We are thrilled to present our captivating collection of tailor-made escorted tours for 2026, created to support the work of our friends at Historic Houses. This exclusive offering provides Historic Houses members and their companions the chance to explore a selection of remarkable properties. Embark on a journey to discover diverse architectural styles, aromatic gardens, distinctive collections, and rich family histories within some of Britain's most stunning and historically significant houses and castles.
These tours serve as a unique invitation to step into the past, where compelling stories are preserved within ancient walls, awaiting discovery. Unlike traditional museums, independent heritage properties are vibrant, personal representations of Britain's history. With many owners granting privileged access or behind-the-scenes tours for our guests, you’ll have the rare opportunity to peek into the lives of those who reside in these extraordinary homes, while uncovering the treasures and tales passed down through generations over centuries.
This 2026 collection features an eclectic mix of historic properties and breathtaking landscapes combined with unique, memorable experiences, from lunch at the exquisite Blenheim Palace to a Princess-led guided tour with the owner of Provender House.
As well as some firm favourites to Cornwall, Kent and beyond, there are plenty of riveting new tours to choose from. The Highlife – Highclere & Their Neighbours offers a wonderful taste of aristocratic life, Houses & Castles of Distinction in the Scottish Borders contrasts often turbulent history with beautiful estates and gardens, while Hidden Heritage Gems of Surprising Suffolk uncovers the treasures of this beautiful region, following in the footsteps of famous painters, Tudor courtiers and powerful families. Or for those looking ahead, A Fireside Tour of Festive Homes in Yorkshire is an enchanting celebration of Christmas past, filled with roaring fires and twinkling trees.
We look forward to your company in 2026.
Helen Moylan Chief Customer Officer
Properties for future generations to enjoy
Just Go! Holidays is proud to pledge their support of Historic Houses and show commitment to their work. For every person who books on to one of these Historic Houses breaks, Just Go! Holidays will make a donation to Historic Houses This will help Historic Houses assist owners in conserving these wonderful places for future generations to enjoy. Supporting Beautiful
Are you a Historic Houses member?
You’re entitled to a special discounted rate on all tours in this brochure. Simply provide your membership number when booking to receive the reduced price – our way of thanking you for supporting Britain’s most treasured historic homes.
Not a member yet? Join now for unlimited access to hundreds of extraordinary properties across the UK, from stately homes to hidden gems, and help preserve them for future generations. Membership also includes exclusive events and behind-the-scenes experiences. Sign up today at historichouses.org/join
Travel Your Way
Whether you decide to travel by car or train, your holiday starts when you arrive at the hotel, where a welcome drink reception awaits.
What to Expect on a Historic Houses Tour
Tour Manger
A friendly tour manager will meet you at the hotel on the first day and will host a welcome drink reception, giving you the opportunity to meet the rest of the group. The tour manager’s role is to make sure your visits run smoothly and that you enjoy your break. If you have any queries or experience any issues during your stay, please talk to your tour manager who will be happy to assist you, ensuring your enjoyment of the break is not compromised.
Dinners
You will be travelling with a group of like-minded people and you are likely to find them interesting and congenial company. Therefore, included dinners at the hotel will be arranged on a group basis and you will be asked to be seated in the restaurant at a specific time each evening. Tables will be set out in 4s, 6s or 8s so you may share the day’s experiences together. Menus will be set but with a minimum of three choices for each of the three courses. Some restaurants may feature buffet-style service instead.
Experts
On a selection of our tours you will also be able to enjoy a fascinating after-dinner talk by an expert in their field that promises to be both informative and engaging. Taking inspiration from the theme of our tours, you’ll be able to gain a valuable insight into an aspect of the history, architecture or collections of the area that you are visiting.
Hotels
Accompanied by a friendly tour manager throughout
All the hotels that we use have been carefully selected following inspection visits. They are conveniently located for our touring itinerary and we are confident that they deliver a good level of service and comfort.
Travel
Please note that the Historic Houses properties that we visit are sometimes located in remote countryside areas which do involve travelling some distance to reach by coach. We try not to make any single leg of your journey longer than an hour and a half when you are travelling on excursion days.
Mobility
You will also need a reasonable degree of mobility to keep with the pace of the tour. As a general guideline, we recommend that you are comfortable to stroll for 20-30 minutes at a time.
These tours are carefully planned (sometimes over a year in advance) to deliver a unique insight into many of the properties we visit. Our aim is to provide you with a faultless service from your booking experience to your return home.
08 &
Sudeley
A Tour of Kent’s Most Exclusive Castles & Houses
A splendid discovery of the Garden of England’s treasures awaits on this special tour. We take an exclusive peek into a range of glorious estates, beginning with the stunning Allington Castle, an exquisite gem no longer open to the public (if you were to imagine a castle straight from the pages of a fairytale book, Allington would be it, with turreted stone exteriors, regal tapestries, a time capsule Great Hall and lily pad-clad moat)! A guided tour with the owner of atmospheric Provender House illuminates over seven centuries of captivating history and a visit to Godinton House provides a fascinating dive into Jacobean architecture, while the timeless grandeur of Penshurst Place rounds off this celebration of magnificent Kent.
Itinerary
Sunday: Arrival
Check in to our hotel in the afternoon. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager.
Monday: Allington Castle
& Provender House
We begin with a visit to Allington Castle, a magical 12th-century fortress rarely open to the public. With its winding moat, precious tapestries and regal furniture, it feels as if we’re stepping into an ancient world here; just imagine Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn dining with politician and poet Sir Thomas Wyatt in 1530 in the atmospheric Great Hall! Today, all that remains of the original castle is a section of wall and the kitchen fireplace, which dates back to 1174. The powerful Wyatt family acquired the property in 1491 and transformed it into an impressive mansion house.
Next stop is Provender, home of Princess Olga Romanoff, daughter of Prince Andrew Romanoff, the eldest nephew of the Tsar Nicholas II of Russia. Dating back to the 13th century, Provender is a fascinating record of English building traditions over seven centuries. A recent programme of careful restoration has revealed a wealth of historical and architectural detail which we discover on our exclusive private tour, led by the owner* before enjoying some tea and cake on site.
Tuesday: Lullingstone Castle & Belmont House
We make our way to Lullingstone Castle for a guided tour. Recorded in the Domesday Book, it is one of the oldest family estates in England. The present manor house was built in 1497 and has been home to the same family ever since. Altered extensively in Queen Anne’s time, the house boasts fine state rooms and beautiful grounds, including a stunning 15-acre lake and the World Garden, home to thousands of rare plants collected from around the world by Tom Hart Dyke, the current heir, planted in their respective continents of origin. Incredibly, the ideas and plans for this garden were started during Tom’s nine-month kidnap ordeal in the early 2000s, a result of rare plant hunting in the Colombian jungle. There are plenty of unique species, including the world’s most dangerous plant, the hottest chilli and the rarest gum tree.
Wednesday: Godinton House & Gardens & Penhurst Place
Today we visit Godinton House, a delightful Jacobean property incorporating a medieval hall and ornate carvings. Godinton is a much-loved home where each room reflects the tastes of those who have lived here with an excellent collection of furniture, art, and curios. We also have time to explore the 12 acres of tranquil gardens with its kaleidoscope of colour and heady mix of floral aromas.
For our last visit we head to the stunning 14th-Century manor house of Penhurst Place.
Once the hunting lodge of King Henry VIII, Penhurst was eventually passed to Sir William Sidney in 1552 and has been home to each generation of the Sidney family ever since.
*Owner-led tour subject to availability
Thursday: Departure
After breakfast, check out of the hotel for the journey home.
Please note: the itinerary order is subject to change and guided tours are subject to availability.
4 nights at the Delta by Marriott Tudor Park Bearstead (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast
Porterage where available
Welcome drink
After-dinner tea & coffee at the hotel
Coach transfers to & from your excursions
This afternoon we head to the stunning Belmont House. This magnificent Neo-classical country house is a completely unspoilt example of architect Samuel Wyatt’s work. Six generations of the Harris family have each left their mark on this treasure, which contains mementos of the family’s history and travels and the finest private collection of clocks and watches in Britain, created by the 5th Lord Harris. There is also time to enjoy the lovely grounds, which encompass everything from beautiful gardens and magical woodlands to fruit-laden orchards and a cricket pitch.
After dinner this evening, we enjoy an interesting themed talk from a guest speaker.
Exclusive tour
Guided
Accompanied
*Owner-led tours are subject to availability.
Please inform us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements. Hotel
Ideally
Allington Castle
Lullingstone Castle
Provender House
Provender House
Coast to Coast: Cornish Homes & Gardens
With its glistening blue waters, mystical tidal islands and folkloric stories, Kernow is the sparkling jewel in the crown of Britain’s historic counties. On this break, we are warmly invited into a treasure trove of exquisite Cornish homes, including beautiful Pencarrow, Elizabethan Prideaux Place and historic Roswarne, where a traditional Cornish cream tea awaits. All of these properties have captivating stories to tell and some of them have been home to the same family for generations, allowing us to discover the fabric of Cornish life through the centuries. As we meander along the spectacular coast, we also marvel at a cornucopia of colour, with some of the finest gardens in the country.
WED 15 JUN TO SUN 19 JUN SUN 6 SEP TO THU 10 SEP
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sister of Brittany’s Mont St Michel, this craggy island features a medieval castle, which has been home to the St Aubyn family since the 17th century, a harbour and village with a close-knit island community. Depending on tide times, we either enjoy a boat ride over to the island or a 15-minute walk along the ancient, cobbled walkway.
