
Polesden Lacey
An opulent Edwardian estate with stunning gardens and a rich history, once home to socialite Margaret Greville.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens in bloom, fewer crowds

Polesden Lacey
Best Time
Gardens in bloom, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An opulent Edwardian estate with stunning gardens and a rich history, once home to socialite Margaret Greville.
"Step into the glamorous world of Margaret Greville at Polesden Lacey, a truly magnificent country house."

🚗 Parking Fees
Parking is £4 all day. Consider carpooling if visiting with others.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for exploring the extensive grounds and walking trails.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Edwardian House Interior
Main House
Step back in time with opulent rooms, period furnishings, and art collections from socialite Margaret Greville's era.

The Gardens and Grounds
Various locations across the estate
Wander through manicured gardens, rose pergolas, and vast parkland offering breathtaking views.

Summer of Play Activities
Kestrel Play Park and open spaces
Family-friendly fun with outdoor games and activities, perfect for children to roam and play.

Christmas Illuminations
Throughout the estate
Experience a magical festive light show transforming the estate into a wonderland of sparkle and enchantment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Events
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking is £4 all day. Consider carpooling if visiting with others.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for exploring the extensive grounds and walking trails.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The house interiors and gardens offer stunning photo opportunities.
📅 Check Event Schedule
Polesden Lacey hosts special events like outdoor theatre and exhibitions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
Parking is £4 all day. Consider carpooling if visiting with others.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for exploring the extensive grounds and walking trails.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The house interiors and gardens offer stunning photo opportunities.
📅 Check Event Schedule
Polesden Lacey hosts special events like outdoor theatre and exhibitions.
☕ Afternoon Tea Delight
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea experience on the estate.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Polesden Lacey for its stunning Edwardian house and beautifully maintained gardens, offering a delightful step back in time. The estate's expansive grounds are perfect for leisurely walks and family fun, especially during seasonal events. While generally well-received, some find the ticket prices a bit steep for a day out.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The postcode for Polesden Lacey is KT23 4PZ. This is useful for GPS navigation when planning your visit.
Polesden Lacey is a popular day trip from London. You can drive, which takes approximately 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport options involve taking a train to nearby stations like Dorking or Leatherhead, followed by a taxi or bus.
Yes, there is ample parking available on-site. The parking fee is £4 for the entire day.
Polesden Lacey is located within the Surrey Hills, a popular area for cycling. There are numerous cycling routes that pass through or near the estate.
Bus services may vary, but it's advisable to check local transport schedules for routes serving the Polesden Lacey area, especially if relying on public transport from nearby towns.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices typically include parking. Adult admission is around £15, and child admission is approximately £7.50. National Trust members get free entry.
While not always mandatory, booking Polesden Lacey tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for special events like Christmas illuminations or outdoor theatre performances, to guarantee entry.
Opening times can vary seasonally and for specific attractions within the estate. It's best to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date Polesden Lacey opening times before your visit.
National Trust members enjoy free entry. Keep an eye out for potential family packages or special offers, particularly during event periods.
Yes, you can purchase tickets for Polesden Lacey without a National Trust membership. However, membership offers free access to all National Trust properties, which can be cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple sites.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Polesden Lacey offers a 'Summer of Play' with activities for children, including the Kestrel Play Park. The expansive grounds are perfect for running and exploring.
Dogs are generally welcome in the outdoor areas of Polesden Lacey, but they must be kept on a lead. Specific restrictions may apply in certain garden areas or during events. Check with the National Trust for details.
Polesden Lacey offers various walking trails, from gentle strolls through the gardens to more extensive walks across the estate and into the Surrey Hills. The 'Polesden Lacey walk' can be a rewarding experience.
Many areas of Polesden Lacey, including parts of the house and main garden paths, are accessible. However, some of the more rugged outdoor trails may be challenging. It's advisable to check accessibility information on the National Trust website.
Polesden Lacey hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including outdoor theatre, Christmas light shows, exhibitions, and family-friendly activities during school holidays.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Polesden Lacey has a cafe that serves light meals, snacks, and refreshments. It's a great place to refuel during your visit.
Polesden Lacey offers a traditional afternoon tea experience, which is a popular choice for visitors looking for a special treat. Booking in advance is recommended.
Yes, there are designated picnic areas where you can enjoy your own food amidst the beautiful surroundings of the estate.
If you prefer to dine outside the estate, there are several pubs and restaurants in the nearby villages of Great Bookham and Effingham.
You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in the designated picnic areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand interiors, especially the chandelier and Jacobean long gallery, are fantastic for indoor shots. Outdoors, the rose gardens, the house facade, and panoramic views from the hills offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally permitted inside the house, but flash photography is usually not allowed to protect the delicate interiors and artworks. Always check for specific signage.
Polesden Lacey occasionally hosts art exhibitions, which may include photography. It's worth checking their events calendar for current displays.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for outdoor photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details within the house.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's essential to check the National Trust's drone policy before flying any equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the house offers a glimpse into history, the outdoor spaces are where kids often have the most freedom. Consider visiting during school holidays when extra family-friendly events are usually scheduled.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts
🏛️ History and Architecture Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Margaret Greville
Greville's discerning taste is evident throughout the house, which she filled with an impressive collection of art, furniture, and objets d'art. Her legacy is one of glamour, hospitality, and a life lived to the fullest, making Polesden Lacey a fascinating glimpse into the Edwardian era's high society.
Visitors can explore rooms that were once the scene of glittering gatherings, imagining the conversations and events that unfolded within these walls. The house, now managed by the National Trust, preserves this opulent atmosphere for all to experience.
Exploring the Estate's Natural Beauty
For those who love to walk, numerous walking trails wind through woodlands, parkland, and offer panoramic views of the surrounding Surrey Hills. These paths provide a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature.
During the summer, the estate comes alive with the 'Summer of Play' initiative, offering family-friendly activities and a dedicated play park, ensuring there's something for every age group to enjoy outdoors.
Seasonal Spectacles at Polesden Lacey
Spring brings the gardens to life with blooming flowers and wisteria, making it an ideal time for a visit. Summer often features outdoor theatre performances and family-focused 'Summer of Play' activities, making the grounds a hub of entertainment.
These seasonal events, from festive lights to open-air performances, add an extra layer of charm and make Polesden Lacey a destination worth revisiting throughout the year.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit