Albion Journeys 2021 Brochure by justgoholidays

Discover Britain's Glorious Heritage 2021 Departures

Leeds Castle

A Wonderful Opportunity to Explore & Experience... Albion

Albion is partnered with a number of key heritage organizations based in the UK, working closely with them so that we can give guests privileged access to their amazing and fascinating properties. Albion is proud to pledge support to these great causes helping them to conserve our heritage for years to come. We also operate a collection of tours in partnership with The Royal Oak Foundation and the National Trust for Historic Preservation based in the USA, with a contribution of the tour cost going to help the work of these two charities. We are very proud to have the backing of these two wonderful organizations.

Castle Howard

About our partners in the USA The Royal Oak Foundation

Carisbrooke Castle

The Royal Oak Foundation seeks to raise awareness of and advance the work of the National Trust of England, Wales and Northern Ireland by inspiring support from the United States for the Trust’s efforts to preserve and protect historic places and spaces. Albion has been working with Royal Oak since 2013 and close to 500 Royal Oak members have already travelled with us.

National Trust for Historic Preservation The National Trust for Historic Preservation protects significant places in America where history happened, representing diverse cultural experience by taking direct action and inspiring broad public support. Albion has been working with the organization since 2014.

THE ROYAL OAK FOUNDATION

Nostell Priory

Americans in Alliance with National Trust of England, Wales and Northern Ireland

Source: English Heritage Photo Library Picture Reference: N100272

Heritage Partners

Albion specializes in heritage tours of Great Britain and Ireland and we pride ourselves in offering a unique experience. We create fascinating escorted tours with carefully crafted itineraries that unlock Britain’s rich history, with behind-the-scenes tours, guest lectures and insights from the owners of the properties themselves. Our years of experience and attention to detail mean that you will always be well looked after when you travel with us.

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

It’s the little extras that set Albion tours apart from the rest Carefully chosen itineraries We work closely with our partner heritage organizations to create unique and insightful itineraries that truly unlock Britain’s history and culture. Our itineraries are carefully researched to ensure that they provide a valuable and enriching experience. Our in-house planners are always on hand should you have any questions before you travel with us.

Caring staff If you have booked an Albion tour before you will already be on first name terms with our customer service team! They will look after you from your first enquiry through to your arrival in the UK, and work hard to ensure that any special requests or arrangements you may need are carried out. Our team work tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure your tour runs smoothly.

Tailored reading lists If you want to understand more about the themes of your tour, we provide a full reading list that should enable you to fully engage with the subject before your tour begins. We ensure that our reading lists are entertaining as well as informative, and they often include a mix of fiction as well as factual tomes. It is up to you how much you want to use the reading list, but you can be sure that it will help spark lively conversation!

Special guided tours On an Albion journey we arrange tours by the house owners themselves wherever possible, to really bring historic houses alive. We also offer behind-the-scenes tours or private tours with special access, and even talks by curators at historic houses, to make sure you get the full story and the most out of your visit.

Exclusive themed talks by experts The majority of our tours include an after-dinner talk by an expert in their field that promises to be both informative and engaging. Whether it is a leading historian, fascinating writer or learned expert, we arrange guest speakers who will enhance the themes of your tour and provide some captivating background or intriguing insight. With the chance for you to ask questions at the end of the talk, these interactive experiences are an opportunity not to be missed. Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

Hartwell House

Delve Deeper into Britain’s Heritage

Hand-picked hotels Your journey through Britain’s colorful past won’t end after a day of excursions. We’ve chosen your principal hotels for their character and history and full descriptions can be found on our website. These hotels are complemented by conveniently located overnight hotels at the beginning and end of your stay.

Three hotels featured on these tours that are of particular interest are Historic House Hotels of the National Trust, with all profits supporting the charity’s conservation work. Middlethorpe Hall is a beautiful red brick country house which was built at the end of the 17th century, while Bodysgallen Hall is believed to have begun life as a watchtower for Conwy Castle in the 13th century. Hartwell House’s most famous resident was Louis XVIII, exiled King of France, who lived there with his Court for five years. 3

©National Trust Images/Andreas von Einsiedel

Tour Map

Bonnie Prince Charlie & the Jacobite Rebellion

Scotland

Turrets, Towers & Spires of Yorkshire

Classic Scotland Featuring the Edinburgh Tattoo Aristocrats & Manor Houses & A Grand Tour to the North

Edinburgh

Glorious Gardens & Grandeur of North Wales

England

A Tour Around the Treasure Houses of England

York Manchester

Penrhyn Castle

Ireland

Birmingham England’s Royal Palaces

Wales

Travel Safely

London

The wellbeing of our customers is our number one priority and when you join one of our holidays, you will notice some changes. Full details of our plans to make your holiday as safe as possible can be found at albion.com/covid19

Kent Castles & Coasts

A Romantic Journey to the English Riviera

South West Classic English Manor Houses & the Downton Experience

South East England & the Bloomsbury Group South of England Stately Homes & the Isle of Wight

For a more detailed map for each tour please see the tour pages

Contents Tour Description

Hardwick Hall

5-7

South of England Stately Homes & the Isle of Wight May 17 to 26, 2021

8-9

Glorious Gardens & Grandeur of North Wales June 6 to 15, 2021

10-11

Turrets, Towers & Spires of Yorkshire June 13 to 21, 2021

12-13

A Romantic Journey to the English Riviera July 27 to July 6, 2021

14-15

South East England & the Bloomsbury Group July 10 to 18, 2021

16-17

Aristocrats, Manor Houses & a Grand Tour to the North July 18 to 27, 2021

18-19

South West Classic English Manor Houses & Downton Experience August 1 to 10, 2021

20-21

England’s Royal Palaces August 9 to 18, 2021

22-23

Classic Scotland Featuring the Edinburgh Tattoo August 19 to 24, 2021

24-25

A Tour Around the Treasure Houses of England September 5 to 16, 2021

26-27

Kent Castles & Coasts September 11 to 19, 2021

28-29

©National Trust Images/Andrew Butler

©National Trust Images/Robert Morris

This symbol indicates that our business has followed government and industry Covid-19 guidelines as approved by Visit Britain and has a process in place to maintain cleanliness and aid social distancing.

Page

Bonnie Prince Charlie & the Jacobite Rebellion May 9 to 19, 2021

Killerton

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

Blenheim Palace

Bonnie Prince Charlie & the Jacobite Rebellion May 9 to 19, 2021 $6,640 (USD) or $8,632 (CAD) pp

Linlithgow Palace

Special extras included in your itinerary Private

Perth

out-of-hours guided tour and refreshments at the Palace of Holyroodhouse Audio guided tour of Edinburgh Castle Guided tour of the House of Dun Guided tour of Drum Castle Guided tour of Craigievar Castle Guided tour of Castle Fraser Guided tour of Brodie Castle Tour of Dallas Dhu Distillery with whisky tasting Scenic Jacobite train journey Cruise on Loch Lomond Audio guided tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia Evening tour of the Edinburgh Underground Vaults Themed evening talk by a guest speaker Palace of Holyroodhouse

Follow in the footsteps of Bonnie Prince Charlie just over 300 years on from his birth. Prince Charles Edward Stuart, born to the exiled Stuart King James II, was raised in the belief that his family were the true rulers of Britain. Supported by his fellow Jacobites, he landed in Scotland in 1745. His planned invasion of England starting promisingly but ultimately ended in a disastrous defeat with the Prince forced to go on the run, always one step away from capture, before escaping to the continent. We tell the fascinating story of the young prince’s time in Scotland, visiting the places where he sought refuge, in a story that has shaped Scottish history and been immortalized in books and songs from Sir Walter Scott to the Outlander TV series.

Brodie Castle Dallas Dhu Dis�llery Inverness Culloden Ba�leﬁeld Fyvie Castle Urquart Castle

Loch Ness Craigievar Castle

Glenﬁnnan Monument Fort William

House of Dun

Glencoe Hun�ngtower Castle

Castle Fraser Aberdeen Drum Castle

Perth

Alloa Tower Loch Lomond Linlithgow Palace EDINBURGH Dumbarton Castle

Tour Highlight We board the famous Jacobite Train which takes us across the mountainous west coast of Scotland to the bustling port of Mallaig. This iconic railway is one of the top rail journeys in the world and takes in wonderful sights such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Drum Castle Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

Please turn over to view the full itinerary.

Eleven Day Itinerary

We then check in to the Marcliffe Hotel, where we stay for two nights. Tonight we enjoy dinner at the hotel followed by a fascinating talk by a guest speaker.

Sunday: Arrival

On arrival at Edinburgh airport, a private transfer will take you to the Principal Charlotte Square Hotel, our hotel for the next two nights. In the evening you are invited to join the group for a welcome drink and dinner followed by an introductory lecture.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Thursday: Craigievar Castle and Castle Fraser Our day begins at Craigievar Castle, built in the 17th century and boasting a fine collection of baroque furniture, original Jacobean woodwork and intricately decorated plaster ceilings which we discover on our guided tour. Most interestingly though is the Order of Battle for the Battle of Culloden which you will find in a manuscript cabinet here.

Meals: Dinner

Monday: Palace of Holyroodhouse, National Museum of Scotland and Edinburgh Castle This morning we visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse for a private guided tour followed by refreshments. Today the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, back in September 1745, Bonnie Prince Charlie set up court at the palace, with the bed where he slept still in situ today. We visit the rooms that became the focus of the Jacobite cause in Edinburgh including the Great Gallery where the Prince once held a lavish ball. Next, we venture to the National Museum of Scotland, which has a significant collection of material relating to the Jacobite story, from documents to costumes. We then head up to Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, which has witnessed many of the defining events of Scottish history including the unsuccessful Jacobite blockades during the 1715 and 1745 risings. Highlights here include the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Royal Palace and the 16th-century Great Hall which we discover on our audio guided tour. Meals: Breakfast

Brodie Castle

From here we visit the Alloa Tower, one of Scotland’s largest and oldest keeps. Interestingly the tower was once home to John Erskine, the 6th Earl of Mar and the Jacobite who led the 1715 rising. Later we make our way to Huntingtower Castle. Lord George Murray was born at Huntingtower, and both he and his brother Charles were involved in earlier Jacobite risings. As we explore the many rooms of the castle we can discover more but don’t miss the impressive painted ceiling from the 1500s, depicting strange beasts and monsters. Afterwards, we visit the city of Perth, ‘Gateway to the Highlands’, located on the banks of the River Tay. A former capital of Scotland, Perth has a rich and influential history that stretches back over 800 years. We then continue to our overnight hotel, Fonab Castle. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Wednesday: House of Dun, Drum Castle and Aberdeen The Georgian House of Dun was built for David Erskine, a distant cousin of John Erskine, the fervent Jacobite. On our guided tour we discover subtle nuances that hint at David Erskine’s clandestine loyalties, such as the white roses (a symbol of the Jacobite cause) and a Poseidon on his sea chariot (representing the arrival of Bonnie Prince Charlie from over the sea). Alloa Tower

Tuesday: Linlithgow Palace, Alloa Tower, Huntingtower Castle and Perth We begin our day at the ruins of Linlithgow Palace. Built by successive Stuart kings, Linlithgow was a comfortable country retreat visited by Charles Edward Stuart during his march south in 1745. The courtyard fountain is said to have run with red wine in his honour. However, in 1746, Linlithgow was ravaged by fire after British troops ransacked the house searching for retreating Jacobites.

Next we visit Jacobite Drum Castle where we enjoy a guided tour. Alexander Irvine, 17th Laird of Drum fought alongside Bonnie Prince Charlie at the Battle of Culloden. After the defeat, he was listed ‘never to be pardoned’ but Alexander managed to make his way back to Drum where his sister hid him in a secret room to avoid capture. The secret room was only rediscovered more recently in 2014 by archaeologists, located within the walls of the 14th-century Tower of Drum.

Afterwards we visit Castle Fraser. This castle was one of the strongholds of the Fraser Clan, who came out for the Jacobites in the 1745 rebellion. Much of this magnificent fortified castle survives as it was at this time including the Laird’s Lug, secret staircases, a spy hole and hidden trapdoors which we discover on our guided tour. Meals: Breakfast

Friday: Fyvie Castle, Brodie Castle and Dallas Dhu Distillery Known as Scotland’s pink castle, Fyvie blends 13th-century origins with opulent Edwardian interiors. This magnificent Scottish Baronial fortress was once a Royal stronghold before being owned by five successive families and contains a superb collection of arms and armor as well as a rich portrait collection, including works by Raeburn and Gainsborough. We continue on to Brodie Castle, set in tranquil parkland. There are tales of government troops camped out in the wood behind the castle, in an area known today as the ‘45 Wood. As well as an extensive library, today the house has a major collection of paintings that span the centuries plus fine antique furniture and ceramics which we discover on our guided tour. Our day finishes with a visit to Dallas Dhu Distillery. Picturesque Dallas Dhu operated between 1899 and 1983 and originally made malt whisky for the popular Roderick Dhu blend. Today we can see and hear how whisky was made in the 1900s – and then sample a wee dram too. This evening, we check in to the Rocpool Reserve Hotel & Chez Roux Restaurant, our base for the next two nights. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Our final stop today is the cosmopolitan port and ‘Granite city’ of Aberdeen. Just a short walk from the city center, you might be surprised to also find a sandy beach, perfect for a stroll.

