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Cliveden
Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire & BerkshireGlorious gardens and woodlands overlooking the River Thames
Cliveden Road, Taplow, Maidenhead, Buckinghamshire, SL1 8NS
Important notice
Please note that our fully accessibly shuttle bus is currently unavailable, however, visitors can still use the golf buggy which can be requested from the Information Centre.
Opening times for 26 November 2025
Asset Opening time Garden and Woodlands 09:30 - 16:00 Shop and Weighbridge Secondhand Bookshop 10:00 - 16:00 Conservatory Café 09:30 - 15:30 Woodland car park 09:30 - 15:30 Refreshment kiosk 09:30 - 16:00 Storybook play area and Maze 09:30 - 15:30 Woodland Lounge trailer 10:00 - 15:30 House (access by tour only) Closed Please note that the last entry to Cliveden Estate is 3.30pm*. *From Thursday 20 November - Friday 19 December, Cliveden Estate will be open on Thursdays and Fridays until 6pm, last entry 5.30pm. The 2025 House & Chapel season has now concluded.
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Ticket type With Gift Aid Without Gift Aid Adult (18+) £21.00 Child (5-17) under 5s free £10.50 Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children) £52.50 Group (Adult 18+) £19.95 Group (Child 5-17) £9.98 Family (1 Adult and up to 3 children) £31.50 Become a member and discover more than 500 places
- Bookshop
The Weighbridge second-hand bookshop is in the Gas Yard.
- Café
The Conservatory Cafe sells hot and cold meals, drinks and snacks and has indoor and outdoor seating.
- Car park
On site car parking (included within admission fees). The Main Visitor Car Park is in the Walled Garden at the top of the estate. The Woodland Car Park is located at the other end of the estate in the woodlands. Cycle racks are available in the Car Park. We ask you not to cycle on the estate. Speed limit - 15 mph across the estate
- Dogs allowed
Dogs are welcome at Cliveden and we have a dog walker's guide as to where they can go. Please scroll down to read our dog walking article for more information.
Dogs allowed - more information- Guided tour
Cliveden House is currently leased as a luxury country hotel and generally not open to National Trust Visitors. However, from 3 March to 30 October 2025, on a Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, National Trust visitors can enjoy a 30-minute guided visit, every 10 minutes from 11am-12:30pm. Please ensure you have collected a ticket from the Information Centre.
- Kiosk
The Kiosk is in the Walled Garden and sells hot and cold drinks and snacks. A drinking water tap is available to refill water bottles on the side of the Kiosk.
- Plant shop
Cliveden Plant Centre is in the Walled Garden, outside the Shop.
- Shop
The Shop is in the Walled Garden and stocks a range of gifts, books, homeware, accessories and children's toys and books.
- Toilet
Toilets in the Gas Yard, by the Conservatory, by the Storybook Play Den and the Woodland lounge are open and checked regularly. Accessible toilets are available at the Doll's House, next to the Storybook Play Den and in the Gas Yard. Baby-changing facilities in Female & Male Gas Yard, Conservatory Toilets and in both toilets at the Doll's House.
Cliveden is located on a chalk hill overlooking the River Thames. There is a level access route around the formal gardens. The Cliveden Estate is large and there are a number of steps and steep slopes without handrails in the wider estate, especially going down to the river side which is unfenced. There are also unfenced lakes and ponds. Click on the drop-down boxes below for more information or please contact the Cliveden Estate Office directly.
- Accessible route and/or map
The access route map is available from the Information Centre.
- Accessible toilet
Accessible toilets are available at the Doll's House, next to the Storybook Play Den and in the Gas Yard.
- Designated parking
Onsite parking is included with admission fees / membership. 22 designated disabled parking spaces are available in the main visitor car park.
- Induction loop
Hearing loops are installed at every fixed till point.
- Level access to food outlet
There is level access to many buildings across Cliveden. The buildings without level access have permanent shallow sloping access.
- Level access to shop
The Shop is in the Walled Garden next to the Main Visitor Car Park.
- Seating available
Benches are located throughout the route around the formal gardens.
- Steps/uneven terrain
Paths around the formal gardens are laid to hard standing paths with a loose gravel top. Upon leaving the level access route, the Cliveden’s site is undulating with steep slopes in places and many steps (particularly when visiting Cliveden Riverside).
- Transfer available
Our accessible shuttle bus service is available on request. Assistance dogs are welcome in this vehicle.
- Wheelchairs available
Two manual wheelchairs (including off road) and two all-terrain trikes (non-powered) are available from the Information Centre. We recommend hiring in advance of your visit. Please email cliveden@nationaltrust.org.uk or call 01628 605069 to book.
