Discover Britain's Glorious Heritage - 2019 Guaranteed Departures - National Trust Tours
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Discover Britain's Glorious Heritage 2019 Guaranteed Departures
© NTPL/Matthew Antrobus
Bodiam Castle
Dear National Trust Travelers, Delve Deeper into Britain’s Heritage
I am very pleased to share with you our 2019 heritage tour program produced in Fenton House – a hidden gem in London
partnership with Albion. These unique group tours offer the chance to discover the vast
cultural and natural heritage of Britain including many of the impressive National Trust Fenton House is a 17th-century merchant’s house, bequeathed to the National Trust in
Mark Fiennes - Royal Collection Trust , -® Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2017
places of England, Wales and Northern Ireland, thanks to Albion’s partnership with the 1952 by its last owner and resident Lady Binning. The interior houses the Benton Fletcher
National Trust. collection of early keyboard instruments and collections of portraits and paintings, including
the collection of Peter Barkworth, and loans of Sir William Nicholson paintings, porcelain,
Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Britain’s hidden gems 17th-century needlework pictures and Georgian furniture. This handsome brick mansion
with behind-the-scenes tours, after dinner lectures and insights from the owners of the also has a walled garden, a working kitchen garden and a 300-year-old orchard, where
properties themselves. Our 2019 program takes you even further too, with a wider variety around 30 types of apple trees flourish.
© NTHP/Arnhel de Serra
Highclere
Hawkshead Castle
of locations to visit than ever before.
Fenton House features on the London’s Hidden Houses tour (page 10).
2019 sees the 200th anniversary since the birth of Queen Victoria, Britain’s second longest
serving monarch. Victoria’s reign marked a period of great cultural, industrial and political Bodiam Castle – a stunning medieval castle in East Sussex
change and a great expansion of the British Empire. We celebrate her life on the Queen Fenton House
This impressive 14th-century moated castle is set within scenic historic landscape. Although
Victoria 200 Regal Splendor & An Island Getaway tour which takes in some of the famous
now in ruins, Bodiam Castle is one of Britain’s most picturesque and romantic ancient
palaces, castles and country houses frequented by the Queen throughout her reign,
offering a very real insight into her life and the people closest to her. monuments and provides a unique glimpse into castle life of medieval times boasting an Meals
original wooden portcullis, spiral staircases, tower rooms and battlements.
Ahead of the Mayflower 400 celebrations in 2020, we first discover the history of the On every tour, breakfast is included at
Pilgrim Fathers in the heart of England on the Cambridgeshire & The Origins of the
Windsor Castle Bodiam Castle features on the Fairytale Castles of Kent tour (page 14). your hotel each day. Certain lunches
Mayflower 400 tour. On this trip we look at the origins of the Mayflower Pilgrims and also and dinners are also included (details
The majority of our tours include an after-dinner talk by an expert in their can be found on each tour page). Some
visit Harwich where the Mayflower was believed to be built and started her journey. If this
tour is something that interests you for 2019, you may also like to take a look at the preview
field that promises to be both informative and engaging: evenings are left free for you to make
of our 2020 tour Mayflower 400. Whether it is a leading historian, fascinating writer or learned expert, we arrange guest your own dinner arrangements, giving
speakers who will enhance the themes of your tour and provide some captivating you the flexibility to choose your own
Join one of these fascinating trips and you will have the unique chance to see the results of restaurant as well as have time to
the important work taken on by our counterparts the National Trust of England, Wales and background or intriguing insight. With the opportunity for you to ask questions at the end
© English Heritage
of the talk, these interactive experiences are an opportunity not to be missed. explore more of the town or city you
Northern Ireland in preserving and protecting their nations’ treasures.
are staying in.
We also provide reading lists, allowing you to do background reading
Osborne House
before the start of the tour: Extend Your Stay
If you want to understand a little more about the themes of your tour, we provide a full If you would like to arrive a few days
Scott Gerloff reading list that should enable you to fully engage with the subject. We ensure that our before your tour departs or leave a
Director, National Trust Tours reading lists are entertaining as well as informative, and they include a mixture of fiction as few days after the end of the tour,
well as factual tomes. It is up to you how much you want to use the reading list, but you can we are happy to arrange extra nights’
be sure that it will help spark lively conversation! accommodation at any of the hotels
that feature on your tour (a small
administration charge applies). Please
call us to discuss your requirements.
Mayflower II
2 For more information or to register, call National Trust Tours at 888-484-8785 9:00am - 5:00pm (EST), Monday - Friday email: info@nationaltrusttours.com 3
Tour Highlights... A Wonderful
Edinburgh, Northumberland & The Scottish Borders p8-9
The area around the Scottish borders is renowned for its rugged nature, but on our
Opportunity
tour we also explore many of the beautiful buildings dotted through this landscape that
is so rich in cultural heritage. While Rosslyn Chapel stands out for its highly decorated
interior, Abbotsford stuns with its grand, castle-like exterior and north of the border
to Explore &
Scotland
Experience...
we’ll explore Traquair House which has all the romance of a fairytale castle.
London’s Hidden Houses p10-11
Join us to delve deeper into this fascinating capital city, looking beyond the typical B Edinburgh
touristic sights and discovering the famous faces behind some hidden London houses
on this tour. From Founding Father Benjamin Franklin’s House, to playwright William
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, to Thomas Coram, the artist William Hogarth and the B
composer George Frideric Handel, who all had a role in the Foundling Museum, each H
property has a fascinating story to tell. Belfast England
Liverpool, Cheshire & Northern Ireland p20-21 K York
Eltham Palace & Garden © English Heritage
Taking in two countries, Northern Ireland and the north-west of England, we uncover Dublin Manchester
the great houses to be found in both regions and explore the strong links between Ireland G H I
Liverpool and Northern Ireland on this tour. From magnificent Tatton Park in Cheshire
to noble Glenarm Castle, as well as the stunning natural wonder – Giant’s Causeway,
Birmingham
there is so much to discover.
