Overview
Cliveden House is a stately home that has been the residence of dukes, earls, and even a prince. The house was built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham as a gift to his mistress, later, by 1893 purchased by the Duke of Westminster, and extensively remodelled in the Italianate style.
In the early 20th century, it became the home of William Waldorf Astor, a wealthy American businessman and politician, who added further grandeur to the property and created the beautiful gardens that are now a major attraction, and a riverside location. Cliveden House has hosted many famous guests over the years, including Winston Churchill, Charlie Chaplin, and President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Cliveden House is also known for its association with the Profumo affair, a political scandal in the 1960s involving a British government minister, a Soviet spy, and a showgirl. The events that took place at Cliveden House during this time have been the subject of numerous books and films.
The gardens, which were designed by renowned landscaper Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe, are particularly stunning and feature a range of features, including sculptures, fountains, a maze, and terraces overlooking the river Thames.
Stanlake Park Wine Estate is the largest vineyard in the county, originally known as Thames Valley.
The vineyard covers over 30 acres and is planted with a variety of grape varieties, including Bacchus, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Rondo. The winery produces a range of still and sparkling wines, including red, white, and rosé wines, as well as a range of sparkling wines.
The estate was originally a farm and orchard, but in 1979, the current owner’s father planted the first vines, and it has been producing wine ever since.
The history of the estate dates to the 12th century when it was owned by the Bishop of Salisbury. In the 18th century, the property was purchased by John Graham, who established the first vineyard on the estate.
Today, Stanlake Park Wine Estate is run by the current owners, Natalia and Jonica Fox. They have implemented sustainable practices in the vineyard and winery, including using natural fertilizers, cover crops, and integrated pest management techniques.
The winery offers tours and tastings, as well as a wine club for enthusiasts. The estate also features a vineyard shop, where visitors can purchase wines and other local products.
Shaw House, is a historic country house built in 1581 that has been beautifully restored to its original state. It was built by Thomas Dolman, a local clothier, and was later owned by the prominent Shaw family, who added to the house and grounds in the 18th century.
Shaw House is a Grade I listed building and is open to the public as a museum and cultural centre. The house and grounds have been restored and renovated, and feature exhibitions on local history, art, and culture.
Shaw House is also known for its beautiful gardens and grounds, which include a walled garden, a rose garden, and a woodland walk. The house is surrounded by 18th-century parkland, which is now a public park, and is also home to a children’s play area, a cafe, and a gift shop.
What’s Included
Meeting And Pickup
Meeting point
Windsor. The tour bus will wait in front of the Harte and Garter Hotel (next to The Ivy) at 31 High St, Windsor SL4 1PQ.
For further info, contact us in advance, and don’t wait the day of the tour, at the last minute, as it could be too late to join.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Schedule (Please note that the schedule is traffic dependent)
09:30 AM
Windsor. The tour bus will wait in front of the Harte and Garter Hotel (next to The Ivy) at 31 High St, Windsor SL4 1PQ
10:00 AM
Cliveden House (2 hours)
12:00 AM
Lunch at Cliveden House (purchase at the location) (1 hour)
13:30 PM
Stanlake Park Wine Estate (1 hour)
15:15 PM
Shaw House (1 hour 15 mins)
17:15 PM
Windsor
Additional Info
- This tour will have a maximum of 7 travellers
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Prices: £590 (1-4 people); £730 (5 people); £870 (six people); £999 (7 people)
- Please note that lunches or tea/coffee/snacks are not included
- Drinking age is 18 years old
- Near public transportation
- Operates rain or shine, please dress appropriately
- Luggage can be stored on the bus during the tour, if needed