Our next stop is Roswarne House, once an ancient farmhouse and extended in 1810 by landed gentry. Nestled in six acres of picturesque parkland, the property has now returned to its former glory, after an extensive restoration project, and highlights include a delightful Orangery, Ballroom, Library and Drawing Room. We find out more about its history on our guided tour with the current owner, followed by a Cornish cream tea (jam first, of course)!
Before dinner this evening, we enjoy an interesting themed talk from a guest speaker.
Wednesday:
Pencarrow House and Gardens & Prideaux Place
We continue with a guided tour of Prideaux Place on the north coast, located close to Padstow and the home to fourteen generations of the Prideaux-Brunes. Completed in 1592, this Elizabethan manor house has changed little over the last four centuries. The magnificent rooms offer a captivating slice of history and plenty of unique treasures, including Italian paintings, elegant antiques, an ever-growing collection of teddy bears and you can also find England’s oldest cast iron canon in the armoury. The author of Poldark Winston Graham, became a great friend of the family and regularly visited the house, and part of the estate was used for dramatic clifftop scenes in the 2015 BBC adaptation of the popular novel. Outside, the grounds are gradually being restored to their former glory with an 80-tree lime avenue and a remodelling of the Victorian formal garden.
Thursday: Departure
After breakfast, check out of the hotel for the journey home.
4 nights at the Penventon Park Hotel Redruth with dinner & breakfast
Porterage where available
Welcome drink
After-dinner tea & coffee at the hotel
Coach transfers to & from your excursions
Visits to Tregrehan Gardens Trewithen Gardens St Michael’s Mount Roswarne House Pencarrow House and Gardens & Prideaux Place
Guided tour with the head gardener at Tregrehan Gardens
Guided tour at Trewithen Gardens
Guided tour with the owner & Cornish cream tea at Roswarne House
Guided tour of Prideaux Place
Themed evening talk from a guest speaker
Accompanied by a friendly tour manager throughout
Please inform us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements. Hotel
Sunday: Arrival
Check in to our hotel in the afternoon. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manage, followed by dinner.
If you are arriving early, please note that you may not be able to check into your room until the late afternoon.
Monday: Tregrehan Gardens & Trewithen Gardens
After breakfast we depart for the garden at Tregrehan where we have a guided tour with the head gardener*. Tregrehan is a 20-acre woodland garden created in the early 19th
century and developed by the Carlyon family. It is now an important green gene bank of known source plants including camellias bred by the late owner. In the more formal walled garden there is a fine glasshouse from 1846, which is 128 feet long.
Translated as ‘house of the trees’, it’s no surprise that Trewithen boasts exquisite grounds, which we discover on a guided tour. The 17th-century mansion is surrounded by acres of peaceful parkland, spectacular specimens and beautifully landscaped gardens, further developed during the time of plant hunting expeditions in the early 20th century.
*Please note: subject to availability
Tuesday: St Michael’s Mount & Roswarne House
This morning we head to St Michael’s Mount, one of the most iconic of Cornwall’s sights. The little
A warm Cornish welcome awaits at Pencarrow House, nestled on the edge of Bodmin Moor and the family home of the Molesworth-St Aubyns for almost 500 years. Our guided tour uncovers the secrets of this magnificent house, along with hidden passageways, glorious portraits, fine porcelain and marble busts sporting a variety of hats upon the wishes of the Lady of the Manor! There is plenty to explore outside too, from a colourful Italian garden and wild woodlands to walking routes, an Iron Age hill fort and a grotto, believed to have once been a secret meeting place.
Please note: the itinerary order is subject to change and guided tours are subject to availability.
The Penventon Park Hotel is a beautifully converted Georgian manor house set in private parkland in Redruth, Cornwall. This independently-owned hotel combines elegant interior style in keeping with original Georgian features and offers traditionally-styled guest rooms, a bar, lounge and restaurant. Leisure facilities include a heated indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and fitness suite. Spa treatments are available at an extra cost.
Single supplement £100
Hotel Accessibility
Lift to all floors. No steps to one entrance, 5 steps to another entrance. Some ground floor rooms available.
St Michael’s Mount
Tregrehan Gardens
Prideaux Place
Pencarrow House and Gardens
Pencarrow House
The Grand Castles & Finest Homes of Devon
Join us deep in the hidden valleys of Devon, a land of castles that could easily spring forth from a fairytale. There is much to discover, from the majestic walls of Powderham Castle, guarding the River Exe, and the romantic allure of Bickleigh Castle to the enchanting Fursdon House and the secrets of Ugbrooke House, where history hides in every nook. Complete with stunningly landscaped grounds, these treasure troves stand like proud sentinels, preserving the rich heritage of Devon and weaving stories of generations past. Get ready to be captivated by the magic of a bygone era amidst breathtaking landscapes during this special tour.
