Cliveden

We have a selection of formal gardens for you to enjoy across the estate which each have their charms across the seasons. From the 6 acre Parterre overlooked by the South Terrace reaching down to the river Thames, to the fruit-filled round garden and our elegant Water Garden.

The woods that line the steep cliffs above the Thames were famous long before the House and its gardens. There are miles of woodland paths to explore and stunning views back to the gardens and over surrounding countryside.

Cliveden's wider estate offers extensive views across the Berkshire countryside and scenes of the river Thames below. We have downloadable walking trails for all abilities which take you around some of the top spots on the estate, from our formal gardens to the depths of the woodlands. Choose the one for you.

We welcome across many areas of the estate, including dogs on leads in most formal areas and outside our catering facilities. Remember to always pick up your dogs waste and leave Cliveden as beautiful as when you arrived.

Row like Ratty and Toad along the stretch of the River Thames that inspired Wind in the Willows, or take a leisurely cruise on our Smooth Waters or Still Waters boats.

Made from over 1000 yew trees this winding maze is surprisingly challenging for visitors young and old.

There's an enticing corner for children to discover. The Storybook Play Den, located beyond the Maze and Water Garden, offers a fantastic location to let young imaginations run wild.

Art challenges you to think in ways you may not have before and forces you to look at spaces you might be familiar with, in a whole new light. By exhibiting art at Cliveden, we're continuing the legacy of previous owners whose keen eye for art is evidenced throughout the estates wide-ranging collections.

The Wind in the Willows is a family favourite for all ages, and this performance by Quantum Theatre is sure to bring this much-loved children's book to life. Come along for the journey as Mole, Ratty and Badger journey on a mad-cap adventure on the River Thames.

A humorous account by English writer Jerome K. Jerome of a two-week boating holiday on the Thames.

Whether you fancy cake and coffee, a warming tummy-filling lunch or a snack to fuel your fun, our cafés will have something to tempt you.

Browse our cosy gift shop stocked with a selection homemade and artisan products. Highlights this Spring include locally poured soy wax candles, tempting Tutts Clump Cider and hand-painted watercolor cards.

The Weighbridge is Cliveden's secondhand bookshop; a place where you can pick up a bargain whilst supporting vital conservation work.

From March to October, on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, the doors to the glamorous ground floor of Cliveden house open to the public.

Discover Cliveden's 19th-century sculpture collection in the gardens. Curator Oonagh Kennedy looks back on the 'new' art of Cliveden's past.

The chapel, also known as the Octagon Temple, was originally designed as a place to admire the view or take tea but is now the final resting place for three generations of the Astor family.

For more than 300 years Cliveden was home to dukes, earls, viscounts and for a while a prince. A glittering hub of society, Cliveden hosted exclusive parties and political gatherings.

Did you know a hospital was opened at the start of the First World War on the Cliveden estate to treat injured Canadian war soldiers? One hundred years on, a Memorial Garden dedicated to those who lost their life can be visited today.

Cliveden hit the headlines in 1963 when it became known that John Profumo had met Christine Keeler here by the swimming pool. Their affair proved a turning point in British politics and had profound implications for those involved.

Do you want to work in beautiful surroundings for one of Europe's most important charities? Cliveden are delighted to offer several opportunities for you to join the energetic team. The estate, set high above the Thames with far-reaching views, hosts impressive gardens and majestic woodlands steeped in 350 years of history.

A dedicated team of volunteers help us to look after Cliveden and open to visitors every day. There's lots of ways you could get involved...

Conservation work to the South Terrace is now complete. Have a look at how we've restored this 350 year old Terrace to its former glory.

From stunning seasonal floral displays in the extensive gardens to the chance to take a peek inside the sumptuous house, Cliveden has plenty to offer groups.

Let us bring Cliveden to you... Why not book one of our knowledgeable speakers to come along to your local group's meeting. We offer three talks which focus on the history of Cliveden.

Across the country thousands of our most dedicated supporters meet on a regular basis as part of a National Trust Centre or Association, to support the work of properties of interest to them.

Cliveden's two self-catering National Trust holiday cottages are a real home from home and are located on a stunning stretch of the River Thames. Or treat yourself to five star luxury at Cliveden House Hotel.

There's lots to see and do near to Cliveden, from country walks in the Chilterns to visiting royal attractions such as Windsor Castle.