English Country Gardens

After meeting the group at our London hotel, we'll get to know one another better over a delicious welcome meal. Stay: The Wellington by Blue Orchid (or similar) (D)

Our tour of England's green and pleasant land will begin at one of the most unique manor houses in Kent: Ightham Mote. This medieval house dates back over 700 years and can only be reached via an ancient stone bridge that stretches over its very own moat. This afternoon we'll visit the charming Scotney Castle, where we'll take some time to wander the gardens before we end our delightful day in Tunbridge Wells. Tonight, there's another sumptuous group dinner on the agenda. Stay: The Spa Hotel (or similar) (B/D)

This morning our road will turn east to Sissinghurst Castle Garden, an iconic retreat that's renowned for its romantic design and colourful rose arrangements. Then: we'll swap sculpted layouts for a naturalistic approach to planting at Great Dixter. Here, we'll tour the old timber-framed house that was once home to famous British gardener Christopher Lloyd - and explore the gardens that were his pride and joy. Stay: The Spa Hotel (or similar) (B)

After breakfast in Tunbridge Wells, we'll make tracks to the award-winning gardens of Hever Castle* – the childhood home of Henry VIII's second wife, Anne Boleyn. This afternoon will see us wandering the tranquil RHS Garden Wisley, taking in the sounds of the water flowing through the rock garden and relaxing in the Alpine Meadow. Rich in history and royal tradition, Windsor will be our final stop of the day – where a hearty included meal awaits. *Tours departing on the 4th September 2022 will experience a full day at the RHS Wisley Flower Show and will be unable to visit Hever Castle due to time constraints. Stay: Castle Hotel (or similar) (B/D)

What better way to spend the day than discovering Windsor's regal highlights at your own pace? We'll have plenty of time to visit the Castle, wander the picturesque riverside and sample a delicious afternoon tea at one of the tearooms around town. After a full day of exploring, choose from one of the many cosy pubs and eateries - and enjoy an evening spent at your leisure. Stay: Castle Hotel (or similar) (B)

This morning, we'll pay a visit to The Savill Garden in Windsor Great Park. As we walk through the themed gardens, be sure to keep an eye out for an array of rare plants from around the world. After some free time wandering the exquisite gardens – we'll make our way back to London. Spending the evening exploring the capital's array of gastronomic options or relaxing at our hotel – we will look forward to tomorrow's exciting agenda. Stay: The Wellington by Blue Orchid (or similar) (B)

This morning we'll take a look around the splendid Hampton Court Palace and Gardens*. With 60 acres of exquisite formal gardens, three National Plant Collections and the world's oldest puzzle maze – we'll have plenty of free time to explore this world-famous estate. Following on from our visit, we've an appointment to keep at the Beefeater Gin Distillery – where a guided tour of the facility is in store. Tonight, is your last on tour so we suggest spending your free evening dining at one of the capital's fantastic restaurants. *Tours departing on the 3rd July 2022 will experience a full day at the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show and will be unable to visit the Palace and Beefeater Gin Distillery due to time constraints. Stay: The Wellington by Blue Orchid (or similar) (B)

It may be our last day together, but there's still time to enjoy some more English treasures. This morning we'll take a stroll around the splendid Kew Gardens. The palm house, a jaw-dropping example of Victorian engineering, is sure to add a final flourish to that holiday photo album. We will say our farewells upon returning to the hotel. (B)