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Polesden Lacey
SurreyA 1,600-acre estate with elegant gardens, Edwardian house and plenty of room to play
Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6BD
Important notice
Due to planned roadworks in the local area, Polesden Lacey will close to visitors from Mon 7 Sept to Fri 11 Sept & again from Mon 14 Sep to Wed 16 Sept. We WILL open for Heritage Open Days on Sat 12 & Sun 13 Sept. Many thanks for your understanding.
M T W T F S S Open
Closed
Opening times for 2 September 2026
Asset Opening time House 11:00 - 15:30 Car Park 07:30 - 18:00 Coffee shop 10:00 - 17:00 Garden 10:00 - 17:00 Café 10:00 - 16:45 Shop 10:00 - 17:00 Kiosk Opening times vary Bookshop 10:30 - 16:00 Just the ground floor of the house will be open during 2026; there is no exhibition taking place this year so the first floor will remain closed to visitors. Please note that hot food is served in the café between 12pm and 3pm.
Admission from 1 March 2026
Ticket type With Gift Aid Without Gift Aid Adult (18+) £19.80 £18.00 Child (5-17) under 5s free £9.90 £9.00 Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children) £49.50 £45.00 1 adult, 2 children £29.70 £27.00 Become a member and discover more than 500 places
- Assistance dogs only
Assistance dogs are allowed in formal gardens, house, café and second-hand bookshop.
- Bookshop
You'll find the volunteer-led second-hand bookshop in a secluded corner on the west side of the mansion. If you have any books that you would like to donate, please get in touch. Speak to a volunteer in the bookshop or give us a ring on 01372 452048.
- Café
In the café, situated within the Stable Courtyard, you'll find a variety of hot and cold options. We also have a range of delicious cakes and classic cream teas. There are plenty of indoor tables, as well as an outdoor seating area. Hot food is served in the cafe between 12pm and 3pm.
- Car park
Main car park is hard-standing & two overflow car parks are grass. Please obtain car parking ticket. National Trust members park for free. Non-members £5 per day. Download JustPark app before your visit to register and pay. Use machines to scan membership cards or pay by cash. You can also pay at Visitor Reception. No unauthorised camping allowed overnight.
- Coffee shop
As you arrive from the main car park, you'll see the coffee shop, a great place to buy hot and cold drinks, cakes and snacks to take away. Dogs are welcome in the coffee shop and there are seats both inside and outside. Opening times vary.
- Dogs allowed
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome within selected areas inside the main grounds. Please pick up a dog walking map at visitor reception. Routes to the formal gardens are signposted assistance dogs only. On the wider estate, well-controlled dogs are welcome off lead, but please keep them on a lead around livestock and on a short lead around sheep.
Dogs allowed - more information- Electric vehicle charging point
Ten electric vehicle charging outlets available in the main car park. Chargers can be accessed via mobile app, RFID card or contactless payment device. Visit our EV charging partner, RAW Charging's website (www.rawcharging.com/drivers) to download the app before your visit. Chargers only available during property opening hours. User helpline: 020 7519 5052.
- Guided tour
Volunteer-led short house tours are available on selected days. Please ask at Reception which tours are available today.
- Kiosk
At the Beech Hut kiosk you'll find hot and cold drinks, as well as snacks and cakes, located in the middle of the pleasure grounds. Opening days and times vary.
- Shop
You’ll find the gift shop in the Stable Courtyard, selling a range of gifts, local products, plants and garden accessories.
- Toilet
Main toilet block available near the car park, which has an accessible toilet and baby change facilities. The café has a smaller toilet block with unisex toilets, baby changing facilities and a larger changing area.
Blue Badge parking and drop off point. Accessible toilets. Grounds partly accessible. Courtesy accessible bus service (subject to volunteer availability). Mobility scooters and wheelchairs available.
- Accessible route and/or map
Accessible routes available through the pleasure grounds and formal gardens. Ground floor of house is wheelchair accessible. Please see the following link for more information.
