The county of Essex is one full of surprises, from grand homes, to gorgeous gardens to smugglers’ coves – a great addition to our autumn tours.
Day 1 We travel east, with suitable refreshment stops, arriving at our hotel late afternoon.
Day 2 We begin with picturesque Saffron Walden, a charming medieval market town. We then visit one of the most opulent properties in Jacobean England, Audley End House and Gardens, to explore above and below stairs, admire the parterre gardens and the ‘Capability’ Brown parkland.
Day 3 A local guide takes us on a half-day tour of the Essex coast and Blackwater Estuary, with tales of smugglers in the many inlets and shifting sands. After a stop in Maldon, we go to the award-winning Green Island Gardens, 20 acres displaying a huge range of unusual trees, shrubs and perennials.
Day 4 A visit to the Suffolk Punch Trust, founded to protect these gentle giants, an ancient and endangered breed of English working horses. We have a guided tour, a tractor ride and meet these beautiful horses. We finish with a scenic drive along the Suffolk coast, possibly stopping in the charming villages of Aldeburgh or Southwold.
Day 5 We travel home, reaching the local area late afternoon.
Our four-star hotel is located a short distance from Colchester and has a contemporary restaurant, lounge bar, indoor swimming pool and fitness centre. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is no lift, but some ground floor rooms are available. k
