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Polesden Lacey
A 1,600-acre estate with elegant gardens, Edwardian house and plenty of room to play
Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6BD
Important notice
On Wednesday 6 August, public access to Polesden Lacey will only be available from 10am due to the driveway closing for essential repairs to the main gate. This includes the car park. The driveway is scheduled to open to the public at 10am.
Opening times for 30 July 2025
Asset Opening time House 11:00 - 15:30 Car Park 07:30 - 18:00 Coffee shop 09:00 - 17:00 Garden 10:00 - 17:00 Café 10:00 - 16:45 Shop 11:00 - 17:00 Kiosk Opening times vary Bookshop 10:30 - 16:30 MTWTFSS3012345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031123OpenPartially openClosedAdmission from 1 March 2025
Ticket type With Gift Aid Without Gift Aid Adult (18+) £18.70 £17.00 Child (5-17) under 5s free £9.40 £8.50 Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children) £46.80 £42.50 1 adult, up to 3 children £28.10 £25.50 Become a member and discover more than 500 places
- Assistance dogs only
Assistance dogs are allowed in formal gardens, house, café and second-hand bookshop.
- Bookshop
You'll find the volunteer-led second-hand bookshop in a secluded corner on the west side of the mansion. If you have any books that you would like to donate, please get in touch. Speak to a volunteer in the bookshop or give us a ring on 01372 452048.
- Café
In the café, situated within the Stable Courtyard, you'll find a variety of hot and cold options. We also have a range of delicious cakes and classic cream teas. There are plenty of indoor tables, as well as an outdoor seating area.
- Car park
Plenty of parking available. Main car park is hard-standing and two overflow car parks are grass. Please obtain car parking ticket. National Trust members park for free. Non-members £4 per day. Download the JustPark app before your visit to register and pay. Use machines to scan membership cards or pay by cash. You can also pay by card at Visitor Reception.
- Coffee shop
As you arrive from the main car park, you'll see the coffee shop, a great place to buy hot and cold drinks, cakes and snacks to take away. Dogs are welcome in the coffee shop and there are seats both inside and outside. Opening times vary.
- Dogs allowed
Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome within selected areas inside the main grounds. Please pick up a dog walking map at visitor reception. Routes to the formal gardens are signposted assistance dogs only. On the wider estate, well-controlled dogs are welcome off lead, but please keep them on a lead around livestock and on a short lead around sheep.
Dogs allowed - more information- Electric vehicle charging point
Ten electric vehicle charging outlets available in the main car park. Chargers can be accessed via mobile app, RFID card or contactless payment device. Visit our EV charging partner, RAW Charging's website (www.rawcharging.com/drivers) to download the app before your visit. Chargers only available during property opening hours. User helpline: 020 7519 5052.
- Guided tour
Volunteer-led short house tours are available on selected days. Please ask at Reception which tours are available today.
- Kiosk
At the Beech Hut kiosk you'll find hot and cold drinks, as well as snacks and cakes, located in the middle of the pleasure grounds. Opening times vary.
- Shop
You’ll find the gift shop in the Stable Courtyard, selling a range of gifts, local products, plants and garden accessories.
- Toilet
Main toilet block available near the car park, which has an accessible toilet and baby change facilities. The café has a smaller toilet block with unisex toilets, baby changing facilities and a larger changing place.
Blue Badge parking and drop off point. Accessible toilets. Grounds partly accessible. Courtesy shuttle service (subject to volunteer availability). Mobility scooters and wheelchairs available.
- Accessible route and/or map
Accessible routes available through the pleasure grounds and formal gardens. Ground floor of house is wheelchair accessible. Please see the following link for more information.
Accessible route and/or map - more information- Accessible toilet
Accessible toilets available both in main toilet block and small toilet block next to the café. There is an adult-sized, height-adjustable changing table in the accessible toilet next to the café.
- Braille (guide or menu)
A braille guide for the gardens, estate and house showrooms is available. Ask at Reception for more information.
- Designated parking
Blue badge parking on the left as you head towards the car park. The opposite side is prioritised for visitors with mobility issues who may not have a blue badge.