Sunday: Arrival
Check in to the Mercure Paignton Hotel in the afternoon. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager.
Monday: Powderham Castle & Ugbrooke House
We begin our first day of excursions at Powderham Castle, which has been home to the Courtenay family for over 600 years, having been built by Sir Philip Courtenay in the 14th century.
Located on the peaceful banks of the River Exe, this historical gem offers impressive turrets, an elegant façade and enchanting gardens.
Our guided tour with the owner*, Lord Devon, is the perfect chance to explore the well-preserved
interiors packed with rare art and antiques, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its past inhabitants.
Next up is the imposing Ugbrooke House, a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and architecture admirers alike. Nestled within the beautiful Devon countryside, this manor has stood proudly for over 900 years, beckoning visitors to discover the grandeur within (think precious artefacts and plenty of elegant antiques).
Outside offers an enticing network of colourful walkways, secret walled gardens and parkland designed by Capability Brown. We enjoy a tour complete with a traditional Devonshire cream tea.
*Subject to availability.
Tuesday: Bickleigh Castle & Fursdon House
We head back to the tranquil banks of the River Exe this morning to visit Bickleigh Castle, a medieval water castle that used the river as part of its natural defences. Complete with dignified towers, manicured lawns, a 6th-century chapel and come-hither knot garden walks, get ready to discover the secrets that lie within the ancient walls of this moated gem.
Our next visit takes us to Fursdon House, a privately-owned Elizabethan manor close to the cathedral city of Exeter. Boasting charming gardens, meandering woodland paths and breathtaking views of the Exe Valley, we step inside only to be transported back in time, surrounded by period features and elegant interiors.
After dinner this evening, we enjoy an interesting themed talk from a guest speaker.
Wednesday: Downes House & Great Fulford
This morning are treated to refreshments and a guided tour with the owner of Downes House*, a lived-in family home which hasn’t changed hands for over 330 years. Built in 1662 and set within idyllic parkland, the stunning architectural gem is Grade II listed and is full of traces from Parker-Buller family life. There are also plenty of portraits and paintings, as well as a little museum dedicated to General Sir
4 nights at the Mercure Paignton Hotel, Paignton with dinner & breakfast
Porterage where available
Welcome drink
After-dinner tea & coffee at the hotel
Coach transfers to & from your excursions
Visits to Powderham Castle Ugbrooke House Bickleigh Castle Fursdon House, Downes House & Great Fulford
Guided tour with the owner at Powderham Castle & Downes House*
Guided tour with Devonshire cream tea at Ugbrooke House
Themed evening talk from a guest speaker
Redvers Buller, who was awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery during the Battle of Hlobane, part of the Zulu War of 1879.
Our day finishes at Great Fulford, first and foremost a family home for over 800 years and Grade I listed by English Heritage. The ballroom has been recently restored to its former glory complete with an impressive, ornate ceiling sculpted by Geoffrey Preston. We take a peek around this special house, enjoy a private tour with a family member* and spend time in the gardens here, which feature a pretty lake, beech avenue and more.
*Subject to availability.
Thursday: Departure
After breakfast, we check out of the hotel for our journey home.
Please note: the itinerary order is subject to change and guided tours are subject to availability. Owner-led tours are subject to availability
Accompanied by a friendly tour manager throughout
Please inform us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements.
Hotel
This lovely Mercure Hotel boasts a fabulous location along Paignton Beach in the heart of Torbay. The elegantly designed bedrooms offer tea and coffee-making facilities, smart TV and eco-friendly toiletries, while other hotel features include a restaurant with stunning sea views and an al fresco terrace plus a comfortable lounge/bar.
Single supplement £170
Hotel Accessibility
Accessible rooms available. Step-free access to public areas. Lifts to all floors.
Powderham Castle
Bickleigh Castle
Great Fulford
Ugsbrooke House
A Kaleidoscope of Coast & Country in Dorset
Filled from horizon to horizon with majestic scenery and fascinating locations, Dorset is an understated gem of Britain’s historical landscape. On this idyllic break, we take in some of the most storied destinations across the coast and countryside which provided the inspiration for the fictional region of Wessex, the setting for many of Thomas Hardy’s works. We’re treated to guided tours through the wealth of medieval houses and historical sites littered across the land, including Althelhampton House, Warmwell House, Mapperton House and Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, home to a variety of rare and exotic plants. Step into the heart of Hardy Country on these enchanting few days away.
house in the village of Owermoigne is an impressive example of medieval architecture, with only a small number of alterations made to the structure due to a fire in 1880. There are many historical highlights for us to discover during our visit, including a collection of 13th-century windows, a first-floor court room and even a moat! The medieval grounds are still exquisitely well-preserved and have been repurposed by the current owners of a wild living initiative, providing charming holiday accommodation and education spaces for members of the community and beyond.
nation’s finest manor house’ by Country Life Magazine, this Grade 1 listed house dates back to the 11th century and has been built upon extensively throughout the centuries with many of the features on display today having been established during the house’s reconstruction in the second half of the 16th century.