- By road
- From M4 take exit 7 onto the A4 towards Maidenhead and follow the brown signs. After about 1.5 miles, you will turn right at traffic lights onto Berry Hill. Continuing on to become Cliveden Road, the woodland car park will be about 1.5 miles on your left and the main entrance a further 1.5 miles on your left. From M40 take exit 4 onto A404 to Marlow an exit at junction 2, following the brown signs. Bear left at the roundabout onto A4155 towards Bourne End. Follow the A4155 for about two miles through Bourne End and on towards Wooburn. At the third roundabout you’ll take the right-hand exit onto Hawkes Hill. Follow this road as it becomes Hedsor Hill, then Bourne End Road. After two miles, at the ‘Y’ junction, turn right onto Cliveden Road and the main entrance is a few hundred metres further on the right. Continue for a further 1.5 miles to reach the woodlands. The main entrance is opposite the Feathers Inn. Click on the map pin to plan your route. Please note: The main entrance is width and height restricted so if coming in an over-size vehicle please call us on 01628 605069 for details.Parking: National Trust members park free. Please present your NT membership card, if a member on arrival through your car window.Sat Nav: Sat Nav: For the main estate and carpark please use the entrance at Feathers Gate, SL1 8NS. For the woodland car park entrance please use SL6 0HJ.’
- On foot
- Though it is possible to walk to Cliveden from both Bourne End and Taplow stations, we do not recommend it. Access is only available via country roads with no pavements and fast-travelling traffic.
- By train
- Taplow 2½ miles and Burnham 3 miles are both on the London Paddington to Reading mainline. Taxi office/rank at both stations. We do not advise walking from these stations along the main roads. These are country roads with no pavements and very fast traffic (60 mph). Bourne End 2 miles is on the Maidenhead to Marlow branch line. There is no taxi rank. These stations are served by GWR and the Elizabeth Line.
- By bus
- Unfortunately there are no public bus services to Cliveden.
- Cycling
- Nearest National Cycle routes are routes 50 and 61 to within 2 miles. See Sustrans for more details. The roads around Cliveden are single carriage-way country roads with 60 mph speed limits. We'd love for you to cycle to Cliveden and you can lock bikes up in the spaces provided in the Walled Garden. 5 year olds and under are able to bring small scooters and balance bikes onto the estate. Mobility scooters can also be taken onto the estate but please leave bikes with pedals by the Information Centre.
Planning your visit
Plan your winter visit to Cliveden and enjoy the gardens’ seasonal colours, crisp woodland walks, and family-friendly festive activities. From 15 November to 4 January, explore twinkling Nutcracker-inspired displays, join carol singing in the Sounding Chamber, and browse the Christmas shop. From Thursday 20 November until 19 December, Cliveden will extend its opening hours on Thursdays and Fridays, allowing visitors to enjoy festive twinkling lights and winter walks through the gardens until 6pm. For late-night openings, dogs on short leads are welcome in all lit areas, and visitors are advised to bring a torch and stick to the marked paths.
Article
Christmas at Cliveden
This Christmas, Cliveden invites visitors to experience the estate at its most magical with extended festive opening hours every Thursday and Friday from 20 November–19 December. Wander through twinkling gardens inspired by The Nutcracker, enjoy winter walks rich with colour and scent, and discover family-friendly adventures across 400 acres of woodland. Seasonal treats, a beautifully stocked Christmas shop, carol singing in the Sounding Chamber, and hands-on wreath-making workshops make it the perfect place to embrace the spirit of the season. Dogs on short leads are welcome across all lit-up areas on late-night openings ONLY, so the whole family can enjoy the festive sparkle together.
Article
Plan your winter visit with family
Looking to get the whole family outside this winter? Cliveden has festive fun for everyone, whether young in body or young at heart. From twinkling walks to self-led family adventures, it’s the perfect place to make magical winter memories together. Discover all the seasonal delights waiting for you and the kids this Christmas.
Article
Plan your winter visits to the gardens
Follow in the footsteps of dukes, earls, kings and queens as you stroll through a series of impressive spaces at Cliveden this winter, each with its own special charm. Enjoy year-round interest and colour, from the bedding scheme of the Parterre and the newly restored Long Garden with its dazzling display of vibrant colour, form, and texture. Explore Lord Astor’s sculpture collection and the impressive Cliveden Maze.