- Drop-off point
Drop-off point available to the left as you approach the car park, just outside the coffee shop.
- Induction loop
Available in coffee shop, café, shop, and visitor reception.
- Level access to food outlet
Coffee shop and café have level access, the Beech Hut kiosk is in a level, outdoor area with woodchip covering.
- Level access to shop
Level access to main retail shop, second-hand bookshop has two small ramps for access.
- Level access/terrain
There are some uneven paths in the pleasure grounds, rose garden and old kitchen garden.
- Powered mobility vehicle available
Mobility scooters are available, but we recommend pre-booking these by calling ahead of your visit to ensure availability.
- Ramped access/slopes
Main access route to the house is along a slope. Alternative route is available. Ramped access to second-hand bookshop and house.
- Seating available
Coffee shop has picnic benches with tables that can accommodate a wheelchair.
- Steps/uneven terrain
Steps are scattered throughout the gardens but are marked on maps. Some areas have uneven terrain, especially in the pleasure grounds and old kitchen garden.
- Transfer available
A volunteer-led accessibility bus is available but may not run every day. Please call ahead to confirm availability.
- Wheelchairs available
Outdoor wheelchairs are available to borrow from visitor reception. To ensure availability please book ahead.
- By road
From Junction 9 of the M25: follow the A243 (signed A24 Epsom, Dorking and Leatherhead), before picking up the A24 and then the A246 (following the brown signs, but taking care not to take a hard right onto the B2033 Reigate Road). Don't miss the brown sign as you enter Great Bookham, indicating the left turn up to Polesden Lacey. The main drive has granite sett speed humps, the last of which is slightly higher than the rest at a maximum height of 200mm. Low-slung vehicles or caravans with a low step attachment may wish to come in another vehicle or seek alternative parking. From Guildford: Follow the A246, past East Clandon and East Horsley. Don't miss the brown sign as you enter Great Bookham, indicating the right turn up to Polesden.
Parking: 200 yards from entrance. National Trust members park for free. Car parking charges are £4 for a full day. Download the JustPark app before your visit to register, or use the pay and display machines to scan membership cards or pay by cash. Ten electric vehicle charging outlets are available. See ‘Facilities’ for more information. Drivers will require their own cables to charge.
Sat Nav: Please use the postcode KT23 4PZ when travelling to Polesden Lacey instead of our address postcode, which has been known to confuse and mislead satnavs.
- On foot
North Downs Way within ¾ mile. More info on the North Downs Way here
- By train
Boxhill & Westhumble 3 miles; Bookham 2.7 miles, Dorking 4 miles, Leatherhead 4 miles. There are taxi ranks at Dorking and Leatherhead stations.
- By bus
Epsom, Guildford or Leatherhead to Great Bookham: More details on the Surrey Council Website. Great Bookham is 1 ½ miles on foot from Polesden Lacey.
- Cycling
Local cycle routes can be found on the Cycle Routes website You are welcome to use the bike racks located by the main entrance to store your bicycle during your visit to Polesden Lacey. You cannot ride your bicycle anywhere in the buildings, courtyards, formal gardens or grounds. Children's sized bicycles are allowed in the grounds, but NOT in the buildings, courtyards or formal gardens. Please be considerate of other visitors and stay aware of your surroundings when using children's bicycles in the grounds and when cycling out on the wider estate. Thank you.
- Surrey connect: on demand bus service
Surrey connect is a Digital Demand Responsive Transport (DDRT) solution, that is available in Surrey in the areas for everyone. It is a safe and reliable bus sharing service that will connect you to your local community. The connect service operates Monday to Friday 7am to 7pm and Saturday 8am to 6pm. The connect service can be used by anyone (young, old and in-between) You can book up to 7 days in advance or on the same day. A minimum of 30 minutes notice is required to communicate your booking with the connect drive.