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

Castle Fraser

Saturday: Inverness, Culloden Battlefield and Urquart Castle

Monday: Glencoe, Loch Lomond and Dumbarton Castle

This morning we enjoy some free time in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. This vibrant city is full of historical buildings, particularly in the Old Town, with Inverness Castle perched picturesquely above the River Ness.

Our day begins at Glencoe. Showcasing a dramatic landscape of towering peaks and sweeping glens, Glencoe is regarded by many as a natural monument to the infamous massacre of February 1692, where 38 people from the MacDonald clan, who had supported the 1689 Jacobite rising, were killed by government troops.

From here we visit Culloden Battlefield, scene of the final battle of the 1745-46 Jacobite rising, the short but bloody battle which changed the course of history. We also spend time at the state-of-theart visitor center which puts this infamous period of Scottish history into vivid context. We then make our way to Urquart Castle for a chance to experience a glimpse of medieval life while taking in panoramic views over Loch Ness. One of the most famous castles in the Highlands, in 1689 government troops were stationed here and on their departure in 1692, they blew up the gatehouse to ensure the location could not be used by the Jacobites. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We then embark on a cruise of Loch Lomond, the largest expanse of fresh water on mainland Britain. The loch is situated amidst one of Scotland’s most idyllic and unspoilt areas in the Trossachs National Park and boasts a stunning mountain backdrop and a variety of wildlife. Our final visit of the day is to Dumbarton Castle, once a military base and prison. Aeneas MacDonald – one of the ‘seven men of Moidart’ who had accompanied Charles Edward Stuart to Scotland – was imprisoned at the castle after the Battle of Culloden. Here you can ascend over 500 steps to stand atop one of Scotland’s greatest strongholds. We then make our way to the Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort where we stay overnight. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Tuesday: Royal Yacht Britannia and Edinburgh Underground Vaults

Glenfinnan Monument

Sunday: Loch Ness, Jacobite train journey and Glenfinnan Monument We visit picturesque Loch Ness in Drumnadrochit this morning, where a multi-media presentation in the Exhibition Centre leads us through 500 million years of history, natural mystery and legend. From here we head to Fort William, the largest town in the Highlands known for its breathtaking location on the shores of Loch Linnhe. Here we board the famous Jacobite Train, featured in the Harry Potter movies, which takes us across the mountainous west coast of Scotland to the bustling port of Mallaig. This iconic railway is one of the top rail journeys in the world and takes in wonderful sights such as the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Afterwards we rejoin our coach to visit the Glenfinnan Monument – a chance to stand on the site where Bonnie Prince Charlie came ashore on 19 August 1745 and raised the Stuart standard. Thus began the final Jacobite rising, which would end at Culloden. The lone kilted Highlander atop the 18 meter-high column is a tribute to the Jacobite clansmen who fought to defend the Highland way of life.

We return to Edinburgh where we step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Queen’s floating Royal residence for over 44 years, used not only for state visits and official receptions but also for family holidays. Our fascinating tour with audio guides includes the Bridge, the State Apartments, Royal Bedrooms, Crew’s Quarters and the Engine Room. Following this, we have some free time to enjoy Edinburgh at leisure before checking back in to the Principal Charlotte Square Hotel, where we enjoy a farewell dinner together. However the night is not yet over, as after our dinner, we take a trip beneath the bustle of Edinburgh’s Old Town, to the dark, damp and eerie Underground Vaults. Largely unchanged since the 18th century, we discover more about the city’s history on our tour as we explore a world of streets, tunnels and vaults that were once the main streets of Edinburgh until they were built on top of. But be warned, this tour is not for the faint hearted with tales of ghosts and supernatural happenings to be heard as we explore this fascinating part of the city.

What’s Included Return

airport transfers from Edinburgh* nights at the Principal Charlotte Square Hotel 1 night at the Fonab Castle Hotel 2 nights at the Marcliffe Hotel & Spa 2 nights at the Rocpool Reserve Hotel & Chez Roux Restaurant 1 night at the Glenfinnan House Hotel 1 night at the Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort Welcome drink and canapés Full Scottish breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 7 nights at the hotels (with after-dinner tea and coffee) Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All excursion costs Porterage 3

*supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

Your Hotels Nights One, Two and Ten – Principal Charlotte Square Hotel, Edinburgh Night Three – Fonab Castle Hotel, Pitlochry Nights Four and Five – Marcliffe Hotel & Spa, Aberdeen Nights Six and Seven – Rocpool Reserve Hotel & Chez Roux Restaurant, Inverness Night Eight – Glenfinnan House Hotel, Glenfinnan Night Nine – Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort, near Glasgow For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

Royal Yacht Britannia

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Wednesday: Departure A private transfer will take you back to Edinburgh airport for your return flight home. Meals: Breakfast

We then travel to our overnight hotel, the Glenfinnan House Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

Osbourne House

South of England Stately Homes & the Isle of Wight May 17 to 26, 2021 $5,350 (USD) or $6,955 (CAD) pp

Special extras included in your itinerary Guided

Farringford House

tour of Brighton Museum & Art Gallery Guided tour of Parham House Guided tour of Petworth House Guided tour of Goodwood House Guided tour of Farringford House Exclusive guided tour of Nunwell House Guided tour and lunch at Osborne House Introductory talk at Jane Austen’s House Museum Guided tour of Watts Chapel and refreshments at Watts Gallery

Petworth House

Wa�s Gallery Jane Austen’s House Museum Petworth House Merchant’s House

LONDON Polesden Lacy Standen

Parham House

Goodwood House

Brighton Royal Pavilion

Brighton Museum and Art Gallery

Renowned for its idyllic countryside and stunning coastline, the picturesque South of England is peppered with spectacular estates, where the elegance of traditional country houses is blended with the warmth of much-loved family homes. On this tour we uncover captivating stories and treasures contained within properties such as impressive Polesden Lacey and historic Petworth House, admiring fine collections of art and exploring the homes of literary greats along the way. We combine these fascinating discoveries with a trip to the Isle of Wight, a delightful holiday destination popularized in the Victorian times. Here we delve into the history of the ‘Garden Isle’ with visits to Carisbrooke Castle and some of the island’s finest properties including Osborne House, the Italianate seaside retreat of Queen Victoria.

Ten Day Itinerary Monday: Arrival

On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private transfer will take you our overnight hotel, the Macdonald Windsor Hotel. In the evening join the group for a welcome drink, followed by dinner. Meals: Dinner

Tuesday: Polesden Lacey and Standen This morning we visit Polesden Lacey, described as a ‘delicious house’ by the Queen Mother on her honeymoon there. This peaceful countryside retreat is most closely connected to Dame Margaret Greville who entertained royalty and the celebrities of her time with lavish parties at the manor, which remains home to her extensive collection of art and ceramics. Next we visit Standen, one of the finest examples of an Arts and Crafts property, which combines the skills of architect Philip Webb and his friend William Morris. The rooms are decorated with Morris’ wallpapers and textiles with William de Morgan pottery to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Later we check in to the South Lodge Hotel, our base for the next three nights. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

Wednesday: Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Saturday: Farringford House and Nunwell House & Gardens

Today we visit the seaside resort of Brighton, where we enjoy a guided tour of Brighton Museum & Art Gallery located in the Royal Pavilion Garden. Here we discover exciting displays of history and fine art, combining to tell the story of Brighton and the world we live in today. Afterwards we enjoy lunch together followed by some free time. Explore Brighton’s unique antique and boutique shopping area in the Lanes or visit the Prince Regent’s lavish Royal Pavilion.

Our first visit is to Farringford House, the home of famous poet Alfred Lord Tennyson. Tennyson lived here from 1853 until his death in 1892, and the house remained in the Tennyson family until 1945. More than half a century later, this dramatic Gothic house has been meticulously restored to its 19th-century splendor to reflect Tennyson’s tastes and lifestyle. We enjoy a guided tour of the house and explore its exciting treasures.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Thursday: Parham House and Petworth House We head to Parham House, an idyllic Elizabethan family home with award-winning gardens. The timeless beauty of the house has changed little over the centuries since the foundation stone was laid in 1557. The history of the house is illuminated on our guided tour, and we learn how Parham became home to evacuee children in the Second World War before it was requisitioned for billeting Canadian officers. Outside, the gardens consist of beautiful pleasure grounds, a four-acre walled garden, an orchard and vegetable garden. Immortalised in Turner’s paintings, Petworth House is an impressive estate that combines a deer park landscaped by ‘Capability’ Brown with a vast 17th-century mansion, which houses the National Trust’s finest collection of art and sculptures. We enjoy a guided tour of the house and discover masterpieces by the likes of Van Dyck, Reynolds, Blake and Turner himself, displayed in the opulent state rooms and North Gallery. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Friday: Goodwood House and Southampton Merchant’s House After checking out of our hotel, we make our way to Goodwood House, built in 1616-17 by the 9th Earl of Northumberland. The family of the Duke of Richmond and Gordon have lived here for over 300 years, dating back to the 1st Duke of Richmond – the illegitimate son of Charles II. We enjoy a guided tour of the Old House and the State Apartments, restored to their original Regency splendor. The house is not only famous for its sporting heritage, but also provides a spectacular setting for one of the most significant private art collections in the country. We continue to Southampton, a lovely city steeped in maritime heritage. We visit Merchant’s House where we take in the history of Southampton’s ‘old town’. Built around 1290 by a wealthy wine merchant, the house survived many centuries of domestic and commercial use largely intact and has now been restored to its mid-14th century appearance.

We continue on to Nunwell House, a beautiful family home since 1522, set in five acres of tranquil gardens with stunning views across the Solent. Our exclusive guided tour of this private historic house takes us back through time architecturally from the Edwardian to the Jacobean periods including the parlour chamber where the ill-fated Charles I spent his last night of freedom. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Sunday: Carisbrooke Castle & Museum and Isle of Wight Villages This morning we head to Carisbrooke Castle. Over the centuries Carisbrooke has been an Elizabethan artillery fortress, a prison for a king and a royal summer residence. Visit the museum, walk around the award-winning Edwardian-style garden and admire the panoramic views from the castle walls. The museum was founded by HRH Princess Beatrice, Queen Victoria’s youngest daughter, as a memorial to her husband, Prince Henry of Battenburg, and cares for over 30,000 items connected to the Isle of Wight’s history. In the afternoon we enjoy a scenic drive through some of the Isle of Wight’s most picturesque villages including Godshill, a quaint inland village with charming thatched-roofed cottages and a delightful medieval church. Meals: Breakfast

Monday: Osborne House Today we are treated to a lovely leisurely visit to Osborne House with a guided tour and lunch included. Osborne House was purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1845 as a seaside retreat away from London and Windsor. The Italianate palace reflects Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s tastes and passions, and boasts spectacular views across the Solent. We take an intimate glimpse of royal family life as we wander through the magnificent Royal Apartments as well as the walled gardens and grounds where we find the charming Swiss Cottage, used by the royal children to learn household management. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tuesday: Jane Austen’s House Museum and Watts Gallery

This morning we catch the ferry back to the From Southampton, we then catch the ferry to the mainland and head to Jane Austen’s House Isle of Wight and check in to the Royal Hotel, where Museum, the charming house in Chawton where she spent the last eight years of her life. It was in we stay for the next four nights. In the evening we are treated to a fascinating talk by a guest speaker. this country cottage where Austen did the majority of her mature writing, including the timeless Pride Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

What’s Included Return

airport transfers from London Heathrow* Return ferry crossings to the Isle of Wight 2 nights at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel 3 nights at the South Lodge Hotel 4 nights at the Royal Hotel Welcome drink and canapés Full English breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 8 nights at the hotels (with after-dinner tea and coffee) 1 lunch at a local restaurant Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All excursion costs Porterage *supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

Your Hotels Nights One and Nine – Macdonald Windsor Hotel, Windsor Nights Two to Four – South Lodge Hotel, Horsham Nights Five to Eight – Royal Hotel, Ventnor (Isle of Wight) For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

and Prejudice. We enjoy an introductory talk here before exploring the house and its treasures, including first editions of Austen’s books. We spend the rest of the day at Watts Gallery and Artists’ Village, a building intended to provide ‘art for all’ and finished shortly before artist George Frederic Watts’ death. The gallery walls are hung with a large selection of Watts’ prolific output. In addition to visiting the gallery, we enjoy a guided tour of the Arts and Crafts chapel, designed by Watts’ wife Mary, and take a little time to enjoy tea and cake. Later, we return to the Macdonald Windsor Hotel where we enjoy a farewell dinner together. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Wednesday: Departure A private transfer will take you back to Heathrow airport for your return flight home. Meals: Breakfast

Glorious Gardens & Grandeur of North Wales June 6 to 15, 2021 $5,900 (USD) or $7,670 (CAD) pp

Conwy Castle

Special extras included in your itinerary Guided

tour of Plas Newydd House & Gardens Guided tour of Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens Guided tour at Plas Tan y Bwlch Private guided tour of Erddig Hall Guided tour and lunch at Tatton Park Guided tour and lunch at Waterperry Gardens Themed evening talk by a guest speaker Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens

Penrhyn Castle Plas Cadnant Ta�on Park Conwy Castle Anglesey Bodnant Garden Erddig Hall Plas Newydd House Betws-y-Coed Caerau Gardens Plas Tan y Bwlch Portmeirion

North Wales, a land blessed with rugged mountains, beautiful beaches and picturesque villages also has some of the most striking gardens in the UK, many attached to magnificent houses with centuries of history to uncover. From world-renowned gardens to hidden gems, we encounter a remarkable array of sweeping landscapes, woodlands, valleys, walled gardens and displays of abundant flowers and shrubs which thrive in the unique climate of this region.