Accessible route and/or map - more information- Accessible toilet
Accessible toilets available both in main toilet block and small toilet block next to the café. There is an adult-sized, height-adjustable changing table in the accessible toilet next to the café.
- Braille (guide or menu)
A braille guide for the gardens, estate and house showrooms is available. Ask at Reception for more information.
- Designated parking
Blue badge parking on the left as you head towards the car park. The opposite side is prioritised for visitors with mobility issues who may not have a blue badge.
- Drop-off point
Drop-off point available to the left as you approach the car park, just outside the coffee shop.
- Induction loop
Available in coffee shop, café, shop, and visitor reception.
- Level access to food outlet
Coffee shop and café have level access, the Beech Hut kiosk is in a level, outdoor area with woodchip covering.
- Level access to shop
Level access to main retail shop, second-hand bookshop has two small ramps for access.
- Level access/terrain
There are some uneven paths in the pleasure grounds, rose garden and old kitchen garden.
- Powered mobility vehicle available
Mobility scooters are available, but we recommend pre-booking these by calling ahead of your visit or emailing polesden.reception@nationaltrust.org.uk to ensure availability.
- Ramped access/slopes
Main access route to the house is along a slope. Alternative route is available. Ramped access to second-hand bookshop and house.
- Seating available
Coffee shop has picnic benches with tables that can accommodate a wheelchair.
- Steps/uneven terrain
Steps are scattered throughout the gardens but are marked on maps. Some areas have uneven terrain, especially in the pleasure grounds and old kitchen garden.
- Transfer available
A volunteer-led accessibility bus is available but may not run every day. Please call ahead to confirm availability.
- Wheelchairs available
Outdoor wheelchairs are available to borrow from visitor reception. To ensure availability please book ahead.
- By road
- From Junction 9 of the M25: follow the A243 (signed A24 Epsom, Dorking and Leatherhead), before picking up the A24 and then the A246 (following the brown signs, but taking care not to take a hard right onto the B2033 Reigate Road). Don't miss the brown sign as you enter Great Bookham, indicating the left turn up to Polesden Lacey. The main drive has granite set speed humps, the last of which is slightly higher than the rest at a maximum height of 200mm. Low-slung vehicles or caravans with a low step attachment may wish to come in another vehicle or seek alternative parking. From Guildford: Follow the A246, past East Clandon and East Horsley. Don't miss the brown sign as you enter Great Bookham, indicating the right turn up to Polesden Lacey.Parking: 200 yards from entrance. National Trust members park for free. Car parking charges are £5 for a full day. Download the JustPark app before your visit to register, or use the pay and display machines to scan membership cards or pay by cash. Ten electric vehicle charging outlets are available. See ‘Facilities’ for more information. Drivers will require their own cables to charge.Sat Nav: Please use the postcode KT23 4PZ when travelling to Polesden Lacey instead of our address postcode, which has been known to confuse and mislead satnavs.
- On foot
- North Downs Way within ¾ mile. More info on the North Downs Way here
- By train
- Boxhill & Westhumble 3 miles; Bookham 2.7 miles, Dorking 4 miles, Leatherhead 4 miles. There are taxi ranks at Dorking and Leatherhead stations.
- By bus
- Epsom, Guildford or Leatherhead to Great Bookham: More details on the Surrey Council Website. Great Bookham is 1 ½ miles on foot from Polesden Lacey.
- Cycling
- Local cycle routes can be found on the Cycle Routes website You are welcome to use the bike racks located by the main entrance to store your bicycle during your visit to Polesden Lacey. You cannot ride your bicycle anywhere in the buildings, courtyards, formal gardens or grounds. Children's sized bicycles that are 75cm or less from the ground to the handlebars are allowed in the grounds, but NOT in the buildings, courtyards or formal gardens. Children will need to dismount when going through these areas. Please be considerate of other visitors and stay aware of your surroundings when using children's bicycles in the grounds and when cycling out on the wider estate. Thank you.