Planning your visit
Upcoming Events
Are you looking for a special day out this summer? Find out about upcoming events here. Whether you're interested in exploring the estate on a ranger-led walk, feel in the mood for some lazy summer jazz, are looking forward to a Summer of Play over the school holidays or want to visit the Dress to Impress exhibition inside the house, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Article
Dress to Impress
Dress to Impress is a fascinating exhibition at Polesden Lacey open every day until 2 November, 11am to 3.30pm. Explore how fashion in art has reflected power and personality throughout history - and is inspiring a new generation. Take a captivating journey through the glamour and extravagance of fashion. Displays include opulent costumes by students from Wimbledon College of Arts, BA (Hons) Costume for Theatre and Screen, UAL.
Download a map of Polesden Lacey's house and gardens
Download a map of Polesden Lacey showing the location of the house, facilities and garden highlights to help you find your way around. You can also collect a copy from Visitor Reception on arrival.
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A guide to accessibility at Polesden Lacey
Everyone is welcome at Polesden Lacey. While there are some challenges around accessibility due to the historic setting and landscapes, we’re working hard to make getting around and spending time here as easy, enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
Article
Family-friendly things to do at Polesden Lacey
Discover the joys of Surrey in summer by bringing the family to Polesden Lacey over the school holidays. From fun in the gardens to walks on the estate, there is plenty for all ages to see and do at this time of year.
Download a family map
Download our map for families to discover fun things to see and do - and learn how to make the most out of a visit to Polesden Lacey. Or pick up a copy from Visitor Reception on your next visit.
Article
Visiting Polesden Lacey with your dog
Polesden Lacey is a two pawprint rated place. Dogs are welcome in large parts of the garden and wider 1,600-acre estate at Polesden Lacey. Pick up a dog walkers’ leaflet when you arrive or download the guide before you visit.
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Group visits to Polesden Lacey
Discover everything you need to know about bringing your group to Polesden Lacey, including length of visit, prices and how to book
Highlights
House
Edwardian country retreat of socialite, Margaret Greville. Downstairs, the showrooms house her extensive collection of paintings, ceramics and fine French furniture. Upstairs, we offer seasonal exhibitions and some on-the-day tours.
Gardens
Highlights include exceptional views, the walled Rose Garden, double herbaceous borders and the Graham Stuart Thomas-inspired Winter Garden. You can also enjoy several short walks through and around Margaret Greville’s dog graves, a pocket of ancient woodland and our famous Long Walk and Nun’s Walk.
Estate
The 1,600-acre estate at Polesden Lacey boasts rolling downland with views over the Surrey Hills, ancient woodlands and wildlife habitats that are home to rare birds and butterflies.
Kestrel Corner play area
A wonderful natural play area made using wood from the Polesden Lacey estate. Enjoy the swings, tunnels and giant nests as you embrace your inner animal and get closer to nature. The perfect place to have fun over the summer holidays.
Eating
Coffee shop serving summer drinks, cakes, ice creams and snacks to take away. Café offers a bigger menu with indoor and outdoor seating. During peak times, visit the Beech Hut kiosk for picnic snacks, hot and cold drinks and ice cream.
Shopping
Retail outlet selling original gifts, local products and a gorgeous selection of plants - many that tie in with the summer varieties growing in the gardens at Polesden Lacey. A volunteer-run second-hand bookshop is available in the house.
Garden Room second-hand bookshop
Just to the right as you exit the house, why not take a moment to browse our excellent selection of pre-loved books in the Garden Room second-hand bookshop? We have a good selection of collectable and vintage books available to buy. If you are interested in looking at these books, please contact us on 01372 452048 for more information or to book an appointment.
Stay at Polesden Lacey
Looking for a tranquil break in Surrey? At Polesden Lacey we have four holiday cottages on the estate. Garden Cottage, a spacious three-bedroom Regency-style villa with elegant décor, sits next to the Rose Garden and Vegetable Garden. Or, stay in one of our converted, dog-friendly barns, Yew Tree Barn or one of two Bagden Farm Cottage barns on the edge of the Polesden Lacey estate. The barns are warm and welcoming retreats with contemporary interiors and lovely views sleeping two to six people.
Spotlight events
Article
Dress to Impress
Dress to Impress is a fascinating exhibition at Polesden Lacey open every day until 2 November, 11am to 3.30pm. Explore how fashion in art has reflected power and personality throughout history - and is inspiring a new generation. Take a captivating journey through the glamour and extravagance of fashion. Displays include opulent costumes by students from Wimbledon College of Arts, BA (Hons) Costume for Theatre and Screen, UAL.