4 nights at the George Albert Hotel Wardon Hill with dinner & breakfast
Welcome drink
After-dinner tea & coffee at the hotel
Sunday: Arrival
Check in to our hotel in the afternoon. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager.
Monday: Minterne Gardens & Athelhampton House
For our first visit we make our way to the Minterne estate, ancestral home of the Churchill and Digby families since 1620 and nestled in a peaceful valley. As the house is closed to the public, today we discover the stunning gardens on a guided tour with the current owner, Lord Digby. Resplendent with Himalayan rhodedendrons and azaleas, cherries, maples and rare trees, and with peaceful little lakes, trickling waterfalls and gently bubbling streams too, it really is the perfect setting for a tranquil stroll before we enjoy lunch here.
Tuesday: Moignes Court & Warmwell House
Our next stop takes us to lovely Athelhampton for a tour of Athelhampton House, referred to as one of England’s ‘most important medieval manor houses’. The site of Athelhampton House has been populated since the Saxon era and is even mentioned in the Domesday Book where it is known as ‘Pidele’, meaning there is a wealth of history to uncover during our guided tour, complete with refreshments.
Today we start our day with a visit to Dorset’s oldest inhabited house, Moignes Court, the home of the Cree family since the 1820s. This deceptively modest 12th-century manor
Next, we visit Warmwell House, an immaculately maintained 17th-century Jacobean Manor in what would be the heart of Thomas Hardy’s fictional Wessex country. Surrounded by acres of landscaped gardens and not usually open to the public, Warmwell is a quintessentially English manor house complete with sophisticated wooden interiors, elegant occasion rooms and leisure facilities including a hedge maze and a tennis court. On our exclusive guided tour, we are given the chance to explore this wonderful property and discover the storied history that lies within.
After dinner this evening, we enjoy an interesting themed talk from a guest speaker.
Wednesday: Mapperton House & Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
We travel to the parish of Mapperton for our visit to Mapperton House, owned by American Viscountess Julie Montagu who shares her unique experiences on Youtube. With its meticulous gardens and eagle-topped pillars that flank the pathway to the entrance, first impressions of Mapperton House can’t help but make you feel as though you’ve been pulled into the pages of a romance novel. Called ‘the
Lying on the Jurassic coast, surrounded by green fields and spectacular scenery, the Grade 1 listed Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens is a fascinating highlight of the county, whose legacy stretches back to its founding in the middle of the 18th century. Thanks to the microclimate afforded to the property by the surrounding woodland valley, there is a great variety of rare and exotic plant species on display here, all of which are maintained without the use of greenhouses which would normally be required for plants of this kind. We take a special look through this delightful collection and the Swannery. From the local camellia groves and rhododendrons to the formal and informal gardens and the specially curated climate zones that exhibit specimens from different topographical environments within a few steps of one another, there’s no shortage of botanical wonders to discover.
Thursday: Departure
After breakfast, check out of the hotel for the journey home.
Please note: the itinerary order is subject to change and guided tours are subject to availability.
Visits to Minterne Gardens, Athelhampton House Moignes Court Warmwell House Mapperton House & Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Guided tour with the owner*& lunch at Minterne Gardens
Guided tour & refreshments at Athelhampton House
Guided tour of Moignes Court
Guided tour of Warmwell House
Guided tour of Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Themed evening talk from a guest speaker
Accompanied by a friendly tour manager on some evenings
Please inform us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements.
Hotel
The George Albert Hotel, Wardon Hill is situated in the Dorset countryside, a short journey from Dorchester. The hotel offers modern facilities including a lounge bar, restaurant and fitness centre, while the en-suite rooms feature a TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and a hairdryer.
Single supplement £250
Hotel Accessibility
Lift to all floors. Accessible entrance. Accessible rooms available.
Athelhampton House
Warmwell House
Mapperton House
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Northumbria's Most Splendid Castles, Churches & Homes
A journey back in time to the ancient kingdom of Northumbria beckons on this enthralling break, filled with historic tales and fascinating guided tours. As we weave through a magical land dotted with atmospheric relics of the past, we admire a host of beautiful churches, abbeys and castles and learn more about their intriguing stories. We follow in the footsteps of King Cnut at the incredibly well-preserved Raby Castle and enjoy a special visit to magnificent Carlisle Castle and Cathedral, known for their impressive medieval architecture and rich history as a key defensive stronghold during the Anglo-Scottish wars.
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We make our way to Raby Castle, where our guided tour begins at the castle entrance.
