In the build up to the event we had a great response from the PMA membership and managed to fill a 50 seater coach. In addition others decided to get there under their own steam and join us when we arrived.

Hever Castle had much to offer. Set in 125 acres of glorious grounds, the romantic double-moated 14th century castle was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I. Visitors also discovered award-winning gardens, an impressive mock Tudor village, numerous fun distractions, such as the water maze, and the rich and varied history of the property through the ages.

Pete Cowmeadow and I were the organisers for the event and things couldn’t have gone smoother. Little did we know that Mother nature would a have a surprise or two for us to contend with on the day.

We’d hope for good weather for the trip, given that we’d be outside most of the time. We hadn’t however reckoned on a heatwave. As the week went by the temperatures just continued to grow. Two days before our departure we knew we might be in 40°C heat.

Once this was known 4 attendees cancelled due to the health warnings being given out. With 49 people still up for it we held our nerve. In the 24 hours before departure a further 10 people also declared that they would have to withdraw.

The remaining 39 left our departure point(s) and arrived in Kent at 11:15am. The coach, driven by a very smart Joseph, was fully air conditioned for our journey. It was very comfortable. On arrival however we were greeted by the heatwave and it was certainly fierce!

Everybody was dispatched with extra bottle of water to that which they brought themselves to make sure they stayed hydrated. Thankfully the castle was able to accomodate us almost straight away and many took this option. Others however explored the magnificent Tudor village and the extensive gardens first.

It was a great place to visit and with a little shade, care and hydration in one form or another, it came as no surprise when people found themselves at the end of the day. Most took advantage of a cooling ice cream before walking back up the hill to the coach park ready for our 5:30pm departure.

Despite the weather a great day was had by all that got to Hever Castle. All left with the view that the attraction was of exceedingly high quality, with many saying they would return.

It was a shame that so many weren’t able to make the day, but they made a wise choice, given their own personal circumstances. We look forward to welcoming everybody on our next trip.

Eddie Winter