Cliveden Gardens and Maze - National Trust

You can’t go over it. You can’t go under it. You’ve got to go through it! Follow in the characters’ footsteps to brave the elements. Roam through swishy swashy grass, conquer thick oozy mud, brave swirling whirling snowstorms and tiptoe through a cave in search of the bear. As you follow the trail, scan the QR codes to discover the AR filters. Don’t forget to snap photos along the way!

Fantastic fun for all ages, round up your friends and family and see who will be the first one to spot the bear. Trail is included in normal admission. 9 May to 5 July 2026, 9.30am to 5pm.

Pokémon joins Cliveden’s Summer of Play - Saturday 18 July - Sunday 6 September 2026

Planning your summer holidays? Discover a Summer of Play supported by Pokémon. Plus, don't miss the Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trail ...

This summer, your favourite Pokémon just got closer! From 18 July – 6 September, Summer of Play means you can share the magic of Pokémon as a family.

Cliveden Gardens

Step into Cliveden’s storybook gardens and wander where kings, queens, and adventurers once walked. Discover colourful flower displays, twisting mazes, sculptures, and plenty of space for family fun.

Discover Cliveden’s beautiful Rose Garden, bursting with colour from summer through autumn. With hundreds of roses in every shade — plus new varieties like Roald Dahl and Bring Me Sunshine — it’s the perfect spot for families to wander, take in the scents, and spot buzzing bees and butterflies among the blooms.

Kids will love exploring the various themed gardens. The Water Garden, with its charming lily ponds and bridges, is a hit with young nature enthusiasts. The formal Parterre, with its vibrant flower beds, offers plenty of space for running around and playing hide and seek.

If you're looking for something truly unique, did you know they have a giant sequoia tree here? They also have a flint grotto, expansive woodlands with majestic trees, and tranquil glades. Cliveden showcases far-reaching views and offers a variety of landscapes, from formal gardens to wildflower meadows. The 500-metre-long maze will naturally draw the kids, and it's great for older kids to challenge themselves in the woodlands. However, the National Trust requests that under-11s be accompanied.

Children's Playground

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 the back of the Water Garden, along with picnic tables too. Please note that the Story book Play Den closes 15 minutes before the gates close. Opening times can be found on our website.

Cliveden’s house

Step inside Cliveden house, a place of intrigue and glamour for the elite since it was built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham as a gift to his mistress. Enriched with antique furniture and period features, it has stayed true to its roots while providing a luxurious setting to rest, meet and play. Tickets available March to October (please check our website early March 2026 for specific dates and more details).

Food & Drink

Head to The Conservatory Café, where you'll find a range of delicious meals, from sandwiches and soups to other tasty treats. The kids' menu ensures even the pickiest eaters will find something they love. Don’t forget to try the homemade cakes and scones – they’re a real treat. Head to the Walled Garden car park to grab a takeaway hot drink or snack from the Refreshment Kiosk Grab and Go. It's dog friendly, so feel free to bring your pooch along too. Open daily from 9.30am – 3.30pm.

Why We Suggest Cliveden for Families

Cliveden offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and family-friendly fun, making it an ideal destination for a day out with the kids.

From exploring the lush gardens and woodlands to uncovering the secrets of Cliveden House, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had. With engaging activities, delicious dining options, and practical amenities, Cliveden ensures a memorable experience for families of all ages.

Planning your family visit

• Accessible toilets are available at the Doll's House, next to the Storybook Play Den and in the Gas Yard.

• Baby-changing facilities in Female & Male Gas Yard, Conservatory Toilets and in both toilets at the Doll's House.

• Accessible paths map available from the Information Centre.

• Paths around the formal gardens are laid to hard standing paths with a loose gravel top. Upon leaving the level access route, the Cliveden’s site is undulating with steep slopes in places and many steps (particularly when visiting Cliveden Riverside).

• All the paths around the Cliveden Estate are buggy friendly, however, the Woodlands may require a sturdier buggy.

• Two manual wheelchairs (including off road) and two all-terrain trikes (non-powered) are available from the Information Centre. We recommend hiring in advance of your visit. Please email cliveden@nationaltrust.org.uk or call 01628 605069 to book.

• Two sturdy pushchairs are available at the Information Centre. Pre-booking is available but not essential.

• For picnic areas, head to the picnic area opposite the Walled Garden (next to the service drive). There are also picnic benches / tables at the back of the Water Garden, by the river and at the Woodland lounge.

• For quiet areas, visit Blenheim Pavilion, the Rose Garden, the Round Garden and War Memorial Garden.