
Discover more at Cliveden
Find out when Cliveden is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
If you’re looking to get the whole family outside, look no further. Cliveden has something to offer everyone, whether young in body or young at heart. From fun walking trails to boating on the Thames, this is your one-stop shop to help you get the most out of your family visit to Cliveden.
From mid-September, there's a new way to explore the estate as it gradually transforms into its autumn finery of orange, red and gold. Pick up a free, self-led trail map and become a leaf detective, discover animals and birds fattening up for winter and help gather leaves for compost.
Cliveden's Scarecrow festival is returning for its second year. Follow the scarecrow trail where each and every one has been lovingly created by local community groups. Look out for pop-up crafts to make your own mini-scarecrow.
Last chance to enjoy the golden days of early autumn on the prettiest stretch of the River Thames. There are skippered cruises, self-hire electric boats, rowing boats, Canadian canoes and even a double pedal boat. Until October.
Little ones love to play in the Storybook Play Den, complete with carved wooden figures and structures to run around, climb and play make-believe. Situated in a corner of the Water Garden, the playground is next to the Doll's House cafe which is open on weekends and busy days for that all-important parental coffee whilst the children play. There are picnic tables too.
Can you find your way to the centre of Cliveden’s Giant Maze? The current maze is based on one that was built for the 1st Viscount Astor in 1894 and has over 500 metres of paths winding amongst two-metre high hedges. The maze covers approximately one third of an acre, making it the same size as the world-famous Hampton Court Maze. Older children enjoy challenging themselves with this one.
Created using the layout of the woodland, this all-natural trail is a great opportunity to explore the woods and let imaginations run free.
You can while away an hour or two on the log stepping stones, balancing beams, rope swings and more. There are also opportunities to strengthen your climbing and den building skills along the way. Situated in the heart of the woodlands just beyond the entry kiosk, off Green Drive, it is a great way to get active outdoors and all in the name of fun. Designed with children aged 6+ in mind.
Just next to the play trail you will also find Clive's Den, an extra-special natural den for make-believe of all kinds. It is big enough for the whole family to hide, plus there are wooden musical chimes to play and it's a great secluded spot to pop your feet up at our tree trunk picnic tables.
Discover some great family walks and trails in Cliveden's historic woodlands. We've plenty of walks to choose to get the whole family spending time together in the great outdoors, whether exploring the grounds or making natural discoveries together.
If you are enchanted by the woodlands and want to see more then why not try our Blue Walking Trail? You can start from the Play Trail and follow the blue arrows to take a short circular route. Scroll down this page for more information about the Blue Walking Trail.
Don’t forget to also keep a close eye out for the variety of birds, bats and bugs that live here, and if you're feeling adventurous, why not do a spot of bug hunting?
Just beyond the woodland car park you can also discover our striking elephant, bear and tiger wood carvings, as well as the famous Cliveden snails ornately crafted by local woodcarver Nick Garnett. These wooden snails, carved using a chainsaw, represent the tiny snails that were 'imported' from Rome in 1896 in the Borghese Balustrade.
There are lots of '50 things to do before you're 11¾' activities to tick off during your visit. Here are a few recommendations:
No. 1 Get to know a tree: The woodland at Cliveden is home to many fascinating trees. As well as majestic trees, tranquil glades and far-reaching views there are some unusual features to look our for in our woodlands too. Nestled within this landscape of tree-lined rides you'll find curiosities including a flint grotto and a section of giant sequoia tree.
No. 6 Go welly wandering: A spot of rain doesn’t need to dampen your spirits. Pull on some wellies and explore the garden and woodland.
Find out when Cliveden is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
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.
Take a guided tour of Cliveden house – now a luxury hotel – and visit the chapel, final resting place of three generations of Astor family.
Follow in the footsteps of dukes, earls, kings and queens at Cliveden as you stroll through a series of areas in the impressive garden, each with its own special charm.
Discover majestic trees, tranquil glades and far-reaching views as well as some unusual features in Cliveden’s woodlands, including a flint grotto and part of a giant sequoia tree.
Choose from a range of refreshments at the cafes and kiosks at Cliveden fuel your visit around the estate.
There are lots of things to do when you visit one of our family-friendly places. Find inspiration for days out and discover a range of activities for everyone.
Fancy running free in the fresh air, learning new skills and trying new things? Grab your gear and start your adventure.
Discover all about the popular pastime of boating, links to Wind in the Willows, and how to hire a boat to enjoy the River Thames at Cliveden.