We will be staying at The Parsonage Hotel, Escrick with its spa and pool facilities. Over the next few days we go from Pickering to Whitby by train, visit Wensleydale Creamery, home of Wensleydale Cheese and Thirsk - The World of James Herriot Museum based on the life of the famous local vet.
There is a full day out in York where you can visit the C13th York Minster, see how the Vikings lived with the sights, smells and sounds at the Jorvik Experience, walk the Shambles, a C14th slaughter house and meat market or visit the York Dungeons. Round the day off with an indulgent afternoon tea at the world famous Betty’s Tea Rooms.
Our return journey takes us to Chatsworth House, a Grade 1 listed house with stables, a 105 acre garden, a 1,822 acre park and a farmyard plus an overnight stay on the way back home.
Taking a leisurely drive over the stunning Dartmoor Tors and Valleys we arrive at Princetown. Here you can visit the flagship Dartmoor Visitor Centre, once home to Conan Doyle as he wrote the Hound of the Baskervilles and now host a variety of exhibitions and displays. We continue with a fascinating insight into prison life at the Dartmoor Prison Museum. Learn about ‘life inside’ one of the worlds most famous and notorious jails. Some of the artefacts and documents on display will surprise you but will certainly enable you to form an opinion about prison life. We return with a stop at the market town of Tavistock.
Lamorran is a subtropical haven on Cornwall’s Roseland peninsula, sheltered by the sea and warmed by its mild climate - so mild it has seen only one frost since 1987.
This rare environment supports an exceptional mix of subtropical and southern hemisphere plants. Visitors can wander through woodland, a Japanese-style water garden, temples, archways and a Venetian-inspired bridge, each space designed as its own intimate room.
Created to offer beauty and tranquility in harmony with nature, Lamorran invites you to explore and unwind.
After our visit to the gardens we make our way to the small, quaint fishing village of St. Mawes.
Saltram House is an elegant Georgian mansion filled with fine interiors, grand staircases, ornate plasterwork and an impressive collection of art and furnishings. Outside, the gardens are peaceful and beautifully kept. You’ll find sweeping lawns, refined borders, a charming orangery and pockets of woodland planting that create a calm, sheltered atmosphere.
Beyond the formal spaces, Saltram’s parkland and riverside walks offer gentle routes suitable for most visitors. A visit to Saltram blends history, gardens and nature.
We finish the day with a visit to Tamar View Nurseries which has grown over the last 50 years to a major gardening centre with on site businesses of fresh fruit, butchers, aquatics and garden machinery. There is a conservatory café serving locally sourced food and drinks.
Enjoy a delightful day out at Buckfastleigh, where nature and wildlife come alive. Visit the Otter Sanctuary to observe these playful creatures in their naturalistic habitats and learn about their fascinating behaviour and conservation. Then step into the Butterfly House and Garden, a tranquil haven where exotic butterflies fly among vibrant tropical plants.
Stroll the seasonal gardens, relax in the peaceful surroundings, visit the Abbey and take in the beauty of South Devon’s countryside. With wildlife, horticulture and scenic charm all in one visit, Buckfastleigh offers a truly memorable day out for all ages.
Discover the serene beauty and maritime heritage of Cornwall’s southern coast on this River Fal Scenic Cruise. This leisurely voyage offers an exceptional opportunity to experience one of the region’s most picturesque waterways, celebrated for its unspoilt landscapes, sheltered estuaries, and timeless coastal charm.
The vessel sails into the wide, tranquil waters of the Fal Estuary, where rolling woodland, secluded creeks, and elegant riverside residences come into view. As the cruise progresses, visitors are treated to panoramic vistas of the Carrick Roads, the third deepest natural harbour in the world, long favoured by sailing craft, fishing boats and international vessels alike.
Passengers will enjoy the gentle pace with views of historic landmarks, tranquil inlets rich with wildlife, charming waterside villages and working quays that reflect the region’s long maritime tradition. You could also catch a glimpse of a pod of dolphins that frequent the Fal Estuary. We round off the day with a visit to Falmouth with its bustling town centre and wide range of individual shops, art galleries and places to eat.
Forde Abbey is one of the West Country’s most distinguished historic estates. Set within the tranquil Dorset / Somerset border, this former Cistercian monastery has evolved over nine centuries into an elegant family residence renowned for its architectural beauty and exceptional gardens.
The interior of the house showcases a remarkable collection of period furnishings, portraits, tapestries, and fine craftsmanship, each room offering insight into the Abbey’s transformation from a medieval monastic community to a stately country home.
The gardens, celebrated for their design and seasonal splendour, are among the finest in the region. Explore the sweeping lawns, peaceful lakes, and vibrant planting schemes that reflect both historical influences and contemporary horticultural care. Highlights include the renowned Centenary Fountain, whose impressive plume creates a dramatic centrepiece within the landscape, and the exquisite walled garden with its abundance of colour and scent.
You may wish to visit the gift shop or enjoy refreshments at the tearoom, both are situated within the grounds of the Abbey.
