Find the perfect stay near Highgrove House

Highgrove House serves as the private residence of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, offering a rare glimpse into a personal sanctuary focused on nature and sustainability. You can wander through a series of imaginative garden "rooms" where organic practices and artistic sculptures blend seamlessly into the Cotswold landscape. It is an ideal spot to spend a peaceful afternoon if you enjoy seeing how a royal home creates a harmony between traditional design and wild, meadow-like beauty.

Highgrove House is a unique destination where pre-booking is essential as the gates only open for pre-arranged tours during specific months. You will find that pre-booking is essential as the gates only open for pre-arranged tours during specific months.

Exploring the grounds and planning your visit

You can visit Highgrove House, located just 1 mile from the town of Tetbury, by booking a guided tour in advance. These garden tours usually run between April and October each year and last approximately two hours. Because this is a private home, you won't be able to wander freely, so you will follow a guide who shares stories about the various garden rooms. An entry fee applies to all tours, and it is best to book well ahead of your trip as dates fill up quickly.

The paths are mostly gravel, so wear comfortable walking shoes for the 1 mile stroll. Most of the main route is accessible for those with limited mobility, and you can pre-book a manual wheelchair if needed. Please check the official site for current opening times, specific tour dates, and ticket availability before you travel.

What to expect inside the garden walls

The gardens are designed as a series of interlinked areas, each with its own character and style. You will walk through the Thyme Walk, a long avenue lined with clipped golden yew trees, and visit the Stumpery, which uses upturned tree roots to create a home for ferns and wildlife. The Wildflower Meadow is another highlight, covering 4 acres and acting as a haven for native bees and butterflies.

You will notice a strong focus on organic methods and artistic touches throughout the estate. Keep an eye out for unique sculptures and personal gifts tucked away in the foliage. The terrace of the main 18th-century house is often part of the view, though the interior of the home remains private. After your walk, you can visit the onsite restaurant or the shop, which features products from the Duchy of Cornwall.

The story behind the estate

The house was built between 1796 and 1798 and serves as a family home rather than a formal palace. It is widely known for its transformation into one of the most innovative organic gardens in the country. Since the early 1980s, the estate has been managed with a deep commitment to sustainability, using solar panels and an organic sewage system.

The surrounding Duchy Home Farm also plays a role in the estate's history, showcasing traditional farming techniques nearby. Over the decades, the grounds have evolved from a neglected space into a complex ecosystem that reflects a personal passion for the natural world. Every tree planted and wall built here tells a story of long-term environmental stewardship.

Finding your way around Highgrove House is easy, and there are plenty of options to stay around the estate and reach it. A variety of charming places to rest your head sit within a short distance of the royal gardens.

Where to stay in the Cotswolds

The market town of Tetbury is the most convenient spot to base yourself, sitting just 1 mile from the estate. It offers a mix of high-end boutique inns and cosy bed and breakfasts that fit the rural surroundings perfectly. If you prefer a quieter stay, you might look at the small villages nearby like Doughton, which is practically on the doorstep. For families or those looking for more variety, the larger town of Cirencester is only 11 miles away and provides more modern choices and larger guest houses. Staying in this area gives you a real taste of country life, with narrow streets and honey-coloured stone buildings all around.

Getting to the estate

You can catch a train to Kemble Station, which is the nearest rail link located 7 miles from the house. From there, a taxi ride takes about 15 mins to reach the entrance. If you are coming from the centre of Tetbury, it is a quick 5-min drive or a pleasant walk if the weather is on your side.

Tetbury visitors can find the best hotels near Highgrove House by searching with Opodo. We help you narrow down the options to find a deal that perfectly matches your travel plans. Booking a stay in Tetbury is fun and simple. Start your getaway today and enjoy everything this historic area offers you.