Ten Day Itinerary Sunday: Arrival

On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private transfer will take you to our overnight hotel, the Macdonald Windsor Hotel. In the evening join the group for a welcome drink, followed by dinner. Meals: Dinner

Monday: Stratford-upon-Avon and Shakespeare’s Birthplace We head to Stratford-upon-Avon, a town forever associated with England’s greatest poet and playwright, William Shakespeare. We visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace, where we explore the extraordinary story of Shakespeare in the house where he was born and grew up. Later, we continue our journey to Wales, checking in to Bodysgallen Hall & Spa, one of the National Trust’s Historic House Hotels, where we spend the next six nights. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Tuesday: Bodnant Garden and Penrhyn Castle Stra�ord-upon-Avon

Waterperry Gardens Oxford

Plas Newydd House

Penrhyn Castle

Today we first visit Bodnant Garden, nestled in the Snowdonian foothills. Created over 150 years, this world-famous garden is home to National Collections and Champion Trees and boasts sweeping lawns, grand terraces and verdant woodland. Next stop is the magnificent Penrhyn Castle. Built in the 19th century in a neo-Norman style, Penrhyn was built on a massive scale over a period of 13 years and offers superb views of Snowdonia. There is so much to see here, from the outstanding collection of paintings, restored Victorian kitchens and a railway museum. Meals: Breakfast

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

Wednesday: Isle of Anglesey, Plas Newydd House & Gardens and Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens Today we cross the 19th-century Menai Bridge to spend the day on the Isle of Anglesey. Our first visit is to the fine country house of Plas Newydd, where we enjoy a guided tour of the house and gardens. Its most famous past resident is the 1st Marquess of Anglesey, who commanded the cavalry at Waterloo in 1815. The elegant interior owes more to the 1930s, thanks to its associations with the artist, socialite and fallen WWII soldier Rex Whistler. The garden’s climate allows extraordinary plants to flourish including tender exotics and Mediterranean plants.

Friday: Erddig Hall and Caerau Gardens Erddig Hall is an atmospheric early 18th-century house that reflects the ‘upstairs, downstairs’ life of a gentry family, and we’re provided with a fascinating insight into the lives of the family and their servants on our private guided tour. We also have free time to explore the superb walled garden, now restored to its former 18th-century formal design with rare fruit trees and a national collection of ivies.

We then travel to Caerau Gardens, with their far reaching views over the Berwyn Mountains and Bala Lake. Situated at over 1,000ft above sea level, the gardens are believed to be Wales’ highest gardens open to the public and were started in We continue on to Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens, a 1994 by Toby and Stephanie Hickish. The gardens series of historic gardens which are gradually being now offer herbaceous borders, laburnum-covered pergolas, rose gardens, castellated yew topiary, restored to their former glory, where we enjoy a spring gardens full of rhododendrons and azaleas, guided tour. Three different gardens have been an arboretum with fine Japanese maples, pleached discovered, including an unusual walled garden with curving walls, a secret valley garden with three lime walkways, courtyard gardens, woodland walks and more. waterfalls and a river, and an upper woodland garden with the remains of a 19th-century folly. This evening we enjoy a traditional fish and chip supper at a local restaurant. After dinner back at the hotel this evening, we are treated to a fascinating talk by a guest speaker. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Saturday: Portmeirion and Plas Brondanw Gardens The day starts in Portmeirion, an Italianate village created by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, inspired by his visits to the Mediterranean. Its unique atmosphere has been featured on camera many times, most famously in the iconic 1960s British TV series The Prisoner.

Bodnant Garden

Thursday: Plas Tan y Bwlch, Betws-y-Coed and Conwy Castle Home to the Snowdonia National Park Environmental Studies Centre, Plas Tan y Bwlch is a 17th-century country house which was once home to slate quarry owners the Oakeley family. The 100acre estate boasts a spectacular Victorian garden, native and exotic plants, rare trees and shrubs. We enjoy a guided tour with the Head Gardener (please note there is no access to the house itself). We then make a short stop in the picturesque village of Betws-y-Coed in the Snowdonia National Park. The backdrop of coniferous forests has earned this area the name ‘Little Switzerland’. From here we head to the medieval walled town of Conwy to visit the imposing Conwy Castle. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this imposing castle was built by Edward I during his conquest of Wales in the late 13th century and is considered to be among the finest surviving medieval fortifications in Britain with soaring curtain walls, round towers and fortified gateways. This evening we enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

We then visit Plas Brondanw Gardens. The house and gardens were given to Sir Clough Williams-Ellis by his father in 1902 and the gardens are regarded by some as his finest creation. Inspired by the gardens of renaissance Italy, he created a unique garden landscape with stone walls, topiary and avenues of trees leading the eye to the dramatic mountainous backdrop. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Sunday: Tatton Park Leaving Wales we journey east to Tatton Park, where we enjoy a guided tour followed by lunch. Built by Samuel Wyatt, Tatton Park is one of Britain’s most complete estates, with a landscaped deer park and exquisite formal gardens. The opulent interior is crammed with collections of silver, china, glass and fine furniture made by Gillows. This grandeur also extends outside to the garden, where year-round color is provided by the Rose, Italian and Japanese gardens. From here we travel south to the Mercure Stratford-upon-Avon Shakespeare Hotel, where we stay overnight. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Monday: Waterperry Gardens We start the morning with some time at leisure in Stratford-upon-Avon, before travelling to Waterperry Gardens. Here we enjoy lunch followed by a guided tour. Made famous by Beatrix Havergal

What’s Included Return

airport transfers from London Heathrow* 1 night at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel 6 nights at Bodysgallen Hall & Spa 1 night at the Mercure Stratford-upon-Avon Shakespeare Hotel 1 night at the Castle Hotel Windsor – MGallery Welcome drink and canapés Full English breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 6 nights at the hotels (with after-dinner tea and coffee) 2 dinners at local restaurants (including one traditional English fish and chip supper) Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All entrance costs Porterage *supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

Your Hotels Night One – Macdonald Windsor Hotel, Windsor Nights Two to Seven – Bodysgallen Hall & Spa, near Llandudno Night Eight – Mercure Stratford-upon-Avon Shakespeare Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon Night Nine – Castle Hotel Windsor – MGallery, Windsor For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

who established her School of Horticulture for Ladies here from 1932 to 1971, the eight acres of beautifully landscaped gardens now include a rose and formal knot garden, water-lily canal, and riverside walk. Afterwards, we travel to the Castle Hotel Windsor – MGallery, where we enjoy a farewell dinner together. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tuesday: Departure A private transfer will take you back to Heathrow airport for your return flight home. Meals: Breakfast

Turrets, Towers & Spires of Yorkshire

June 13 to 21, 2021 $4,840 (USD) or $6,292 (CAD) pp

Castle Howard York Minster

Special extras included in your itinerary Guided

tour of Coventry Cathedral walking tour of York Cruise on the River Ouse in York Guided tour and lunch at Harewood House Guided tour of Sion Hill Hall Private guided tour and lunch at Castle Howard Guided tour of Wentworth Woodhouse Guided tour of Renishaw Hall Guided tour of Sulgrave Manor Themed evening talk by a guest speaker Guided

Whitby Abbey Sion Hill Hall

Castle Howard

Harrogate Harewood House Cannon Hall

York

Wentworth Woodhouse Renishaw Hall Hardwick Hall

Coventry Cathedral

Sulgrave Manor

LONDON

Harewood House

Glorious Yorkshire is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Britain as well as a wonderfully rich and diverse skyline, showcasing a range of architecture which reflects its fascinating heritage. Many of the region’s finest historic houses have been lived in by the same families for generations, including remarkable Harewood House, magnificent Castle Howard and the largest privately-owned country house in Europe, Wentworth Woodhouse, bursting with architectural splendor and filled with treasured collections. Our tour is complemented by accommodation at two of the Historic House Hotels of the National Trust, country houses with their own stunning architecture that have been rescued and carefully restored, bringing them back to life as luxury hotels.

Nine Day Itinerary Sunday: Arrival

On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private transfer will take you to the Hartwell House Hotel, one of the National Trust’s Historic House Hotels, where we stay overnight. In the evening join the group for a welcome drink, followed by dinner. Meals: Dinner

Monday: Coventry Cathedral and Hardwick Hall Leaving Buckinghamshire we head north, stopping first in Coventry where we enjoy a guided tour of Coventry Cathedral. The cathedral is in fact two buildings; the ruins of the ‘old Cathedral’, a medieval parish church that was bombed during the Second World War, and the ‘new Cathedral’, designed by architect Sir Basil Spence and containing some of the finest examples of 1950s and 1960s Art and Architecture in the country. After free time for lunch in Coventry, we continue our journey, stopping to visit Hardwick Hall. Ordered in the 16th century by Bess of Hardwick, England’s richest woman after her Queen, Elizabeth I, Hardwick is a striking Elizabethan treasure full of architectural and artistic delights. The lavish number of windows (at a time when glass was a luxury) inspired the phrase, ‘Hardwick Hall, more glass than wall’. Later, we check in to the Middlethorpe Hall Hotel, another of the National Trust’s Historic House Hotels, and our base for the next six nights. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

Tuesday: York, York Minster and River Ouse Cruise We spend the day in York, starting with a guided walking tour. The city is steeped in history, from its founding by the Romans in 71AD to its wealth as a medieval wool trading center. There is plenty of evidence of this fascinating past left to admire, including the Roman city walls and the surviving medieval streets known as the Shambles. Next we take a guided tour of York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe and home to some of the most stunning stained glass windows that have led to the Minster being described as ‘the Sistine Chapel of England’. A relaxing cruise along the picturesque River Ouse follows, where we can view the city from a different perspective, after which we have some time to explore York at our leisure.

Afterwards we travel to Sion Hill Hall, a wonderful Arts and Crafts-inspired home. Surrounded by charming gardens and parkland, this Edwardian house is of outstanding architectural merit, having been designed in 1913 by the renowned York architect Walter H. Brierley, known as the ‘Lutyens of the North’. It also houses the Mawer collection of furniture, porcelain, paintings and clocks plus more recent acquisitions made by the present owner and we discover more on our guided tour. Before returning to the hotel, we stop off in York where there is free time to explore more of the city’s highlights and find a restaurant of your choice for dinner. Meals: Breakfast Hardwick Hall

This evening we enjoy dinner together at a restaurant in York before returning to the hotel.

Wednesday: Harewood House and Harrogate We start the day at Harewood House where we enjoy a guided tour followed by lunch. Built in the 18th century for Edwin Lascelles to designs by architect John Carr, it is one of the greatest Treasure Houses in England with interiors designed by Robert Adam, superb Thomas Chippendale furniture and an outstanding art collection ranging from Renaissance masterpieces to 20th-century art. Set in a magnificent landscape created by ‘Capability’ Brown, Harewood is still home to the Lascelles family with the 7th Earl, cousin to the Queen, and Countess living here, and reflects the changing tastes and styles of the past 250 years. The afternoon is spent at leisure in the elegant Victorian spa town of Harrogate. Notable sights include the Royal Pump Room and the attractive Montpellier Quarter with its pedestrianised streets lined with 19th-century buildings that are now home to galleries, boutiques and cafés. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Thursday: Whitby Abbey and Sion Hill Hall

We head to the charming seaside town of Whitby to visit the 13th-century ruins of Whitby Abbey, perched high on a cliff above the town. Here we discover how 2,000 years of history make the abbey one of England’s most important archaeological sites. The abbey’s soaring gothic splendor also provided Bram Stoker with a dramatic location for scenes in his 1897 classic horror novel Dracula.

Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

©NTPL/John Millar

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Friday: Castle Howard Designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, Castle Howard has twice appeared as the titular house in film and television adaptations of Evelyn Waugh’s classic novel, Brideshead Revisited. This magnificent 18th-century residence offers world-renowned collections and stunning architecture, all set within 1,000 acres of breathtaking scenery. Home to the Howard family for over 300 years, each generation has brought different characteristics to this grand house. We enjoy a private guided tour followed by lunch. After dinner back at the hotel, we are treated to a fascinating talk by a guest speaker. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Saturday: Wentworth Woodhouse and Cannon Hall Built by the First Marquess of Rockingham between 1725 and 1750, Wentworth Woodhouse consists of two joined houses of totally different architectural styles; the Baroque style west front and the east front in the later Palladian style. Having been closed to the public for over 25 years, the house is now open and in the process of being restored to its former glory. We enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent State Rooms, acknowledged to be some of the finest of the Georgian era. Our next stop is Cannon Hall, a stunning Georgian country house museum set in 70 acres of historic parkland and beautiful landscaped gardens. Home to the Spencer-Stanhope family for almost 300 years, the Hall was sold in 1951 and opened as a museum in 1957. A wonderful collection of fine and decorative art is displayed in exhibition galleries throughout the Hall’s historic rooms.

