Cliveden
Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire & BerkshireGlorious gardens and woodlands overlooking the River Thames
Cliveden Road, Taplow, Maidenhead, Buckinghamshire, SL1 8NS
Important notice
M T W T F S S Open
Closed
Opening times for 18 February 2026
Asset Opening time Garden and Woodlands 09:30 - 17:30 Shop and Weighbridge Secondhand Bookshop 10:00 - 17:00 Conservatory Café 10:00 - 17:00 Woodland car park 09:30 - 16:30 Refreshment kiosk 09:30 - 17:00 Storybook play area and Maze 09:30 - 17:00 Woodland Lounge trailer 10:00 - 16:00 House (access by timed tour ticket only) Closed Please note that our fully accessible shuttle bus is currently unavailable, however, we can still offer lifts across the site in our golf buggy. Thank you for your patience and understanding. The woodland lounge trailer may close earlier in winter depending on visitor footfall. Please note: The Cliveden Estate will be closed on Tuesday 24 February from 9.30am - 12.30pm.
Admission 2025 (until 28 February)
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 1 Adult and up to three children £31.50 Admission 2026 (from 1 March)
Ticket type With Gift Aid Without Gift Aid Adult (18+) £23.00 Child (5-17) under 5s free £11.50 Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children) £57.50 Group (Adult 18+) £21.85 Group (Child 5-17) £10.93 1 Adult and up to three children £34.50 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 spring visit to Cliveden and enjoy the season’s burst of colour across the gardens. Wander through blossom filled paths and discover the new life emerging throughout the grounds. Visiting with your dog? Pick up a free dog walking map and explore the sun dappled woods together.
Plan your spring visit 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 spring, 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.
Plan your spring visit with family
If you’re looking to get the whole family outside this spring look no further. Cliveden has something to offer everyone, whether young in body or young at heart. From fun walking trails to self-led family trails, this is your one-stop shop to help you get the most out of your spring family visit to Cliveden.
Plan your spring visit with your dog
With 375 acres of woodlands, riverbank and formal gardens to be sniffed and explored this spring, Cliveden offers a varied selection of dog-friendly walking trails throughout the spring 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, Wednesday and Thursday (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
From 2 March to 29 October 2026 step beyond the ordinary into a world once walked by royalty, visionaries, and the great minds who shaped history, on one of our guided House visits. House visits run every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday starting every 10 minutes from 11:00am-12:30pm and last 30-minutes. Tickets available (on a first come, first served basis) from the Information Centre. Cliveden House is currently leased as a luxury country hotel and generally not open to National Trust Visitors. Guided by our passionate volunteers, you'll journey through the ground floor as the house's glittering past comes alive around you. Hear the captivating tales of the illustrious Astor dynasty as you step into the very rooms where distinguished visitors were once welcomed and entertained. It's not just a tour - it's your invitation to experience the glamour, intrigue, and legacy of a truly extraordinary home. 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 spring and follow paths lined with fresh leaves and unfurling blooms. Wander along tree lined rides and enjoy viewpoints framed by the season’s soft greens and blossom. Keep an eye out for the estate’s quirky treasures, from a flint grotto to a giant slice of Californian redwood, left behind by the families who once 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
Things to see and do with family this spring
If you’re looking to get the whole family outside this spring look no further. Cliveden has something to offer everyone, whether young in body or young at heart. From fun walking trails to self-led family trails, this is your one-stop shop to help you get the most out of your spring family visit to Cliveden.
Things to see and do in the woodlands this spring
Stroll through Cliveden’s woodlands this spring and follow paths lined with fresh leaves and unfurling blooms. Wander along tree lined rides and enjoy viewpoints framed by the season’s soft greens and blossom. Keep an eye out for the estate’s quirky treasures, from a flint grotto to a giant slice of Californian redwood, left behind by the families who once called Cliveden home.
Things to see and do in the gardens this spring
Follow in the footsteps of dukes, earls, kings and queens as you stroll through a series of impressive spaces at Cliveden this spring, 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.
Things to see in Cliveden's house and chapel this spring
Step into a new season of discovery at Cliveden, where centuries of heritage meet enduring elegance. From March 2026, our House Tours invite you to explore the storied rooms once graced by royalty, artists, and statesmen, while the 2026 Chapel season opens on Wednesday 1 April 2026, offering a rare glimpse into one of the estate’s most atmospheric spaces. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham as an extravagant gift for his mistress, Cliveden has evolved into a sanctuary of refinement, adorned with antique treasures and remarkable period details. Today, it continues to inspire all who walk its halls, providing a luxurious setting to pause, connect, and be captivated by its timeless charm.
