Relish delightful Dorset’s scenic south coast, with a hint of opulence and wonder!
Day 1 SUNDAY Departing our local area we will visit Athelhampton House. Steeped in history, it is one of England’s finest examples of Tudor domestic architecture. You can explore 18 rooms including the Tudor Great Hall and the Elizabethan Kitchen before continuing to our hotel.
Day 2 MONDAY Today we make our way to Christchurch, where we have some time to explore this riverside town. We then take the short journey to Highcliffe Castle, described as arguably the most important surviving house of the Romantic and Picturesque period of architecture. We take afternoon tea at Cliffhanger Restaurant and appreciate the life and fortunes of the innovator behind one of the world's greatest department stores. Hear tales from Mr Selfridge himself of how he rented Highcliffe Castle for his family so they could live the high life, complete with grand dinner parties and gambling.
Day 3 TUESDAY A free day to relax and unwind in Bournemouth.
Day 4 WEDNESDAY This morning we visit 10-acres of ornamental gardens at Compton Acres. Your exclusive expert guided tour with the Head Gardener will unravel the construction, horticulture, conservation and renovation behind the five themed gardens.
Day 5 THURSDAY After breakfast we depart our hotel, and include a visit to the beautiful New Forest, with time in Lyndhurst before returning home during the afternoon.
The Hermitage Hotel is just steps from seven miles of award-winning Blue Flag beaches, with wonderful sea views across Bournemouth Bay. The hotel site dates back to the 1860s, with one part of the hotel, historically known as Brookside and Brookside Cottage, being a Grade II listed Italianate villa. The recently refurbished bedrooms have TV, telephone, Wi-Fi, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Lift to some rooms.
