British Gardens and the Chelsea Flower Show (15 Days)

Welcome to London! Upon arrival at London Heathrow Airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel, The Clermont Victoria (or similar), your home for the next two nights. Nestled near Buckingham Palace, you'll have ample time to explore the surrounding area. Perhaps visit the historical Royal Mews or enjoy a leisurely stroll through Green Park. In the evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a trip briefing and a delightful welcome dinner.

Kickstart your day with a guided tour of London's iconic landmarks, including Big Ben, St Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London, and Trafalgar Square. Admire the royal residence at Buckingham Palace and witness the grandeur of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Later, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Wisley Gardens, a world-class garden gifted to the Royal Horticultural Society. Explore the stunning Bowes-Lyon Rose Garden, the picturesque orchard, and the exotic garden, each offering a sensory delight.

Today, we venture to RHS Garden Hyde Hall, a tranquil oasis in the heart of rural Essex. This garden combines diverse styles and inspirational planting, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern aesthetics. Later, we head to the university city of Cambridge. Join your Local Expert for a walking tour and experience the architectural highlights of some of the world's most famous universities, including Kings College and Trinity College.

Our journey today takes us to the historic Georgian Harewood House, one of England's Treasure Houses. Enjoy tea and scones before exploring the State Rooms, home to rare Chippendale furniture and stunning interior designs. Admire the breathtaking views from the award-winning terraces. Our journey continues to York, one of the oldest cities in England, where we'll spend the night.

Today, your Travel Director will guide you through York, showcasing the York Minster, the city walls, and the medieval Shambles. We then visit the magnificent Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, a World Heritage Site that offers a window into the medieval world. We traverse the Yorkshire Dales to the Lake District, home to some of the most beautiful countryside in the world.

Today, we visit the charming village of Hawkshead, renowned for its whitewashed cottages and cobbled lanes. We then admire the gardens of Holker Hall, which have evolved over centuries under the guidance of the Cavendish Family. Each owner has added new features and plantings, creating a garden rich in character and beauty. Later, you may choose to take a cruise on Lake Windermere.

Our journey today takes us to the magnificent Trentham Gardens. Explore the ancient woodland, the Italian Gardens, the Rivers of Grass, and the Floral Labyrinth. At the heart of the gardens is the spectacular Trentham Lake, a wildlife haven studded with small islands. During your orientation with your Travel Director, see the Jubilee Clock, the city walls, and the famous black and white Rows. The day concludes with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.

Today, we journey into North Wales, passing the imposing Conwy Castle. We then visit the beautiful Bodnant Gardens, home to the earliest and grandest laburnum arch and Britain's earliest magnolias. Admire the fine collection of exotic plants and enjoy Wales' largest collection of UK Champion Trees.

Discover the life and works of William Shakespeare as we visit his birthplace, filled with fascinating memorabilia and artefacts. We then cross the beautiful Cotswold hills, a picturesque scene of golden stone villages with roses round the doors. Our journey continues to the elegant Georgian city of Bath, built in amphitheatre style on the surrounding hills. Your Travel Director will introduce you to the Pulteney Bridge and the angels climbing Jacob's Ladder on Bath Abbey.

After a relaxed start, we delve into the rich history of Bowood House & Gardens, part of a 4,000-acre country estate. Surrounding the Georgian House are the Italian-inspired Terrace Garden, the Private Walled Gardens, and the herbaceous border, all radiating colour throughout the seasons. We then drive through the New Forest to reach Southampton, on the south coast, where we'll spend the night.

Today, we explore the Isle of Wight, a favourite holiday spot of Queen Victoria. Visit Osbourne House, her opulent holiday home, and marvel at the gorgeous Italianate architecture and gardens. Enjoy the island's stunning scenery and thatched cottages before returning to the mainland.

We visit Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens, which reopened in 2019 after a major restoration project. Set in a steep-sided valley, the gardens offer scenic walks, interlaced lakes, extensive woodlands, and lovely parkland. From March to June, the garden comes alive in a riot of colour. After our visit, we return to London, where you'll have some free time.

This morning, we head to the world-famous RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Be amazed by the extensive displays of show gardens and magnificent floral displays, and pick up tips from the experts. After a day filled with horticultural wonders, we return to the hotel in the afternoon.

Today, we visit Kew Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses over 50,000 living plants. Explore the stunning glass houses and walk through beautiful, sculptured gardens, featuring flora from Asia to the Alps. In the evening, we enjoy a Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant, the perfect way to conclude our journey.

After breakfast, bid farewell to your Travel Director and fellow travel companions. You'll be transferred to London Heathrow Airport for your onward flight, carrying with you the unforgettable memories of your journey through England.