Our tour includes a visit to Hole Park Gardens when the ground is awash with spring flowers, Herstmonceux Castle Gardens, a ride on the wonderful Bluebell Line, a tasting at the renowned Chapel Down Vineyard and time in some of Kent and East Sussex’s favourite towns.
Day 1 After your door to door service, we travel eastwards and have a stop at Alfriston, take the high road up to Birling Gap, before making our way down into Eastbourne. The afternoon is free to explore the town or to relax in the lounges.
Day 2 Today we visit Hole Park in the High Weald, which features outstanding formal, walled, meadow and woodland gardens, and in May should have bluebells, tulips, roses, rhododendron and azaleas in bloom. In the afternoon we visit Chapel Down Vineyard and Winery, where we learn about the history of English wine, the intricacies of the traditional method of sparkling wine production and enjoy a tasting.
Day 3 A free day to enjoy Eastbourne. Alternatively, join your driver on a half day excursion to Rye, with its quaint charm, 18th-century cobbled streets and breathtaking views of Romney Marsh.
Day 4 A drive through the countryside to Sheffield Park to join the Bluebell Railway for a nostalgic return train ride to East Grinstead. This afternoon we visit Herstmonceux Castle Gardens*, 300 acres of carefully managed woodland with beautiful themed and formal gardens.
Day 5 Leaving after a leisurely breakfast, we depart our hotel and make our way homewards, with a stop in Brighton along the way. We reach our taxis late afternoon.
Our three-star hotel is located on the seafront 400 yards from Eastbourne Pier, and a short walk from the town centre. Facilities include an indoor pool, veranda bar and comfortable lounges. All bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift.
