Chelsea Flower Show

From unique English manor houses, an elegant French château and grand gardens steeped in history and tradition - we'll stop and smell the roses on this leisurely tour of South East England's regal towns and show-stealing stately homes. And the jewel in the crown? A trip to the green-fingered event of the year, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Chelsea Flower Show.

Your Guided Holiday Includes:

• 7 nights in hand-picked accommodation
• 10 meals; 7 breakfasts & 3 dinners
• 7 nights in hand-picked accommodation
• Experienced Back-Roads Tour Leader and Driver

Tour Highlights

•  Wander the fabulous show gardens at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show
•  Tour the historic and beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew
•  Enjoy overnight stays in historic royal towns Tunbridge Wells and Windsor

Day 1 - London

Our tour of England’s green and pleasant land will begin in the country’s iconic capital. After meeting the group at our London hotel, we’ll get to know one another better over a delicious welcome meal. Accommodation: The Wellington by Blue Orchid (or similar)(D)

Day 2 - London – Ightham Mote – Scotney Castle – Royal Tunbridge Wells

We'll begin our journey with a visit to 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 house and gardens - before we end our delightful day in Tunbridge Wells. Tonight, there's another sumptuous group dinner on the agenda. Accommodation: The Spa Hotel (or similar)(B,D)

Day 3 - Royal Tunbridge Wells – Sissinghurst Castle – Great Dixter – Royal Tunbridge Wells

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 home to famous British gardener Christopher Lloyd - and explore the gardens that were his pride and joy. Upon returning to Tunbridge Wells, we'll have the evening to spend at our leisure. Accommodation: The Spa Hotel (or similar)(B)

Day 4 - Royal Tunbridge Wells – Hever Castle – RHS Garden Wisley – Windsor

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 queen, 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 enjoying the serene Alpine Meadow. Rich in history and royal tradition, Windsor will be our final stop of the day. This evening, we’ll clink glasses over an included dinner and share plans for the free day awaiting us tomorrow. Accommodation: Castle Hotel (or similar)(B,D)

Day 5 - Windsor

What better way to spend the day than discovering Windsor’s regal highlights at our 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. Accommodation: Castle Hotel (or similar)(B)

Day 6 - Windsor – The Savill Garden – Waddesdon Manor – London

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. Then: swap English country houses for an elegant French château – the Grade One listed Waddesdon Manor. After taking some time to wander through the exquisite gardens, house and exhibitions – 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. Accommodation: Wellington by Blue Orchid (or similar)(B)

Day 7 - London – RHS Chelsea Flower Show – London

Today the RHS Chelsea Flower Show will be yours to enjoy. From the world-famous show gardens to the astounding floral displays on offer in Chelsea's Great Pavilion – this truly spectacular event showcases the very best of garden design and is sure to be a highlight of our trip. Accommodation: Wellington by Blue Orchid (or similar)(B)

Day 8 - London – Kew Gardens – London

It may be the last day of the tour, but there’s still time to enjoy some more English treasures before we say goodbye. 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)

Prices listed are per person in Australian Dollars, based on twin occupancy, including all discounts unless otherwise stated. The offer is subject to availability at time of booking and shown on the lowest inside category available at the time. Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice. Prices/Offers are correct as at 14 January 2021 and can be withdrawn without notice. Hotels may charge resort fees not included in this package, payable direct upon check in. Visas are not included. Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge.