Cliveden Woods
Explore the stunning National Trust estate of Cliveden, featuring ancient woodlands, formal gardens, and riverside beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bluebells in bloom
Cliveden Woods
Best Time
Bluebells in bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the stunning National Trust estate of Cliveden, featuring ancient woodlands, formal gardens, and riverside beauty.
"A fantastic day out at Cliveden! Perfect escape with stunning views and shady paths."
🎯 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Save money and enjoy scenic spots by bringing your own food. Picnic tables available by the Thames.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths can be uneven and muddy. Sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring the woods.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bluebell Woods
Woodland areas
A breathtaking carpet of blue in spring, these woods offer a magical, serene experience.
Cliveden House Grounds
Main estate
Explore manicured gardens, secret spots, and stunning views from the terrace of the historic house.
Thames River Access
Down by the river
Enjoy picnic spots and, in summer, boat trips offering a different perspective of the estate.
Yew Trees
Woodland areas
Ancient and symbolic Yew trees with exposed roots, representing strength in vulnerability.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Woods, Pack Accordingly
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Save money and enjoy scenic spots by bringing your own food. Picnic tables available by the Thames.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths can be uneven and muddy. Sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring the woods.
🚗 Insider Parking Tip
Look for the 'insider car park' to reduce walking distance to the main house.
☀️ Seek Shade on Hot Days
The extensive woodlands provide welcome shade during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Save money and enjoy scenic spots by bringing your own food. Picnic tables available by the Thames.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths can be uneven and muddy. Sturdy walking shoes are a must for exploring the woods.
🚗 Insider Parking Tip
Look for the 'insider car park' to reduce walking distance to the main house.
☀️ Seek Shade on Hot Days
The extensive woodlands provide welcome shade during warmer months.
🚤 Summer Boat Trips
Check in advance for boat rides on the Thames for a unique perspective.
🌸 Spring Bluebell Spectacle
Visit in spring to witness the magical bluebell woods in full bloom. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cliveden Woods for its vast, beautiful grounds and shaded woodland trails, making it an ideal escape. The estate offers diverse experiences from formal gardens to riverside picnics, though some find the on-site shop items overpriced. It's a highly recommended family day out.
"Cliveden is one of our favourite NT places. The grounds are stunning with so many different walks.
We really loved our recent visit. They've made such an effort to make it all Christmasy. Opening until 6pm on Thursday's and Friday's over the Christmas period, meant we could enjoy the Christmas trees lit, the paths and the lights around the pond, also the decorated cafe.
Thanks guys, it was all so magical."
Lily
"We've been visiting Cliveden for decades & I can say that it is one of my favourite N. T. destinations.
It is only a 30 minutes drive for us which makes it easy to access. We always take a picnic as it always nice to choose where you sit , especially when the weather is good.
Whether it is the Parterre or The Water Garden , the Herbaceous Border or the excellent newly laid out Long Garden all are lovely & the extensive woodlands are great to wander around at any season. The grass area down by the Thames has picnic tables & in Spring & Summer there are toilets & a trailer cafe. Be aware that neither are there in Autumn & Winter.
The shop in the car park has some quality goods & also plants for sale - these are massively overpriced in my opinion.
There is also a cafe here.
Never been in the house but have enjoyed the fantastic view from the terrace. Don't miss a chance to visit the small Chapel if is open."
Keith Hainge
"A fantastic day out at Cliveden!
We had a wonderful family day out at National Trust's Cliveden. It was a perfect escape from London. We loved strolling through the grounds, which provided much-needed shade on a hot day. The views were stunning, and the kids were delighted with their ice creams.
A quick tip for visitors: Be sure to look for the insider car park to avoid a long walk to the main house. We also wished we had known about the boat rides in advance, so be sure to check that out if you visit! Highly recommend for a family day trip.
The estate is stunning, we especially appreciated the beautiful, shady walking paths that made our strolls incredibly relaxing. We found a great spot for our packed lunch, which was a nice way to save a bit of money and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The views across the grounds were truly magnificent. The kids absolutely loved their ice creams, and I enjoyed a well-deserved coffee break."
Purushotham Nanjappa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cliveden Woods is part of the National Trust's Cliveden estate, located near Taplow/Maidenhead. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options include train to Maidenhead station followed by a taxi or bus.
Yes, there is parking available at the Cliveden National Trust site. Arriving early or later in the day is recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Cycling is permitted on some of the estate's paths, but always check specific signage for designated routes. It's a beautiful area for a bike ride.
