story vividly to life. The organisation throughout was excellent and the whole tour was a pleasure from start to finish.”
Mrs Dinah Tuck, October 2025
“Hever Castle was truly magnificent; both the castle and the gardens were unforgettable. Our two guides complemented each other brilliantly and were exceptionally knowledgeable. A wonderfully enjoyable and well-run tour.”
Mr Peter Kennewell, October 2025
“There were many highlights, but special thanks are due to Owen Emmerson, Nicola Tallis, and our excellent driver Linda from Crosskeys Coaches, all of whom helped make the group extremely happy throughout. The smooth organisation and dedication from everyone involved made this a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable tour.”
Mr H, travelled October 2025
Availability
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HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Donnington Manor Hotel, near Sevenoaks
Charming 15th century manor house located near Sevenoaks in Kent, offering a restaurant, fitness suite, and manicured gardens. The comfortable bedrooms are located in the new wing of the hotel, and provide modern amenities including private bathroom, hairdryer, WIFI, and tea and coffee making facilities.
Hotel Website
There is ample parking available for guests of the hotel. Please register your vehicle on arrival at reception.
Our regular tours
Mobility Information
Most of our tours involve a considerable amount of walking, standing and stair climbing due to the nature of the tours and the places visited. You also need to be able to get on and off the coach several times a day by yourself, or a train with your luggage. On this tour, there is a lot of walking on streets, which may be steep, poorly paved or cobbled.
Our tours are group tours, and we want everyone to enjoy them to their fullest. It is therefore important that those who have restricted mobility choose a manageable tour which fits their fitness level. It is important that our clients meet minimum fitness criteria to ensure your enjoyment and that of the rest of the group is not compromised. You should be prepared to walk 500m or 30 minutes unaided at a reasonable pace.
If you do have any health or mobility concerns, then let us know at the time of booking and we can advise whether a tour be suitable. Having all the details helps us make sure you and the rest of the group have an enjoyable holiday. We have a handy rating for each tour to let you know how strenuous it may be.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
Fresh Adventures for Inquisitive Travellers
Why Choose Travel Editions?
Travel with purpose, passion, and like-minded companions, here’s what sets Travel Editions apart.
Designed for Travellers,
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Founded in 1994 offering unique cultural tours beyond typical high street itineraries.
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Small, friendly team with no automated phone lines. Enjoy personal attention from our team.
Expert Tour Guides, Unique Insights
Industry-leading guides, some since day one, who speak local languages and have detailed knowledge.
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