The Shugborough Estate near Stafford is offering groups a new range of tours and experiences, in both the gardens and inside the mansion.
There are also animal-themed events taking place at the on-site Georgian farm park, and musical performances throughout the summer.
New for groups
There are three new tours of the gardens available for group visitors.
Myths and Mysteries is a guided walk of the gardens and parkland taking in the Earl’s private arboretum, while History of the Gardens explores the formal Grade One listed gardens.
Meanwhile, Hermits & Hidden Gems heads around the Haywood Cliffs, taking in views of the local scenery.
An additional new experience for groups is a guided trip around the servants’ quarters with a guide dressed up the 1871 housekeeper Mrs Bonham.
Music and food
The new season also promises musical performances in the mansion, plus an evening of classics in the formal garden from the Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular.
This event will take place on 25th June, and groups of ten or more can get discounted tickets.
Groups visiting Shugborough will find a selection of catering options in the tea room, using recipes that include products grown and made on the estate, such as flour, salads, vegetables and beer.
Milk a goat
Groups can also visit the Georgian farm park to try milking a goat and to learn how to make butter.
The farm park was a location for last year’s Channel 4 TV show Time Crashers, on which Fern Britton and Kirsty Alley appeared.
More about the estate
Shugborough is set in 900 acres of parkland and riverside gardens. The estate has working Victorian servants’ quarters and a Georgian farm, a dairy and a mill all brought to life by costumed characters.
Groups visiting Shugborough can enjoy a special rate, free admission for the group organiser and coach driver benefits.
For more details, contact the group bookings team by calling 01889-881388 or e-mailing bookings@staffordshire.gov.uk.
For further information visit www.shugborough.org.uk.
