Cliveden House and Gardens
A historic mansion estate with breathtaking gardens, offering luxurious stays, fine dining, and a glimpse into aristocratic life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
National Trust access window
Cliveden House and Gardens
Best Time
National Trust access window
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic mansion estate with breathtaking gardens, offering luxurious stays, fine dining, and a glimpse into aristocratic life.
"Afternoon tea is a special experience while sitting overlooking the beautiful landscape."
🎯 Plan Your Entry Time
Arrive between 11 AM-1 PM for National Trust access to grounds. Book tea/dining to extend your stay.
🥾 Explore the Vast Grounds
Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walks through gardens, maze, and waterfalls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Water Garden
Cliveden Gardens
Discover a serene escape with cascading waterfalls and tranquil pools, a true hidden gem within the estate.
The Iconic Maze
Cliveden Gardens
Get lost and have fun in this classic garden feature, perfect for a playful afternoon stroll.
Afternoon Tea Experience
Cliveden House Dining Room
Indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea with exquisite cakes and sandwiches overlooking the breathtaking landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for National Trust Access
Hotel vs. Grounds Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan Your Entry Time
Arrive between 11 AM-1 PM for National Trust access to grounds. Book tea/dining to extend your stay.
🥾 Explore the Vast Grounds
Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walks through gardens, maze, and waterfalls.
🍰 Book Afternoon Tea in Advance
A popular experience! Reserve your spot for delicious treats and stunning views.
📜 Learn the House's History
Don't miss the fascinating story of Cliveden's restoration and its past.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan Your Entry Time
Arrive between 11 AM-1 PM for National Trust access to grounds. Book tea/dining to extend your stay.
🥾 Explore the Vast Grounds
Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walks through gardens, maze, and waterfalls.
🍰 Book Afternoon Tea in Advance
A popular experience! Reserve your spot for delicious treats and stunning views.
📜 Learn the House's History
Don't miss the fascinating story of Cliveden's restoration and its past.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Cliveden's grounds, particularly the Water Garden and maze, making it a wonderful day out. The afternoon tea experience is frequently praised for its delicious food, impeccable service, and elegant setting overlooking the landscape. While access to the house itself is primarily for hotel guests, the grounds offer ample beauty and historical interest for National Trust visitors.
"Very difficult not to like the Cliveden House. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful. The room (Prince Albert), albeit small, felt cosy and luxurious, with all the necessary appliances and complimentary snacks. I suggest it for anyone in question of a lovely view, and more particularly, in need of catching a glimpse of the wonderful outdoor swimming pool. The spa area is highly enjoyable, and I particularly liked that the shop offers a nice variety of products for realistic prices.
The breakfast was truly sensational with a breathtaking view. Overall, the quality of the food was great. Although the à la carte menu for room service was perhaps a bit pricey for the quality level (more specifically, the size of the meals). But again, it’s hard not to expect this being the case in a hotel like the Cliveden House. I would absolutely love to come back."
Lola Salem
"We visited Cliveden House as a family to celebrate my husband’s birthday. Being local, it felt like the perfect choice for a special occasion, a five-star experience in beautiful surroundings. Unfortunately, the visit didn’t quite meet expectations.
We were seated in what can only be described as the foyer, directly by the main entrance, with guests constantly passing through. It felt far from the elegant, serene setting we had imagined, and disappointing given Cliveden’s reputation and stunning grounds. A view of the gardens or a more private room would have made the experience far more memorable.
Service was polite but not particularly attentive, we were left waiting for plates to be cleared. The food itself was of good quality, and our daughter’s gluten-free requirements were well managed, which we appreciated.
What was most disappointing, however, was the lack of response after I shared this feedback directly with Cliveden House. For a hotel of its standing, a simple acknowledgement or reassurance that they value guest feedback would have gone a long way.
A beautiful setting with potential for a truly special experience, but sadly, it fell short on both atmosphere and attentiveness."
Shazia Khokhar
"This is a beautiful mansion just 22 miles outside of London. The drive to the hotel is amazing and the rooms, restaurants, and spa are well appointed as well. Definitely worth a visit and stay if one is in the area. Overall, our experience here was good."
C Neon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cliveden House is accessible by car, approximately an hour's drive from central London. Public transport options involve taking a train to Maidenhead or Slough and then a taxi or local bus service to the estate.
Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at Cliveden House. If you are a National Trust member, parking is usually included with your entry. Hotel guests also have dedicated parking.
While driving is the most convenient, you can reach Cliveden via public transport. Trains run to Maidenhead, from where you can take a taxi or a bus. Check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Cliveden Gardens are open to National Trust members and visitors between 11 AM and 1 PM daily. Outside these hours, access is generally restricted to hotel guests, diners, or those attending events.
For National Trust access to the grounds, it's advisable to check the official National Trust website for any booking requirements or timed entry slots, especially during peak seasons. For afternoon tea or dining, advance booking is highly recommended.
Entry fees for the grounds typically apply for non-National Trust members. The cost of afternoon tea or dining at the hotel is separate and varies. Check the National Trust website for current admission prices.
Yes, you can visit the grounds during the National Trust access hours. To experience the house's interior and elegant dining, you can book afternoon tea or a meal.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the stunning Water Garden with its waterfalls, the playful maze, and the beautifully manicured formal gardens. The house itself has a rich history worth exploring.
Yes, the maze and the expansive grounds offer plenty of space for children to explore and play. The Water Garden also provides an element of wonder.
Photography is generally permitted in the gardens for personal use. However, professional photography or filming may require special permission. Always check onsite guidelines.
The grounds have paved paths in many areas, but some sections may be uneven or have slopes. The Water Garden and maze might present challenges. It's best to check with the National Trust or hotel directly for detailed accessibility information.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Cliveden House offers fine dining experiences, including a renowned afternoon tea service and a more formal restaurant. These are typically available to hotel guests and those who book in advance.
Many visitors find the afternoon tea at Cliveden House to be a special and memorable experience, praised for its delicious food, excellent service, and stunning setting. It's often recommended for a treat.
Yes, Cliveden House is known to cater to dietary requirements, including gluten-free options for their afternoon tea. It's important to mention any dietary needs when booking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the formal dining might be more suited for special occasions, the expansive outdoor areas allow families to enjoy the beauty of the estate. It's advisable to check for any specific family-friendly events or activities that might be scheduled during your visit. Remember to plan around the National Trust access hours for the grounds.
🥂 Couples and Special Occasions
For those celebrating milestones, Cliveden House is also a highly regarded wedding venue, known for its historic charm and impeccable service. Even if not attending an event, experiencing the ambiance of the house and its grounds can make for a truly special day out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Grounds
Beyond these features, the estate boasts sweeping views and extensive walking paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The history of Cliveden House itself is as captivating as its gardens, with a past marked by significant events and restoration efforts. Learning about its journey adds another layer of appreciation to the visit.
For those interested in the National Trust aspect, understanding the specific access times is crucial. While the house is a luxury hotel, the National Trust manages parts of the estate, allowing public access during limited hours, making careful planning essential for a full experience.
The Cliveden Afternoon Tea Experience
The setting for the tea is often described as absolutely stunning, with many tables offering views overlooking the beautiful landscape. This ambiance, combined with incredible service, elevates the experience beyond just the food. The staff are attentive and cater to various needs, including dietary requirements like gluten-free options, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone.
Booking in advance is highly recommended due to its popularity. It's considered a special experience that captures the grandeur and charm of Cliveden House, making it a perfect occasion for celebrations or a luxurious treat.
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