While driving is the most convenient, you can reach the vicinity via train to Maidenhead. From there, a taxi or local bus service would be required to reach the estate.
Using a GPS or navigation app with the address 'Cliveden Road, Taplow, Maidenhead, SL1 8NS' will guide you directly to the National Trust entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cliveden Woods is part of the National Trust estate. Entry fees apply for non-members, covering access to the house, gardens, and woodlands. National Trust members get free entry.
The grounds and gardens are typically open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date opening times, as they can vary seasonally.
Yes, you can purchase a grounds-only ticket or use your National Trust membership to access the extensive woodlands and gardens without entering the house itself.
National Trust membership offers free access. For non-members, look out for potential family ticket deals or special event pricing.
Generally, National Trust properties do not offer refunds for bad weather as the grounds are accessible in most conditions. It's advisable to check the forecast before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore miles of walking trails through woodlands, discover hidden gardens, enjoy picnics by the Thames, and admire the historic Cliveden House from the outside. There's also a discovery play trail for kids.
Dogs are welcome in the woodlands and some garden areas, but must be kept on a lead. They are not permitted inside Cliveden House or the formal gardens.
Absolutely! The discovery play trail offers forest school vibes, and the open spaces are great for running around. Kids often love the ice cream available on-site.
Yes, there are designated picnic areas, particularly down by the Thames. It's a popular way to enjoy the estate and save money.
The trails vary in length and difficulty, from gentle strolls through the bluebell woods to more extensive walks down to the Thames. The woodland paths offer great shade.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a cafe near the car park and a larger cafe/restaurant closer to the main house. A trailer cafe is also available by the Thames in spring and summer.
Expect typical cafe fare like sandwiches, cakes, hot and cold drinks. The Astor Grill at Cliveden House offers a more formal dining experience.
Yes, bringing a picnic is highly encouraged and a great way to enjoy the grounds. There are plenty of scenic spots to set up.
Most cafes offer a selection of vegetarian options. It's advisable to check the menu on the day or inquire directly with the staff for specific vegan choices.
While picnics are welcome, bringing excessive amounts of alcohol or having rowdy gatherings may not be permitted. It's best to consume responsibly and respectfully.
📸 📸 Photography
The bluebell woods in spring, the formal gardens with Cliveden House in the background, and the views from the terrace overlooking the Thames are all highly photogenic.
Drone usage is generally restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the specific drone policy for Cliveden before flying.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for landscape and portrait photography. Midday can be harsh, but the dappled light in the woods is also lovely.
While generally permitted for personal use, commercial photography may require prior permission. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expanse of the gardens and woods. A macro lens can be fun for nature details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The extensive grounds provide ample space for kids to run around, and the shaded woodland paths are perfect for escaping the heat. Don't forget to look out for the ice cream stands, a guaranteed hit with the little ones! Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic spots, especially down by the Thames. This is a great way to keep costs down and make the most of the beautiful surroundings. Checking the National Trust website for any family-friendly events happening during your visit can also enhance the experience.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
You can opt for shorter, leisurely strolls or more challenging hikes that lead down to the River Thames. Be prepared for varied terrain; sturdy walking shoes are essential as paths can be uneven and muddy.
📸 Photographers
+2 The formal gardens, with Cliveden House as a backdrop, provide classic stately home shots, while the views from the terrace over the Thames are breathtaking. For landscape photographers, the dappled light filtering through the trees in the woods creates a magical atmosphere.
Consider visiting during the golden hour for the most dramatic light. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the environment when seeking out your perfect shot. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Landscapes
+2For those seeking tranquility, the shaded trails within the woods are perfect for a peaceful walk, offering respite from the sun on warmer days.
+1 The estate also boasts access to the River Thames, with areas perfect for picnics and, during the summer months, opportunities for boat trips. A Glimpse into History and Symbolism
Their exposed roots are a testament to their age and resilience, offering a unique visual and contemplative experience for visitors. The National Trust meticulously manages the estate, preserving its natural beauty and historical integrity. This stewardship ensures that visitors can continue to appreciate the blend of natural landscapes and historical elements that make Cliveden a special place.
Family Fun and Activities
This trail encourages imaginative play and exploration, keeping younger visitors entertained for hours. Beyond the play trail, the open spaces and gentle paths are ideal for family walks, and the promise of ice cream is often a big hit with kids.
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