Middleton Place
Charleston, SC 29414
Phone: (843) 554-6060
- Hours:
- Daily 9am-5pm
Editorial Review for Middleton Place – by Florrie Byrd
The Background
Set on 65 sprawling acres along the Ashley River, Middleton Place is the country's oldest formally landscaped gardens. Modeled after the palace at Versailles, the house and gardens were begun in 1741 by prominent Charleston politician Henry Middleton. For 10 years, 100 slaves worked seasonally to complete the gardens. Although the plantation's Main House burned down during the Civil War, a surviving wing was expanded and still stands today. Open daily for tours, the house is furnished with family possessions, including period furniture, portraits and silver.
The Appeal
The lushly landscaped gardens are the main draw. Stroll along winding pathways past ornamental ponds, or get lost among perfectly manicured rows of hedges and flowers. A walk down to the water's edge affords lovely views of the Ashley River. The plantation maintains working stable yards, which offer a glimpse into plantation life. Coopers, blacksmiths, potters and carpenters offer demonstrations of their crafts.
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Insider Tips
When to GoThe gardens are loveliest in spring, when dogwoods and thousands of azaleas are in bloom.
Know Before You GoAdjacent to the plantation is The Inn at Middleton Place. Guests of the inn are allowed free entry into Middleton Place.
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