King Cnut owned the estate in the early 11th century but it was the Nevilles, one of the major powers in the North, who built the 14th-century castle we see today. The exterior of medieval towers, turrets and embattled walls contrasts with the lavish interiors which span medieval, Regency and Victorian periods and provide a magnificent backdrop for the stunning art collection.
Next, we travel to Rokeby Park for another fascinating guided tour. Completed in 1735 by its owner, Sir Thomas Robinson, this architectural treasure represents the heyday of the Palladian-style country house. A unique collection of 18th-century needlework pictures by Anne Morritt are on display here as well as a very rare surviving print room.
the soldiers stationed there. Afterwards, we enjoy lunch and a guided tour at Carlisle Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic structure with stunning stained glass windows and a richly decorated interior. The cathedral, founded in 1122, is one of the smallest in England, yet it boasts an impressive array of medieval art and architecture.
For our last visit we head to Hexham Abbey, one of the earliest seats of Christianity in the country. The intricate building has stood proudly during tumultuous periods and historic turmoil, from Viking marauders destroying part of Hexham Monastery to Scottish raiders setting fire to the priory. In 2014, the abbey regained ownership of its former monastic buildings and restoration was completed, reuniting the buildings of the religious site for the first time since the Reformation.
We learn more on our captivating tour.
4 nights at the Lumley Castle Hotel
Chester-le-Street with dinner & breakfast
Porterage where available
Welcome drink
After-dinner tea & coffee at the hotel
Coach transfers to & from your excursions
Visits to Ushaw College Brancepeth Castle St Brandon’s Church, Raby Castle Rokeby Park Carlisle Castle Carlisle Cathedral & Hexham Abbey
Guided tour & refreshments at Ushaw College
Guided tour tea & cake at Brancepeth Castle
Guided tours of Raby Castle & Rokeby Park
Guided tour & lunch at Carlisle Cathedral
Guided tour of Hexham Abbey
Themed evening talk from a guest speaker
Accompanied by a friendly tour manager throughout
Please inform us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements.
Hotel
Sunday: Arrival
Check in to the Lumley Castle Hotel, Chester-le-Street in the afternoon. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager.
Monday: Ushaw College, Brancepeth
Castle & St Brandon’s Church
Today we head to Ushaw College, founded over 200 years ago to educate students for the Catholic priesthood. The vast estate contains buildings designed by Augustus Pugin and his followers and boasts significant examples of Victorian Gothic architecture. We discover some of the main buildings and chapel during our guided tour, followed by refreshments.
Our next stop is Brancepeth Castle, once the stronghold of the Neville family in medieval times. The current castle is a combination of the Neville’s medieval towers and the grand country house created for the wealthy Russell family in the Regency period. The castle is once again a private home and we enjoy a guided tour with the current owner to find out more, followed by tea and cake in the castle gate house. We then make a short visit to St Brandon’s Church, with its 900 years of history, opposite the castle in Brancepeth village.
Tuesday: Raby Castle & Rokeby Park
After dinner this evening, we enjoy an interesting themed talk from a guest speaker.
This morning we visit Carlisle Castle, a historic fortress with a rich and turbulent history spanning over 900 years. Originally built during the reign of William II, the castle has played a pivotal role in numerous historical events, including the Wars of the Roses and the Jacobite Risings. We can explore the castle's impressive keep, the medieval rooms and the dungeons where prisoners were once held. The castle also houses a museum with fascinating exhibits on its history and the lives of
Thursday: Departure
After breakfast, check out of the hotel for the journey home.
Please note: the itinerary order is subject to change and guided tours are subject to availability. Owner-led tours are subject to availability
Surrounded by beautiful parklands, the impressive Lumley Castle Hotel has dominated the County Durham landscape for more than 600 years. The hotel is full of interesting features and includes the Knights Restaurant and Library Bar, which offers comfortable surroundings to relax in, while the lovely bedrooms offer tea and coffee-making facilities, a hairdryer, free Wi-Fi, complimentary toiletries and bottled water.
Single supplement £130
Hotel Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, lift to all floors
Hexham Abbey
Carlisle Castle
Glories of the Cotswolds & Oxfordshire
An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds is a pastoral landscape of gently rolling hills, idyllic views and quintessentially English market towns and villages of honey-coloured stone where time seems to be standing still. These postcard-perfect scenes are complemented by some fine historic treasures, ranging from ancient Sudeley Castle and Elizabethan Chavenage House to exotic Sezincote and former home of the first American President, Sulgrave Manor. We admire these varying architectural styles during our tranquil retreat.
Tuesday: Chavenage House & Westonbirt House
grounds – Queen Katherine Parr, the last wife of King Henry VIII. The castle rooms contain many fascinating treasures from ancient Roman times to the present day while outside are award-winning gardens (look out for Percy the peacock)! After exploring the wonderful estate we enjoy lunch here.
Sunday: Arrival
We check in to our hotel in the afternoon. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager.