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.
Group visits at Cliveden this spring
Cliveden is the perfect place for a group day out this spring, 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 spring at Cliveden.
‘Hop into the wild’ family trail, inspired by Disney and Pixar's "Hoppers"
From 14 February - 8 March, Hop into this self-guided outdoors adventure – with storytelling and play. Fun for all the family. Please note: The Cliveden Estate will be closed on Tuesday 24 February from 9.30am - 12.30pm.
Spring Spotting Stroll at Cliveden
Head to Cliveden this spring and collect a free spring spotting stroll leaflet from the Information Centre. Bring the whole family and step into spring. Running from 16 February - Tuesday 31 March 2026. Please note: The Cliveden Estate will be closed on Tuesday 24 February from 9.30am - 12.30pm.
Bluebells walk at Cliveden
From March - May areas of our ancient woodland come alive with a gorgeous deep blue hue. Bluebells are an essential part of our natural heritage, and a welcoming sign that spring is well under way. You can expect to see bluebells at Cliveden from 21 March onwards (weather dependent) through to 9 May. Bluebells are expected to peak from early to mid April.
Easter Egg Hunt at Cliveden - 'The Great Eggscape'
The mischievous eggs have escaped! Bring the whole family along, grab your bunny ears and hop into action. The Easter bunny needs your help to track down the runaway eggs hiding around the gardens. Make your way along the trail and expect games and activities along the way. The trail takes place between 28 March – 12 April 2026, from 9:30 to 5:30pm, with last trail entry at 4:00pm, so come along and explore the beautiful gardens of Cliveden. Prices are £3.50 per trail which includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and dairy or vegan and Free From* chocolate egg. *Suitable for people with milk, egg, gluten, peanut and tree nut allergies.
National Lottery Open Week at Cliveden
As a thank you to National Lottery players for supporting our conservation work, we’re offering free entry during National Lottery Open Week. Bring your lottery ticket or scratch card and explore Cliveden for free from Monday 9 – Friday 13 March.
'We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ at Cliveden
'We’re Going on a Bear Hunt', is coming to Cliveden name this spring. The award-winning animation, based on the much-loved picture book, will be brought to life through a series of interactive installations. Get ready to swish, splash and squelch your way through this new sensory trail as you search for the bear. Image credit: We’re Going On a Bear Hunt © Bear Hunt Films Ltd 2026
Top trails
Why not step out into the gentle spring 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. Take in scenic views across to Maidenhead, Marlow and Windsor as the landscape comes back to life. We’d love for you to cycle to Cliveden, and you can lock bikes in the spaces provided in the Walled Garden. Children aged 5 and under are welcome to bring small scooters and balance bikes onto the estate. Mobility scooters can also be taken onto the estate, but please leave pedal bikes by the Information Centre.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
Eating at Cliveden
At Cliveden, there is a range of food outlets available on your spring 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 this February Half Term? We offer children’s portions and kids’ pick n mix lunch boxes which include 5 items to fuel their adventure.
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 spring 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 spring 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
‘Hop into the wild’ family trail, inspired by Disney and Pixar's "Hoppers"
Hop into this self-guided outdoors adventure – with storytelling and play. Fun for all the family.
Spring spotting stroll at Cliveden
Head to Cliveden this spring and collect a free spring spotting stroll leaflet from the Information Centre. Bring the whole family and step into spring. Running from 16 February - Tuesday 31 March 2026.
Tree walk at Cliveden
Take a winter wander through Cliveden’s remarkable trees on Thursday 26 February at 11am, led by our knowledgeable volunteer walk leaders (subject to volunteer availability).
National Lottery Open Week at Cliveden
As a thank you to National Lottery players for supporting our conservation work, we’re offering free entry during National Lottery Open Week. Bring your lottery ticket or scratch card and explore Cliveden for free from Monday 9 – Friday 13 March.
Bluebells walk at Cliveden
From March - May areas of our ancient woodland come alive with a gorgeous deep blue hue. Bluebells are an essential part of our natural heritage, and a welcoming sign that spring is well under way.
Easter egg hunt at Cliveden – ‘The Great Eggscape’
This spring, treat the whole family to a world of adventure at Cliveden on an Easter Trail.
'We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ at Cliveden
‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ at Cliveden, 9 May – 5 July 2026.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Hampstead filmed at Cliveden
Find out about actor Diane Keaton’s experience of filming romantic comedy-drama Hampstead at Cliveden.
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
Volunteering at Cliveden
Discover how and why to volunteer at Cliveden and which opportunities are currently available.
