On this new tour we explore the heritage delights of Suffolk & Essex, we visit RHS Hyde Hall, Sudbury, Colchester Castle, Kentwell Hall, the Museum of East Anglian Life and enjoy a 90-minute river cruise.
Day 1 We travel east via the Dartford Crossing and make our way to RHS Hyde Hall. Here we have time for lunch and to explore the magnificent gardens before we continue to our hotel south of Colchester.
Day 2 We begin our day with a visit to Colchester Castle, Europe’s largest Norman Keep. Explore the museum and see some of the most important historical finds in Britain before free time to explore the town. This afternoon we make our way to Maldon Quay where we embark for a 90- minute river cruise.
Day 3 This morning we take a scenic drive to Kentwell Hall, one of the finest Tudor houses in England, and a family home for over 500 years. We have time to explore the house and gardens before visiting Sudbury, with time for lunch and to look around the wool town famous for its links with Gainsborough.
Day 4 Today we journey north to the Museum of East Anglian Life. Set in 17 acres of Suffolk countryside, with 17 historic buildings including a Queen Anne manor house, blacksmiths shop and chapel. We depart midafternoon and return to our hotel with time to enjoy the facilities.
Day 5 We depart after breakfast and make our way back to the local area with suitable refreshment stops along the way.
A four-star countryside hotel, Five Lakes offers scenic views of the lakes and two 18-hole golf courses. Leisure facilities include indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, spa bath, gym and treatment rooms. The resort also includes a restaurant, residents bar and a number of lounges to relax in. All 194 en-suite bedrooms include a TV, telephone, WiFi, ironing facilities, safe, hairdryer, cosy robes and a hospitality tray. The hotel has lifts throughout.