Whitby Abbey

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

What’s Included Return

airport transfers from London Heathrow* 2 nights at the Hartwell House Hotel 6 nights at Middlethorpe Hall Hotel Welcome drink and canapés Full English breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 5 nights at the hotels (with after dinner tea and coffee) 1 dinner at a restaurant in York Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All excursion costs Porterage *supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

Your Hotels Night One and Night Eight – Hartwell House Hotel Nights Two to Seven – Middlethorpe Hall Hotel For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

Sunday: Renishaw Hall and Sulgrave Manor Checking out of the Middlethorpe Hall Hotel, we journey back south, stopping first at Renishaw Hall, home to the Sitwell family for nearly 400 years. Still very much a family home, Renishaw reveals a real sense of the history of the generations who have lived there, with a stunning collection of art and furniture which we discover on our guided tour. American history is brought to life this afternoon as we enjoy a guided tour of Sulgrave Manor, a Tudor manor house built in the mid-1500s by Lawrence Washington, five times great grandfather of George Washington, first President of the United States. Discover how Civil War, financial ruin, and a shipwreck led to Washington’s great-grandfather seeking a fresh start in the New World. Restored and opened to the public in 1921, Sulgrave was presented to the people of Britain and the USA as a memorial of their common inheritance. Later we check back in to the Hartwell House Hotel where we enjoy a farewell dinner together. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Monday: Departure A private transfer will take you back to Heathrow airport for your return flight home. Meals: Breakfast

A Romantic Journey to the English Riviera

©National Trust Images/Andreas von Einsiedel

June 27 to July 6, 2021 $4,740 (USD) or $6,162 (CAD) pp

Killerton House Forde Abbey House

Special extras included in your itinerary Guided

walking tour of Bath tour of The Roman Baths Afternoon tea at the Pump Room Restaurant, Bath Guided tour of Bishop’s Palace Guided tour of Forde Abbey Guided tour of Exeter Cathedral Guided tour of Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum Themed evening talk by a guest speaker Greenway

©National Trust Images/Andrew Butler

Guided

The Pump Room Wells Glastonbury Abbey Knightshayes Court Exeter Cathedral Coleton Fishacre

Bath

South Devon is often described as the English Riviera due to its coastal location and its subtropical climate and vegetation. Once the height of fashion in the 1920s, when it was popularised by Agatha Christie, this region is still a favorite of holiday makers today. We enjoy a nostalgic journey to Devon as we travel through the ultimate British postcard collection including Jane Austen’s Bath, mythical Glastonbury, historic Exeter, romantic Lyme Regis and the classic seaside town of Torquay. Along the way we uncover picturesque National Trust houses and gardens, soaring cathedrals and rare works of art.

Ten Day Itinerary Sunday: Arrival

On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private transfer will take you to our overnight hotel in Windsor. In the evening join the group for a welcome drink and canapés, followed by dinner. Meals: Dinner

Monday: Bath, The Roman Baths and Pump Room

LONDON

Stourhead Lytes Cary Manor

Forde Abbey House and Gardens Killerton House A La Ronde Greenway House

This morning we head to Bath, which boasts centuries of history, imposing Georgian architecture and royal connections. We enjoy a walking tour of the city with its stunning streets fringed with warming honey-colored buildings – straight out of a Jane Austen novel. Cameras at the ready for the iconic Royal Crescent and the majestic Circus before we enjoy lunch together in the city. Afterwards we take a guided tour of The Roman Baths, one of the world’s best-preserved ancient Roman spas. Sitting in the hot seat over the natural warm springs that Bath was founded upon, the Romans first crafted this as a religious spa before it evolved into a bathing and socialising center. Next, we enjoy a delicious afternoon tea in the majestic neo-classical salon; The Pump Room Restaurant. Later we check in to the Bailbrook House, our hotel for the next two nights. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Dinner

Tuesday: Glastonbury Abbey, Wells and The Bishop’s Palace Bath

Today we head for the ancient market town of Glastonbury and pay a visit to Glastonbury Abbey.

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

Set in 36 acres of parkland, this ancient monastic abbey has held legendary status as the earliest Christian foundation in Britain and the burial place of King Arthur. We continue on to Wells, where there is free time to find somewhere for lunch (not included). England’s smallest city offers a magnificent medieval cathedral, an eclectic mix of historic buildings and quaint narrow streets. Here we discover the Bishop’s Palace and Gardens, a unique medieval palace which has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells since the 12th century. We enjoy an expert-led tour of highlights including the private Chapel and the beautiful Royal Horticultural Society partner gardens. This evening we enjoy dinner together at a restaurant back in Bath. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Wednesday: Lytes Cary Manor and Forde Abbey House & Gardens This morning we visit Lytes Cary Manor. This intimate medieval manor was once the family home of Henry Lyte, who translated the unique Niewe Herball book on herbal remedies. Restored in the 20th century, the garden rooms boast a vast collection of topiary and herbaceous borders. We explore the beautiful ‘Arts and Crafts’ garden, the interesting community allotments and take a tranquil stroll around the estate, situated alongside the River Cary. We then make our way to Forde Abbey, a former 12th-century Cistercian monastery with a rich history spanning 900 years, where we enjoy a guided tour. The abbey became one of the richest institutions of its kind and flourished as a monastery for 400 years. Much later, the house played host to 19th-century philosophers and politicians and was also featured in the latest adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s Far From the Madding Crowd. The award-winning gardens include an arboretum and the highest powered fountain in the country. Later we check in to the exquisite Bovey Castle Hotel, our base for the next four nights. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Thursday: Killerton House and Knightshayes Court Our first visit of the day was home to the Acland family until 1944; Killerton House is a fine 18thcentury house surrounded by a glorious landscape garden and parkland. Here we find out more about the history of the house as well as the captivating story of how Sir Richard Acland’s strong political beliefs led him to give the family home and inheritance to the National Trust. Killerton also boasts the largest fashion collection cared for by the National Trust. Afterwards, we head to Knightshayes Court, one of England’s finest Victorian Gothic houses by eccentric designer William Burges. Full of quirks and curiosities, the mansion boasts intricate carvings and impressive ceilings plus a ‘medieval’ Great Hall with minstrels’ gallery. The garden is also Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

a delight to explore with over 1,200 plant species unique to Knightshayes, representing one of the most varied collections of the National Trust. After dinner back at the hotel, we are treated to a fascinating talk by a guest speaker. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Friday: A La Ronde and Exeter Cathedral Today, we step into another world at A La Ronde, a unique 16-sided house built at the request of two spinster cousins in the 18th century. This eccentric house with quirky diamond-shaped windows and fascinating interior decoration is crammed full of extraordinary artifacts, curiosities and mementoes from the cousins’ grand European tour. Leaving Exmouth, we head to the nearby city of Exeter where we enjoy a guided tour of Exeter Cathedral. Dating back 900 years, it is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture. Notable features include an early set of misericords, a 15th-century astronomical clock and the longest uninterrupted Gothic vaulted ceiling in the world. We enjoy dinner together at a local pub before we return to the hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Saturday: Greenway and Coleton Fishacre This morning, we board the ferry to Greenway, the much-loved holiday home of the famous author Agatha Christie and her family. Nestled on the side of the River Dart and surrounded by a picturesque woodland garden, this atmospheric house is set in the 1950s and contains many of the family’s collections. Next, we pay a visit to Coleton Fishacre, a 1920s Arts and Crafts-style house built for the D’Oyly Carte family. The sophistication of the house’s surviving Art Deco interior contrasts with the magical 30-acre garden, complete with views out to sea. Meals: Breakfast

Sunday: Torquay, Lyme Regis and Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum After breakfast, we pay a short visit to the traditional seaside resort of Torquay before we head to Lyme Regis, the ‘Pearl of Dorset’. Nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the Jurassic Coast, we enjoy free time for lunch in this historic seaside town and fishing port. This afternoon we head to Bournemouth, where we enjoy a guided tour of the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum. This historic house was once home to Victorian collectors and travel enthusiasts; Sir Merton and Lady Annie Russell-Cotes. Merton gifted his wife this dramatic cliff-top house and they spent years filling it with fascinating curios and artworks from their travels across the world. We continue to the Rhinefield House Hotel, tucked away within the New Forest National Park, where we stay overnight.

What’s Included Return

airport transfers from London Heathrow* 2 nights at a well-appointed hotel, Windsor 2 nights at the Bailbrook House Hotel 4 nights at the Bovey Castle Hotel 1 night at the Rhinefield House Hotel Welcome drink and canapés Full English breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 6 nights at the hotels (with after-dinner tea and coffee) 2 dinners and 1 lunch in local restaurants Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All excursion costs Porterage *supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

Your Hotels Nights One and Nine – a well-appointed hotel, Windsor Nights Two and Three – Bailbrook House Hotel, Bath Nights Four to Seven – Bovey Castle Hotel, Newton Abbot Night Eight – Rhinefield House Hotel, Brockenhurst For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

its picturesque 18th-century landscaped garden, a delight of classical temples, exotic trees, hidden grottos and a magnificent lake. The grand Palladian house is no less of a draw, with its Chippendale furniture and one of the finest Regency libraries left in existence. Afterwards, we return to our hotel in Windsor where we enjoy a farewell dinner together. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Tuesday: Departure A private transfer will take you back to Heathrow airport for your return flight home. Meals: Breakfast

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Monday: Stourhead Today we make for one of the National Trust’s most popular places, Stourhead, renowned for

South East England & the Bloomsbury Group July 10 to 18, 2020 $5,840 (USD) or $7,592 (CAD) pp

Charleston

Special extras included in your itinerary Guided

tour of Knole House* out-of-hours tour of Charleston Private guided tour at Farleys House & Gallery Private out-of-hours guided tour at Sissinghurst Castle Garden Entrance to the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery A Walk Through British Art exhibition at Tate Britain accompanied by an art historian Guided Bloomsbury Group Blue Plaque Walking Tour Themed evening talk by a Bloomsbury Group expert Private

Nine Day Itinerary Saturday: Arrival

On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private transfer will take you to our hotel for the night, the Castle Hotel Windsor – MGallery. In the evening, join the group for a welcome drink, followed by dinner. Meals: Dinner

Sunday: Knole House and Standen After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and journey to visit Knole House in Kent where we enjoy a guided tour*. One of Britain’s most important and complete historic homes, the property is now cared for by the National Trust and here we can discover more about its colorful past. Knole House was home to the Sackville family for 400 years, including novelist Vita Sackville-West who used the house as inspiration for her novel The Edwardians.

*subject to availability

The Bri�sh Museum

LONDON Tate Britain Knole House Standen

Sissinghurst Castle Garden

Rye Farleys House & Gallery Monks House Charleston Brighton Bateman’s The Church of St Michael and All Angels

Bateman’s

Monks House

In the early part of the 20th century a group of writers, intellectuals, philosophers and artists who lived and worked in Bloomsbury were perhaps best known for their liberal views on politics and social conventions as well as their infamous love triangles. Luminaries including Virginia Woolf, John Maynard Keynes, Vanessa Bell, Duncan Grant, E. M. Forster and Lytton Strachey also undertook an experimental attitude to ways they decorated their homes, resulting in highly original and inspired designs. We uncover the finest examples of their work as we visit the houses where they lived and loved.

Knole House

Next we visit Standen, a fine Arts and Crafts property, which combines the skills of architect Philip Webb and his friend William Morris. The light, airy rooms are decorated with Morris’ wallpapers and textiles with William de Morgan pottery. We then continue to our hotel for the next five nights, the South Lodge Hotel in Horsham. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner *subject to availability

Monday: Charleston, The Church of St Michael and All Angels, and Farleys House & Gallery This morning takes us to Charleston, home of artists Duncan Grant and Vanessa Bell and country

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

meeting place for the Bloomsbury Group. The house was transformed by the artists who painted the walls and furniture and filled rooms with textiles, ceramics and works of art from their collection. Here we enjoy a private out-ofhours tour and learn more about all that is on display here.

when he discovered it, that he made it his home in 1902. With its stone-mullioned windows and Sussex oak beams, it’s a romantic retreat that has been left virtually untouched since Kipling’s tenure here. The tranquil gardens include an orchard, formal garden and a colorful wildflower meadow, through which a river flows.

Afterwards we visit The Church of St Michael and All Angels in Berwick. During the war, many of the church’s decorative stained glass windows were damaged and rather than replace the fragile glass, the Bishop of Chichester commissioned Duncan Grant and Vanessa Bell to cover the walls with pastoral scenes. We can admire these impressive murals here today.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

We then continue on to Farleys House & Gallery, home to the photographer Lee Miller and artist Roland Penrose. The house became a meeting place for leading figures in the world of Modern Art including Pablo Picasso and Joan Miro. Roger Fry introduced Penrose to many Bloomsbury Group members, forging links between Bloomsbury and the surrealists. On our guided tour we can admire works by many of the Surrealist artists that are on display in the house and enjoy the avant-garde home décor, which still looks as it did during the Penrose family’s occupation. After dinner at the hotel this evening, we enjoy a fascinating talk by a guest speaker. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Tuesday: Sissinghurst Castle Garden and Monks House This morning we head to Sissinghurst Castle Garden where we enjoy an out-of-hours guided tour. Created in the 1930s by Vita Sackville-West and her husband Harold Nicolson around the picturesque ruins of an Elizabethan manor house, these world-famous gardens are laid out as a series of enchanting, individually-planted ‘rooms’ including a fragrant Herb Garden and Rose Garden.