Wales L F
M
Glamour of the South East: Georgian Grandeur London
C
M
to Art Deco Elegance p24-25 D
A E
Not only a must-see for art and design fans, we hear the stories of some of the famous J
Boston Stump
owners of these glamorous houses, from writer Rudyard Kipling’s love of his home, A
Fitzwilliam Museum © Martin Bond
M
Bateman’s, to Lee Miller, photographer and muse of the surrealists who created an
artistic haven at Farleys House & Gallery. We also learn the story of Gilbert White, Contents
pioneering ornithologist and naturalist who created a wildlife haven in the 1700s
in Selbourne. Map Ref Tour Description Page
Queen Victoria 200: Regal Splendor & An Island Getaway
The Brontës & Literary Classics of Yorkshire p26-27 A 6-7
March 31 to April 9, 2019
From the romance of York Minster to the brooding mystery of Kirkstall Abbey, there is Edinburgh, Northumberland & The Scottish Borders
so much in Yorkshire to inspire you. On this special tour we retrace the steps of literary B 8-9
May 5 to 15, 2019
greats, the Brontë sisters, in their hometown of Haworth exploring places associated
The Vyne © NTHP Andreas von Einsiedel
with their lives alongside discovering other stories of literary heroes who were London’s Hidden Houses
C 10-11
influenced by the beautiful landscapes and stunning scenery to be found in this part May 12 to 19, 2019
of the world. Jane Austen & Georgian Treasures of the South
D 12-13
June 2 to 11, 2019
Fairytale Castles of Kent
E 14-15
June 9 to 17, 2019
Cambridgeshire & The Origins of the Mayflower 400
F 16-17
June 11 to 20, 2019
Charlecote Park © NTHP Andreas von Einsiedel
Thirlestane Castle © Phil Wilkinson
Glorious Gardens & Grandeur of North Wales
Speke Hall © NTHP/Andrew Butler
G 18-19
June 23 to July 2, 2019
Liverpool, Cheshire & Northern Ireland
H 20-21
July 7 to 18, 2019
Aristocrats, Manor Houses & a Grand Tour to the North
I 22-23
July 21 to 30, 2019 & August 11 to 20, 2019
Eltham Palace, Great Hall ceiling © English Heritage
Glamour of the South East: Georgian Grandeur to Art Deco Elegance
J 24-25
July 28 to August 4, 2019
The Brontës & Literary Classics of Yorkshire
K 26-27
Thirlestane Castle © Phil Wilkinson
September 1 to 9, 2019
In the Footsteps of Shakespeare
L 28-29
Fitzwilliam Museum September 15 to 25, 2019
York Minster Quire
Mayflower 400
M 31
September 10 to 20, 2020
Queen Victoria 200: Regal What’s Included
Airport
transfers from London Heathrow*
Splendor & An Island Getaway
Hughenden
LONDON
Cliveden Gardens
Kensington Palace
Windsor Castle
5
nights at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel
4
nights at the Royal Hotel, Isle of Wight
March 31 to April 9, 2019 from $4,950 per person Avington Park
Welcome
drink and canapés
Full
English breakfast each day
2019 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Queen Victoria, Britain’s second longest Arundel Castle
serving monarch. Victoria’s reign marked a period of great cultural, industrial and political Cowes Portsmouth
Osborne House 3-course
table d’hôte dinner on 6 nights
The Needles Nunwell House
change and a great expansion of the British Empire. This tour takes in some of the famous North Court Gardens at the hotels (with after dinner tea
and coffee)
palaces, castles and country houses frequented by the Queen throughout her reign and
Arundel Castle 1 dinner at a restaurant in Windsor
offers a very real insight into her life and the people closest to her.
April 4: Arundel Castle April 6: The Needles, Farringford 1
dinner at a restaurant on the Isle
of Wight
Special extras included Arundel Castle is one of the longest inhabited House & Gardens, Dimbola Lodge,
country houses in England, having been the Mottistone Gardens and St Lawrence 2
lunches
in your itinerary
Ian Jones - Royal Collection Trust , -® Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2017
seat of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors Services of a tour director throughout
since 1067. Although restored and remodelled
Parish Church
We take a scenic drive via The Needles with your stay
Guided
walking tour of Windsor in the 19th century, many of the original
© NTPL/Andrew Butler
features remain such as the Norman keep and some impressive views of Alum Bay, before Travel
to and from all excursions
Guided
tour of Dimbola Lodge heading for a brief visit to Farringford House
gatehouse, while the finely preserved interiors Return
ferry to the Isle of Wight
Guided
tour of Nunwell House are home to priceless works of art. Queen & Gardens, the home of famous poet and
friend of Queen Victoria, Alfred Lord Tennyson. All
entrance costs
Guided
tour and lunch at Avington Park Victoria and her husband Prince Albert visited
Hughenden Tennyson lived here from 1853 until his death
the castle for several days in 1846. Porterage
Themed
evening talk by a in 1892.
guest speaker After enjoying lunch together in Arundel, we *supplement applies for transfers from all other
We then continue on to Dimbola Lodge, home airports
take the ferry across the Solent to the Isle of
Wight, checking in to the Royal Hotel, our base of the celebrated Victorian photographer Julia
for the next four nights. This evening we enjoy Margaret Cameron where we enjoy a guided
dinner at the hotel. tour. The house is now a Museum and Gallery Your Hotels
dedicated to her life and work while also
April 5: Osborne House and Cowes showcasing contemporary exhibitions from Nights One to Four, and Nine
photographers around the globe. – Macdonald Windsor Hotel
Today we have the chance to explore Osborne
House, purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Next we venture to Mottistone Gardens, one of The Macdonald Windsor Hotel is situated in
Albert in 1845 as a seaside retreat away from the most peaceful and magical gardens on the the heart of the historic town of Windsor,
The King’s Bedchamber, Windsor Castle Westminster Abbey Dimbola Lodge London and Windsor. The Italianate palace island, surrounding an attractive Elizabethan opposite the famous Windsor Castle. The
boasts spectacular views across the Solent. manor house. Established in the early 20th classic interiors, with a contemporary edge, fit
Ten Day Itinerary April 2: Hughenden and We take an intimate glimpse of royal family life century, the garden is set in a sheltered valley perfectly with the Georgian elegance of this
Cliveden Gardens townhouse hotel. The luxury bedrooms are
© Historic Royal Palaces
as we wander through the magnificent Royal and is rich in colorful herbaceous borders,
March 31: Arrival individually-designed and the hotel also offers
Today we head first to the stunning Hughenden, Apartments as well as the walled gardens and shrub-filled banks and grassy terraces.
(depart U.S. on 3/30) previously home to an unlikely Victorian Prime grounds where we find the charming Swiss a stylish bar and restaurant.
On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private Finally we visit the Victorian parish church, St
Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, from 1848 to 1881. Cottage, used by the royal children to learn
transfer will take you to the Macdonald Windsor Lawrence, which was designed by the architect Nights Five to Eight
This impressive manor provides a fascinating household management.