Article
Plan your winter visit with your dog
With 375 acres of woodlands, riverbank and formal gardens to be sniffed and explored this winter, Cliveden offers a varied selection of dog-friendly walking trails throughout the winter months. Grab a warm drink and warm up this winter at the Woodland Lounge with an indoor seating area, outdoor benches and dog tie up points. The Pooch Passport has returned to Cliveden and is running until 28 February 2026.
Cliveden map
Set high above the Thames with far-reaching views, Cliveden's impressive gardens and majestic woodlands capture the grandeur of a bygone age. With a history of over 350 years worth of glamour and intrigue, Cliveden Estate is a place of exquisite enchantment.
Highlights
Volunteer-led history walks
Step into Cliveden’s story on a volunteer-led history walk. Every corner of Cliveden has a tale to tell — and this November, our wonderful volunteers are ready to share them with you. Stroll through the estate and uncover stories of dukes, duchesses, gardeners and guests who helped shape Cliveden’s remarkable past. Walks run every Tuesday and Thursday from 18 November (subject to volunteer availability). Start time: 11am. Each walk lasts 60–90 minutes and covers up to 2 miles. Tickets are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis from the Information Centre in the Walled Garden. Walks include some inclines and steps, so may not be suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs or young children. Assistance dogs only.
House visits
Step inside the house to hear Cliveden's stories from the Astor family and more. Cliveden House is currently leased as a luxury country hotel and generally not open to National Trust Visitors. However, March – October, National Trust visitors can enjoy a 30-minute guided visit, every 10 minutes from 11am-12:30pm. Please ensure you have collected a ticket from the Information Centre on arrival, as these are first come, first served. Visit ‘Things to see in the house and chapel’ page for more information.
Chapel
Head to the western side of the Parterre for a surprise; the unassuming domed building overlooking the river houses a wonderfully ornate chapel, also known as the Octagon Temple. The Chapel is open in the afternoons from April to October on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 1:30pm to 3:30pm, subject to volunteer availability and weather conditions. See the 'Things to see in the house and chapel' page for more details on opening.
Formal gardens
Enjoy 80 acres of year-round interest and colour, from the bedding scheme of the geometric parterre, hundreds of roses in the Rose Garden, an Oriental-inspired Water Garden, to Lord Astor’s sculpture collection and the impressive Cliveden Maze. There are spaces for everyone to enjoy, for quiet reflection or time with loved ones.
Escape into the woodlands
Stroll through Cliveden’s woodlands this winter and follow paths dusted with frost and falling leaves. Explore tree-lined rides and viewpoints framed by the season’s rich colours. Keep an eye out for the estate’s quirky treasures, from a flint grotto to a giant slice of a Californian redwood, left behind by the families who have called Cliveden home.
Iconic river thames
Soak up one of the prettiest stretches of the river, Cliveden Reach. The perfect spot for a picnic or a stroll at the river side. Treat yourself to a trip on a skippered cruises or a self-hire vessel. Head to boatingatcliveden.co.uk to book your river adventure. Boating at Cliveden runs from April – October.
Holiday cottages
Stay in one of our two characterful riverside cottages nestled on the banks of the River Thames within the Cliveden Estate. Packed with charm, the cottages boast bright and modern interiors with beautiful views over the river, offering stays for two to four people.
Things to see and do
Article
Christmas at Cliveden
From Saturday 15 November 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026, enter an enchanting Christmas experience at Cliveden as scenes from The Nutcracker come to life across the estate. From Thursday 20 November, Cliveden will extend its opening hours to offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy the estate’s festive atmosphere for a little longer. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, admire the twinkling lights, and soak up the seasonal charm, with last entry at 5.30pm and the estate closing at 6pm every Thursday and Friday until 19 December.
Article
Things to see and do with family this winter
If you’re looking to get the whole family outside this winter, look no further. Cliveden has something for everyone, whether young in body or young at heart. From frosty walks through the gardens to walking trails sparkling with winter colours, it’s the perfect place to make the most of your family visit this season.
Article
Things to see and do in the woodlands this winter
Stroll through Cliveden’s woodlands this winter and follow paths dusted with frost and falling leaves. Explore tree-lined rides and viewpoints framed by the season’s rich colours. Keep an eye out for the estate’s quirky treasures, from a flint grotto to a giant slice of a Californian redwood, left behind by the families who have called Cliveden home.
Article
Things to see and do in the gardens this winter
Follow in the footsteps of dukes, earls, kings and queens as you stroll through a series of impressive spaces at Cliveden this winter, each with its own special charm. Enjoy year-round interest and colour, from the bedding scheme of the Parterre and the newly restored Long Garden with its dazzling display of vibrant colour, form, and texture. Explore Lord Astor’s sculpture collection and the impressive Cliveden Maze.
