In 2026 we celebrate the 32nd International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival at the exquisite Buxton Opera House. We include excellent seats to see the National Company’s performance of HMS Pinafore.
Day 1 SUNDAY We travel north toward Derby, making suitable refreshment stops along the way. We arrive at our hotel late afternoon.
Day 2 MONDAY Our visit today is Chatsworth House, located in the heart of the Peak District and home of the Duke & Duchess of Devonshire. You can admire the splendour of the house and its wonderful works of art and explore over 105 acres of garden discovering water features, giant sculptures and beautiful flowers.
Day 3 TUESDAY This morning we begin with a visit to the award-winning Trentham Gardens, featuring the Italian Garden by Tom Stuart-Smith, and the Floral Labyrinth and Rivers of Grass by Piet Oudolf and vast wildflower and woodland meadow. Later, we dive into the unique experience of Trentham Monkey Forest – a sanctuary for endangered Barbary monkeys, where their natural behaviour can be seen right in front of your eyes.
Day 4 WEDNESDAY We travel to the elegant spa town of Buxton, where you have time to stroll among the Georgian and Victorian buildings or the Pavilion Gardens and get some lunch. Then we take our seats in the stalls at Buxton’s Opera House for the National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company’s matinee performance of HMS Pinafore – a hilarious tale of love, honour and duty.
Day 5 THURSDAY We travel southwards, with suitable refreshment stops, arriving in the local area early evening.
Our modern four-star hotel is located in Mickleover, near Derby. The hotel has two bars, and leisure facilities including indoor swimming pool, steam room, sauna and gym. Bedrooms have TV, telephone, Wi-Fi, ironing facilities, hairdryer and hospitality tray. The hotel has a lift.
