Shire counties are by nature rich and peaceful and this tour gives us the opportunity to discover some of the wonderfully traditional and historical aspects of the Shire Counties of England that we all love.
The three star Holiday Inn stands in Northamptonshire not far from Corby, and makes an ideal base for this tour. Hotel facilities include swimming pool, sauna and gym. All bedrooms have TV, and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel has a lift.
Itinerary
Monday We depart Cornwall in the morning and travel to Northamptonshire. We will arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Tuesday Today we are off to the University City of Cambridge where we can explore the famous colleges and the ‘Backs’ as well as the contrasting city centre with its ancient buildings mingling with modern day life. During our stay in Cambridge we enjoy a river punt with strawberries and cream.
Wednesday This morning we drive to the city of Peterborough where we enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent Norman Cathedral, an iconic local landmark. In the afternoon we have a guided tour of Burghley House. Dating back to the time of Queen Elizabeth I both the house and tour offer a great insight into life in a stately home over the centuries.
Thursday Our journey begins by a tour along the edge of Rutland Water to the little village of Exton. Here we visit the famous Barnsdale Gardens, familiar to many TV viewers as home of the late Geoff Hamilton, and Gardeners World. The gardens comprise of 37 individual gardens and features all blended together by borders into one eight acre garden. We will have time for lunch in Oakham before visiting the superb 900 year old Rockingham Castle. The impressive interior has a strong Tudor flavour and includes the Great Hall and Long Gallery and from the exterior there are dramatic views over the Welland Valley and five counties.
Friday Following breakfast we depart our hotel for the return journey home. We will break for lunch on the way and arrive in Cornwall during the evening.
Terms
Limited number of single rooms available at no supplement
Home pick up available – £10 per person
A £75 non-refundable non-transferable deposit/person is required when booking, the balance being payable 6 weeks prior to departure. Tour subject to loading.
Total Price Includes:
* Executive Coach Travel * Holiday Insurance * 4 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast *
* River Punt with Strawberries & Cream * Excursions as detailed *
* Admission to Barnsdale Gardens * Admission to Rockingham Castle * Tour of Burghley House *
* Tour of Peterborough Cathedral * Porterage * Free Parking at Depot *
* Pick up points in most towns & villages *