Article
Things to see in Cliveden's house and chapel this winter
The 2025 House & Chapel season has now concluded. Please check back in March 2026 for the release of the 2026 season dates. Step inside Cliveden House, a place steeped in history, intrigue, and timeless elegance. Originally built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham as a gift for his mistress, the house has long been a retreat for the elite. Today, enriched with antique furnishings and exquisite period features, Cliveden remains true to its heritage while offering a luxurious setting to rest, meet, and be inspired.
Cliveden Long Garden Project
Restoration work on Cliveden’s Long Garden is now complete, with the garden reopened to visitors. The aim of this restoration was to create a more sustainable planting scheme designed by James Scott, FSGLD, MBALI, MD and Principal Designer of The Garden Company. James’s design pays homage to Norah Lindsay’s original early 20th-century designs. Situated along the north boundary of the Cliveden estate, parallel with Bourne End Road, the Long Garden has been updated to reflect both its historic roots and modern ecological considerations.
Article
Group visits at Cliveden this winter
Cliveden is the perfect place for a group day out this winter, with vibrant seasonal displays, an outstanding sculpture collection, and engaging educational resources for school visits.
Spotlight events
Discover a range of events for all the family this winter at Cliveden.
Christmas at Cliveden: The Nutcracker
From Saturday 15 November 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026, enter an enchanting Christmas experience at Cliveden as scenes from The Nutcracker come to life across the estate.
Christmas Wreath-making workshop at Cliveden
Nothing says ‘Christmas is here’ quite like a beautiful hand-made wreath on your front door. Join us at Cliveden this Christmas and craft your own festive wreath using greenery foraged by the gardeners and rangers from the Cliveden Estate. Tuesday 18, Thursday 20, Tuesday 25 and Thursday 27 November 2025. Workshops will run from 10am - 12pm and 12.30pm - 2.30pm. Please note: Standard admission applies. Price includes unlimited tea/coffee.
Christmas second-hand bookshop pop-up
Discover a range of Christmas themed pre-loved books this festive season in the Weighbridge second-hand bookshop at Cliveden. Running from 29 November – 4 January.
Extended festive opening hours 2025 at Cliveden
From Thursday 20 November, Cliveden will extend its opening hours to offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy the estate’s festive atmosphere for a little longer. Take a winter stroll through the gardens, admire the twinkling lights, and soak up the seasonal charm, with last entry at 5.30pm and the estate closing at 6pm every Thursday and Friday until 19 December. Wrap up warmly and make the most of the enchanting evenings at Cliveden this Christmas. Please stick to the lit paths, remember to wrap up warm and bring a torch. For late nights ONLY, we will allow visitors with dogs to access all of the lit up areas. Please keep them on a short lead and be mindful of others as you explore the twinkling areas.
Carol Singing at Cliveden
Christmas carol singing will once again return to fill the Sounding Chamber with heart-warming harmonies. Specific weekdays from 26 November - 11 December.
Top trails
Why not step out into the crisp winter air and enjoy a refreshing dose of nature this season? At Cliveden there are miles of paths to follow through woodland and alongside the river. Enjoy scenic views across to Maidenhead, Marlow and Windsor. We'd love for you to cycle to Cliveden and you can lock bikes up in the spaces provided in the Walled Garden. 5 year olds and under are able to bring small scooters and balance bikes onto the estate. Mobility scooters can also be taken onto the estate but please leave bikes with pedals by the Information Centre.
Trail
Cliveden gold walking trail
Take in tranquil riverside scenery, shady woodland, dramatic views of the Berkshire countryside and places of historical interest on this circular trail.
Trail
Cliveden green walking trail
Explore the woodlands, discover a former owner of the estate and take in glorious views of the River Thames, the surrounding countryside and Cliveden House.
Trail
Cliveden woodland walking trail
Explore the woodland at Cliveden on this moderate walk taking in a play trail for the kids, picnic areas and spectacular views over the River Thames and the surrounding countryside.
Trail
Cliveden blue walking trail
A family-friendly woodland walk with a natural den and picnic area, plus a play trail featuring a rope swing, stepping stones and balancing beams.
Outdoor activities
Activity
Boating at Cliveden
The 2025 boating season has now concluded. Please check back in April 2026 for details of the upcoming season’s dates and prices. Discover more about Cliveden’s long association with boating on the River Thames, including its connections to The Wind in the Willows and how you can hire a boat to experience this timeless pastime for yourself. ‘Boating at Cliveden’ operates daily from April to October, subject to river and weather conditions.