Monday: Sulgrave Manor & Broughton Castle
American history is brought to life this morning as we visit Sulgrave Manor, a Tudor manor house built in the mid 1500s by Lawrence Washington, the great-great-great-great-great grandfather of George Washington, first President of the United States. Here we learn about the remarkable history of the Washington family on our guided tour. Restored and opened to the public in 1921, Sulgrave was presented to the people
of Britain and the USA as a memorial of their common inheritance.
Afterwards, we make our way to Broughton Castle. Predominantly built in the early 14th century, the castle is a stunning moated and fortified manor house, set in idyllic parkland. It is currently home to Martin Fiennes, having been passed down through the family since 1377, evidenced by family portraits from the 16th to 19th centuries that hang along the gallery walls. The manor has been a hive for political exchanges and royal stays throughout the centuries, serving as a meeting place for leading parliamentary opponents of Charles I. James I occupied the king's chamber in the early 15th century, whilst recent residents include today’s monarch King Charles. We take the opportunity
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This morning we head to Chavenage House, a unique family home full of history and fascinating stories around every corner. The Elizabethan manor house has remained largely unchanged since the building’s completion in 1576, and only two families have owned Chavenage; the Stephens and the Lowsley-Williams, the current owners. We explore the lavish rooms, filled with tapestries and stunning period furniture, discover the secrets of the room where Cromwell stayed during the Civil War, escape into the peaceful surroundings of this lovely manor and spot the famous filming locations of various movies and TV series, including BBC’s Poldark
Our next visit is to Westonbirt House, ‘the finest example of Victorian architecture, landscape and gardens in the Cotswolds’ as described by Country Life. Belonging to the Holford family from 1665 until 1926, this architectural treasure houses a fine collection of art and books. There’s time to meander through the lovely grounds, which feature an exquisite, Italianate walled garden, before we enjoy a guided tour of the house itself. We also indulge in a traditional afternoon tea here.
After dinner, we enjoy a fascinating talk from a guest speaker.
Wednesday: Sudeley Castle & Sezincote House
Our day begins with captivating tour of the exquisite Cotswolds gem of Sudeley Castle, focusing on its extensive history and its important role in England’s turbulent past. Once a royal residence closely associated with famous monarchs such as Henry VIII and Charles I, it remains the only private castle in England to have a queen buried within the
In the afternoon we make our way to Sezincote, believed to be the only surviving Mogul building in Western Europe, where we enjoy a guided tour of this unique and exotic palace and gardens. As we head down the drive, it’s almost as if we’ve stumbled upon a majestic palace in India rather than the Cotswolds! In the early 1800s, Charles Cockerell, who had worked for the East India Company, commissioned his architect brother, Samuel, to design and build an Indian house in the Mogul style of Rajasthan.
Assisted by the artist Thomas Daniell, the result is a unique combination of Hindu and Muslim architecture with a weathered-copper onion dome, elegant minarets and an exquisite, curving orangery while outside is a romantic landscape of temples, grottoes, elephant statues and waterfalls designed by Humphry Repton.
Thursday: Departure
After breakfast, check out of the hotel for the journey home.
Please note: the itinerary order is subject to change and guided tours are subject to availability. Owner-led tours are subject to availability.
4 nights at the Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel Tewkesbury (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast
Porterage where available
Welcome drink
After-dinner tea & coffee at the hotel
Coach transfers to & from your excursions
Visits to Sulgrave Manor Broughton Castle Chavenage House, Westonbirt House Sudeley Castle & Sezincote House
Guided tours of Sulgrave Manor Broughton Castle Sudeley Castle & Sezincote House & Gardens
Private tour of Westonbirt House with afternoon tea
Accompanied by a friendly tour manager throughout Please inform us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements.
Hotel
The Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel is situated close to Tewkesbury, within 140 acres of private grounds including a championship golf course. The hotel features comfortable, modern rooms with plasma TV and tea and coffee-making facilities, a restaurant overlooking the golf course and a terrace bar. The health club and spa offer an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam room and gym. Single supplement from £250
Hotel Accessibility
Accessible parking available, accessible rooms available, lifts to all floors.
to enjoy a light lunch here followed by a private
Sezincote House
Sulgrave Manor
Chavenage House
Sudeley Castle
The Highlife - Highclere & Their Neighbours
You are cordially invited to sample a taste of aristocratic life in some of the most elegant properties in the country: if these historic walls could talk, they would tell fascinating tales of power, conflict, family drama, royal visits and more. We are transported to different eras to see how past inhabitants lived in these lavish abodes, including the early Tudor Dorney Court, Georgian Kingston Bagpuize House and the Baroque Blenheim Palace, where we are treated to a lunch and a special guided tour of Winston Churchill's mighty birthplace. The crowning jewel of this tour is magnificent Highclere Castle, the 'real Downton Abbey', nestled in the Hampshire countryside and only open on selected dates throughout the year. Step beyond the Jacobean exterior, through the impressive State Rooms, up the grand staircase and down into the cellars, discovering exquisite portraits, unique collections and the intriguing story of the Carnarvons along the way. A quintessentially British must-do!
