Highgrove Gardens - green grass and trees near river during daytime
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Highgrove Gardens

4.7
·832 reviews·Doughton, United Kingdom

Experience the organic beauty of King Charles III's private gardens, a masterpiece of sustainable design and horticultural passion.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

September & October

Autumn colors and trees

CrowdMedium
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Highgrove Gardens - green grass and trees near river during daytime

Highgrove Gardens

Best Time

September & October

Autumn colors and trees

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the organic beauty of King Charles III's private gardens, a masterpiece of sustainable design and horticultural passion.

4.7
(832 reviews)

"Magical, beautiful, artistic, and peaceful gardens – a privilege to access."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Garden Tours Early

Tickets sell out fast! Book online well in advance, especially for seasonal walks.

Respect Photo Restrictions

No photos allowed in most garden areas during tours. Enjoy the moment!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Carpet Garden

The Carpet Garden

Next to Highgrove Shop

Inspired by a Turkish carpet sketch, this garden features geometric symmetry and a central water feature, echoing Islamic garden design.

The Stumpery

The Stumpery

Within the gardens

A unique and fascinating area showcasing tree stumps and ferns, offering a different texture and atmosphere to the manicured sections.

The Thyme and Yew Hedge Pathway

The Thyme and Yew Hedge Pathway

Framing the house

An iconic view of the house framed by fragrant thyme and meticulously sculpted yew hedges. A truly picturesque and regal sight.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Visit in Advance

Highgrove Gardens are a private royal residence, so tours are by pre-booked ticket only. Demand is high, especially for seasonal events. Secure your spot early to avoid disappointment and experience these stunning organic gardens.

Photography Restrictions

While the gardens are incredibly photogenic, photography is restricted in most areas during tours. You'll have opportunities in the courtyard and the shop area, but be prepared to soak in the beauty visually rather than through your lens for much of the visit.

Best Times

When
September & October
Why
Autumn colors and trees
Crowd
Medium
When
Early August
Why
Wildflower meadow bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring (April)
Why
Daffodils, azaleas, fritillary
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Ad what to wear for A Royal Christmas at Highgrove Gardens? #winterfashion #festivefashion #royalstyle #classicstyle #timelessfashion
@lydiamillen
150.5K likes • 1.8M views

Book Garden Tours Early

Tickets sell out fast! Book online well in advance, especially for seasonal walks. Instagram+1

Respect Photo Restrictions

No photos allowed in most garden areas during tours. Enjoy the moment! Reddit

@Lydia Millen The countdown to the holidays is underway, and Highgrove Gardens was the perfect way to start the festive season. #highgrove #christmas
@aligordon89
7.6K likes • 164.1K views
Experience Highgrove Gardens in autumn 🍂 Bookings are now open for our Autumn Garden Walks, which take place in September and October. From our historic apple orchard, to the iconic arboretum which is home to part of the national beech collection - learn about the trees that make Highgrove Gardens so special 🌳 Your visit includes sweet or savoury scones with tea or coffee in our Orchard Room Re...
highgrovegarden
1.3K likes • 0 views

Consider the Tea Room Prices

Scones and cake can be pricey. Enjoy a pot of tea or plan your budget accordingly. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking on varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:

Yesterday, I had the privilege of visiting Highgrove Gardens @highgrovegarden with The King’s Foundation @kingsfdn 35 Under 35 network, of which I am honoured to be a part this year. Developed over more than four decades by His Majesty King Charles III, the gardens embody a deep commitment to sustainability and organic practices, guided by the philosophy of Harmony - the belief that by understandi...
clavertoncloches
1.1K likes • 37K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Garden Tours Early

Tickets sell out fast! Book online well in advance, especially for seasonal walks. Instagram+1

Respect Photo Restrictions

No photos allowed in most garden areas during tours. Enjoy the moment! Reddit

Consider the Tea Room Prices

Scones and cake can be pricey. Enjoy a pot of tea or plan your budget accordingly. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking on varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:

Check Seasonal Highlights

Different seasons offer unique blooms and foliage. Plan your visit for what you want to see most! Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(832 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the beauty, artistic design, and peaceful atmosphere of Highgrove Gardens, highlighting the organic and sustainable ethos. While the guided tours are informative and engaging, some find the ticket prices and refreshment costs to be on the higher side, and photography restrictions can be a drawback for some.

"From the moment we met the gate guard til the moment we left the staff treated us warmly and looked after us superbly.
The tour started at the Hall by the Orchard Restaurant and from this point no photos allowed ( apart from the courtyard)
The day was sunny and warm and we were given detailed facts about the eclectic mix of plants, pots and follies throughout the garden. The ethos of the king was comprehensively conveyed that the garden is entirely organic and sustainable. It was April 17th so all the daffodils had gone but azaleas, cowslips and fritillary were in abundance. The topiary is stunning, the sound of birds can be heard and water fountains dotted around add to the ambience. The stumpery was the most interesting for me that day as the azalea/ hydrangea walk was not in flower. I thought we would see more of the garden than we did but there was no wandering allowed as armed police are watching your every move.
You are allowed to see the iconic thyme / yew hedge pathway that frames the house but not allowed down it.
75mins went by very quickly but it was enjoyable.
I was looking forward to a pot of tea and a scone in the Orchard tea room but the price of this was £12.50. Although the tea is a reasonable £3.50 per pot I was shocked by the price of a slice of cake for £9 !
The waitress however was very attentive and we enjoyed a pot of tea only. As the ticket was £32 each for the tour we thought this was a tad overpriced. I have seen reviews from 2 years ago that cakes were individually priced at £3.95 and this would have rounded off the visit nicely. Please bring this back.
The shop is smaller than expected but beautiful Highgrove produce was available to buy.
All in all a good visit but I’d recommend coming in early August as the wild flower meadow may be in full bloom and this year maybe spectacular.
If you are being dropped off as we were, note to the driver to drive all the way to the carpark although the signs indicate otherwise."

Susan Rooke

"WOW, what a wonderful place to visit, beautiful gardens, fantastic tour and the staff have amazing knowledge about the different plants and how King Charles developed the gardens over the many years he's lived there.
Must go back again, we were so lucky to visit on such a sunny hot day, would love to see it at a different time of the year."

Stephen Clayton

"Beautiful, artistic and peaceful gardens. Magical!!

We were able to visit King Charles III Private Residence and Gardens courtesy of Burberry.

We were guests of Burberry, who made this tour and day visit happen. Thank you to Burberry and Highgrove Gardens. Thank you as well to His Majesty King Charles III for providing this opportunity to visit his private gardens at his residence. His creativity and passion he continues to create at Highgrove is inspiring and beautiful."

David Brady

What People Like

Beautiful and artistic gardens
Organic and sustainable ethos
Knowledgeable guides

What People Dislike

High ticket/refreshment prices
Photography restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Highgrove Gardens are located near Tetbury in Gloucestershire. The best way to reach them is by car. If you are being dropped off, ensure your driver goes all the way to the car park, as signage can be a bit confusing. Reddit

Public transport options are limited. While trains run to nearby stations like Kemble, you would likely need to arrange a taxi for the final leg of the journey. Driving is generally recommended for ease of access. Reddit

There is a dedicated car park for visitors. Drivers being dropped off should be directed to drive all the way to the car park, even if initial signs suggest otherwise. Reddit

Cycling is possible, but be aware of rural roads and potential traffic. It's a beautiful area for cycling, but ensure you have a safe route planned. Reddit

Yes, there are several charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the nearby Cotswolds towns like Tetbury and Cirencester, offering a comfortable stay after your visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Garden tour tickets are priced at £32 per person. While this includes access to the gardens and a guided tour, some visitors find the overall cost, including refreshments, to be a bit high. Reddit

Absolutely! Highgrove Gardens are a private royal residence, and tours are strictly by pre-booked ticket only. Booking well in advance is highly recommended, as tickets are limited and popular dates sell out quickly. Instagram+1

Opening hours vary depending on the season and specific tours. It's essential to check the official Highgrove Gardens website for the most up-to-date tour times and availability when booking your tickets. Instagram+1

No, tickets for Highgrove Gardens tours cannot be purchased on the day of your visit. All visits must be pre-booked online in advance. Reddit

Information on discounts is not widely advertised. It's best to check the official Highgrove Gardens website or contact them directly for any potential concessionary rates or group booking information. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is restricted in most areas during the guided tours. You are generally allowed to take photos in the courtyard and around the Highgrove Shop. Reddit

The photography restrictions are in place because Highgrove Gardens is a private royal residence. This helps maintain the privacy and security of the estate. Reddit

Yes, you can typically take photos in the courtyard area and around the Highgrove Shop. These areas are usually designated for visitor photography. Reddit

While you can see the house, you are generally not allowed to walk down the iconic thyme/yew hedge pathway that frames it, and photography of the house from this specific vantage point may be restricted. Reddit

Even with restrictions, the visual beauty of the gardens is immense. Focus on experiencing the sights and sounds, and capture memories in the permitted areas. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Highgrove Gardens features the Orchard Room Restaurant, offering afternoon tea with scones and cakes, as well as savoury options. You can also purchase Highgrove produce from the shop. Reddit

Afternoon tea, including a scone and a pot of tea, can be around £12.50, with a slice of cake priced at £9. While the tea itself is reasonably priced, the cakes are noted as being on the expensive side. Reddit

It is generally not permitted to bring your own food and drinks into the gardens or the restaurant area. It's best to enjoy the offerings provided on-site. Reddit

While specific menus can change, the focus is often on traditional afternoon tea items. It's advisable to contact Highgrove Gardens directly in advance to inquire about specific dietary requirements. Reddit

