We went through the two mazes, a little narrow in places but good feeling to get out the other end knowing you found the way through. November seemed to be a good time to visit as the roses and lavender were all in bloom and it was lovely to walk around the beautifully maintained grounds.Only disappointing note was the staff in the cafe. It was pouring with rain when we arrived so thought we might have a drink first to wait the rain out a bit. There was a large table reserved for a group who hadn't yet arrived but we were told we couldn't sit there and the staff did not try to find some room inside. Rather we had to go outside to the balcony in the wet, the staff did not assist again with putting an umbrella up or the like. So poor customer service left a bad note here, particularly when it already costs $18 per person to get in.Having done this once now, I would probably not feel the need to go again.
My friends and I visited Ashcombe as part of a private tour of the area we were doing and we loved seeing this place. Even though we were here in the winter and the foliage was sparse, you could still see the beauty of the place and of course take part in the mazes. We were the only ones here during this time (Wednesday morning) so we had the whole place to ourselves. We went through the mazes (the second one was hard but no complaints about it) and then wandered around the grounds on this cold, sunny morning, admiring the interesting art and blooming lavender. On the way out we samples the lavender scones. They were good but reminded us of the biscuits we have back in the U.S., and you couldn't really taste the lavender, although the jam was very flavorful. The staff didn't really go out of there way to welcome us but they weren't rude either. Either way, we'd recommend coming here because it really is a place of beauty and interest, and if we can say that in the middle of winter, I can only imagine what this wonderland holds in spring and summer.
Nice to revisit this attraction some 20 years after my last visitIt was a bit of fun and nice timeout in a lovely, quiet settingThe hedge itself is getting on in years, and some parts are showing the wear, but all told, still a nice time out
The mazes at Ashcombe are a lot of fun. Be aware that as the mazes are made out of plants (Lavender, Rose and Cypress Hedge), that the true beauty of some of the mazes is seasonal. That is true of any garden and that is what a visit to Ashcombe really is, a chance to wander in playful gardens. The mazes themselves are a lot fun and can be enjoyed as a walk, or added to by completing associated challenges. There are a number of extra activities for the kids (see if you can find all the hidden gnomes and fairies throughout the gardens). Aside from the mazes, there are other garden to wander and a cafe to pass some time away in.The highlight for me: the bluebells in flower. You'll need to be there around mid-late September to see them in full bloom.
Had a fantastic day here. Such a beautiful place in October so I can only imagine how much nicer it will be as the summer comes in. The whole place smells delicious. The kids were fascinated with the mazes, fountains and the lake. We also ate in the cafe. Was great value and huge portions. Would highly recommend we thoroughly enjoyed.
What a wonderful gem. An amazing array of gardens on display. The Mazes themselves are good, The Hedge Mazes (2) are both in need of a prune, but nicely set out, lots of dead ends to keep you ambling through. The Roses are superb, and the Lavender section is simply superb. The Woodlands, and water features also excellent. The addition of the chimes a great touch, and the 'search' for the little ones an added bonus. Have been to Boneo Maze too - which has a more of a focus on games. This place more a focus on gardens. Allow 2 hours, more if you want to eat some of the wonderfully 'inappropriate' food on offer too :-) (I have ticked Wheelchair access...not sure these would fit in hedge mazes...but gardens alone worth the visit)
Disappointing, we visited here. But i would not recommend. Overall the facility appears tired. Rose and lavender area very poor.We visited on new years day, i didn't see any ground staff at all.Overall just not a good vibe.Maze is not enjoyable as it's extremely narrow and is brown and woody on the inside.Perhaps this facility has potential, however needs a good injection of enthusiasm.
Lovely. A number of activities. Beautiful garden. Cafe nice though quite expensive. Lavender garden with 28 species. Expensive entry in my opinion. Get there before 4pm as shuts at 5 and costly for 1 hour.
The flowers and the plants are fantastic. Such a relaxing place, pity they dont allow picnics.The maze paths are very narrow. If you are of generous girth you might struggle to navigate the path.
Immaculate and interesting gardens, and mazes that you can really get lost in. Plenty to do here, whether with children or without, for quite a while. Well recommended.