Cadw Open Doors Tour: Grottoes, Follies & Wartime Defences

Join us for a brand-new tour of the fascinating buildings and structures in the grounds of Insole Court.Let us take you back to the days when this was a private garden for the use and enjoyment of the Insole family.

Well explore the lodges which gave visitors their first impression at the gate, the glass houses which put food for on the table and flowers in vases, and the whimsical grottoes and follies dotted around.Well also take a look at some of the more curious structures in the garden, created after the departure of the Insole family: from the Control Control Room built by the National Fire Service during World War II to the Civil Defence Sub Control Centre built during the Cold War.

For the safety of all, we will not be able to go inside any structures but we will show photographs of interiors wherever possible.You may be familiar with the trees and plants in our beautiful grounds, but the architecture will be the star of this show!Sessions at 10am / 11am / 12pm / 1pm / 2pm / 3pm ~ Spaces limited ~ Donations welcomePlease note: Due to the condition of the historic structures, we will not be entering the buildings during this tour.

The tour will involve walking for around 45 minutes and will take place on some uneven paths.

Sturdy shoes and suitable clothing is recommended.

Meet outside the Gift Shop around 5 minutes before the start time.

Pre-booked advanced tickets only, no walk ups.