Cliveden House is a historic country estate located in Buckinghamshire, England. It is famous for its magnificent gardens. When we looked out at the panoramic views from Cliveden’s terrace, it reminded us a little bit of Versailles. It’s breathtaking! The gardens are a must-visit for anyone who loves nature and is interested in exploring some of the most beautiful gardens in the country. Here are a few of the highlights when exploring the stunning gardens at Cliveden.
Cliveden’s Famous Parterre
The gardens and woodlands at Cliveden House cover approximately 376 acres and feature a variety of different styles and themes. Cliveden’s stunning Parterre are formal gardens consisting of geometric patterns including low hedges and colorful flower beds, inspired by Head Gardener John Fleming in 1855.
The Parterre Gardens are renowned for their exquisite design and meticulous maintenance. Enjoy an abundance of colourful blooms and scents throughout the year.
Fountain of Love
What an amazing work of art! As you approach Cliveden House, the Fountain of Love awaits you at the end of the main driveway. The exquisite two-color marble sculpture was meticulously crafted by the contemporary artist and sculptor, Thomas Waldo Story, in Rome. The centerpiece of the fountain is a large shell dish that is surrounded by three groups of female statues, each one emanating a sense of grace and beauty. The fountain also includes cascading sprays of water, which add a sense of enchantment to the already captivating scene. Play our video to listen to the soothing sound of water. And enjoy your moment of Zen.
Water Garden & Oriental Pagoda
Cliveden’s stunning oriental-style Water Garden was one of our favorite places to explore. The picturesque pond, filled with water lillies, is reminiscent of a Monet painting. The large pond is surrounded by winding paths, trees, bamboo, and exotic plants, all of which combine to create a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Stepping stones lead to a hexagonal wooden Oriental Pagoda. It may be a little challenging to navigate the stepping stones if you aren’t wearing flat shoes, so be careful when crossing the pond. The Water Garden is a wonderful place to explore, unwind and soak up the natural beauty of the English countryside. This area is especially popular with visitors during Spring and early Fall. We visited Cliveden during mid-September and the weather and Water Garden were magnificent.
Long Garden
Wait until you see Cliveden’s stunning Long Garden, created by William Astor in 1896. Aptly named, the Long Garden is a masterpiece of formal design, stretching for over 500 feet. The garden features a spectacular array of seasonal flowers, striking topiaries, and Astor’s impressive collection of sculptures. The classical statues are carefully placed along the length of the garden’s central pathway. They include replicas of some of the most iconic figures from ancient Greece and Rome. The statues are a testament to the estate’s rich history and longstanding tradition of collecting fine art, and offer visitors a unique glimpse into the world of classical sculpture. Take time to walk along this impressive and unique garden.
The Rose Garden
The main attraction of the Rose Garden is its vast collection of roses that bloom from June to September. The garden is also home to an impressive collection of statues that add a sense of elegance and charm to the already picturesque setting. The statues are strategically placed among the vibrant and fragrant roses, creating a harmonious blend of nature and art. The Rose Garden is a wonderful place to visit for anyone who loves roses or who simply wants to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of a well-designed garden.
Cliveden Maze
Cliveden Maze consists of over 1,000 yew trees, which have been carefully trimmed to create a labyrinthine pattern. The maze covers half-an-acre and features several dead ends and false paths, making it a fun and exciting challenge for visitors of all ages. At the centre of the maze, there is a viewing platform, which provides a panoramic view of the surrounding gardens and estate. The maze is maintained to a high standard and is a popular attraction for visitors to Cliveden, who enjoy the thrill of getting lost and then finding their way out again. Fun for kids and adults alike!
Woodlands Walking Trails
The Woodlands Walking Trails offer visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful woodlands surrounding Cliveden House. The estate covers over 376 acres and includes a range of different habitats, from ancient woodland to open meadows and riverside paths. The walking trails are well signposted and offer a range of different routes, from short strolls to longer hikes, with options suitable for all ages and abilities. Trail options include a 2.3 mile dog-friendly Green Walking Trail, a shorter 1.6 mile Blue Walking Trail, and a longer 3.1 mile Gold Walking Trail.
Along the way, walkers can enjoy stunning views of the River Thames and the surrounding countryside, as well as a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a range of bird species. The Woodlands Walking Trails are a wonderful way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and to connect with nature in a peaceful and serene setting. The trails are open all year round and are a popular destination for walkers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Boat Trips and Boat Picnics
Cliveden Boat Trips offer visitors the chance to explore the River Thames and the surrounding countryside from a unique perspective. The boat trips depart from the Cliveden Boathouse, which is located on the banks of the river within the Cliveden estate. The boathouse was built in the 19th century and is a beautiful and historic building in its own right. The boat trips take visitors on a leisurely cruise along the river, passing by some of the most picturesque and historic landmarks in the area, including Maidenhead Bridge, Windsor Castle, and Eton College. The boat trips are available from April to October and are a popular attraction for visitors to Cliveden, who enjoy the opportunity to relax and unwind while taking in the stunning scenery. The Cliveden Boat Trips are a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area and provide a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty of the River Thames.
If you love nature and you’re looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating escape, consider a visit to Cliveden. Its gardens are a popular destination for visitors and are a must-see attraction for anyone interested in horticulture and garden design. We’re looking forward to our next visit across the pond. See you at Cliveden!
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