Visit England’s smallest county, and explore the pretty locality by coach and by heritage train. There are lots of sole use rooms available on this tour!
Day 1 We make our way via Saffron Walden to the outskirts of Peterborough and our hotel.
Day 2 We travel south into Suffolk to the historic gem of Bury St Edmunds - an important market town with a richly fascinating heritage, medieval architecture, elegant Georgian squares and the glorious cathedral and abbey gardens.
Day 3 A scenic drive this morning takes us west through the tiny county of Rutland, up past Melton Mowbray and back to Rutland Water, where we visit Barnsdale Gardens. Originally created by Geoff Hamilton for the Gardeners’ World TV show, Barnsdale is home to 38 pocket-sized, themed garden ‘rooms’, built in his trademark, practical style, and full of inspiration for garden-lovers.
Day 4 This morning we visit the wonderfully conserved town of Stamford. On our return we visit Wansford and join the narrow-gauge Nene Valley Railway for a return journey through the pretty valley. We then return to our hotel.
Day 5 Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel to the cathedral city of St Albans, where there will be time for lunch and sightseeing. We then continue to the local area and home.
Set in 11 acres of landscaped grounds with its own ornamental lake, this hotel offers the Cast Iron Grill Restaurant, two bars and a light and airy garden lounge and conservatory. All rooms have TV, WiFi, telephone, hairdryer, ironing facilities, safe and hospitality tray. Leisure facilities include an indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. There is no lift but many ground floor rooms are available.
