Ashley River House & Garden Combination Tour with Middleton Place
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, mostly walking at a leisurely pace with occasional uneven surfaces.
Overview
Discover two of Charleston’s most historic plantations in one private tour. Explore stunning gardens, grand architecture, and the beauty of the Ashley River with expert guides from Drayton Hall Preservation Trust.
Ashley River House & Garden Combination Tour with Middleton Place
For all ages! • 5 Hours • General Admission
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About This Adventure
Experience the rich history of Charleston with a unique combination tour of Drayton Hall and Middleton Place. Explore America’s earliest unrestored Palladian house and the oldest landscaped gardens, all while enjoying exclusive access to the Ashley River House & Garden. This economical package offers a memorable day of discovery and beauty.
A combination tour with Drayton Hall & Middleton Place.
Duration
5 Hours
About
A combination plantation tour ticket to see both Drayton Hall and the gardens and grounds of Middleton Place with an exclusive Ashley River House & Garden Tour. A combination ticket is the best and most economical way to visit Charleston’s most important historic attractions. The package discounts visits to Drayton Hall and Middleton Place by over 15% when purchased together. Drayton Hall, the house jewel of Charleston, SC is America’s earliest unrestored example of Palladian architecture c. 1738, and Middleton Place has America’s oldest landscaped gardens, c. 1741; together, they are two must-visit attractions to see when you visit Charleston. Drayton Hall and Middleton Place are located conveniently close to one another along the historic national scenic byway, the Ashley River Road region of Charleston.
Please note the following important information prior to registering:
- Admission tickets are good for the entire day and are all-inclusive. Guests can check in any time between 9:00am and 1:45pm.
- Our all-inclusive interpreter-led house tour ticket can be utilized until 3:30pm.
- Entrance gates close promptly at 3:30pm and our exit gates close at 5:00pm.
- Tickets purchased are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Drayton Hall is open Wednesday through Monday and is closed on Tuesdays. Guests will enjoy an interpreter-led tour of the main house with full access to the landscape, museum galleries and African American Cemetery. Entrance gates close daily at 3:30pm, property closes daily at 5pm.
Middleton Place is primarily an outdoor experience, please prepare accordingly for various weather conditions. House Museum tours are additional and may be purchased upon arrival subject to availability. Middleton Place is open from 9am-5pm; guests in the gardens by 5pm may remain until Dusk.
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Expect to walk on varied terrain including garden paths and historic grounds; comfortable footwear will make the experience much more enjoyable.
Bring Sun Protection
Gardens are largely open with minimal shade, so sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are recommended especially in warmer months.
Stay Hydrated
Carry a water bottle, as outdoor tours can last several hours and water may not be readily available along the route.
Respect Historic Sites
Follow all guidelines and avoid stepping on delicate garden beds or restricted areas to help preserve these cultural treasures.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great Blue Heron
- Eastern Box Turtle
History
Both Ashley River House and Middleton Place were central in South Carolina’s colonial plantation system, reflecting the region's cultural and economic development from the 18th century onward.
Conservation
The tour supports active preservation efforts aimed at maintaining historic landscapes while promoting environmentally responsible tourism in the Lowcountry.
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Adventure Hotspots in Charleston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides support for walking on varied garden paths and historic grounds.
Sunhat or cap
Protects you from sun exposure during open outdoor portions of the tour.
spring specific
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated in the warm and humid climate.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
Useful for unexpected showers and cooler temperatures during the fall months.
fall specific