Historic Shirley will offer a limited number of group tours each year for groups of 15 or more.
A group package includes a guided tour of the home’s first floor, with original family portraits, antiques and unique flying staircase, as well as a self-guided tour of the grounds and eight 18th century outbuildings, audio tour, exhibits, and nature walk.
Additional group programs are available and customizable to the length of time scheduled for visiting.
Boxed lunches are available to order with a minimum of one week advance payment required.
Seated lunches – additional fee per person by reservation, or picnic for free.
Seated supper or dinner may be available for an additional fee per person.
We require a $75 non-refundable deposit payable by CC, cash, or check to confirm booking.
To request a tour, please email the proposed date, time, number, type of guests (adult/student/chaperone), and any special requests (programs, meals, disability accommodation) to info@historicshirley.com.
Our staff will gladly assist you in planning your visit and coordinating your schedule of activities.
Student Group Pricing
Students: $18 per person (+$3 per program)
Adult Chaperones: $25 per person
Tour Operators: Complimentary
Bus Drivers: Complimentary
Complimentary admission is provided for one teacher per fifteen students. One chaperone or teacher per ten students is recommended.
Adult Group Pricing
Adults: $25 per person (+$5 per program)
Tour Operators: Complimentary
Bus Drivers: Complimentary
Available Programs
Guided Grounds Tour (Adults, Students): Enjoy a guided tour of Shirley’s many original and authentic Colonial outbuildings and the grounds surrounding the Great House. Tour can be customized to focus on building usage, historic preservation, trees and plants as well as plantation wildlife.
Slave Life at Shirley (Adults, Students): Explore the stories of slave life at Shirley Plantation by reviewing copies of family documents and letters and discover the role of archaeology in interpreting slave life at Shirley.
The Mighty James (River) (Adults, Students): Learn how the James River changed history in 1607 and how it continues as one of the most influential rivers in America today. Enjoy the majestic river views.
Games and Amusements (Students): Try a popular 17th-century and 18th-century game of lawn bowling.