Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but children should be comfortable walking for several hours and supervised closely around the historic sites.

Are pets allowed on the tour?

Pets are not permitted during the tour to protect the historic gardens and structures.

Is photography allowed during the tour?

Absolutely, photography is encouraged, especially of the gardens, architecture, and river views, but please avoid flash photography indoors.

Are meals or refreshments provided?

This private tour does not include meals; guests are advised to bring snacks and water or plan to dine separately before or after.

How can I book this private experience?

Bookings can be made directly through the Drayton Hall Preservation Trust’s online portal or via their contact number for personalized arrangements.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?

While some pathways are well-maintained, there are uneven surfaces and stairs; please contact the provider beforehand to discuss specific needs.

Ashley River House & Garden Combination Tour with Middleton Place | Attraction in Charleston, South Carolina

Experience the captivating history and breathtaking landscapes of Charleston’s Lowcountry on the Ashley River House & Garden Combination Tour with Middleton Place. This private tour, offered by the Drayton Hall Preservation Trust, invites you to explore two of the region’s most iconic historic plantations. Begin your adventure at the Ashley River House, where you’ll enjoy a guided walk through preserved gardens, elegant architecture, and riverfront vistas. Then, set off to Middleton Place, renowned for its America’s oldest landscaped gardens, elaborate grounds, and rich history dating back to the 18th century. This curated experience offers visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage, horticulture, and river scenery. Its private format ensures personalized attention, allowing for in-depth storytelling and exploration of both properties without the crowds. The serenity of the river’s edge contrasted with the grandeur of historic gardens creates an unforgettable outing for history buffs, garden enthusiasts, and anyone interested in South Carolina’s colonial and plantation past. Whether you’re capturing photos, wandering through centuries-old oaks draped in Spanish moss, or learning about the families and lives that shaped the land, this combination tour offers a rewarding glimpse into the Lowcountry’s legacy.

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.