Is previous kayaking or paddling experience required?

No, the tour is designed for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, with gentle river conditions and guided assistance.

Are meals included in the package?

Meals are not included, but there are opportunities to bring snacks or enjoy refreshments at Middleton Place.

What is the group size for private tours?

Private tours typically accommodate up to 6 guests to ensure a personalized experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

While the boat and garden paths are mostly accessible, some uneven terrain at Middleton Place may be challenging.

What should I bring with me on the tour?

We recommend bringing water, sun protection, insect repellent, comfortable footwear, and a camera.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, children over the age of 8 are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

A Day on the Ashley - Package Tour with Middleton Place

Experience a unique blend of history and nature with the 'A Day on the Ashley - Package Tour with Middleton Place,' hosted by the Drayton Hall Preservation Trust. This guided tour offers an immersive journey along the Ashley River in South Carolina, where you'll explore scenic waterways and historic landmarks, including the iconic Middleton Place estate. The day begins with a relaxing boat ride, offering stunning views of lush marshlands, local wildlife, and centuries-old architecture. Along the way, expert guides share fascinating stories about the region’s colonial past and its ecological significance. The tour is designed for small private groups, allowing for a personalized and engaging adventure. Outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike will find delight in the combination of paddling, walking, and cultural exploration. Midday breaks include a visit to Middleton Place, where you can stroll through America’s oldest landscaped gardens and enjoy the beautiful grounds. The experience is accessible for all skill levels, making it perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers wanting to connect with the natural beauty and heritage of South Carolina’s Lowcountry. Whether you're seeking a peaceful day on the water or an educational outing filled with beautiful scenery and local lore, this package offers a memorable and enriching adventure.

About Drayton Hall Preservation Trust

Drayton Hall Preservation Trust stewards Drayton Hall, a nationally significant historic property located on the Ashley River in Charleston, South Carolina. The Trust preserves America’s earliest unrestored Palladian house—often described as the nation's oldest preserved plantation house—and interprets its architectural, cultural, and archaeological stories for the public.

Programming includes daily and seasonal guided tours such as the one-hour Signature Experience Tour that visits the cellar, main, and second floors and features the Steven and Laura Gates Exhibit Gallery and the Lenhardt Courtyard Garden. Educator-led Student House Tours provide 45–60 minute curriculum-based experiences exploring African American history, architectural preservation, and onsite archaeology. Evening offerings range from Candlelight Tours that illuminate 18th-century spaces to special events like Drayton Hall at Night with live lawn music and archaeological presentations. Seasonal and community events include the popular Annual Deck the Hall Oyster Roast, holiday concerts such as African American Spirituals with Ann Caldwell and The Magnolia Singers, and hands-on workshops like the Wreath Building Workshop led by local florist Lela Solomon. The Trust also collaborates with nearby institutions to offer combination itineraries—for example, joint tours and package days with Middleton Place and Charleston Strolls walking tours—giving visitors economical ways to experience Lowcountry gardens, houses, and historic streets. Interpreters and guides emphasize preservation, authenticity, and historical context. Many ticketed experiences have limited capacity, so visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure a place.

Public programming supports conservation of the house, landscape, and archaeological collections through admission and membership, and community engagement efforts nationwide.