Hotel where we stay for the next four nights. In Sir George Gilbert Scott in the 19th century. – The Royal Hotel, Isle of Wight
insight into the world of this colorful former-
the evening you are invited to join the group for parliamentarian, who is described as Queen This evening we enjoy dinner together at a Founded in 1832, the Royal Hotel is one of
a welcome drink, followed by dinner. Victoria’s ‘favourite Prime Minister’. local restaurant. the oldest hotels on the Isle of Wight. Set in
subtropical gardens overlooking Ventnor Bay,
April 1: Windsor and Next we visit Cliveden Gardens, which have Kensington Palace
April 7: Nunwell House, North the hotel offers a bar, restaurant and outdoor
Windsor Castle uniquely captured the grandeur of a bygone swimming pool.
era. In 1837, Cliveden was purchased by Harriet, Cambridge. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Court Gardens and Godshill
We begin our day with a guided walking tour This morning we enjoy a guided tour of Nunwell Single supplement $750
Duchess of Sutherland, to be used as a home (now the Duke and Duchess of Sussex) live in
of Windsor, a Royal Borough situated on the House, a beautiful family home since 1522, set
away from London, near to her friend Queen Nottingham Cottage on the grounds.
River Thames. A statue of Queen Victoria was in five acres of tranquil gardens with stunning
Victoria. Victoria frequented Cliveden on at April 8: Avington Park
erected here in 1887 to celebrate her Golden Next we venture to Westminster Abbey, which
least eight occasions and with expansive views, views across the Solent. The parlor chamber
Jubilee, with the Queen herself in attendance at since the 11th century has been the coronation After breakfast we leave the Isle of Wight
these gardens set elevated above the River of this historic house is where the ill-fated
the unveiling. church of the British monarchy. Queen Victoria’s behind as we take the ferry back to the
Thames have a special charm. Charles I spent his last night of freedom.
coronation took place here on June 28, 1838, mainland and then journey to Avington Park for
© English Heritage
We then visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and We then head on to the North Court Gardens,
After dinner back at the hotel this evening, when she was just 19 years of age, and the a private guided tour and lunch. This stunning
largest inhabited castle in the world which is still which boasts 15 acres of beautiful gardens, with
we enjoy a fascinating themed talk from a event lasted five hours. There are around 3,300 Georgian manor was once the property of
one of the official residences of Queen Elizabeth a large variety of plants and exotic palms that
guest speaker. people buried or commemorated at this iconic Osborne House
Winchester Cathedral and sits in an idyllic
II today. Established in the 11th century by enjoy the special varying microclimates of
Abbey, many of whom are hugely significant location beside the River Itchen.
William the Conqueror, it has been remodelled the grounds.
by successive kings and queens and is regularly
April 3: Kensington Palace, figures in history.
Afterwards we have some time at leisure in Afterwards, we return to the Macdonald
used for ceremonial and state occasions. During Westminster Abbey and St James’ We then head to St James’ Palace Chapel. Also Cowes, home to the world-famous regatta We also spend a short while in the pretty inland Windsor Hotel, where we enjoy a farewell
Queen Victoria’s reign, Windsor Castle was Palace Chapel described as the Chapel Royal and originally that swells the local population each August. village of Godshill with its charming thatched- dinner together at the hotel.
the primary palace for the British monarchy, Kensington Palace has been a home to the royal constructed by King Henry VIII, this was the Many of the town’s ornate buildings date from roofed cottages, delightful medieval church,
and the Queen spent the larger part of every family since the 17th century, and today we are venue of the marriage of Queen Victoria to Queen Victoria’s time, in the style popularised tearooms and gift shops. April 9: Departure
year residing here. The magnificent State able to explore this stunning Jacobean building. Prince Albert in 1840. by her consort Prince Albert. As well as some After breakfast, a private transfer will take you
Tonight we enjoy dinner together at the hotel.
Apartments are furnished with some of the Built in 1605, Princess Victoria was later born upmarket shops, Cowes also has numerous back to Heathrow airport for your return
The evening is free for you to make your own
finest works of art for you to admire. here on May 24, 1819. The Palace was Queen art galleries. flight home.
dinner arrangements.
Tonight we enjoy dinner together at a Victoria’s childhood home and is now the We dine together back at the hotel this evening.
restaurant in Windsor. London residence of The Duke and Duchess of
6 For more information or to register, call National Trust Tours at 888-484-8785 9:00am - 5:00pm (EST), Monday - Friday email: info@nationaltrusttours.com 7
Edinburgh, Northumberland What’s Included
Airport
transfers from Edinburgh*
& The Scottish Borders Rosslyn Chapel
Edinburgh 5
nights at the Norton House Hotel
© Phil Wilkinson
Thirlestane Castle
Abbotsford
Mellerstain House
Floors Castle
5
nights at the Macdonald Linden
May 5 to 15, 2019 from $5,490 per person
Traquair House
Alnwick Castle Hall Hotel
Wallington Thirlestane Castle Welcome
drink and canapés
The compelling and often turbulent history of the border country that separates Scotland Lanercost Priory Hadrian’s Wall Newcastle
Naworth Castle
Full
English breakfast each day
and England has resulted in a region that is exceptionally rich in cultural heritage; with Durham
© NTPL/Andreas von Einsiedel
a host of defensive forts, ruined abbeys, ancient castles and picturesque stately homes
Raby Castle
Rokeby Park
3-course
table d’hôte dinner on 8 nights
at the hotels (with after dinner tea
scattered through the scenic and romantic landscape. On this engaging tour, we discover
and coffee)
the fascinating stories behind some of these iconic places, from Hadrian’s Wall with its
tales of Roman Britain to the lives of Christian Monks in the 14th century, with the area 2
dinners at local restaurants
immortalised in the work of Sir Walter Scott, whose home we also visit. Services
of a tour director throughout
Wallington Mellerstain House your stay
Travel to and from all excursions
Special extras included frequent attacks during the long Anglo-Scottish work at its best with exquisitely proportioned
wars. Although the chancel and transepts are in rooms embellished with classical plasterwork, All
entrance costs
in your itinerary ruins, the cloisters are beautifully preserved and some fine art as well as period furniture and Porterage
the 13th-century nave lives on as the embroidery collections.
Guided
tour of Abbotsford parish church. *supplement applies for transfers from all other
We then return to the Norton House Hotel, airports
Guided
tour of Newcastle The Romans built Hadrian’s Wall as a our base for the last four nights of our stay. We
Guided
tour of Rokeby Park fortification across Britain some two thousand enjoy dinner together at the hotel tonight.
Private
guided tour of Naworth Castle
years ago. We’ll explore part of this fascinating
May 12: Edinburgh Your Hotels
archaeological site before visiting Housesteads
with the owner
Abbotsford Roman Fort, Britain’s most complete and Edinburgh Castle Night One and Nights Seven to Ten
Guided
tour of Alnwick Castle Roman fort. This morning we enjoy a guided walking tour of – Norton House Hotel
Guided
tour of Floors Castle Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh. Most of the Originally a traditional country retreat built
This evening, we enjoy dinner together at a
city’s sights can be found within the medieval in 1840, the Norton House Hotel is a fine
Guided
walking tour of Edinburgh local restaurant.