Thursday: Brighton and Brighton Museum & Art Gallery Today we visit Brighton, a popular seaside resort that was frequented by members of the Bloomsbury Group as a holiday destination, there is even a bus named after Vanessa Bell here! We have some free time to explore this vibrant location at our leisure and also include a visit to Brighton Museum & Art Gallery located in the Royal Pavilion Garden, where we find pieces on display created by members of the group as well as other 20th-century art. This evening we enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Brighton before we return to our hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Monday: Tate Britain and London After checking out of our hotel, we travel into central London to visit Tate Britain to admire A Walk Through British Art exhibition, accompanied by an art historian to shed light on the paintings. The rooms of this exhibit are displayed in chronological order, showcasing work by some of Britain’s greatest artists, including that of Duncan Grant and Vanessa Bell. We then continue to the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City, where we stay for the last two nights of our tour. After checking in, you might choose to relax at the hotel or spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the capital. This evening is also free to make your own dinner arrangements – a chance to enjoy one of London’s many restaurants.

What’s Included Return

airport transfers from London Heathrow** 1 night at the Castle Hotel Windsor – MGallery 5 nights at the South Lodge Hotel 2 nights at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City Welcome drink and canapés Full English breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 6 nights at the hotels (with after-dinner tea and coffee) 1 dinner at a local restaurant Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All excursion costs Porterage *supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

Your Hotels Night One – Castle Hotel Windsor – MGallery, Windsor Nights Two to Six – South Lodge Hotel, Horsham Nights Seven and Eight – Leonardo Royal Hotel London City For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

Afterwards we head to Monks House. Situated in the heart of rural Sussex, this 17th-century cottage was home to Leonard and Virginia Woolf from 1919 until Leonard’s death in 1969. Carefully preserved to appear as it was when they lived there; learn more about this fascinating couple by viewing some of their most prized possessions. The Woolfs initially purchased the property for ‘the shape and fertility and wildness of the garden’ so make sure to explore the delightful cottage garden here too.

Meals: Breakfast

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Firstly today we visit Rye. This medieval town perched on a hill boasts enchanting streets and architectural treasures, which is why it’s not surprising that Rye was a popular holiday haunt for the Bloomsbury Group, who reportedly shocked American author Henry James with their presence in the town. We enjoy free time here to explore at our leisure.

A private transfer will take you back to Heathrow We then visit the British Museum. Virginia Woolf airport for your return flight home. immortalized Anthony Panizzi’s oak panelled 1857 Reading Room at the then British Library in A Room Meals: Breakfast Of One’s Own – “the vast dome … the huge, bald forehead which is so splendidly encircled by a band of famous names”. In addition, the hero in Jacob’s Room reads Marlowe in the library and watches other readers, including the atheist Fraser and the feminist Julia Hodge. This is our chance to see these locations for ourselves.

Next we visit 17th-century Bateman’s, that so enchanted Jungle Book author Rudyard Kipling

The rest of the day is free to spend at leisure exploring England’s vibrant capital city. Visit one

Wednesday: Rye and Bateman’s

Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

Saturday: Bloomsbury Group Walking Tour and British Museum After breakfast, we enjoy a Bloomsbury Group Blue Plaque Walking Tour. On our tour, we’ll see 46 Gordon Square, along with a number of other properties that were once home to members of the group. We also discover some of their places of work, for example 22 Fitzroy Square, Duncan Grant’s former studio; and 21 Fitzroy Square, once Roger Fry’s studio.

of London’s many iconic sights or take the chance to discover a fascinating museum or art gallery of which there are plenty. Back at the hotel this evening we enjoy a farewell dinner together and a chance to reflect on all that we have discovered about the famous Bloomsbury Group. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Sunday: Departure

Batemans

Aristocrats & Manor Houses & A Grand Tour to the North July 18 to 27, 2021 $5,140 (USD) or $6,682 (CAD) pp

Chatsworth House

Special extras included in your itinerary

Castle Howard © NTPL/John Millar

Introductory

house tour and Devonshire Cream Tea at Chatsworth House Guided house tour and refreshments at Fairfax House Guided tour of Fountains Abbey Private house tour with morning coffee at Castle Howard Guided State Rooms tour at Alnwick Castle Guided tour of The Alnwick Garden Audio guided tour and afternoon tea at Blenheim Palace Themed evening talk by a guest speaker

Cragside

Alnwick Castle

Castle Howard Fairfax House Nostell Priory

Chatsworth House

Hardwick Hall Nottingham

Blenheim Palace LONDON

Cragside

Ten Day Itinerary Sunday: Arrival

On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private transfer will take you to our overnight hotel, the Runnymede on Thames Hotel and Spa. In the evening join the group for a welcome drink, followed by dinner. Meals: Dinner

Monday: Highclere Castle After breakfast, we journey to the world-famous Highclere Castle, residence of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and filming location for the much loved Downton Abbey television series and movie. Entrance includes access to the Egyptian Exhibition in the cellars of the castle, which explores the achievements of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon who discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922. From here, we travel to Leicestershire and the Stapleford Park Country House Hotel where we stay for the next two nights.

Durham

Fountains Abbey Harrogate

Our unforgettable tour explores the architectural grandeur and superb collections of some of Britain’s finest estates, some still family homes to this day. From the world-famous Highclere Castle, television’s Downton Abbey, to Winston Churchill’s birthplace of Blenheim Palace and beyond, we discover several historic treasures and their society stories. We juxtapose these fine manor houses with the dramatic landscapes of the north, providing us with the perfect opportunity to explore Britain’s rich heritage and diverse countryside.

Highclere Castle

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Tuesday: Chatsworth House and Nottingham We start the day at Chatsworth House where we enjoy an introductory house tour. This magnificent estate is home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and has witnessed sixteen generations of the powerful Cavendish family and boasts grandiose interiors, wonderful grounds and a superlative art collection. Chatsworth also appeared as Pemberley in the 2005 film adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. We finish our visit with a Devonshire Cream Tea.

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

En-route back to our hotel, we make a short stop in Nottingham. One-time lace capital of the world, Nottingham is renowned for its landmark buildings, each of which tells its own chapter in Nottingham’s history, including the Lace Market with its stunning architecture.

rocky promontory high above the River Wear, affording an imposing feature of Durham’s skyline.

Meals: Breakfast

Saturday: Alnwick Castle, The Alnwick Garden and Cragside

Wednesday: Hardwick Hall, York and Fairfax House Our first visit is to the National Trust’s Hardwick Hall. Ordered in the 16th century by Bess of Hardwick, England’s richest woman after her Queen, Elizabeth I, Hardwick is a striking Elizabethan treasure. The lavish number of windows (at a time when glass was a luxury) inspired the neat phrase, ‘Hardwick Hall, more glass than wall’. We then travel north to the historic city of York. Here we visit Fairfax House, a stunning Georgian town house that has been returned to its former glory, providing a perfect time capsule of life in Georgian times with a richly decorated interior and a fine collection of English 18th-century furniture. We enjoy refreshments here after our guided house tour.

Later, we check in to the Lumley Castle Hotel, our base for the next two nights. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Still home to the Duke of Northumberland and his family, Alnwick Castle is the second largest inhabited castle in England. Inside the medieval walls are lavish State Rooms filled with an eclectic array of furniture, ceramics and art collected by the Percy family over hundreds of years, which we discover on our guided State Rooms tour. Alnwick Castle has also featured in Downton Abbey and Harry Potter. We also enjoy a guided tour of the meandering and magnificent 12 acre garden.

Afterwards, we make our way to our hotel for the next two nights, the Wood Hall Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Thursday: Fountains Abbey and Harrogate This morning we visit the largest monastic ruin in Britain, Fountains Abbey, where we enjoy a guided tour. Nestling in the Skell Valley, the ruin is surrounded by some 800 acres of gorgeous countryside, including the Georgian Studley Royal Water Garden with its wonderful views, cascades, follies and statues, and a medieval deer park. Our next stop is the elegant Victorian spa town of Harrogate, located in the heart of scenic Yorkshire. Notable sights include the Royal Pump Room and the Grade II listed Royal Hall, and don’t miss the attractive Montpellier Quarter with its pedestrianized streets lined with 19th-century buildings. After dinner at the hotel this evening, enjoy a fascinating talk by a guest speaker. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Friday: Castle Howard and Durham Designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, Castle Howard has twice appeared as Brideshead in film and television adaptations of Evelyn Waugh’s classic novel. Home to the Howard family for over 300 years, this magnificent 18th-century residence offers world-renowned collections and stunning architecture, all set within 1,000 acres of breathtaking scenery. We enjoy a private guided tour followed by refreshments. We then make a short stop in the beautiful city of Durham, where we find an abundance of impressive historical buildings and sights. Highlights include the 11th-century Durham Castle, and the magnificent Norman cathedral which sits on a

Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

Alnwick Castle

We enjoy a scenic coastal drive to Cragside, built high into the rock above the clear waters of Debdon Burn. Once the home of Victorian inventor Lord Armstrong, this imposing house is packed to the rafters with fascinating gadgets from the era. It was also the first house in the world to be lit by hydro-electricity and in 2014, a fully-working Archimedes Screw was installed, once again producing enough energy to light the house. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Sunday: Nostell Priory Today we visit Nostell Priory, an 18th-century architectural masterpiece which has been the home of the Winn family for 300 years. Set in landscaped parkland, Nostell is also home to England’s best documented collection of Chippendale furniture, designed especially for the estate. Later, we check back in to the Stapleford Park Country House Hotel, where we stay overnight. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Monday: Blenheim Palace We travel south and visit Blenheim Palace, undoubtedly one of Britain’s grandest houses. Seat of the Dukes of Marlborough and the birthplace of Winston Churchill, Blenheim was designed on an awe-inspiring scale by Vanbrugh and is set in over 2,000 acres of beautiful parkland landscaped by ‘Capability’ Brown. We enjoy an audio guided tour followed by a traditional afternoon tea.

What’s Included Return

airport transfers from London Heathrow* 1 night at the Runnymede on Thames Hotel and Spa 3 nights at the Stapleford Park Country House Hotel 2 nights at the Wood Hall Hotel 2 nights at the Lumley Castle Hotel 1 night at the Hartwell House Hotel Welcome drink and canapés Full English breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 8 nights at the hotels (with after-dinner tea and coffee) Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All excursion costs Porterage *supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

Your Hotels Night One – Runnymede on Thames Hotel and Spa, Windsor Nights Two, Three and Eight – Stapleford Park Country House Hotel, near Melton Mowbray Nights Four and Five – Wood Hall Hotel, Wetherby Nights Six and Seven – Lumley Castle Hotel, Chester-le-Street Night Nine – Hartwell House Hotel, near Aylesbury For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

Tuesday: Departure A private transfer will take you back to Heathrow airport for your return flight home. Meals: Breakfast Please note: as this tour travels from the Home Counties to the north of England and back, some days will involve fairly long journeys. Highclere Castle

From here we travel to Hartwell House Hotel, one of the National Trust’s Historic House Hotels, where we enjoy a farewell dinner together. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

South West Classic English Manor Houses & the Downton Experience August 1 to 10, 2021 $5,140 (USD) or $6,682 (CAD) pp

Highclere Castle Winchester Cathedral

Special extras included in your itinerary Special

visit to Highclere Castle, the setting of Downton Abbey Spend a day touring some of Downton Abbey’s filming locations Guided walking tour of Bath Afternoon tea at The Pump Rooms, Bath Guided tour of the Bishop’s Palace & Gardens Guided tour of The Peto Garden Guided tour and lunch at Bowood House Guided tour and lunch at Longleat House Guided tour of Winchester Cathedral Themed evening talk on Downton Abbey by a special guest speaker

Swinbrook

Georgian House Museum Bath Bradford-on-Avon Wells Stourhead

Cogges Manor Farm Bampton

Castle Combe LONDON Lacock Abbey Bowood House Great Chalﬁeld Manor Highclere Castle Longleat House

Heale House Gardens

Winchester

The picturesque South West of England is home to a veritable treasure trove of impressive stately homes and atmospheric manors. These magnificent properties boast extraordinary interiors and often feature fascinating garden styles and parkland too, many of which were created by 18thcentury garden design trendsetters such as ‘Capability’ Brown. On this tour, we uncover some of these classic and sometimes hidden gems, from the Elizabethan Longleat House to the tranquil Heale House Gardens and Italianate Peto Garden. We also enjoy a wonderful Downton Abbey experience with a special visit to Highclere Castle, a Downton-themed evening event and a tour of filming locations of this iconic television series and film.

Ten Day Itinerary Sunday: Arrival

On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private transfer will take you to our overnight hotel, the Macdonald Windsor Hotel. In the evening, join the group for a welcome drink, followed by dinner. Meals: Dinner

Monday: Highclere Castle, Lacock and Lacock Abbey Today we journey to the world-famous Highclere Castle, residence of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and filming location for the Downton Abbey television series and film. Entrance includes access to the Egyptian Exhibition, which explores the achievements of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon who discovered Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922. We then head to Lacock Abbey, renowned for its golden stone cloisters and Great Hall. Once a medieval nunnery, the abbey was turned into a family home by William Henry Fox Talbot who invented the first photographic negative. We also spend time in the charming village of Lacock, which Downton viewers may recognise. Later we check in to the Bailbrook House Hotel where we stay for seven nights.

Longleat House

Roman Baths

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

Tuesday: Longleat House and Georgian House Museum

Thursday: Wells, Bishop’s Palace & Gardens and Stourhead

This morning we head to Longleat House, widely regarded as one of Britain’s finest examples of Elizabethan architecture. Substantially completed by 1580, Longleat House is set within 900 acres of stunning ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland featuring a fine lawn, serpentine river, wooded hills and meandering pathways. We enjoy a guided tour of the impressive house with its priceless antiques and ornate painted ceilings, followed by lunch.

