Grand Houses, Glorious Gardens & The Royal Thames

Day One

We travel south via the motorway network to the Royal Borough of Windsor, with its magnificent castle that has been a Royal Palace and fortress for over 900 years that presides over this charming town, where cobbled streets meander past a wealth of historic buildings. Why not visit the castle and explore its exquisite grounds, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the State Apartments and visit the hallowed St. George's Chapel, the resting place of kings and queens. Perhaps consider a panoramic adventure on an open-top bus tour, a leisurely carriage ride through the scenic Windsor Great Park or a serene cruise on the picturesque River Thames. We bid farewell to Windsor in the late afternoon and continue our journey to Hilton Doubletree Kingston-upon-Thames where we stay for the next three nights.

Day Two

Today we make a short walk from our hotel to Kingston Pier, where we board our boat and enjoy a cruise along the River Thames to the magnificent Hampton Court Palace. Delight in the splendour of this historic palace, known for its association with King Henry VIII. Immerse yourself in the opulent Tudor era as you explore the grand corridors, immaculate gardens, and exquisite Great Hall. Uncover the secrets of the past as you wander through the maze and immerse yourself in the rich history that permeates every corner of this remarkable palace. Following our visit we rejoin our boat and return to Kingston. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy at leisure in the charming town of Kingston upon Thames. Take a stroll along the riverbank, explore the local shops, or indulge in a delightful meal at one of the town's renowned restaurants.

Day Three

We explore the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, the most famous gardens in the world with over 100 top-class attractions. Kew features 130 hectares of spectacular landscapes, tropical glasshouses, a soaring treetop walkway, plus the Millennium Seed Bank which stores a vast quantity of the world's wild plant seeds.

Day Four

On our final day, we bid farewell to our hotel and make our way to the extraordinary Waddesdon Manor, a true gem among the United Kingdom's grand houses. This magnificent estate promises an enriching experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in exceptional architecture, world-class art collections, and meticulously maintained gardens. As you explore the manor, you'll be captivated by its opulent interiors and the treasures it houses. In the beautiful gardens, take some time to relax and appreciate the tranquillity and beauty that surrounds you. We depart Waddesdon mid-afternoon to continue our journey home.

B=Breakfast Included