Group Tours


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Student Groups

Student groups are always welcome at Shirley!

All student group programs are customized based on the age and number of students participating as well as the length of time scheduled for visiting. A minimum of ten (10) is required to reserve a student group. Activities listed below may be adapted for students of all ages with some programs best suited to certain grade levels.

Student 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, gift shop, nature walk, and family-friendly game Mission:Shirley. A minimum of twenty (20) students is required to reserve a student program, and are available for $2.50 per student per program with prior reservation. Our staff will gladly assist you in planning your visit and coordinating your schedule of activities.

Educational Flyer

Advanced reservations are required for group discounts and programs. Program availability based on staff availability.

Student Group Pricing

Students: $14.00 per person

Teachers/Adult Chaperones: $16.00 per person

Tour Operators: Complimentary

Bus Drivers: Complimentary

Complimentary admission is provided for one teacher per ten students. One chaperone or teacher per ten students is recommended.

To confirm booking, we require a $75 deposit payable by CC, cash, or check. A 48-hour notice of cancellation is required for the return of the deposit.

Punctuality in arrival time is appreciated; late arrivals cannot be guaranteed their entire programs.

Youth Student Groups can have seated lunch for an additional fee per person by reservation, or picnic for free.

Contact: For more information or to make your reservation, call 1-804-829-5121 or email: info@historicshirley.com

Adult Groups

Adult Groups are always welcome at Shirley Plantation. A minimum of ten (10) is required to reserve a group tour.

 Additional programs are available and customized based on the group’s interests and schedule. Our staff can vary its interpretation to focus on several topics depending on the interests of your group. 

Advanced reservations are required for group discounts and programs.

To confirm booking, we require a $75 deposit payable by CC, cash, or check. A 48-hour notice of cancellation is required for the return of the deposit.

Punctuality in arrival time is appreciated; late arrivals cannot be guaranteed their entire program.

Included in your Visit: 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, gift shop, and nature walk.

Add a program: Some programs are subject to staffing availability and length of visit and are available for an additional fee per person by reservation.

Adult Group Pricing

Adults: $20.00 per person

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 variety of 18th-century and 19th-century games including jacks, marbles, jackstraws, “Close-the-box”, nine pins and lawn bowling.

Groups may order boxed lunches in advance.

Seated lunches – additional fee per person by reservation, or picnic for free.

Groups can have a seated Supper/Dinner for an additional fee per person by advance reservation.

Contact: For more information or to make your reservation, call 1-804-829-5121 or email: info@historicshirley.com