Stately Homes and Gardens

Explore one of England's loveliest regions, the 'Home' counties of Kent and Sussex, where the prosperity of London meets a pastoral landscape that goes back a thousand years and more to the origins of England and beyond. Charismatic Kent (the 'Garden of England') and its neighbouring county of Sussex boast a plethora of fascinating sites, beautiful English countryside, dramatic coastline and medieval towns and cities.

Day 1 - Kent and Hever Castle

Departing from London we make our way to the magnificent Royal Society Gardens at Wisley where we enjoy a garden of inspiration for any aspiring botanist. The well-stocked bookshop means you have no excuse for not taking home a few ideas to remodel your own backyard! Hever Castle is the gem of the day as for many it is the quintessential idea of a 'real' castle, from its gateway and courtyard to its surrounding moat. Hever dates back to 1270, and was once the family home Henry VIII's ill-fated wife Anne Boleyn (wife no. 2 of 6), but also has a relatively contemporary feel provided by the Astors who carefully restored the castle last century. The 30-acre garden complete with unique Italian garden of rose bushes and statues offers plenty to admire.

Overnight Kent (Dinner Included)

Day 2 - Hasting, Bodium Castle and Sissinghurst

Today we discover the history of the fateful 1066 Battle of Hastings with a visit to this 100-acre battlefield. Stand in the place where King Harold was killed and discover the ruins of the atmospheric Battle Abbey , constructed by William the Conquer in memory of the thousands who died there.With a change of pace and period for the next visit, we travel to the perfectly preserved Bodiam Castle which dates back to the 14th century and is one of Britain's most evocative castle's. Round towers, majestic gatehouse and surrounding moat together make Bodiam appear like something from a fairytale. Enough of the interior of Bodiam survives today to provide a good experience of what castle life was like. Todays final stop and another highlight, is the magnificent Sissinghurst Castle. Vita Sackville-West's famous designs require no introduction to garden enthusiasts. There is ample time to explore this intimate and intricate garden and to browse those parts of her home open publicly.

Overnight Kent

Day 3 - Scotney Castle, Knole and Chartwell

A leisurely start offer you the opportunity to explore the surrounding area before making our way to Scotney Castle which is often seen as 'England's most romantic garden.' Victorian terraces bursting with colourful shrubs overlook the 14th century moated castle and beautiful estate parkland. From here we journey to Knole, one of England's great 'treasure houses' which has been home of the Lords Sackville since the early 1600s and displays Royal Stuart furnishings and an impressive art collection. The visit is like stepping back in time. Finally to Chartwell, Winston Churchill's home need no introduction! A true highlight to end the tour, not only is the view from the garden (that inspired his painting) truly spectacular but the interior is almost exactly as Churchill left it. - you can almost smell the cigars!

Return to London in early evening.

Optional Extras

• Pre or post tour accommodation.
• Private or rail airport transfers.
• Make your mini-tour part of an extended London city break.

Tour Itinerary:

Prices

Dates and Rates

Departs London every second Friday throughout the 2010 Season.

Prices are per person land only based on 2 people sharing a twin room. Single supplements apply. for other currencies pelase ask.

What's Included

• 3 nights in unique and traditional accommodation.
• All transport and fuel costs.
• Services of your driver/guide-companion.
• Full English breakfast daily.
• 2 x three course evening dinner.
• Entrance fees to visited attractions as follows:

1. Canrerbury Cathedral
2. Dover Castle
3. Wine Tasting, Kent
4. Sissinghurst Gardens
5. Batemans
6. RoyalPavillion, Brighton
7. Hever Castle

Images