- Surrey connect: on demand bus service
- Surrey connect is a Digital Demand Responsive Transport (DDRT) solution, that is available in Surrey in the areas for everyone. It is a safe and reliable bus sharing service that will connect you to your local community. The connect service operates Monday to Friday 7am to 7pm and Saturday 8am to 6pm. The connect service can be used by anyone (young, old and in-between) You can book up to 7 days in advance or on the same day. A minimum of 30 minutes notice is required to communicate your booking with the connect drive.
Planning your visit
Upcoming Events
Looking for a special day out this autumn? Find out about upcoming events at Polesden Lacey here. Whether you want some family fun in the grounds, are meeting friends for a walk or are keen to discover what's going on inside the house, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Download a map of Polesden Lacey's house and gardens
Download a map of Polesden Lacey showing the location of the house, facilities and garden highlights to help you find your way around. You can also collect a copy from Visitor Reception on arrival.
Article
A guide to accessibility at Polesden Lacey
Everyone is welcome at Polesden Lacey. While there are some challenges around accessibility due to the historic setting and landscapes, we’re working hard to make getting around and spending time here as easy, enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
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Family-friendly things to do at Polesden Lacey
Discover the seasonal joys of Surrey by bringing the family to Polesden Lacey for some fresh air. From children's trails in the grounds to fun things to spot in the house, there is plenty for all ages to see and do at this time of year. Don't forget to pick up a copy of our free family map or download it by clicking here.
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The garden at Polesden Lacey
The garden at Polesden Lacey has something to offer in every season. Watch the autumn colour spread across Ranmore Common from the exceptional vantage point of the South Lawn, indulge in the peace and quiet in the Old Kitchen Garden or drink in the seasonal interest around the formal gardens and herbaceous borders. There's always something beautiful to enjoy.
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Visiting Polesden Lacey with your dog
Polesden Lacey is a two pawprint rated place. Dogs are welcome in large parts of the garden and wider 1,600-acre estate at Polesden Lacey. Pick up a dog walkers’ leaflet when you arrive.
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Group visits to Polesden Lacey
Discover everything you need to know about bringing your group or school to Polesden Lacey, including length of visit, prices and how to book.
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Re-rambling the roses: preserving Polesden's pergola
We are raising funds to replace the wooden pergola that sits at the heart of Margaret Greville’s beloved Rose Garden and safeguard its future for many more years to come. Read on to find out how you can help.
Highlights
House
Polesden Lacey is the country retreat of Edwardian socialite, Margaret Greville. The downstairs showrooms house her extensive collection of paintings, ceramics and fine French furniture. In 2026, there are no exhibitions taking place upstairs, so the first floor will remain closed to the public all year. The team is working hard behind the scenes to create new interpretation about the history of the house and its treasures and to provide a new, free-flow route upstairs for visitors to enjoy in the future. The ground floor will remain open as normal.
Gardens
Highlights include exceptional views, the walled Rose Garden and double herbaceous borders that brim with beautiful blooms, right through to autumn. Visitors can also enjoy several short walks through and around Margaret Greville’s dog graves, the ancient woodland of Preserve Copse and the peaceful Long Walk and Nun’s Walk.
Estate
The 1,600-acre estate at Polesden Lacey boasts rolling downland with views over the Surrey Hills, ancient woodlands displaying glorious seasonal colour and wildlife habitats that are home to rare birds and butterflies.
Kestrel Corner play area
A wonderful natural play area made using wood from the Polesden Lacey estate. Enjoy the swings, tunnels and giant nests as you embrace your inner animal and get closer to nature. The perfect place to have fun and spend time outdoors this autumn.
Eating
Coffee shop serving hot drinks, cakes and snacks to take away. Café offers a bigger menu with indoor and outdoor seating.