Our day starts in the cathedral city of Wells, with its eclectic mix of historic buildings and quaint narrow streets. Here we discover the Bishop’s Palace & Gardens, a unique medieval palace which has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for 800 years. We enjoy an expert-led tour of highlights such as the private Chapel and the beautiful Royal Horticultural Society partner gardens.

Afterwards take a step back in time at the Georgian House Museum in Bristol. This 18th-century townhouse provides us with a fascinating insight into what life would have been like for sugar merchant John Pinney and his servants above and below stairs. This evening we enjoy dinner together at a restaurant in Bristol.

Wednesday: Bath – Victoria Park, Herschel Museum of Astronomy, Roman Baths and Pump Rooms The day begins with a guided walking tour of Bath, an elegant Regency town. We enjoy a visit to Victoria Park, first opened in 1830 by the 11-yearold Princess Victoria, which is overlooked by the iconic Royal Crescent. We continue to the Herschel Museum of Astronomy, located in the former home of astronomer William Herschel. We visit the museum’s garden, which is a re-creation of the garden as it might have appeared during Herschel’s discovery of the planet Uranus, laid to recreate a typical planting scheme for a Georgian town house. Next, we are transported back to Roman times as we enjoy a guided tour of the town’s ancient Roman Baths. We explore the extensive bathing complex, one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world, which still flows with natural hot water before we finish with afternoon tea at the elegant Georgian Bath Pump Rooms. After dinner back at the hotel, we are treated to a fascinating talk by a special guest speaker who will be able to tell us more about the wonders of Downton Abbey.

©National Trust Images/Mark Bolton

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

Later, we enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lacock Abbey

We continue to Stourhead, renowned for its 18th-century landscaped garden, a delight of classical temples, exotic trees, hidden grottos and a magnificent lake. The grand Palladian house is no less of a draw, with its Chippendale furniture and one of the finest Regency libraries left in existence.

Friday: Bradford-on-Avon, The Peto Garden and Great Chalfield Manor We travel first to Bradford-on-Avon, an enchanting town full of historic buildings and quaint streets to explore. Next we enjoy a guided tour of The Peto Garden at Ilford Manor, designed by the distinguished British garden designer Harold Peto. Evoking Peto’s love of Italy, the gardens are characterised by colonnades, pools and ancient statues. Our final visit of the day is to Great Chalfield Manor, a charming moated manor built in the 15th century for Thomas Tropenell, a modest member of the landed gentry who made his fortune as a clothier. Outside, the romantic gardens offer terraces, topiary houses, colorful borders and delightful views. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Sunday: Swinbrook, Bampton, Cogges Manor Farm and Castle Combe We enjoy a scenic drive to some of the picturesque locations used in filming Downton Abbey. We drive through Swinbrook, a beautiful Cotswold village where the local pub, the Swan Inn, has featured in the television series, before stopping in the traditional Cotswold village of Bampton, which doubles as the fictional village of Downton. Many scenes, including several key events in the series have been filmed in and around the church in Bampton, as well as a number of local pubs, shops and the post office which will be familiar to Downton viewers. We stop for lunch in a famed local country inn that sits on the River Thames and has a great reputation for food. We continue on to Cogges Manor Farm, an important heritage site with a 13th-century manor house and historic farm buildings. The farm featured as Yew Tree Farm in the series and is a fascinating archive of farm life through the years. En-route back to Bath we visit Castle Combe, one of the most picture-perfect English villages you could find which has also featured in Downton Abbey, along with a host of other television series. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

What’s Included Return

airport transfers from London Heathrow* 2 nights at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel 7 nights at the Bailbrook House Hotel Welcome drink Full English breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 5 nights at the hotels (with after-dinner tea and coffee) 2 dinners and 2 lunches in local restaurants Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All excursion costs Porterage *supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

Your Hotels Nights One and Nine – Macdonald Windsor Hotel, Windsor Nights Two to Eight – Bailbrook House Hotel, near Bath For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

Monday: Heale House Gardens, Winchester and Winchester Cathedral We start the day at Heale House Gardens, a beautiful garden designed by Harold Peto in both Edwardian and Tudor styles. Set in the grounds of historic Heale House, mostly unchanged since King Charles II hid there in 1651, these eight acres of beautiful gardens include a delightful mixture of styles including a walled garden and Japanese water garden with its authentic Japanese tea house and red Nikko bridge. We then head to the cathedral city of Winchester, England’s ancient capital, where we enjoy lunch. We then enjoy a guided tour of the awe-inspiring Winchester Cathedral where we discover its hidden treasures, including the tomb of Jane Austen and the Winchester Bible, one of the finest 12th-century bibles to have survived. From here we return to the Macdonald Windsor Hotel where we enjoy a farewell dinner together. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tuesday: Departure A private transfer will take you back to Heathrow airport for your return flight home. Meals: Breakfast

England’s Royal Palaces August 9 to 18, 2021 $5,140 (USD) or $6,682 (CAD) pp You are cordially invited on a grand tour of England’s Royal Palaces, where we learn all about life in the Tudor Court, visit a selection of famous royal country retreats, and promenade through some of the most glorious palace gardens in England. During this regal affair we discover the myriad of sovereign landmarks; starting in London before venturing further afield to Cambridge, King’s Lynn and of course Windsor, steeped in pomp and ritual. Your presence is requested as we weave our way around a splendid collection of palaces, royal residences and infamous art collections. Hampton Court Palace

Special extras included in your itinerary Guided

tour of Royal London tour of Eltham Palace Guided tours of Buckingham Palace and Clarence House Guided tours of Banqueting House and Kew Palace Private guided tour of Hampton Court Palace Guided walking tour of Cambridge Guided tour of Burghley House Guided tour of Hatfield House Audio guided tour of Windsor Castle Themed evening talk by a guest speaker Guided

Burghley House

King’s Lynn

Sandringham

Burghley House Cambridge

Ha�ield House

Sandringham

Windsor Castle Savill Garden

LONDON Frogmore House

Ten Day Itinerary Monday: Arrival

On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private transfer will take you to The Royal Horseguards Hotel, where we stay for the first four nights of our tour. In the evening join the group for a welcome drink and canapés, followed by dinner. Meals: Dinner

Tuesday: Royal London, Eltham Palace and Queen’s House Greenwich We start with a guided tour of Royal London, by coach and on foot, which includes the unmistakable Tower of London. Offering a peek into thousands of years of history, this former royal residence also served as a prison. We also explore one of London’s oldest areas where we find hidden traces of royal history. Next, we take a guided tour of Eltham Palace. Once a medieval palace, it was leased from the Crown and transformed by millionaires into an Art Deco mansion in the 1930s. This mesh of architectural movements served as a playground for a young Henry VIII who spent much of his childhood here in the 16th century. We continue to Queen’s House in Royal Greenwich, this borough of London was the birthplace of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I and Mary, and Henry VIII had two of his six weddings here. The House is filled with world-famous artworks, fascinating royal history and Inigo Jones’ architectural masterpiece - the first Classical building in the UK. This evening we enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Kew Gardens

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

Wednesday: Buckingham Palace and Clarence House No trip to London is complete without a visit to the famous Buckingham Palace, which has served as the official London residence of the United Kingdom’s sovereigns since 1837. We enjoy a guided tour of the stunning State Rooms, where The Queen and other members of the Royal Family entertain their guests on ceremonial, State and official occasions. We then visit the nearby Clarence House for a guided tour. Once the home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother for almost five decades, this is now the official London residence of The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Thursday: Banqueting House, Kensington Palace, Kew Gardens and Kew Palace Today we start with a guided tour of the Banqueting House in Whitehall with its epic ceiling; a masterpiece in the golden age of painting and the only surviving in-situ ceiling painting by Flemish artist, Sir Peter Paul Rubens. We also tread in the footsteps of King Charles I and stand on the spot where he was executed. This imposing and elegant venue is the only surviving part of Henry VIII’s Whitehall Palace. We then pay a visit to Kensington Palace, which has been all about the young royals for the last three centuries. We wander through Victoria’s re-imagined childhood rooms and also take in the majestic King’s State Apartments. The Palace – now the official residence of TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their children – boasts the impressively manicured Sunken Garden, a favorite of the late Diana, Princess of Wales. Afterwards we visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Dating back to the early 18th century as a royal palace, Kew Gardens is now a globally renowned institution for plant-based research. With no less than 50,000 plants, there are a range of different areas to explore including the Arboretum, the peaceful Japanese garden and the remarkable indoor rainforest. Before we leave we enjoy a guided tour of Kew Palace, this hideaway was once home of George III and Queen Charlotte. Meals: Breakfast

Friday: Hampton Court Palace and Cambridge This morning we check out of the hotel and head to Hampton Court Palace for a dive into the fascinating world of the Tudor court during our private guided tour. We experience the private life (and very public dramas) of Henry VIII, while we explore one of Europe’s most sophisticated palaces including the Great Hall and Tudor kitchens. We continue to our hotel for the next two nights, the University Arms in Cambridge. After checking in we enjoy a guided tour to find out more about the exquisite architecture and ancient colleges around this classic university city. After dinner back at the hotel, we enjoy a fascinating talk with a guest speaker. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

Saturday: Sandringham and King’s Lynn Firstly today we visit the ultimate country retreat; the Sandringham Estate is much-loved by The Queen and has been the private residence of four generations of British Monarchs since the 1860s. Sandringham House was once described as ‘the most comfortable house in England’ and we learn all about its Royal connections during our visit. We also discover the collection of Royal cars in the Transport Museum, and enjoy some time outside to discover the magnificent walled and water gardens. Afterwards we head to nearby King’s Lynn, this charming market town and seaport brims with history. Wander around the cobbled narrow streets, flanked with old merchants’ houses, and soak up the story of the town’s maritime trade and fishing communities. We enjoy dinner together this evening in a local restaurant. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Sunday: Burghley House We enjoy a guided tour of Burghley House, one of the grandest houses of the first Elizabethan Age, built (and mostly designed) by William Cecil, the Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I. Inside the house we enjoy historical collections comprising of works of art, early tapestries, impressive Japanese ceramics and sculptures, while outside we explore a myriad of sculpture and surprise gardens. The rest of the day is at leisure for further exploration of Cambridge. Meals: Breakfast

Monday: Hatfield House and Savill Garden This morning we enjoy a guided tour of Hatfield House, home of the 7th Marquess and Marchioness of Salisbury and their family. The house was built in 1611 by Robert Cecil, 1st Earl of Salisbury, one of Elizabeth I’s most important advisors. There are superb examples of Elizabethan craftsmanship such as the Grand Staircase, while the State Rooms are rich in paintings, fine furniture and tapestries. From here we travel to The Savill Garden, Britain’s finest ornamental garden. Explore the oasis of stunningly designed gardens and woodland. Created in the 1930s, acres of interconnected areas include the Hidden Gardens, Spring Wood, the Summer Gardens, the New Zealand Garden, Summer Wood and The Glades. The Rose Garden is an extra special addition, opened by The Queen in 2010. We then continue to the Macdonald Windsor Hotel, where we stay for the last two nights of our tour. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Tuesday: Windsor Castle and Frogmore House Today we visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world which is still one of the official residences of Queen Elizabeth II today. Established in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, it has been remodelled by successive kings and queens and is regularly

What’s Included Return

airport transfers from London Heathrow* 4 nights at The Royal Horseguards Hotel 3 nights at the University Arms Hotel 2 nights at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel Welcome drink and canapés Full English breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 4 nights at the hotels (with after-dinner tea and coffee) 2 dinners in local restaurants Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All excursion costs Porterage *supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

Your Hotels Nights One to Four – The Royal Horseguards Hotel, London Nights Five to Seven – University Arms Hotel, Cambridge Nights Eight and Nine – Macdonald Windsor Hotel, Windsor For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

used for ceremonial and state occasions. The magnificent State Apartments are furnished with some of the finest works of art to admire during our audio guided tour. We then head to Frogmore House, firm favorite as a royal retreat for centuries. Perched on the banks of the picturesque Frogmore Lake, and nestled within the Home Park of Windsor Castle, the gardens at Frogmore House have been popular with monarchs since the 1790s. Inside the house we see the impressive Mary Moser Room, commissioned by Queen Charlotte to reflect her passion for botany. The renowned flower painter, Mary Moser, was employed to decorate the room with botanical works, some painted directly upon the wall. Back at the hotel tonight we enjoy a farewell dinner together. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Wednesday: Departure A private transfer will take you back to Heathrow airport for your return flight home. Meals: Breakfast

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Classic Scotland featuring the Edinburgh Tattoo August 19 to 24, 2021 $3,900 (USD) or $5,070 (CAD) pp

Special extras included in your itinerary Cruise

The Kelpies

on Loch Lomond Guided walking tour of Glasgow Guided tour of Stirling Castle Three-course meal, wine & whisky and recital by members of the Edinburgh Tattoo at the Amber Restaurant within the Scotch Whisky Experience Prime location seat for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Guided tour of Scone Palace Audio guided tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Scone Palace Loch Lomond

Six Day Itinerary Thursday: Arrival

On arrival at Edinburgh airport, a private transfer will take you to the Hotel du Vin in Glasgow, our base for the next two nights. In the evening, join the group for a welcome drink, followed by dinner. Meals: Dinner

Friday: Loch Lomond Cruise, Mackintosh at the Willow Tearooms and Glasgow walking tour This morning we head northwards to embark on a cruise of Loch Lomond, the largest expanse of fresh water on mainland Britain. The loch is situated amidst one of Scotland’s most idyllic and unspoilt areas in the Trossachs National Park and boasts a stunning mountain backdrop and a variety of wildlife.

