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Group Visits to Bluebell Cottage

We are delighted to welcome group visits to the gardens, whether your group's interests are horticultural or just the pleasure of a good day out.

An all-inclusive package for groups

  • Entry to the gardens, meadow and bluebell woods
  • Introductory talk and/or guided tour of the gardens by Sue Beesley or senior member of staff
  • Tea, coffee, and cakes
  • Exclusive use of the tea room for refreshments

Everyone will have the opportunity to purchase plants from the nursery during your visit.

Group ticket prices

In 2024 the all-inclusive cost for group visitors is £8.50 per head. RHS members visiting as part of a group visit during our normal opening hours enjoy a reduced group rate of £5. RHS members visiting with a group during evenings or on Tuesdays are charged at the normal group rate of £8.50.

Opening Hours for Group Visits

In 2024 the gardens are open from 27th March to 27th September Wednesdays through to Saturdays, 10am to 5pm. If your group plans to visit during our normal opening hours, we request a minimum group size of 15 persons for an all-inclusive booking. We can also arrange visits on certain evenings and on Tuesdays when we are closed to the public. We request a minimum group size of 20 people for groups outside our normal opening hours.

If your group is smaller than 15 people you are very welcome to come along when we are open on a pay-as-you-go basis for garden entry and refreshments. We always appreciate knowing in advance so that we can be sure we have enough cake in.

We recommend allowing about two hours for a group visit, preferably in the morning or afternoon. We do not have facilities to provide lunch, but can recommend some excellent pubs nearby.

Booking a Group Visit

Group Booking Form

Please complete the booking form in advance of your planned visit and we will respond promptly. We can only take one large group booking at a time, so it is vital to book in advance. We are happy to hold provisional dates for you while you make arrangements. We only need final numbers one week before your visit and you can pay on the day. No deposit is required.

Cars

There is ample parking on site for up to 20 cars. Disabled visitors are welcome to park next to the nursery entrance. Please ask a member of staff if unsure where to park.

Coaches

We welcome pre-booked coach groups and can take coaches up to 12m in length. We have a dedicated parking area for coaches on our site. Longer coaches have difficulty navigating our narrow lane and cannot enter our parking area, causing disruption for our neighbours, so do please ensure your coach contractor is able to offer a suitable coach, the smaller the better.

Access is over a canal bridge which has no weight limit. Drivers are advised to fully engage the coach's ferry lift before approaching the bridge to ensure ground clearance.

Nearby places to visit

Looking to make a day of it? We are delighted to recommend the following nearby gardens, all of which are members of the Cheshire Gardens of Distinction Scheme

  • Arley Hall and Gardens
  • Abbeywood Gardens
  • Norton Priory
  • Stoneyford Gardens
  • Tatton Park