Old Town and the elegant Georgian buildings country house hotel set in 55 acres of leafy
Private guided tour of Thirelstane Castle
May 10: Alnwick Castle of the New Town, all overlooked by the iconic grounds to the west of Edinburgh. This luxury
Private
guided tour of Traquair House and Wallington castle perched high above the city. hotel offers boutique rooms and a health club
with the owner (subject to availability) Alnwick Castle is still home to the Duke of As one of the most important strongholds in and spa with a swimming pool, sauna, steam
Northumberland and his family. On our guided the Kingdom of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle room and hydrotherapy pool plus a fully
Guided
tour and afternoon tea aboard
tour, we explore the history of the Percy has witnessed many of the defining events of equipped gym.
the Royal Yacht Britannia
family through the eclectic array of furniture Scottish history. Highlights include the Crown
Themed
evening talk by a guest and art they collected in the impressive State Jewels of Scotland, the Royal Palace and the Nights Two to Six
speaker Rooms. Alnwick also featured in the popular TV 16th-century Great Hall. We then enjoy a little – Macdonald Linden Hall Hotel
Rosslyn Chapel Alnwick Castle
series Downton Abbey. We also visit Alnwick free time to explore the city. Nestling in 450 acres of Northumberland
Eleven Day Itinerary May 7: Newcastle, Newcastle Afterwards, we head to Rokeby Park where we Garden, set around a cascading fountain, and parkland close to Newcastle, the Linden
Later, we dine together at a local restaurant. Hall Hotel is a beautiful 18th-century manor
Cathedral and Durham Cathedral enjoy a guided tour. Completed in 1735 by its surrounding ‘Capability’ Brown landscape.
May 5: Arrival owner, Sir Thomas Robinson, this architectural May 13: Thirlestane Castle house. The hotel boasts classically furnished
We enjoy a guided tour of Newcastle. In the We continue on to Wallington, the much-loved bedrooms, a luxury spa with indoor pool,
(depart U.S. on 5/4) treasure represents the heyday of the Palladian-
historical centre of the city stands the Castle home to generations of the unconventional and Traquair House sauna and gym plus a tennis court and golf
On arrival at Edinburgh airport, a private style country house. Much of the present
Keep, one of the finest Norman stone castle Trevelyan family. Fans of the Pre-Raphaelites We start the day at Thirlestane Castle where course. A cosy pub, lounge bar and restaurant
transfer will take you to our overnight hotel, interior was designed by John Carr and a unique
keeps surviving in Britain today. Although will love Wallington’s Central Hall. Built towards we enjoy a private guided tour. As the seat of complete the amenities here.
the Norton House Hotel. In the evening you are collection of 18th-century needlework pictures
founded in 1091, Newcastle Cathedral is mainly the close of the 17th century, the rather plain the Earls and Duke of Lauderdale and the home
invited to join the group for a welcome drink, by Anne Morritt are on display. No single supplement – limited availability
14th century and is notable for its unusual Palladian exterior hides an interior brimming of the Maitland family, this defensive fort with
followed by dinner. 15th-century lantern spire. Tonight, we enjoy dinner together back at with wonderful collections of ceramics, rose pink sandstone and fairy tale turrets, dates
the hotel. paintings and needlework. back to the 13th century. The interiors are a mix May 14: Royal Yacht Britannia
May 6: Rosslyn Chapel Next is Durham Cathedral, a World Heritage
of 19th century and early Baroque and highlights
and Abbotsford Site, sitting on a rocky promontory high May 9: Naworth Castle, Lanercost After dinner back at the hotel, we are treated to After enjoying a morning at leisure in
above the River Wear. Originally built in 1093 include the Duke’s bedroom with its exquisite Edinburgh, this afternoon we step aboard the
a fascinating talk by a guest speaker.
This morning we head to Rosslyn Chapel, home
as a monastic cathedral for a community of
Priory and Hadrian’s Wall plasterwork ceilings and the extensive Royal Yacht Britannia, the Queen's floating
to some of the most exquisite carvings and This morning we visit Naworth Castle, the May 11: Floors Castle and family portraits.
Benedictine monks, the cathedral boasts some Royal residence for over 44 years, used not only
portrait scenes in Europe. Dating back to 1445, private ancestral home of the Howard family.
the chapel gained worldwide fame thanks to
of the most intact surviving monastic buildings Mellerstain House Next is Traquair House where the 21st Lady for state visits and official receptions but also
in England. We enjoy an exclusive private guided tour by for family holidays. Our fascinating guided tour
the increasing interest in Freemasonry and We return north, stopping first at Floors Castle, of Traquair* will show us around the house.
the current owner, Philip Howard. A border includes the Bridge, the State Apartments, Royal
the Knights Templar (it was one of the filming We dine together at the hotel tonight. lying on the River Tweed. Scotland’s largest This 12th-century former hunting lodge, which
stronghold dating back to 1335, the castle was Bedrooms, Crew's Quarters and the Engine
locations for Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code). inhabited castle has been home to the Dukes of hosted 27 Scottish monarchs, has a fascinating
almost destroyed by a devastating fire in 1844. Room. After our tour, we enjoy afternoon tea
May 8: Raby Castle and Rokeby Park Roxburghe since it was built in 1721 to designs history spanning nearly a thousand years. Trace
We continue to Abbotsford, the home of Sir Restoration began in 1850 but the interiors on board.
We make our way to Raby Castle. King Cnut by William Adam. Here we can admire the the footsteps of the Kings of Scotland as you
Walter Scott, one of the great romanticists were the work of the 9th Earl of Carlisle who
owned the estate in the early 11th century but collections of fine art, furniture, porcelain and climb the turnpike staircase and uncover how Tonight, we enjoy a farewell dinner together at
and the foremost literary figure of his day. counted many of the eminent Pre-Raphaelites
it was the Nevills who built the 14th-century tapestries on our guided tour. priests escaped in times of danger. our hotel.
Created by the writer himself in the Scottish among his friends. Naworth is not usually open
castle we see today, now home to Lord Barnard, to the public and we will enjoy a special Mellerstain House is seen by many as Robert We dine together back at the hotel this evening.
Baronial style, the house contains an impressive May 15: Departure
a direct descendant of the Nevills. The exterior visit here. Adam’s finest work. Begun in 1725 by William
collection of historic relics and an extensive *subject to availability A private transfer will take you back to
of medieval towers and turrets contrasts Adam and completed by his more famous son,
library and we discover more on our guided tour. Close by stands the Augustinian Lanercost Edinburgh airport for your return flight home.
with the sumptuous interiors which provide Robert, in 1778, the exterior of Mellerstain is
Later we check in to the Macdonald Linden Hall a magnificent backdrop for the stunning Priory, founded in 1166. The tranquil setting
a good example of Adam’s ‘castle style’. It is
Hotel where we stay for the next five nights. art collection. of the priory belies an often troubled history.
the interiors however that showcase Adam’s
Tonight we enjoy dinner at the hotel. Standing close to Hadrian’s Wall, it suffered
8 For more information or to register, call National Trust Tours at 888-484-8785 9:00am - 5:00pm (EST), Monday - Friday email: info@nationaltrusttours.com 9
London’s Hidden Houses
Kenwood House
Fenton House
The Foundling Museum
May 12 to 19, 2019 from $4,990 per person The Wallace Collection
Benjamin Franklin's House
Apsley House
Guildhall
Tower of London
The Globe Theatre
Spencer House Imperial War Museum
© GG Archer
© GG Archer
Behind the popular tourist hotspots, London has a rich hidden history and a wealth Chiswick House
of charming houses to discover. We delve into the fascinating history at the Foundling Foundling Museum
Marble Hill House Foundling Museum
Museum, tour the outstanding Kenwood House and explore the Roman ruins at Guildhall Ham House
amongst other hidden gems of this famous city. Ham House
© NTPL/John Hammond
© Richard Bryant/Arcaid
Special extras included
in your itinerary Spencer House
Private
tour of the Churchill
War Rooms
Backstage
tour of the Globe Theatre
Private
tour of the Wallace Collection
Guildhall Guided
tour of Ham House
Themed
evening talk by a
© NTHP/Arnhel de Serra
guest speaker Wallace Collection Kenwood House
May 16: Chiswick House and furniture, early musical instruments and What’s Included
Wallace Collection 17th-century needlework. The balcony of the
Chiswick House Fenton House house offers panoramic views of the city on Airport
transfers from London Heathrow*
We head to west London this morning to begin
fine days. 6 nights at the Grange City Hotel
our day at one of the most stunning examples
Eight Day Itinerary Later we make our way to the heart of playwright; from colorful stories of the original of 18th-century British architecture, Chiswick Our second visit is Kenwood House, built 1
night at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel
Westminster for our visit to the Churchill War 1599 Globe to the faithful reconstruction House. The Roman-style Palladian villa was during the 17th century and originally known
May 12: Arrival Rooms including a private tour. Set underneath process of the 1990s. designed by the third Earl of Burlington and as Caen Wood House. Situated in peaceful and Welcome
drink
(depart U.S. on 5/11) the Treasury building, the museum is comprised architect and designer William Kent. Make sure impressively landscaped gardens, the property Full
English breakfast each day
Back at the hotel this evening, we enjoy dinner
On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private of the Cabinet War Rooms, used as a base to take a look at the stunning ceilings of the showcases spectacular interiors which we
together before a fascinating talk by a 3-course
table d’hôte dinner on 4 nights
transfer will take you to the Grange City Hotel, of British Government command during the upstairs rooms as well as the beautiful explore alongside a world-class art collection.
guest speaker. at the hotels (with after dinner tea
our hotel for the next six nights. In the evening Second World War, as well as the Churchill velvet wallpaper.
Museum, which displays many exhibits that give Later we enjoy dinner back at our hotel. and coffee)
you are invited to join the group for a welcome Globe Theatre
drink, followed by dinner. an insight into the life of Britain’s wartime 1
dinner at a restaurant in London
Prime Minister.
May 18: Ham House and Marble
Hill House Services
of a tour director throughout
May 13: Tower of London Tonight is left free for you to make your own your stay
We take a scenic drive to Ham House and
Ceremony of the Keys, Benjamin arrangements for dinner. Gardens, one of Europe’s greatest 17th-century Travel
to and from all excursions
Franklin’s House and Churchill houses nestling on the banks of the River
War Rooms May 14: Foundling Museum, All
excursion costs
Thames. This atmospheric mansion with fine
We begin our day at the Tower of London to Guildhall and Globe Theatre interiors and historic gardens has remained Porterage
witness one of the oldest and most colorful Today we visit the Foundling Museum St virtually unchanged for 400 years. We find out *supplement applies for transfers from all other
surviving enactments of its kind; the Ceremony Pancras which explores the fascinating history more about the family who lived at Ham on our airports
of the Keys. Set amidst the mighty battlements of the Foundling Hospital, the UK’s first guided house tour.
of this ancient fortress, this hugely popular children’s charity and first public art gallery.
ceremony forms part of the traditional Founded in 1739, the hospital aimed to care for May 15: Apsley House and Your Hotels
‘unlocking’ of the Tower of London and dates babies at risk of abandonment. The museum Spencer House
back some 700 years. was more recently established in 2004, to Today takes us to Apsley House. Adjacent to Nights One to Six
preserve and display the Foundling Hospital Hyde Park, this spectacular former home of the Chiswick House – Grange City Hotel
Tower of London
Collection, and gives us the chance to explore first Duke of Wellington is famously known as The Grange City Hotel is a luxury hotel in
the lives of the children who grew up at the ‘Number One London’. This beautiful Georgian This afternoon we are treated to a private tour
Marble Hill House
London near the River Thames, commanding
hospital from 1741-1954. building has changed very little since the Duke’s of the Wallace Collection, a national museum sweeping views over the Tower of London
victory at Waterloo in 1815. As well as taking in a historic London town house. The galleries and the iconic Tower Bridge. Popular local
Our next point of call today is Guildhall, a The day finishes just across the Thames at
in the lavish interiors we’ll also find a fine art contain unsurpassed displays of French 18th- attractions include the Tower of London,
powerhouse since the 12th century. Experience
© Historic Royal Palaces
century paintings, furniture and porcelain with Marble Hill House set in 66 acres of beautiful
the Gothic grandeur of the Great Hall as well collection with paintings by Rubens Petticoat Lane market, the Shard and
superb Old Master paintings and a world riverside parkland. Built for the mistress of King
as the largest surviving medieval crypts in and Velazquez. St Katharine Docks. Rooms feature twin or
class armory. George ll when he was the Prince of Wales, the
London. We also explore the impressive ruins Our final visit of the day is to Spencer House. property’s grand interiors have been recreated queen-sized beds, LCD flat-screen TVs with
of London’s Roman Amphitheatre which is Built between 1756-1766 for John, first Earl Tonight we enjoy dinner together at a and boast a fine collection of early Georgian satellite channels, individual climate controls
situated beneath Guildhall Yard. Rediscovered Spencer (an ancestor of Diana, Princess of local restaurant. paintings. Be sure to see the hand painted and Bose music systems, hairdryer and an
Our next stop takes us to Benjamin Franklin’s by archaeologists in 1988, the amphitheatre is Wales), the house is London’s most magnificent Chinese wallpaper in the dining parlor. iron. Facilities include four restaurants and
House. Situated in the heart of London and over 2,000 years old. Crowds would once have 18th-century aristocratic palace. Designed by May 17: Fenton House bars, state-of-the-art Health and Fitness Club
come here to watch gladiatorial combats and and Kenwood House We then travel to our overnight hotel, the with private gym, virtual golf simulator, 25m
built in around 1730, this is the only remaining John Vardy and James ‘Athenian’ Stuart, the
public executions. We start the day to the north of the city in the Macdonald Windsor Hotel, where we have a swimming pool and Ajala Spa.
