Discover the opulence of the Tudor court with a unique display of historically accurate costumes from the acclaimed TV drama of Hilary Mantel’s final novel Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light, on display at Hever Castle & Gardens from 12th February to 2nd November 2025 (Castle ticket required).
Visitors will be able to view a display of five costumes from the hit TV series, (aired on BBC One in December 2024 and broadcasting on PBS America in March 2025), Henry VIII played by Damian Lewis, Thomas Cromwell played by Mark Rylance, Jane Seymour played by Kate Phillips, Anne of Cleves played by Lilet Lesser, and Princess Mary played by Dana Herfurth. The costumes will be on display inside the Castle with images from the TV series alongside portraits from the Tudor period allowing visitors to compare to what Anne Boleyn and her family might have worn in real life.
The Wolf Hall costumes, on display to the public for the first time, are on loan from BAFTA and Oscar award-winning company Angels, the world’s largest supplier of costumes and accessories for TV, film and theatre.
Hever Castle’s Assistant Curator Dr Owen Emmerson, one of the historical advisors to Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light, explains the significance of Wolf Hall as a piece of storytelling and how fashion played a role both on screen and in the Tudor court during the reign of King Henry VIII: “Seen through the eyes of Thomas Cromwell, Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall is a pivotal point during Henry VIII’s reign where his head is turned away from Anne Boleyn, who grew up at Hever Castle, and to Jane Seymour whose family seat was Wolf Hall. As the drama unfolds, Thomas Cromwell falls out of favour when the King rejects the match with Anne of Cleves, later gifting Hever Castle as part of the divorce settlement.
“Henry VIII portrayed his grandeur though clothing, wearing lush gold silks and broad shoulders to emphasise his status. Members of the English Court wore clothing to signify their wealth and influence through fabrics and colours. Lo and behold anyone wearing purple, a colour reserved for Royalty. Joanna Eatwell, the costume designer behind The Mirror and the Light, recreated the clothing of the key players of Wolf Hall with historical accuracy and exquisite craftsmanship. The costumes will create a visually stunning display attracting visitors who are interested in fashion and the art of costume design.
“The costumes also provide a tangible link to the historical period depicted in the series, educating visitors about Tudor history and the social customs of courtly life, making it a valuable resource for both adults and children. The display will compliment the newly-opened Boleyn Apartment offering a visual and sensory experience.”
By showcasing these stunning costumes, Hever Castle will offer a truly immersive and unforgettable visitor experience, deepening the connection between the Castle's history and the captivating world of Wolf Hall.
For more information or to book Day Visitor and Annual tickets visit the website:
hevercastle.co.uk
Event organiser is Hever Castle.
Disclaimer: All information was correct when the listing was prepared. Any questions about the event should be directed to the event organiser.