Perth

Stirling Castle

Edinburgh Castle Willow Tearooms Glasgow The Kelpies Palace of Holyroodhouse

Loch Lomond

Join us as we combine the iconic landmarks and historic attractions of the vibrant Scottish cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh with magnificent castles and palaces which have played a key role in Scotland’s history. We complement our tour with a truly remarkable experience – the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with an exclusive dining package and prime location seats. Set against the impressive backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and a spectacle like no other, the Edinburgh Tattoo combines music, dance, lights and marching bands with daredevil displays of skill and military showmanship, featuring hundreds of performers gathered from all corners of the UK and across the world.

Glasgow

We return to Glasgow and enjoy lunch together at the famous Mackintosh at the Willow Tearooms which boast a variety of beautiful spaces, each with their own character and unique design. First opened in 1903, these are the only surviving tea rooms designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

Stirling Castle

Afterwards we are escorted to the Castle Esplanade to take our seats in a prime location for the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Hosted each year, the show brings together musicians and performers from every part of the world for a fabulous display of international culture. Please note: we advise you to be prepared with waterproofs etc in case of inclement weather during the Tattoo. It will go ahead whatever the weather – no performance has ever been cancelled. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Sunday: Edinburgh Castle Afterwards we enjoy a guided walking tour of Glasgow, including St Mungo’s, City Halls and Old Fruitmarket, Trongate Steeple and the Tenement House as well as a visit to Glasgow Cathedral, one of Scotland’s most magnificent medieval buildings. The present building was consecrated in 1197 but not everything is old! The cathedral has one of the finest post-war collections of stained glass windows to be found in Britain.

The morning is left free for you to spend at leisure – you may wish to relax at the hotel, explore the city further, or engage in some retail therapy in some of Edinburgh’s stylish boutiques. We then enjoy lunch together in a local restaurant. Edinburgh Castle

This evening we enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

From here we continue our journey, passing the famous Kelpies, the largest equine sculptures in the world, before checking in to the Principal Charlotte Square Hotel in Edinburgh, where we stay for the remainder of our tour.

Return

airport transfers from Edinburgh* nights at the Hotel du Vin Glasgow 3 nights at the Principal Charlotte Square Hotel Welcome drink and canapés Full Scottish breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 2 nights at the hotels (with after-dinner tea and coffee) 3 dinners in local restaurants (including the Amber Restaurant within the Scottish Whisky Experience) 2 lunches in local restaurants Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All excursion costs Porterage 2

*supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

Saturday: Stirling Castle, The Kelpies, Amber Restaurant Scotch Whisky Experience and Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo We check out of our Glasgow hotel and head first to Stirling Castle where we enjoy a guided tour. Originally built in the 12th century, with additions and renovations undertaken over the years, the castle has played a key role in Scottish history. As well as being an important outpost during the Wars of Scottish Independence, the castle was once home to the doomed Mary Queen of Scots, who is said to haunt the castle to this day.

What’s Included

Your Hotels After lunch we head back up to Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, which has witnessed many of the defining events of Scottish history. Highlights include the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Royal Palace and the 16th-century Great Hall. Later, we enjoy dinner together back at the hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Monday: Scone Palace, Perth and Palace of Holyroodhouse

Nights One and Two – Hotel du Vin Glasgow Nights Three to Five – Principal Charlotte Square Hotel, Edinburgh For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

Tuesday: Departure A private transfer will take you back to Edinburgh airport for your return flight home. Meals: Breakfast

We head to Scone Palace, crowning place of Scottish kings including Robert the Bruce and Charles II and family home of the Earls of Mansfield. We enjoy a guided tour of the palace with its fine collections of furniture, porcelain, ivories, clocks, paintings and other objets d’art. Next we visit the city of Perth, located on the banks of the River Tay. A former capital of Scotland, Perth has a rich and influential history that stretches back over 800 years. Due to its location, it is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Highlands’.

Scone Palace

In the late afternoon, we transfer by black cab to start our Edinburgh Tattoo experience at the award-winning Amber Restaurant within The Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile. Here we enjoy a three-course, specially selected Scottish meal with wine and a wee dram of whisky before enjoying a brief recital by members of the Edinburgh Tattoo cast. Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

In the afternoon we return to Edinburgh and visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland. Here we can view the State Apartments as well as the Queen’s Gallery which hosts a program of changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection. Tonight we dine together at a local restaurant and toast farewell to Edinburgh with a wee dram in a whisky bar. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Perth

A Tour Around the Treasure Houses of England September 5 to 16, 2021 $6,140 (USD) or $7,982 (CAD) pp

Burghley House

Special extras included in your itinerary Guided

Palace House tour at Beaulieu lecture and audio guided tour at Leeds Castle Guided tour of Hatfield House Private guided tour of Holkham Hall Exclusive guided tour of Doddington Hall Guided tour of Chatsworth House Guided tour of Castle Howard Tailor-made guided tour and lunch at Harewood House Guided tour of Burghley House Audio guided tour and cream tea at Blenheim Palace Audio guided tour of Windsor Castle Themed evening talk by a guest speaker Introductory

Holkham Hall

The Treasure Houses of England are a collection of the most magnificent palaces, houses and castles, each with its own unique charm, stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Most are still homes to the great families who have owned them for generations. Together, the houses display some of the most important art collections in the world, showcasing exquisite examples of fine furniture, porcelain, china and portraiture. On this captivating tour, we explore nine of these impressive places, alongside other historic gems, giving us a fascinating insight into life in England over the centuries.

Twelve Day Itinerary Sunday: Arrival

On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private transfer will take you to the Audleys Wood Hotel where we stay for two nights. In the evening join the group for a welcome drink, followed by dinner. Meals: Dinner

Monday: Beaulieu We make our way to Beaulieu Estate where we enjoy a guided tour of Palace House, once the gatehouse of the medieval Beaulieu Abbey and the home of the Montagu family since 1538. Remodelled and extended in the 1800s, it is a fine example of a Victorian Gothic style country house. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Lincoln Cathedral Castle Howard Harewood House

York

Chatsworth House Doddington Hall

Lincoln Holkham Hall Burghley House

Ickworth House

Blenheim Palace

Hatfield House

Windsor Castle RHS Garden Wisley

Beaulieu

LONDON Leeds Castle

Tuesday: RHS Garden Wisley and Leeds Castle Today we travel first to RHS Garden Wisley, the Royal Horticultural Society’s flagship garden, which offers a wealth of inspirational ideas on design and cultivation techniques. Our next stop is Leeds Castle. Dating back to the 12th century, it was once home to Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon. The castle’s last owner, AngloAmerican heiress Lady Baillie, lovingly restored the castle to its former glory. We enjoy an introductory lecture and discover the furnishings, paintings and antiques during our audio guided tour. From here, we travel to the Chilston Park Hotel where we stay overnight. After dinner at the hotel we are treated to a fascinating talk by a guest speaker. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

Wednesday: Hatfield House

Sunday: Castle Howard and York

We travel to Hatfield House, home of the 7th Marquess and Marchioness of Salisbury. The house was built in 1611 by Robert Cecil, 1st Earl of Salisbury, one of Elizabeth I’s most important advisors. There are superb examples of Elizabethan craftsmanship, while the State Rooms are rich in paintings, fine furniture and tapestries and we learn more on our guided tour.

Our first visit is to Castle Howard, home to the Howard family for over 300 years, where we enjoy a guided tour. Designed by Sir John Vanbrugh, Castle Howard has twice appeared as Brideshead in film and television adaptations of Evelyn Waugh’s classic novel. This magnificent 18th-century residence offers world-renowned collections and stunning architecture.

Later we check in to the Ickworth Hotel, a magnificent National Trust property and our base for the next two nights.

We then return to York. The city is steeped in history, from the Roman city walls to the surviving medieval streets known as the Shambles. A mustsee is York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Thursday: Holkham Hall, Norfolk villages and Ickworth House This morning we enjoy a private guided tour of Holkham Hall, an elegant 18th-century country mansion constructed in the Palladian style for Thomas Coke, 1st Earl of Leicester. The hall is currently home to the 8th Earl of Leicester and his family. Admire the spectacular Marble Hall with its breathtaking domed ceiling and the magnificent State Rooms. We also make a short stop in the tranquil village of Castle Acre, a rare and complete survival of a Norman planned settlement, as well as the market town of Swaffham, once home to a flourishing wool industry in the 14th and 15th centuries. On returning to the Ickworth Estate we explore Ickworth House itself. This Neo-classical mansion is most notable for its enormous central Rotunda commissioned by the 4th Earl of Bristol to house his priceless treasures. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Friday: Doddington Hall and Lincoln Begun in 1595 by the great Elizabethan architect Robert Smythson, Doddington Hall was completed in 1600 and has never been sold or cleared out since. Still a much-loved family home, this fine Elizabethan mansion’s unfussy, symmetrical looking exterior contrasts with an elegant Georgian interior, full of captivating collections that reflect 400 years of unbroken family occupation. We learn more on our exclusive guided tour. After our visit, we head to Lincoln where we have free time to explore the city with its well-preserved medieval quarter, quaint cobbled streets and fine Gothic cathedral. From here, we make our way to our hotel for the next three nights, the Grand Hotel & Spa in York. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Saturday: Chatsworth House We enjoy a guided tour of magnificent Chatsworth House, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and witness to 16 generations of the powerful Cavendish family who acquired the estate in 1549. The house has evolved through the centuries to reflect the tastes and interests of succeeding generations and boasts grandiose interiors and a superlative art collection. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Monday: Harewood House When Edwin Lascelles started building Harewood House in 1759, he employed the finest craftsmen of the time: architect John Carr, interior designer Robert Adam, furniture maker Thomas Chippendale and landscape gardener Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. Harewood has an outstanding art collection and is still home to the Lascelles family, reflecting the changing tastes and styles of the past 250 years and we learn more on our tailormade tour followed by lunch. Later we check in to the Stapleford Park Country House Hotel in Leicestershire where we stay overnight. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Tuesday: Burghley House This morning we enjoy a guided tour of Burghley House, cited as England’s greatest Elizabethan house. Home to William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I, Burghley offers a unique glimpse into the way great houses have been lived in from the time of Elizabeth I to the present day. We have time to explore the breathtaking State Rooms and historic collections. We continue on to our overnight hotel, the Hartwell House Hotel, one of the National Trust’s Historic House Hotels. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Wednesday: Blenheim Palace and Windsor Castle We head to the awe-inspiring Blenheim Palace, synonymous with the Churchill family and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. The magnificent State Rooms reveal a superb collection of tapestries, paintings, porcelain and furniture and we learn more on our audio guided tour followed by a delicious cream tea. Our final visit is to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and one of the Queen’s official residences. Established in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, it has been remodelled by successive kings and queens and is regularly used for ceremonial and State occasions. We learn more on our audio guided tour.

What’s Included Return

airport transfers from London Heathrow* 2 nights at the Audleys Wood Hotel 1 night at the Chilston Park Hotel 2 nights at the Ickworth Hotel 3 nights at the Grand Hotel & Spa York 1 night at the Stapleford Park Country House Hotel 1 night at the Hartwell House Hotel 1 night at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel Welcome drink and canapés Full English breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 11 nights at the hotels (with after-dinner tea and coffee) Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All excursion costs Porterage *supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

Your Hotels Nights One and Two – Audleys Wood Hotel, Basingstoke Night Three – Chilston Park Hotel, Lenham Nights Four and Five – Ickworth Hotel, near Bury St Edmunds Nights Six to Eight – Grand Hotel & Spa, York Night Nine – Stapleford Park Country House Hotel, near Melton Mowbray Night Ten – Hartwell House Hotel, near Aylesbury Night Eleven – Macdonald Windsor Hotel, Windsor For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

Thursday: Departure A private transfer will take you back to Heathrow airport for your return flight home. Meals: Breakfast Please note: as this tour travels from the south to the north of England and back, some days will involve fairly long journeys.

Afterwards we check in to the Macdonald Windsor Hotel where we enjoy a farewell dinner together. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Kent Castles & Coasts September 11 to 19, 2020 $5,140 (USD) or $6,682 (CAD) pp

Hever Castle

Special extras included in your itinerary

Private

guided tour and lunch at Hever Castle Exclusive out-of-hours garden tour of Sissinghurst Castle Garden Guided walking tour of Canterbury Guided tour of Canterbury Cathedral Guided tour and refreshments at The Salutation Gardens Private guided tour of Leeds Castle Guided tour and lunch at Godinton House Audio guided tour of Windsor Castle Themed evening talk by a guest speaker

Windsor Castle

LONDON

Down House Riverhill Himalayan Gardens Chartwell Hever Castle

Doddington Place Gardens

Leeds Castle

Whitstable

Margate

Sandwich Canterbury

Ightham Mote Bodiam Castle

Godinton House Sissinghurst Castle Garden

The romantic county of Kent offers a multitude of historic treasures, from enchanting castles and stately homes to imaginative gardens and delightful coastal towns. On this captivating break we learn about Kent’s role in shaping English history, and discover some of its famous residents such as Ann Boleyn, Charles Dickens and Winston Churchill. In a county famed for its castles, we also explore historic Hever and impressive Leeds Castle. We combine these fascinating architectural wonders with the peacefulness of the Kentish coast, as we experience the classic seaside charm of Margate and Whitstable.