Franklin home in the world. Still boasting many State Rooms were amongst the first neo-
leafy suburb of Hampstead, at Fenton House, a farewell dinner together.
of its original features, the Founding Father of Crossing the Thames, we then visit classical interiors in Europe.
the United States lived at this property between handsome 17th-century merchant’s house set in Night Seven – Macdonald Windsor
Shakespeare's Globe where we enjoy a The rest of the day is free for you to explore the May 19: Departure Hotel, Windsor
1757 and 1775 at a time when he was involved fascinating backstage tour to learn more a beautiful walled garden and one of London’s
local area with dinner on your own. A private transfer will take you back to
in the mediation between Britain and America. about this iconic theatre and its most famous hidden gems. The house is filled with highly No single supplement – limited availability
Heathrow airport for your return flight home.
decorative collections of porcelain, Georgian
10 For more information or to register, call National Trust Tours at 888-484-8785 9:00am - 5:00pm (EST), Monday - Friday email: info@nationaltrusttours.com 11
Jane Austen & Georgian What’s Included
Airport
transfers from London Heathrow*
Treasures of the South 2
7
nights at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel
nights at the Bailbrook House Hotel
© NTPL/Dennis Gilbert
June 2 to 11, 2019 from $5,250 per person Painswick
Berkeley Castle
Lacock Abbey LONDON
Welcome
drink
Bristol
Bowood House
Bath
Longleat House The Vyne Full
English breakfast each day
English novelist Jane Austen is famous the world over for her entertaining novels that Wells Salisbury Chawton House Bowood House
gently satirise the dating game in Georgian society. She is forever associated with the
Wilton House
Montacute House Winchester
Hinton Ampner
Stourhead
3-course
table d’hôte dinner on 7 nights
south of England, from her home in Chawton, Hampshire to Regency Bath where she at the hotels (with after dinner tea
and coffee)
lived for a time. We travel to many other places associated with her life and work, and
uncover other Georgian gems along the way, such as Bowood and Longleat House and Services
of a tour director throughout
© NTPL/Andreas von Einsiedel
also visit the country’s only surviving Rococo Garden. your stay
Travel
to and from all excursions
Special extras included All
excursion costs
Porterage
in your itinerary
Longleat House The Vyne *supplement applies for transfers from all other
airports
Guided
tour of Berkeley Castle We continue to explore with our guided Jane Bowood was also used as a filming location
Guided
tour of Salisbury Cathedral Austen themed walking tour to view the for the 2007 TV film of Northanger Abbey.
Guided
tour and lunch at Wilton House highlights of the city that features so much in
her writing as well as her former homes.
Here we enjoy a guided tour followed by an
included lunch.
Your Hotels
Talk
at No.1 Royal Crescent Nights One and Nine
Afterwards, we head to the Assembly Rooms We then head to the village of Lacock with its
Jane Austen guided walking tour of Bath
– once the hub of the Georgian social calendar picturesque streets of timber-framed cottages. – Macdonald Windsor Hotel
Early
bird private guided tour and lunch and an important location for Jane Austen’s Lacock Abbey sits at the heart of the village with The Macdonald Windsor Hotel is situated in
at Longleat House novels set here; Persuasion and Northanger golden stone cloisters and a Great Hall. Once a the heart of the historic town of Windsor,
Abbey. Within the Assembly Rooms we visit medieval nunnery, the abbey was turned into a opposite the famous Windsor Castle. The
Guided
tour and lunch at
the Fashion Museum Bath. Founded in 1963, it family home by William Henry Fox Talbot who classic interiors, with a contemporary edge, fit
Bowood House
houses a world-class collection of contemporary invented the first photographic negative. perfectly with the Georgian elegance of this
Literary-themed
guided tour of and historic dress, from the 18th century townhouse hotel. The luxury bedrooms are
Winchester Cathedral Tonight you have some free time to make your individually-designed and the hotel also offers
through to modern day.
own arrangements for dinner. a stylish bar and restaurant.
Themed
evening talk by a After dinner back at the hotel, we are treated to
guest speaker a fascinating themed talk by a guest speaker. June 9: Montacute House and Wells
Wilton House Nights Two to Eight
This morning we visit Elizabethan Montacute
June 7: Longleat House – Bailbrook House Hotel
House. This splendid mansion of golden stone
Ten Day Itinerary This evening we check into our hotel for the the best preserved original 1215 Magna
and Stourhead with its oak-panelled rooms and the longest Dating back to the early 1790s, Bailbrook
next seven nights, the Bailbrook House Hotel. Carta document. House Hotel is a country house hotel situated
June 2: Arrival Tonight we enjoy dinner together at the hotel. We begin the day with a visit to Longleat House gallery in England is crammed with treasures
Located within Cathedral Close is Mompesson including the Tudor and Elizabethan portraits on just a few minutes from Bath. Set within 20
(depart U.S. on 6/1) which is widely regarded as one of the best acres of private grounds, the hotel offers
House, a perfect example of a Queen Anne style examples of high Elizabethan architecture in loan from the National Portrait Gallery. Several
On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private June 4: Painswick Rococo Garden classically-decorated bedrooms located in a
town house. Its most notable features include Britain. Substantially completed by 1580 and scenes of the 1995 film version of Sense and
transfer will take you to our overnight hotel, and Berkeley Castle magnificent plaster work, an elegant carved Sensibility were filmed at Montacute, including new wing as well as the original house, two
now home to the 7th Marquess of Bath, Longleat restaurants, three elegant lounges and a
the Macdonald Windsor Hotel. In the evening Rococo describes a period of art that was oak staircase and fine period furniture. Outside, the scene where Marianne was rejected
House is set within 900 acres of stunning conservatory bar.
you are invited to join the group for a welcome fashionable in the 1700s in Europe and today the charming walled garden has traditionally by Willoughby.
‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland. We
drink, followed by dinner. we begin by visiting the Painswick Rococo planted herbaceous borders. The house also No single supplement – limited availability
take a private guided tour around the house, Afterwards we continue on for a short stop in
Garden. Initially designed in the 1740s as an featured in the award-winning film Sense and
June 3: Chawton House Library, visiting some of the most exquisite rooms Wells, located at the foot of the Mendip Hills.
English country gentleman’s venue for hosting Sensibility based on Jane Austen’s novel. before the property opens to the public for the
Jane Austen House Museum and intimate garden parties, this is now the only England’s smallest city boasts a magnificent From here we travel back to the Macdonald
We then visit Wilton House, an excellent day, and later enjoy an included lunch. cathedral and unique moated Bishop’s Palace Windsor Hotel where we enjoy a farewell
Hinton Ampner complete Rococo garden in England.
example of Palladian architecture. Here we Afterwards we head to Stourhead. The estate while the eclectic mix of buildings and narrow dinner together.
We travel first to Chawton House, an Next we visit Berkeley Castle where we enjoy enjoy lunch and a guided tour. This impressive is renowned for its 18th-century landscaped streets adds to the atmosphere here.
Elizabethan manor house that once belonged a guided tour. Still home to the Berkeley family property has foremost been a family home June 11: Departure
to Jane Austen’s brother, Edward Austen Knight. garden, featured in the 2005 film Pride and Later we have dinner at the hotel.
today, construction began in the early part of for over 450 years and is set in 21 acres of A private transfer will take you back to
It now accommodates a unique library of titles Prejudice, and a delight of classical temples,
the 12th century. It is best known as the scene landscaped parkland. The house has regularly Heathrow airport for your return flight home.
focusing on women’s writing in English from of the brutal murder of Edward ll in 1327. The
exotic trees, hidden grottos and a magnificent June 10: Winchester Cathedral
been used as a filming location too including for lake. The grand Palladian house is no less of a
1600 to 1830. castle has also been used for filming including the 2005 film adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and The Vyne
draw, with its Chippendale furniture and one of Today we explore the medieval city of
Continuing our Jane Austen theme, we visit for popular TV drama Poldark. The state and Prejudice starring Kiera Knightly. the finest Regency libraries left in existence. Winchester with a literary-themed guided tour
Jane Austen’s House Museum, the charming apartments showcase beautiful collections of
furniture and rare paintings. Later we enjoy dinner together at our hotel. This evening we enjoy dinner together at of the cathedral. The awe-inspiring cathedral
house in Chawton where she spent the last
eight years of her life. This is where she did the our hotel. is just one of the historic highlights here; its
Tonight is left free for you to make your own June 6: Bath – No.1 Royal Crescent, hidden treasures include the tomb of Jane
majority of her mature writing and now tells the dinner arrangements.
story of the author and her family. Jane Austen Walking Tour and June 8: Bowood House Austen and the Winchester Bible, one of the
June 5: Salisbury, Salisbury Fashion Museum and Lacock Abbey finest 12th-century bibles to have survived.
Our last stop of the day is Hinton Ampner,
Cathedral, Mompesson House and Once home to Jane Austen, Bath has remained Family home of the Marquis and Marchioness We continue on to The Vyne, a splendid Tudor
an elegant country house with particularly
faithful to its Regency roots. We begin at No.1 of Lansdowne, Bowood houses a unique red-brick mansion set in 13 acres of attractive
impressive gardens. The property was rebuilt in Wilton House
Royal Crescent, a Georgian town house that collection of historical artifacts and family gardens. It was built for King Henry VIII’s Lord
1960 by the then owner, Ralph Dutton, after a Today we head to Salisbury where we take a
creates a wonderful picture of life for both the heirlooms built up over 250 years; from Queen Chamberlain before becoming the Chute family
devastating fire. Today we can wander through guided tour of the city’s fine medieval cathedral
wealthy and their servants in Georgian Bath. Victoria’s wedding chair to Napoleon’s death home for over 300 years.
the house and take in the fine collection of which boasts the tallest spire in Britain. Discover
Here we enjoy a fascinating talk upon arrival. mask. Outside are 100 acres of beautiful
ceramics and art. Make sure to admire the over 750 years of history here including Winchester Cathedral
parkland, designed by ‘Capability’ Brown.
meticulous garden too.
12 For more information or to register, call National Trust Tours at 888-484-8785 9:00am - 5:00pm (EST), Monday - Friday email: info@nationaltrusttours.com 13
Fairytale Castles of Kent What’s Included
Airport
transfers from London Heathrow*
June 9 to 17, 2019 from $5,250 per person Blenheim Palace
LONDON
4
nights at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel
Windsor Castle Hampton Court Palace
Down House 4
nights at the Chilston Park Hotel
We explore the romantic county of Kent on this fascinating tour as we learn about its role Chartwell
Hever Castle
Canterbury
Leeds Castle
shaping English history, and discover some of its famous residents such as Ann Boleyn, Chiddingstone Castle
Sissinghurst Castle Garden Welcome
drink and canapés
Bodiam Castle
Charles Dickens and Winston Churchill, in his former home of Chartwell. In a county Full
English breakfast each day
famed for its castles, we also explore historic Hever Castle, impressive Leeds Castle and 3-course
table d’hôte dinner on 6 nights
the treasure house of Chiddingstone Castle. at the hotels (with after dinner tea
Hampton Court Palace and coffee)
Special extras included 1
dinner at a traditional local pub
Services of a tour director throughout
in your itinerary
your stay
Audio
guided tour of Windsor Castle Travel
to and from all excursions
Guided
walking tour of Windsor All
entrance costs
Exclusive
‘early bird’ garden tour of Porterage
Canterbury Cathedral
Sissinghurst Castle Garden *supplement applies for transfers from all other
airports
© English Heritage
Guided
tour of Hever Castle
Guided
tour of Chiddingstone Castle
Guided
walking tour of Canterbury Down House Blenheim Palace Your Hotels
Guided
tour of Canterbury Cathedral
on our guided walking tour. We also enjoy a We then return to the Macdonald Windsor Night One and Nights Six to Eight
Guided
tour of Godinton House guided tour of Canterbury Cathedral, the oldest Hotel, our base for the last three nights of our – Macdonald Windsor Hotel
Audio
guided tour of Leeds Castle cathedral in England, dating back to Norman stay. Later, we enjoy dinner together at The Macdonald Windsor Hotel is situated in
© Jonathan Buckley
times. In 1170, Archbishop Thomas Becket the hotel. the heart of the historic town of Windsor,
Audio
guided tour at Blenheim Palace
© Hever Castle
was murdered in the cathedral and ever since, opposite the famous Windsor Castle. The
Themed
evening talk by a it has been a site of Christian pilgrimage. The June 15: Blenheim Palace classic interiors, with a contemporary edge, fit
guest speaker cathedral contains one of England’s largest We spend the day at Blenheim Palace, set in perfectly with the Georgian elegance of this
Sissinghurst Castle Garden Hever Castle
collections of early medieval stained glass beautiful parkland landscaped by ‘Capability’ townhouse hotel. The luxury bedrooms are
while its awe-inspiring architecture includes a Brown, where we enjoy an audio guided tour. individually-designed and the hotel also offers
Nine Day Itinerary Later, we travel south east to Kent where we June 12: Hever Castle and
sweeping Gothic nave and cavernous crypt. As the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough, the a stylish bar and restaurant.
