English Country Gardens 2021

Arrive in London this morning and make your way in to the heart of the English Capital. After checking in to your hotel, your afternoon is free for you to spend at your leisure either relaxing after your arrival journey or perhaps getting out to explore the city. There are a host of epic green spaces within the city including Hyde Park and St James' Park. By evening, return to the tour hotel where we'll gather as a group with your tour leader and get to know one another over a welcome dinner.

Overnight: Wellington Hotel by Blue Orchid (or similar), London

Meals: Dinner included.

Departing London, our tour begins at one of England's most unique manor houses at Ightham Mote, a medieval, moated manor house dating back over 700 years and home to one of the most popular small gardens in the region. This afternoon we visit the National Trust Scotney Castle, a romantic 14th century fortress nestling amongst picturesque gardens and over 770 acres of parkland. By evening we continue to the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells where we enjoy a dinner together.

Overnight: Royal Wells Hotel (or similar), Royal Tunbridge Wells

Meals: Breakfast and dinner included.

Today we travel to the beautiful Sissinghurst Castle Gardens, created by novelist Vita Sackville-West and her husband Harold Nicolson in the 1930's. Set around an historic tower house, the stunning formal gardens were designed as a series of rooms each bursting with different colours and themes. Later we continue to another English icon and the largest half-timbered house in England, The Great Dixter parts of which date back to the 15th century; the Arts and Crafts style garden features topiary, an orchard and a wild flower meadow. Upon returning to Tunbridge Wells, we'll have the evening to spend at our leisure.

Overnight: The Spa Hotel (or similar), Royal Tunbridge Wells

Meals: Breakfast included.

This morning we visit the magnificent 13th century Hever Castle, once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII's second wife. The unique double-moated castle is home to an array of Tudor artefacts whilst the surrounding 125 acres of spectacular gardens including a yew maze, water maze, rose, herb and topiary gardens. Then it's time to while away the afternoon in the peaceful environs of RHS Garden Wisley. Soak up the sounds of water flowing though The Rock Garden, scent the sweet roses in Bowes-Lyon Rose Garden or relax in The Alpine Meadow, before we continue to historic Windsor. This evening, we’ll spend time together over an included dinner. *On September 9th 2021 departure, attend RHS Wisley Flower Show instead. Experience the full day at RHS Wisley Garden. Visit to Hever Castle will not take place due to time constraints.

Overnight: Castle Hotel (or similar), Windsor

Meals: Breakfast and dinner included

Today we enjoy a day at leisure to explore regal Windsor at our own pace. Windsor is scenically set on the banks of the River Thames and is made up of bustling cobbled streets and traditional timber-work buildings. You may choose to visit Windsor Castle the largest occupied fortress in the world which was once the residence of William the Conqueror and remains one of three official residences of the Queen. Discover the state rooms, the chapel, watch the changing of the guard or even enjoy a ride by horse-drawn carriage through the grounds of the neighbouring "Great Park".

Overnight: Castle Hotel (or similar), Windsor

Meals: Breakfast included.

This morning, you’ll pay a visit to the Savill Garden in Windsor Great Park. Walk through the themed gardens with rare plants from around the world. After taking some time to wander through the exquisite gardens, house and exhibitions – we’ll make our way back to London. Spending the evening exploring the capital's landmarks and hidden spots, we will look forward to tomorrow’s adventures.

Overnight: Wellington by Blue Orchid (or similar), London

Meals: Breakfast included.

This morning we make a visit to the opulent Hampton Court Palace, once a favourite residence of King Henry VIII; we'll enjoy plenty of time to explore the 60 acres of exquisite formal gardens, three National Plant Collections and the world’s oldest puzzle maze. Later, we head to the Beefeater Gin Distillery, where you’ll experience a guided tour with tasting of some of the classic London gins. Tonight, spend your free evening dining at one of the capital’s fantastic restaurants. *On July 5th, 2021 departure, attend RHS Hampton Court Flower instead. Experience a full day amongst award-winning flower stores and see some of the prettiest floral combinations. Visit to the Palace and Beefeater Gin Distillery will not take place due to time constraints.

Overnight: Wellington by Blue Orchid (or similar), London

Meals: Breakfast included.

Our final visit of the tour is then to one of England's most famous gardens the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew which is home to over 300 acres of landscaped grounds and enjoys UNESCO World Heritage status. Highlights include the Treetop walkway, the Water Lily House and The Princess of Wales Conservatory dedicated to Lady Diana. We will say our farewells upon returning to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast included.