Nine Day Itinerary Saturday: Arrival

On arrival at Heathrow airport, a private transfer will take you to our overnight hotel, the Castle Hotel Windsor – MGallery. In the evening, join the group for a welcome drink, followed by dinner. Meals: Dinner

Sunday: Chartwell and Ightham Mote Today we first visit Chartwell, Sir Winston Churchill’s beloved home from 1924 to the time of his death. The house is still home to many of the great statesman’s personal and political mementos, including an amazing collection of gifts he received from other world leaders and his personal painting studio hidden in the grounds. Next, we explore the moated manor house of Ightham Mote, once described by historian David Starkey as “the most beautiful and the most interesting of English country houses”. Built nearly 700 years ago, atmospheric Ightham has been home to medieval knights, courtiers to Henry VIII and Victorian High Society. From here, we travel to the Chilston Park Hotel where we stay for the next five nights. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Ightham Mote

Monday: Hever Castle and Riverhill Himalayan Gardens

Sissinghurst Castle Garden

We head to Hever Castle, the childhood home of Henry VIII’s second wife, Anne Boleyn, where we enjoy a private guided tour and lunch. Dating back to the late 13th century, this double-moated castle is home to various historic artifacts including Tudor portraits and furniture, as well as two prayer books inscribed by Anne Boleyn. The castle was lavishly restored by American millionaire, William Waldorf Astor, in the early 20th century.

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

We continue to Riverhill Himalayan Gardens, a fine example of horticultural excellence, created by contemporary of Charles Darwin and patron of Victorian plant hunter, John Rogers. We discover its interesting history as we enjoy the combination of world-class British sculpture, secret pathways and stunning floral displays. This evening we enjoy dinner together in a local pub. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tuesday: Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Tenterden and Bodiam Castle This morning we head to Sissinghurst Castle Garden where we enjoy an exclusive out-of-hours garden tour. Created in the 1930s by novelist Vita Sackville-West and her husband Harold Nicolson around the ruins of an Elizabethan manor house, these world-famous gardens are laid out as a series of individually-planted ‘rooms’ including a fragrant Herb Garden and Rose Garden.

bays, retro shops and a friendly atmosphere. As Margate is also home to a thriving arts community, you may like to browse the Turner Contemporary, a beautiful gallery overlooking the sea. We then head to the historic town of Sandwich. Once a major port, there are still many original medieval buildings dotted around this enchanting town, making it a delight to explore. We continue to The Salutation Gardens in Sandwich, where we enjoy a guided tour and refreshments. Designed in 1912 by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, the exquisite gardens are divided into a sequence of symmetrical ‘rooms.’ After around 70 years, the gardens sadly fell into disorder, but with a new owner and head gardener at the helm, an extensive restoration project was undertaken in 2005. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After lunch (not included) in the picturesque town of Tenterden, we continue to Bodiam Castle. This archetypal 14th-century moated castle with a ruined interior gives us a glimpse of medieval splendor and boasts an original wooden portcullis, spiral staircases, and battlements.

Wednesday: Canterbury, Canterbury Cathedral and Whitstable We start the day in Canterbury. The city has a fascinating history which we learn about on our guided walking tour. We also enjoy a guided tour of Canterbury Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in England, dating back to Norman times. In 1170, Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in the cathedral and ever since, it has been a site of Christian pilgrimage. Our next stop is Whitstable, a picturesque fishing and harbour town on the north coast of Kent, renowned for its fresh oysters and connections to Charles Dickens. You can enjoy sampling these culinary delights during dinner in a popular local seafood restaurant. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Thursday: Margate, Sandwich and The Salutation Gardens This morning we head to the coastal town of Margate. This town epitomises the charm of a classic British seaside resort, with its unspoilt sandy Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

airport transfers from London Heathrow* 3 nights at a well-appointed hotel, Windsor 5 nights at the Chilston Park Hotel Welcome drink and canapés Full English breakfast each day 3-course table d’hôte dinner on 6 nights at the hotels (with after-dinner tea and coffee) 1 dinner at a traditional local pub 1 dinner at a popular local seafood restaurant Services of a tour director throughout your stay Travel to and from all excursions All entrance costs Porterage

Leeds Castle

Friday: Leeds Castle and Godinton House

Canterbury Cathedral

Return

*supplement applies for transfers from all other airports

After dinner back at the hotel this evening, we enjoy a fascinating talk by a guest speaker. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

What’s Included

We visit Leeds Castle, a quintessential moated castle set in 500 acres of glorious parkland, where we enjoy a private guided tour. Dating back to the 12th century, it was once home to Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon. The castle’s last private owner was Lady Baillie, an Anglo-American heiress who lovingly restored the castle to its former glory. We discover more of the castle’s fascinating history as well as its wealth of furnishings, paintings, tapestries and antiques on display. Our next stop is Godinton House, a delightful Jacobean house incorporating a medieval hall and ornate carvings where we enjoy a guided tour and lunch. Godinton is a much-loved home where each room reflects the tastes of those who have lived here with an excellent collection of furniture, art, and curios. We also have time to explore the 12 acres of tranquil gardens, surrounded by ancient parkland. Later, we check back in to our Windsor hotel where we stay for the last two nights of our tour. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Saturday: Down House and Windsor Castle Our first stop today is Down House, home of scientist Charles Darwin and his family for 40 years. Several rooms have been recreated as they appeared when he lived here including the study where he wrote On the Origin of Species. The house is surrounded by extensive gardens; Darwin’s ‘outdoor laboratory’. We then visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world which is still one of

Your Hotels Nights One, Seven and Eight – a wellappointed hotel, Windsor Nights Two to Six – Chilston Park Hotel, Lenham For more information on these hotels please visit our website. We have a limited number of single places available with no supplement on this tour. These sell quickly.

the official residences of Queen Elizabeth II today. Established in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, it has been remodelled by successive kings and queens and is regularly used for ceremonial and state occasions. The magnificent State Apartments are furnished with some of the finest works of art to admire during our audio guided tour. This evening we enjoy a farewell dinner together back at our hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Sunday: Departure A private transfer will take you back to Heathrow airport for your return flight home. Meals: Breakfast

Whitstable

Frequently Asked Questions How do I make a booking? You can book via our website, www.albionjourneys.com or over the telephone on our toll-free number 1-866-834-8358. Our offices are open 9:00am-5:00pm EST Monday to Friday. If you have any questions or queries you can also email us at info@albionjourneys.com.

Are there single traveler room supplements?

How much walking will there be on these tours?

As much or as little as you like. Any included guided tours will operate at a fairly relaxed pace, as with many historic houses and gardens, you may experience some uneven flooring and steps along the way. Of course, you will always have the option to explore any venue by yourself at your own pace. Any specific tour When are payments due? in this brochure with more than an average When you confirm your booking with us, a Are room upgrades available? amount of walking will be clearly noted in the non-refundable deposit of $750 (USD) or All of the hotels on these tours have been hand- itinerary. If you have any specific concerns, $975 (CAD) per person is required to secure picked for their high quality of accommodation please contact us. your place. The final balance payment must and service. However, in some instances room be paid to us no later than 90 days prior to the upgrades are available and we would be happy What are the arrangements tour departure date. Of course, full payment to assist you to arrange these should you for luggage? can be made at the time of booking if you be interested. The standard luggage allowance is one item prefer and for bookings made less than 8 of hand luggage and one suitcase per person Can you arrange extra hotel nights? weeks before the tour departs this will be restricted to a maximum weight of 20kgs (44 a requirement. Yes, if you decide to arrive a few days before pounds). We do provide porterage at each the start of the tour or leave a few days after of the hotels used on our tours, however, as How can I pay? the end of the tour, we are happy to arrange with all things of a personal nature, it is your We accept debit and credit cards (except extra nights’ accommodation. However, this responsibility to ensure your suitcase is loaded American Express), for deposits and service is only available at hotels that feature onto the vehicles we use throughout the tour. full payment. in the tour on which you are travelling and a $35 (USD) or $45.50 (CAD) administration fee is What clothing should I bring? What paperwork will I receive? charged for this service. Comfortable leisurewear is recommended When your booking is confirmed, we will email for the daytime. In the evening many you a booking confirmation document along with Are meals included? participants prefer to wear smarter dress a copy of our full Terms and Conditions. 90 days All breakfasts are included on all tours. Certain for dining. Whilst gentlemen may choose to prior to the tour, we will prepare and send you lunches and dinners are also included and you wear a jacket in the restaurant in the evening, our Travel Pack with your finalized information, should study the tour itinerary in this brochure at most hotels this is not obligatory, we will of reading list and tour itinerary details. to determine what meals are included on your course inform you if any hotel does have a dress chosen tour. Meals not mentioned are not code. It is advisable to bring layered clothing Do I need travel insurance? included and all beverages are at your own and a light waterproof jacket. We recommend Yes, this is essential; we can only accept a expense throughout the tour. sturdy footwear when visiting gardens as the booking on the basis that you have taken out a ground may be soft underfoot. Many historic full and comprehensive travel insurance policy What do I do about any dietary properties request ladies do not wear high to cover the full duration of your trip. We will requirements? heels which may damage flooring. ask you to confirm this to us. If you choose not Please inform us at the time of booking, we to take out travel insurance, this is done so Can you arrange my flights to will pass your information on to the hotel against our advice and at your own risk; we will who will do their best to accommodate the UK? ask you to sign a declination form indemnifying your requirements. Albion Journeys do not arrange your air travel us from any responsibility or cost in the event of medical emergency or repatriation. How many passengers will be in the for our tours; this is your responsibility and gives you the flexibility to decide on your Albion Journeys tour group? Do I need a passport and visa? own routing. Typically, between 10 and 30. It is your responsibility to ensure you have What should I budget for tipping? a full passport and we recommend that it is What is the role of the While it is not compulsory, it is customary to valid for 6 months after the return date of your Tour Director? tip the coach driver and Tour Director as well as trip. Tourist visas are not required for US or Our friendly Tour Director will meet you for offering a small gratuity to the transfer drivers to Canadian citizens visiting the UK for under 90 a welcome dinner at the beginning of each acknowledge the services they have provided. As days solely for the purpose of tourism. If you tour. Their role is to facilitate the smooth a guideline we suggest a rate of £5 per day for are not a US or Canadian citizen or you are organization of all operational aspects of the your driver, £10 per day for your Tour Director combining your visit with business, it is your tour. If you have any queries or experience and a couple of pounds for your transfer driver. responsibility to check the requirements for any issues during the tour, they are there to Gratuities for hotel staff and the tour guides you visiting the UK, you can do this by visiting the assist you. may meet at properties on your day trips are UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website to covered by Albion Journeys. determine whether you need a visa to enter Will the excursions change? the United Kingdom. All tours offered subject to availability. Terms and Please note that we plan our tours far in conditions apply. Errors and omissions excepted. advance and the order and availability of excursions may be subject to change. In the event of a property not being available to visit, we will substitute with a similar visit, and you will be informed of the full details.

We have a small number of rooms on each tour that are sold with no single supplement; once these are sold out we charge a supplement for any additional single rooms which varies for each tour. You can contact us to enquire about single supplement prices. Please book early as single rooms sell fast.

Enquiries and Bookings visit our website at albionjourneys.com or email info@albionjourneys.com

Terms & Conditions It is important that you read the following booking conditions. These Booking Conditions form the basis of your contract with us. Please read these sections carefully as they apply to all bookings you make with us unless otherwise specified. All holidays are operated by Albion. 1. HOLIDAY PAYMENT: When you make a booking you must pay a deposit for every person named on the booking. Deposits per person and the balance due date (the period before the departure date on which your full balance normally becomes due) are: Deposit

Balance due date

$750 (USD) $975 (CAD)

90 days before departure

If you cannot make a payment by card at the time of booking, please speak to one of our Reservations staff to discuss other options. You can make payments against your balance anytime between making the booking and the balance due date. If the balance is not paid on time we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled by you and apply cancellation charges as set out in clause 3 below. For bookings made after the balance due date, the full amount is due at the time of booking.

3. HOLIDAY CANCELLATION BY YOU: If you want to cancel your booking after we have confirmed it with you either verbally, over the telephone or by email, you can do so over the phone or in writing. The following cancellation charges will apply: 365 to 182 days prior to departure

$500 (USD) $650 (CAD)

181 to 91 days prior to departure

$750 (USD) $975 (CAD)

90 days or less before departure

100% of the program cost is non-refundable

If any member of your party is prevented from travelling, that person may transfer their place to someone else (introduced by you) providing we are notified no less than two weeks before departure. Full terms and conditions will be provided with your booking confirmation. They are also available on request or via our website: www.albionjourneys.com/terms-and-conditions. Call toll free: 1-866-834-8358

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We regret we cannot accept any liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracy in any document within 14 days of our sending it out. This contract and all matters arising out of it will be governed by English law and will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

ÂŠ Historic Royal Palaces - Kensington Palace

2. OUR AGREEMENT: A contract is formed when we issue to you the booking confirmation document and terms and conditions. It is important you read through these and any other documents you receive and advise us of any inaccuracy within 14 days of the document date. By accepting the booking is correct you agree to our terms and conditions.

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