Highgrove Gardens, Gloucestershire Travel Guide

4.7 (725)

Explore the sustainable, beautifully crafted private gardens of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, open seasonally in the heart of the Cotswolds.

Highgrove Gardens, the private residence of King Charles III and Queen Camilla near Tetbury, Gloucestershire, offers visitors a rare glimpse into a beautifully crafted, sustainable garden open April to October. Known for its organic management and diverse themed areas, it blends horticultural artistry with environmental stewardship, welcoming guests on guided tours that reveal its rich history and royal charm.

A brief summary to Highgrove Gardens

Highgrove House, Tetbury, Doughton, GL8 8TN, GB
Click to display
Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Highgrove Gardens.

Book your garden tour well in advance as visits are limited and highly sought after.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on varied garden paths.
Plan your visit between April and October when the gardens are open to the public.
Only assistance dogs are allowed in the gardens to protect the delicate environment.
Allow extra time to explore the Highgrove Shop in Tetbury for unique garden-inspired gifts.

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Explore Highgrove Gardens on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Highgrove Gardens, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

Driving from central Tetbury to Highgrove Gardens takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes via rural roads. Parking is available on site but limited, so early arrival is recommended. Note that road access can be narrow and winding.
Public Transport

Take a train to Kemble station, about 15 km from Highgrove, then a taxi or local bus service to Tetbury, followed by a taxi to Highgrove Gardens. Total travel time ranges from 1 to 1.5 hours. Public transport options are limited and require advance planning.
Walking

For visitors staying in Tetbury, walking to Highgrove Gardens is possible but involves a 4 to 5 km rural walk on country lanes and footpaths, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours. Paths may be uneven and not suitable for wheelchairs.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Food Options
Drink Options
Seating Areas
Information Boards
Visitor Center

Discover more about Highgrove Gardens

A Royal Vision for Sustainable Gardening

Highgrove Gardens is the private home of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla, located near Tetbury in the scenic Cotswolds. Since acquiring the estate in 1980, King Charles has dedicated himself to transforming the gardens into a pioneering example of organic and sustainable horticulture. The gardens are managed without synthetic pesticides or herbicides, reflecting the King's lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship and biodiversity.

Distinctive Garden Spaces and Features

Visitors to Highgrove can explore a variety of themed garden areas that showcase both traditional and innovative gardening techniques. Highlights include the Kitchen Garden, where seasonal vegetables and herbs flourish; the Arboretum, featuring a diverse collection of trees; the Stumpery, an artistic arrangement of tree roots and ferns; the Cottage Garden, bursting with colorful blooms; the Sundial Garden, a focal point of design and timekeeping; the Thyme Walk, lined with aromatic herbs; and the Wildflower Garden, supporting native pollinators.

Exclusive Access and Visitor Experience

While the house itself remains private and closed to the public, the gardens open for guided tours from April through October. These tours typically last around 90 minutes and offer an intimate experience with small groups, allowing visitors to fully absorb the gardens’ beauty and learn about their history and ecological principles. The tours are carefully managed to avoid overcrowding, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

Events, Workshops, and the Highgrove Shop

Beyond garden tours, Highgrove hosts a range of events and workshops that celebrate crafts and nature, such as stained glass making, calligraphy, floral art, and candle making. The onsite Highgrove Shop in Tetbury and the garden’s visitor center offer exclusive products including botanical prints, fine bone china, and artisan crafts inspired by the gardens and royal heritage.

Location, Accessibility, and Amenities

Situated in the rural village of Doughton near Tetbury, Highgrove Gardens is surrounded by the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, providing a peaceful countryside setting. The gardens are accessible by car with parking available, and public transport options connect from nearby towns. Facilities include restrooms, a café serving refreshments post-tour, and seating areas. Only assistance dogs are permitted within the gardens to maintain the environment.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Highgrove Gardens stand as a living testament to King Charles III’s passion for gardening, conservation, and cultural heritage. The estate exemplifies how private gardens can serve public inspiration, promoting sustainable practices and a deep connection to nature. Each visit offers a unique opportunity to experience a royal garden that balances tradition with innovation, artistry with ecology.