Our day begins in Paignton, a seaside town known for its sweeping beaches, elegant promenade and proud railway heritage. Here, visitors will board a heritage steam train and travel in comfort through the picturesque rural valleys of South Devon, arriving in Kingswear, where dramatic views over the Dart Estuary await.
We take a short ferry crossing to Dartmouth, a town steeped in maritime history. Dartmouth captivates with its narrow streets, period architecture, and bustling harbour. The journey continues with a serene river cruise along the River Dart, one of Devon’s most scenic waterways. As the vessel winds its way upstream, expect views of wooded riverbanks, elegant riverside homes and notable landmarks along this peaceful stretch of countryside. This relaxing cruise concludes in Totnes where the coach will meet you.
Experience the splendour of RHS Rosemoor for the renowned Flower Show and enjoy stunning floral displays, inspiring demonstrations, specialist nurseries and live music. Hear talks from some of the nation’s favourite gardeners, feast your eyes on the fantastic floral skills of top experts and buy plants and garden goodies from specialist growers and producers. Take time to explore Rosemoor’s themed gardens, peaceful walks and scenic riverside paths.
Leaving early Friday morning to arrive at Burghley for the major part of the dressage element of this most prestigious event with other ring attractions available. Saturday we head to Burghley in plenty of time to watch the exciting cross country phase. Sunday starts with early breakfast before heading back to the arena to watch the final horse inspection and concluding show jumping phase or, if you wish, other ring displays, competitions, shopping and attractions before making our way back home.
Staying at the Holt Hotel just a short drive to the university city of Oxford and on the edge of the scenic Cotswolds it is the perfect location for a countryside escape.
Discover the rich heritage, timeless architecture and idyllic landscapes of Oxford and the Cotswolds.
There will be a full free day to explore the cathedral city of Oxford at leisure, whether it’s strolling through the cobbled streets, visiting world-renowned museums, discovering the famous Bodleian Library or simply relaxing in a riverside café as punts glide quietly along the Cherwell.
In the days that follow, the tour unfolds with a series of scenic excursions into the Cotswolds, each showcasing a different aspect of this charming region.
Each excursion offers gentle exploration, captivating scenery and the opportunity to experience village life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Step back into one of Devon’s most historic and celebrated traditions with a visit to the Tavistock Goosey Fair. Established over 700 years ago, this vibrant fair is a highlight of the autumn calendar, blending heritage, local culture and lively entertainment in the heart of the charming market town of Tavistock.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a bustling array of stalls, artisan crafts, local produce and seasonal treats, capturing the spirit of a traditional market fair. Visitors can also enjoy fairground rides, street entertainers and lively demonstrations, making the day both engaging and memorable.
Enjoy a charming day out beginning with a scenic ride on the Seaton Tramway, travelling through the tranquil Axe Valley between Seaton and Colyton with wonderful views across the estuary and surrounding countryside. The slow, unhurried pace of the tramway offers an ideal opportunity to appreciate the surrounding marshlands, meadows and peaceful countryside. A haven for wildlife and migrating birds.
We visit the beautiful town of Sidmouth with its promenade, independent shops, inviting cafés, and picturesque gardens. A perfect combination of heritage travel and coastal relaxation.
The Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival is regarded as one of the world's largest illuminated carnivals with floats up to 100ft long, 11ft wide, 18ft high & up to 250,000 lights. The procession can take over two hours to get through the streets on the two and half mile route. Seeing really is believing so don't miss this fantastic illuminated carnival.
We start with close-up animal encounters watching impressive creatures roam across vast open spaces in the Safari Park. As night falls, Longleat transforms into a glowing wonderland, featuring over 30 acres of dazzling illuminations set against the stunning backdrop of Longleat House.
Celebrate the festive season with a joyful Turkey & Tinsel excursion at the elegant Regina Hotel overlooking the pretty harbour in Torquay. The seasonal getaway offers a perfect combination of relaxation, indulgence and festive cheer, set against the charming backdrop of the Devon coast. Torquay is one of Britain’s most famous resorts, situated at the heart of 22 miles of unspoilt coastline. Guests will enjoy a comfortable and welcoming stay, with well-appointed accommodation. The highlight of the visit is the traditional Turkey & Tinsel celebration, featuring a delicious festive menu. During your stay, there will be opportunities to explore the nearby seaside town, stroll along the promenade or simply relax in the hotel’s inviting surroundings.
Enjoy a festive day out beginning with a visit to Killerton House, beautifully decorated for Christmas with themed displays, seasonal touches, and charming winter gardens. Explore the house at leisure and browse for gifts in the National Trust shop.
Continue to the Exeter Christmas Market on Cathedral Green, where atmospheric stalls, artisan crafts, local produce, and festive treats create a warm and inviting seasonal experience. A perfect December outing capturing the spirit of Christmas.
Enjoy a magical festive evening at The Lost Gardens of Heligan, transformed by a stunning illuminated trail that brings the woodlands, pathways, and gardens to life in a glow of winter enchantment. Stroll at leisure through beautifully lit scenes, creative installations, and atmospheric displays that capture the spirit of the season.