The Highgrove Shop offers a range of beautiful produce, including jams, honey, preserves, and spreads, reflecting the estate's organic ethos. TikTokReddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

The guided tours are approximately 75 minutes long and provide detailed facts about the eclectic mix of plants, pots, and follies. The organic and sustainable ethos of the gardens is comprehensively conveyed. Reddit

You'll see stunning topiary, hear birdsong, and enjoy water features. Highlights include the Carpet Garden and the Stumpery. While you can see the house, access to certain areas like the iconic thyme/yew hedge pathway is restricted. Reddit

While children can visit, the experience is more geared towards adults appreciating the horticultural and historical aspects. The photography restrictions might also be challenging for younger visitors. TikTok

The tour involves a fair amount of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential. The terrain is generally manageable, but be prepared for a 75-minute exploration. Reddit

Visitors describe the gardens as beautiful, artistic, peaceful, and magical. The organic and sustainable approach creates a serene and inspiring environment. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Highgrove Gardens offer a visually stimulating environment, but the experience is primarily geared towards adult appreciation of horticulture and royal history. While children can enjoy the open spaces and the visual appeal of the gardens, the strict photography rules and the focus on detailed garden explanations might not hold their attention for the full 75-minute tour. TikTokReddit

Consider visiting during seasons with more vibrant colours or if your children have a particular interest in nature. The Highgrove Shop offers some charming produce that might appeal to younger tastes. It's best to manage expectations and perhaps focus on the visual aspects and the general atmosphere rather than expecting a highly interactive experience for very young children. Reddit

👑 Royal Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the Royal Family, Highgrove Gardens offer a unique opportunity to step onto a private royal estate and see a landscape shaped by King Charles III's personal vision. You'll gain insight into his passion for organic gardening and sustainability, which has been a lifelong pursuit. InstagramReddit

While you won't be entering the private living quarters, the guided tour provides a deep dive into the philosophy and design behind the gardens. Seeing areas like the Carpet Garden, inspired by His Majesty's own sketches, offers a direct connection to his creative input. InstagramReddit

🌿 Garden & Nature Lovers

Highgrove Gardens are a paradise for anyone who appreciates meticulous landscaping and a deep connection to nature. The commitment to organic and sustainable practices means you'll witness a thriving ecosystem, rich in biodiversity. InstagramReddit

Explore diverse areas like the Stumpery, the Carpet Garden, and the arboretum, each offering unique horticultural delights. The guided tour provides in-depth knowledge about the plants, their origins, and the sustainable methods employed. Reddit Be prepared to be inspired by the beauty and the thoughtful design that harmonizes with the natural environment. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Organic and Sustainable Ethos

Highgrove Gardens are a testament to King Charles III's long-standing commitment to organic and sustainable gardening practices. Developed over four decades, the gardens embody a deep respect for nature, with no artificial pesticides or herbicides used. This philosophy is evident in every corner, from the carefully managed wildlife habitats to the use of natural materials. Visitors often remark on the vibrant biodiversity and the healthy, thriving plant life, a direct result of this dedicated approach. InstagramReddit

The gardens are designed to work in harmony with the environment, showcasing how beauty and ecological responsibility can coexist. This includes features like rainwater harvesting and the promotion of native species. The overall experience is one of peace and natural abundance, allowing visitors to truly connect with the principles of sustainable living. InstagramReddit

This commitment extends to the produce sold in the Highgrove Shop, which features items grown on the estate, further reinforcing the connection between the gardens and their sustainable output. TikTokReddit

Seasonal Beauty and Blooms

Highgrove Gardens transform throughout the year, offering a unique spectacle with each season. While spring brings a vibrant display of daffodils, azaleas, and fritillaries, autumn paints the landscape with rich colours from its diverse tree collection. InstagramReddit+1

Visitors often recommend visiting in early August to witness the wildflower meadow in full bloom, which can be spectacular. Reddit Autumn walks in September and October highlight the historic apple orchard and the arboretum, home to part of the national beech collection. Instagram+1

Each season offers a different perspective on the gardens' design and planting. Whether it's the fresh growth of spring, the lushness of summer, or the autumnal hues, Highgrove provides a continuously evolving and captivating experience for return visitors. Reddit

The Royal Connection and Private Residence

Highgrove Gardens are not just a beautiful horticultural space; they are also the private residence of His Majesty King Charles III. This royal connection imbues the gardens with a unique sense of history and privilege. InstagramReddit

While tours offer a glimpse into this special place, it's important to remember that it is a working royal estate. This means that while you can see the house and certain iconic views, access to some areas is restricted, and security is present. Reddit The experience is a carefully managed one, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty and the King's personal touch on the landscape. Reddit

Some visitors have had the opportunity to visit through special arrangements, such as those hosted by brands like Burberry, highlighting the exclusive nature of access to these royal grounds. Reddit

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