Summer of Play: plan ahead for the summer holidays
Summer of Play is back at Polesden Lacey from 19 July to 14 September. Spend long summer days enjoying games and activities in Crab Apple Orchard, inspired by the work carried out by the rangers and gardeners who look after Polesden Lacey's outside spaces. Ride on mini tractors in the Tiny Explorer toddler zone, play at the bean bag toss, try a game of ranger-versus-gardener Top Trumps and let off steam clambering over our hay bales - returning to Crab Apple Orchard this year by popular demand. Booking not required and the games are free. Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.
Lazy Jazz programme
Kick back and enjoy an afternoon of live jazz this summer. Spread out your rug on the South Lawn, browse the papers and relax. Various acts, 2-4pm. Performances take place on Sunday afternoons in July and August; Bank Holiday weekend 23-25 August and 7, 13 and 14 September. You can view or download the full programme here to discover which acts are playing, as well as lots of useful information about your visit.
Discover Ranmore Common
Discover the history of the woodlands and grassland that make up Ranmore Common on a walk led by the Polesden Lacey rangers every Monday morning until 28 July. Learn about how the area around Polesden Lacey was used historically, the pivotal role grazing animals have had in shaping it and plans for the land’s ongoing and future management. Meet at Stony Rock car park (Hogden Road, RH5 6SY, what3words ///offer.runs.polite). £4 per walk, must be booked in advance – click for more information.
Play croquet this summer at Polesden Lacey
Four neatly manicured croquet courts are available for public hire at weekends and Bank Holidays between April and September. £10 per court per hour (includes mallets and balls). Book at Visitor Reception or by calling 01372 452048 or email polesdenlacey@nationaltrust.org.uk. Courts must be booked in advance and are subject to availability.
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We're Going on a Bear Hunt comes to Polesden Lacey this autumn
We're Going on a Bear Hunt is coming to Polesden Lacey this autumn (6 September to 9 November). Get ready to swish, scramble and squelch your way through a fun family trail in the grounds, based on the much-loved children's book. Runs daily, free after normal admission has been paid. Licensed by Walker Productions Ltd. on behalf of Bear Hunt Films Ltd.
Things to see and do
Article
Family-friendly things to do at Polesden Lacey
Discover plenty of family fun at Polesden Lacey this summer holiday season. Explore the grounds, take part in our exciting Summer of Play games and activities, enjoy live jazz on the South Lawn on Sunday and bank holiday afternoons and burn off some energy in the Kestrel Corner natural play area.
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The garden at Polesden Lacey
The garden at Polesden Lacey has something to offer in every season. Enjoy the welcome sight of the rose garden and herbaceous borders bursting into colour during the summer months. Watch the Production Garden fill with plants and produce and admire the views across to Ranmore Common from a deckchair on the sunny South Terrace. Seek shade under the trees in Preserve Copse on a hot, sunny day. Our team is working hard to take the garden to new heights and ensure there is always something beautiful to enjoy.
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Things to see in Polesden Lacey house
From stunning décor in the Gold Saloon to state-of-the-art conveniences, explore the ground floor of Margaret Greville's house at Polesden Lacey, a luxurious house fit for royalty.
Article
Exploring the estate at Polesden Lacey
Take a peaceful walk in the woodland and explore Polesden Lacey’s wonderfully diverse 1,600-acre estate to discover birds, butterflies and beautiful viewpoints.
Article
Kestrel Corner play area at Polesden Lacey
Kestrel Corner is a natural play area made using wood from the Polesden Lacey estate. Enjoy the swings, tunnels and giant nests as you embrace your inner animal and get closer to nature.
Eating and shopping
Article
Eating and shopping at Polesden Lacey
Whether you want to grab a picnic, eat a light meal or snack, or browse beautiful gifts and local products, we've got plenty to tempt you at Polesden Lacey.