pay a visit to Chartwell, Sir Winston Churchill’s Chiddingstone Castle
June 9: Arrival palace is synonymous with the Churchill family
beloved home from 1924 to the time of his Our next stop is Godinton House, a delightful
We head to Hever Castle, the childhood home and is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. A Nights Two to Five
(depart U.S. on 6/8) death. The house is set in a stunning location Jacobean house incorporating a medieval hall
of Henry VIII’s second wife, Anne Boleyn, where permanent exhibition commemorates the life – Chilston Park Hotel
On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private and is still home to many of the great and ornate carvings. Godinton is a comfortable,
we enjoy a guided tour. Dating back to the of this famous wartime Prime Minister, while Set in 22 acres of parkland in the heart of
transfer will take you to our overnight hotel, statesman’s personal and political mementos, much-loved home where each room reflects
late 13th century, this double-moated castle the magnificent State Rooms reveal a superb Kent, the Chilston Park Hotel is an elegant
the Macdonald Windsor Hotel. In the evening including an amazing collection of gifts he the tastes of those who have lived here over
is home to various historic artifacts including collection of tapestries, paintings, porcelain 17th-century manor house. Once home
you are invited to join the group for a welcome received from other world leaders and his the centuries with an excellent collection of
Tudor portraits and fine furniture, as well as and furniture. to eminent politicians, writers, Lords and
drink, followed by dinner. personal painting studio hidden away in the furniture, art, porcelain and curios which we
two prayer books inscribed by Anne Boleyn. The Viscounts, the hotel is filled with antiques
colorful grounds. discover on our guided tour. We also have time The evening is left free for you to make your
castle was lavishly restored and extended by dating from as far back as the 17th century
June 10: Windsor Castle, Windsor American millionaire, William Waldorf Astor, in to explore the 12 acres of tranquil gardens, own dinner arrangements.
After our visit, we travel on to the Chilston Park and offers the classic comforts of a British
and Chartwell Hotel where we stay for the next four nights. the early 20th century. The spectacular gardens surrounded by ancient parkland.
June 16: Hampton Court Palace country house hotel.
We enjoy an audio guided tour of Windsor Tonight we enjoy dinner together at the hotel. feature peaceful walks, two mazes and are We enjoy dinner together back at the
renowned for having their own Hever Our destination today is Hampton Court Palace, No single supplement – limited availability
Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle hotel tonight.
June 11: Sissinghurst Castle Garden Castle Rose. former royal residence of Henry VIII. Here
in the world and one of the Queen’s official
June 14: Down House we discover the State Rooms, the Great Hall
residences. Established in the 11th century by and Bodiam Castle Next is Chiddingstone Castle where we enjoy (England’s last and greatest medieval hall),
William the Conqueror, it has been remodelled This morning we head to Sissinghurst Castle a guided tour. Set in 35 acres of beautiful and Leeds Castle
the vast Tudor kitchens and the Chapel Royal
by successive kings and queens and is regularly Garden where we enjoy an exclusive ‘early bird’ grounds, the castle has undergone a number of Our first stop today is Down House, home of with its sumptuous ceiling decoration. Outside,
used for ceremonial and State occasions. The garden tour. Created in the 1930s by novelist architectural changes; from its beginnings as an scientist Charles Darwin and his family for 40 the formal gardens cover over 60 acres and
magnificent State Apartments are furnished Vita Sackville-West and her husband Harold early timber-framed Tudor dwelling to a rebuild years. Several rooms have been recreated as highlights include the Great Vine planted by
with some of the finest works of art from the Nicolson around the picturesque ruins of an to resemble a medieval castle in the early 19th they appeared when he lived here including the ‘Capability’ Brown, and the Hampton Court
Royal Collection while St George’s Chapel is one Elizabethan manor house, these world-famous century. Today it houses the collections of the study where he wrote 'On the Origin of Species'. Palace Maze which consists of half a mile of
of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in gardens are laid out as a series of enchanting, late antiquarian Denys Eyre Bower including The house is surrounded by extensive gardens; winding paths surrounded by towering yew
England and was the recent venue for the Duke individually-planted ‘rooms’ including a fragrant Japanese lacquer, Ancient Egyptian treasures, Darwin's 'outdoor laboratory'. tree walls.
and Duchess of Sussex’s marriage. Herb Garden and Rose Garden. Stuart paintings and Jacobite manuscripts. The Before leaving Kent we visit Leeds Castle, a Tonight, we enjoy a farewell dinner together at
Afterwards, we enjoy a guided walking tour Victorian kitchen and servants’ hall give a taste quintessential moated castle set in 500 acres
We then discover Bodiam Castle, one of our hotel.
of Windsor. Lying on the south bank of the of the former 'upstairs downstairs' life of of glorious parkland, where we enjoy an audio
Britain’s most picturesque and romantic ancient
River Thames, this ancient royal town, which the house. guided tour. Dating back to the 12th century, it
monuments. This archetypal 14th-century June 17: Departure
grew up around the castle, has a rich mix of moated castle with a ruined interior gives us After dinner back at the hotel, we are treated to was once home to Henry VIII and Catherine of
culture and history. The Old Town retains its A private transfer will take you back to
a glimpse of medieval splendor and boasts an a fascinating talk by a guest speaker. Aragon. The castle’s last private owner was Lady
picturesque medieval appearance with cobbled Heathrow airport for your return flight home.
original wooden portcullis, spiral staircases, Baillie, an Anglo-American heiress who lovingly
streets, winding alleyways and lovely half- tower rooms and battlements. June 13: Canterbury, Canterbury restored the castle to its former glory. We
timbered houses. discover more of the castle’s fascinating history
In the evening, we head to a traditional local Cathedral and Godinton House
as well as its wealth of furnishings, paintings,
© NTPL/David Sellman
pub where we enjoy dinner together. We start the day in Canterbury. The city has
tapestries and antiques on display.
a fascinating history which we learn about
14 For more information or to register, call National Trust Tours at 888-484-8785 9:00am - 5:00pm (EST), Monday - Friday email: info@nationaltrusttours.com Chartwell 15
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