The Perfect Christmas Present
On our new tour we see rural villages, rich farmlands, seascapes and sandy heathland as we visit some beautiful parts of East Anglia. We include Otley Hall, a cream tea and a cruise on the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation.
Day 1 We travel via the Dartford Crossing and arrive at our hotel north of Maldon to be greeted with tea and biscuits. Time to relax before our evening meal.
Day 2 A visit to the popular seaside resort of Felixstowe, where you can stroll along the promenade, explore the town and obtain lunch. This afternoon we are at Otley Hall just outside Ipswich. Still a family home, the 16th Century moated hall is set in 10 acres of magnificent gardens in the Suffolk countryside, and we have an included cream tea.
Day 3 We make our way to Colchester, the oldest town in England with pleasant shopping streets, beautiful Castle Park complete with the largest Norman keep ever constructed, riverside walks and pleasant gardens. This afternoon we travel back via Mersea Island and West Mersea.
Day 4 Today we visit the delightful town of Maldon, on the Blackwater Estuary, once a smugglers haven where we have time to explore and get lunch. Then on to Papermill Lock to the Victoria for a delightful afternoon cruise along the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation.
Day 5 Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we make our way home, arriving in the local area to meet our taxis late afternoon.
A four-star countryside hotel, the Five Lakes offers scenic views, a pleasant bar, lounge and places to relax. Leisure facilities include indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, spa bath, gym and treatment rooms. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, safe, hairdryer and hospitality tray. There is a lift.