Shopping
Retail outlet selling original gifts, local products and a gorgeous selection of seasonal plants - many that tie in with the varieties growing in the gardens at Polesden Lacey. A volunteer-run second-hand bookshop is available in the house.
Garden Room second-hand bookshop
Just to the right as you exit the house, why not take a moment to browse our excellent selection of pre-loved books in the Garden Room second-hand bookshop? We have a good selection of collectable and vintage books available to buy. If you are interested in looking at these books, please contact us on 01372 452048 for more information or to book an appointment.
Stay at Polesden Lacey
Looking for a tranquil break in Surrey? At Polesden Lacey we have four holiday cottages on the estate. Garden Cottage, a spacious three-bedroom Regency-style villa with elegant décor, sits next to the Rose Garden and Vegetable Garden. Or, stay in one of our converted, dog-friendly barns, Yew Tree Barn or one of two Bagden Farm Cottage barns on the edge of the Polesden Lacey estate. The barns are warm and welcoming retreats with contemporary interiors and lovely views sleeping two to six people.
Spotlight events
Pokémon joins Polesden Lacey’s Summer of Play
From 11 July to 13 September, Summer of Play means you can share the magic of Pokémon as a family at Polesden Lacey. Ready to unleash your energy? On top of an already jam-packed Summer of Play, discover an all-new Pokémon zone, take part in mega games, flex your skills and collect stickers! (*** Please note: Polesden Lacey will be closed to visitors on 7-11 September due to planned roadworks in the local area.***)
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Lazy Jazz Sundays and Bank Holiday Weekends
Spread out your rug on the South Lawn, take time to peruse the papers and relax with a picnic while listening to live jazz. Free after property admission has been paid. Lazy Jazz takes place between 2pm and 4pm every Sunday afternoon until 13 September, plus both afternoons of our Heritage Open Days scheme free opening weekend on 12 and 13 September. Click here to see the full programme.
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Moomins family trail
Polesden Lacey invites you to take a magical wander inspired by Moominvalley this autumn, with a family trail around the garden, meeting characters from the Moomin stories. Delve into discovering the Moomin family and their friends, living an adventurous life in the idyllic and peaceful Moominvalley in harmony with nature. Trail is free after normal property admission and runs daily from 5 September to 8 November. (*** Please note: Polesden Lacey will be closed to visitors on 7-11 September and again 14-16 September due to planned roadworks in the local area.***)
Heritage Open Days 2026
Visit Polesden Lacey for free over the weekend of 12 and 13 September (10am to 5pm) as part of the national Heritage Open Days scheme. Enjoy fun family games and activities in the grounds. Watch the house team clean the chandelier in the Gold Room inside the house. Chat to the gardeners who look after Polesden Lacey's outdoor spaces and meet groups and communities based in and around Mole Valley. Browse the pop-up second-hand bookshop or grab a bite to eat in the café. What will you do first?
Story Explorers returns for the autumn
A fun morning of stories, rhymes and nature-based crafts for pre-schoolers and their grown-ups. Wednesdays from 23 September to 14 October, 10.30am-11.30am. Please pre-book via the website and collect your token from Visitor Reception on arrival. Story Explorers sessions are free after normal property admission, but must be booked in advance as places are limited. Please book a place for your child and for one accompanying adult. Maximum 20 children per session.
The Great Polesden Mystery: a children's trail
Polesden Lacey's prized pumpkin is missing! Who took it and where did it go? Can you help Detective Grizwald solve The Great Polesden Mystery? Trail runs from 17 October to 1 November (10am to 3.30pm). Follow the children's trail around the grounds and solve puzzles along the way to discover where the prized pumpkin has been hidden. £3.50 per person, including trail sheet and small prize at the end of the trail. Normal property admission also applies.
Eating and shopping
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Eating and shopping at Polesden Lacey
Whether you want to grab a light meal, snack or hot drink, or browse beautiful gifts and local products - we've got plenty to tempt you at Polesden Lacey.
Places to stay
Polesden Garden Cottage
You’ll find gorgeous views over the Polesden Lacey estate and elegant interiors in this Regency-style villa.
Yew Tree Barn
A larch-clad barn in a peaceful spot on the Polesden Lacey Estate, with a contemporary interior and lovely views.
1 Bagden Farm Cottage
A modern, timber-framed barn with views to the Surrey hills.
2 Bagden Farm Cottage
A modern, timber-framed barn with views to the Surrey hills.
Upcoming events
Event
Pokémon joins Polesden Lacey’s Summer of Play
This summer, your favourite Pokémon just got closer! From 11 July to 13 September, Summer of Play means you can share the magic of Pokémon as a family at Polesden Lacey.
Event
Silver Strollers Walking Group
A social walk with a few steady inclines, this walk takes approximately an hour and takes in some of the best views from Polesden Lacey. Please note dogs are not allowed on this walk.
Event
Silent Space
Every Friday afternoon, take a moment to switch off and take in the surroundings in our dedicated Silent Space at Polesden Lacey.
Event
Moomins at Polesden Lacey
Take a magical wander inspired by Moominvalley this autumn, with a family trail around the garden, meeting characters from the Moomin stories. (Please note: Polesden Lacey will be closed 7-11 Sept and again 14-16 Sept).
Event
Weekend Croquet at Polesden Lacey
Come and play croquet in the picturesque setting of Polesden Lacey.
Event
Lazy Jazz Sundays and Bank Holiday Weekends
Spread out your rug on the South Lawn at Polesden Lacey, take time to peruse the papers and relax with a picnic listening to live jazz. Free after property admission has been paid.
Event
Dog Walking Group
Join the Dog Walking Group on an energetic walk around the estate with your canine friend on the second Tuesday of the month.
Event
Heritage Open Weekend at Polesden Lacey
Join us as we open the doors for free all weekend on 12 and 13 September as part of Heritage Open Days. 10am-5pm.
About Polesden Lacey
In the Surrey Hills, just 25 miles from London, Polesden Lacey is ideal for spending time with family and friends. The genius of the garden is its setting with glorious views of Ranmore Common and rolling parkland. A landscape virtually unchanged since medieval times.
Daffodils fill the lawns in spring, whilst the summer highlights are the abundant Rose Garden and stunning herbaceous borders. Deckchairs on the South Lawn make it easy to take in the far-reaching views; perfect for picnics or a scoop of dairy ice cream. Autumn offers golden colour across the landscape, and from December the winter garden brings seasonal colour and fragrance.
The house was the weekend retreat of Margaret Greville. From brewer’s daughter to friend of Kings and Queens, the house is overflowing in rich social history. Remodelled by architects Mewès and Davis, hot off their successful refurbishment of the Ritz hotel, the house interiors are a showpiece in their own right, brimming with opulence and luxury. Margaret Greville was a wealthy and discerning collector of art and objects. In her lifetime, she amassed a surprisingly varied collection including Dutch and British Masters, Italian and Sicilian Maiolica and fine French furniture.
History
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History of Polesden Lacey
Polesden Lacey, set amidst the Surrey Hills, is largely the creation of Margaret Greville in the early 20th century. Through inherited wealth and powerful connections, Margaret created a place of luxury and hospitality, with her significant art collections providing a suitably sumptuous backdrop .
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Margaret Greville, the last owner of Polesden Lacey
From her quiet childhood in Scotland, Margaret Greville climbed the social ladder to become one of the most popular socialites in the Edwardian era and owner of Polesden Lacey.
Art and collections
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Polesden Lacey's finest paintings
Discover some highlights of Polesden Lacey’s exceptional collection of paintings, created by Margaret Greville, the last owner of Polesden, and her father.
Support us
Volunteer with us
Search for live volunteering opportunities, or register your interest with Polesden Lacey.