Places to stay
Polesden Garden Cottage
You’ll find gorgeous views over the Polesden Lacey estate and elegant interiors in this Regency-style villa.
Yew Tree Barn
A larch-clad barn in a peaceful spot on the Polesden Lacey Estate, with a contemporary interior and lovely views.
1 Bagden Farm Cottage
A modern, timber-framed barn with views to the Surrey hills.
2 Bagden Farm Cottage
A modern, timber-framed barn with views to the Surrey hills.
Top trails
Trail
Polesden Lacey 10km
Enjoy this scenic 10km trail run taking in beautiful parkland and ancient woodland, as well as glorious views across the surrounding North Downs countryside.
Trail
Polesden Lacey Butterfly Walk
The estate at Polesden Lacey is home to a wide variety of butterflies. This modestly strenuous walk is perfect for walkers of any age and skill level. It takes approximately an hour and a half. Please note that Butterfly spotting is now limited due to cattle grazing in fields.
Upcoming events
Event
Summer of Play at Polesden Lacey
Summer of Play is back at Polesden Lacey! This summer, we’re creating an exciting hub of play in Crab Apple Orchard.
Event
Meet the Gardeners - Production Garden
Every Thursday from 3 July to 23 October (11am-12pm) a gardener from the Production Garden team will answer your questions about how we look after this part of the garden and show you how enjoyable it is to grow your own produce.
Event
Exhibition - Dress to Impress
Join us for a wonderful new exhibition, showcasing fashion in Polesden Lacey.
Event
Silver Strollers Walking Group
A social walk with a few steady inclines, this walk takes approximately an hour and takes in some of the best views from Polesden Lacey.
Event
Silent Space
Every Friday afternoon, take a moment to switch off and take in the surroundings in our dedicated Silent Space at Polesden Lacey.
Event
Weekend Croquet at Polesden Lacey
Come and play croquet in the picturesque setting of Polesden Lacey.
Event
Lazy Jazz Sundays and Bank Holiday Weekends 2025
Enjoy a lazy afternoon listening to live music in the grounds of Polesden Lacey.
Event
Free RSN embroidery workshop for families
Join us on Monday 4 August, for a free, drop-in embroidery workshop for families, led by a tutor from the Royal School of Needlework.
About Polesden Lacey
In the Surrey Hills, just 25 miles from London, Polesden Lacey is ideal for spending time with family and friends. The genius of the garden is its setting with glorious views of Ranmore Common and rolling parkland. A landscape virtually unchanged since medieval times.
Daffodils fill the lawns in spring, whilst the summer highlights are the abundant Rose garden and stunning herbaceous borders. Deckchairs on the South Lawn make it easy to take in the far-reaching views; perfect for picnics or grab a scoop of local dairy ice cream. Autumn offers golden colour across the landscape and from December the winter garden brings colour and fragrance.
The house was the weekend retreat of Margaret Greville. From brewer’s daughter to friend of Kings and Queens, the house is overflowing in rich social history. Remodelled by architects Mewès and Davis, hot off their successful refurbishment of the Ritz hotel, the house interiors are a showpiece in their own right, briming with opulence and luxury. Margaret Greville was a wealthy and discerning collector of art and objects. In her lifetime she amassed a surprisingly varied collection including Dutch and British Masters, Italian and Sicilian Maiolica and fine French furniture. Join a guided tour in the mornings, or wander through at your leisure in the afternoons.
Boasting a large shop and plant sales, there is bound to be something to inspire you from your visit.
History
Article
Margaret Greville, the last owner of Polesden Lacey
From her quiet childhood in Scotland, Margaret Greville climbed the social ladder to become one of the most popular socialites in the Edwardian era and owner of Polesden Lacey.
Art and collections
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Polesden Lacey's finest paintings
Discover some highlights of Polesden Lacey’s exceptional collection of paintings, created by Margaret Greville, the last owner of Polesden, and her father.
Our work
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Our work on the estate at Polesden Lacey
Find out about conservation projects on the estate, including chalk downland, how grazing helps encourage wildlife and the roving ranger volunteer project
Support us
Volunteer with us
Search for live volunteering opportunities, or register your interest with Polesden Lacey.