Eating and shopping
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Eating at Cliveden
At Cliveden, there is a range of food outlets available on your winter visit. Whether you are looking for a sit-down lunch or a coffee to go, there’s something to suit your needs. Looking for ease throughout this Christmas holidays? We offer children’s portions and kids’ pick n mix lunch boxes which include 5 items to fuel their adventure.
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Shopping at Cliveden
Browse the gift shop and plant centre for souvenirs or gift ideas from the National Trust range and products local to Cliveden. Explore the seasonal displays and discover autumn plants in the plant centre. Pop into the second-hand bookshop this winter to delve into a treasure trove of books, from children's literature and cookery to heath and history. Every purchase helps us look after Cliveden for everyone, for ever.
Places to stay
Stay in one of our two characterful riverside cottages nestled on the banks of the River Thames within the Cliveden Estate this winter. Packed with charm, the cottages boast bright and modern interiors with beautiful winter views over the river, offering stays for two to four people.
Cliveden Ferry Cottage
Views over the Thames from this half-timbered former ferryman’s cottage near the Cliveden estate.
Cliveden New Cottage
On the Cliveden Estate, this recently refurbished cottage has gorgeous river views.
Upcoming events
Event
Christmas at Cliveden: The Nutcracker
From Saturday 15 November 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026, enter an enchanting Christmas experience at Cliveden as scenes from The Nutcracker come to life across the estate.
Event
Extended festive opening hours 2025 at Cliveden
Experience Cliveden’s festive magic with extended evening openings from 20 November on Thursdays and Fridays until 19 December – last entry 5.30pm, closing 6pm.
Event
Christmas Wreath-making workshop at Cliveden
Nothing says ‘Christmas is here’ quite like a beautiful hand-made wreath on your front door. Get into the festive spirit and create your very own beautiful Christmas wreath.
Event
Christmas Second-hand bookshop pop-up
Discover a range of Christmas themed pre-loved books this festive season in the Weighbridge second-hand bookshop at Cliveden. Running from 29 November – 4 January.
Event
Carol Singing at Cliveden
Christmas carol singing will once again return to fill the Sounding Chamber with heart-warming harmonies.
About Cliveden
Set high above the River Thames, our magnificent gardens and breath-taking views have been admired for centuries. Visit us and you’ll discover a series of gardens with impressive floral displays, distinctive topiary and an outstanding sculpture collection as well as acres of woodlands to explore. We also have lots of events and activities planned throughout the year including the school holidays to suit all ages and tastes. Especially for families, there is a storybook themed play area, giant maze and woodland play trail and the gift shop, which was designed with families in mind.
History
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History of Cliveden
For over 300 years Cliveden was home to dukes, earls, viscounts and even a prince. Learn how it became a glittering hub for exclusive parties and political gatherings.
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The people that made Cliveden
Royalty, politics and some of the most prominent society names of the time made Cliveden the place it is today, including generations of the royal family and the notorious Astors.
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The history of the garden at Cliveden
Discover the background and history of some of the main features in the garden at Cliveden and who was responsible for commissioning and designing them.
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Who was Harriet, duchess of Sutherland?
Learn about Harriet, duchess of Sutherland, one of the great society hostesses of the age, and a driving force in re-building the Sutherland properties.
Art and collections
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Sculpture collections at Cliveden
Cliveden has many sculptures in its grounds, including ancient baboons and bold choices of ‘new art’ sculpture from Cliveden’s 19th-century owners.
Our work
The Long Garden Conservation Project
Restoration work on Cliveden’s Long Garden is now complete, with the garden reopened to visitors. The aim of this restoration was to create a more sustainable planting scheme designed by James Scott, FSGLD, MBALI, MD and Principal Designer of The Garden Company. James’s design pays homage to Norah Lindsay’s original early 20th-century designs. Situated along the north boundary of the Cliveden estate, parallel with Bourne End Road, the Long Garden has been updated to reflect both its historic roots and modern ecological considerations.
Article
Our work in the garden
Discover what goes into the upkeep of this historic garden and the work of the team of gardeners and volunteers behind the scenes to keep the garden looking great all year round.
Our conservation projects at Cliveden
Discover more details about the conservation projects carried out over the past few years to look after the Grade I listed garden and house at Cliveden.
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Hampstead filmed at Cliveden
Find out about actor Diane Keaton’s experience of filming romantic comedy-drama Hampstead at Cliveden.
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How Cliveden inspired Disney’s Cinderella
Visit Cliveden and learn how features of the estate influenced and starred in Disney’s 2015 Cinderella movie.
Support us
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Volunteering at Cliveden
Discover how and why to volunteer at Cliveden and which opportunities are currently available.