Monday: Arrival
Check in to the Delta by Marriott Hotel, Heathrow Windsor in the afternoon. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager.
Tuesday: Syon House & Fulham Palace
Our first stop is Syon, the London home of the Duke of Northumberland for 400 years. Catherine Howard was placed under house arrest here after her seizure at Hampton Court Palace in 1541, before being taken to the Tower of
London for execution. Henry VIII’s coffin rested at Syon House for a night en route to Windsor and Lady Jane Grey learned of her ascension to the throne here in 1553. With stunning gardens and the Great Observatory, Syon is a perfect start to our Highlife tour.
Next, we visit Fulham Palace, located on the River Thames with a charming botanic garden. A residence of the Bishops of London since AD 704, the original manor was abandoned in the 13th century, leading to a mix of architectural styles. It served as a summer retreat and hosted
notable events like Elizabeth I’s banquet and George III’s breakfast. During our guided tour, we explore the Tudor great hall, Bishop's Library and the Victorian chapel.
Wednesday: Blenheim Palace & Kingston Bagpuize
Our first visit today is Blenheim Palace, designed on an awe-inspiring scale by Vanbrugh and set in over 2,000 acres of beautiful parkland landscaped by Capability Brown. As the seat of the Dukes of Marlborough, the palace is synonymous with the Churchill family and is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. A permanent exhibition commemorates the life of this famous wartime Prime Minister, whilst the magnificent State Rooms reveal a superb collection of tapestries, paintings, porcelain and furniture. We learn more during our special guided tour, followed by lunch.
We then visit Kingston Bagpuize House, a much-loved Georgian family home with a remarkable Queen Anne exterior, 18th-century cantilever staircase. As we wander through the beautiful entrance hall, lavish drawing room, oak-panelled library and more, look out for the French furniture, Turkish rugs and Chinese wallpaper amongst other family treasures. It is no surprise that the house has featured on screen multiple times, including series 5, 6 and the Christmas special of Downton Abbey plus the 2020 adaptation of Emma. After our guided tour, take a stroll in the lovely gardens and enjoy some tea or coffee with cake.
After dinner this evening, we enjoy an interesting themed talk from a guest speaker.
Thursday: Highclere Castle & Dorney Court
Take the chance to walk in the footsteps of your favourite Downton Abbey characters and look closer at the rooms and opulent interiors that formed the backdrop to this hugely popular series, such as the grand staircase and library. Outside, you can explore the beautiful gardens and 1,000 acres of spectacular parkland, designed for the 1st Earl of Carnarvon by the famous 18th-century landscape gardener Capability Brown.
In the afternoon, we head to Grade listed Dorney Court, one of England’s finest Tudor manor houses set amidst mature parkland and home of the Palmer family for more than 450 years. We are treated to a guided tour and learn more about the family portraits and varied collections of art that tell a visual tale of the tastes and fortunes of everyone who has lived here. This glimpse through the ages is a fascinating way to round off our immersion into the aristocratic highlife.
Friday: Departure
After breakfast, check out of the hotel for the journey home.
Please note: the itinerary order is subject to change and guided tours are subject to availability. Owner-led tours are subject to availability.
4 nights at the Delta by Marriott Hotel Heathrow Windsor with dinner & breakfast
Porterage where available
Welcome drink
After-dinner tea & coffee at the hotel
Coach transfers to & from your excursions
Visits to Syon House Fulham Palace Blenheim Palace Kingston Bagpuize Highclere Castle & Dorney Court
Guided tour at Fulham Palace
Guided tour & lunch at Blenheim Palace
Guided tour tea/coffee & cake at Kingston Bagpuize
Copy of A Year at Highclere book (one per person)
Guided tour at Dorney Court
Themed evening talk from a guest speaker
Accompanied by a friendly tour manager throughout
After breakfast, we make our way to the world-famous Highclere Castle, home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and the filming location for the much-loved Downton Abbey TV series and movies. Completed in 1842, this treasure boasts an impressive architectural design with its distinctive towers and turrets along with a colourful history, from its Anglo-Saxon roots to its hospital conversion during WWI. There is plenty to explore, including the Drawing and Dining Rooms plus the Egyptian Exhibition in the cellars of the castle, celebrating the 5th Earl of Carnarvon’s discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922.
Please inform us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements. Hotel
The Delta by Marriott, Heathrow Windsor Hotel is conveniently situated for easy access into London. The hotel offers contemporary rooms with flat-screen TVs and tea and coffee-making facilities as well as a bar, restaurant and pizzeria. The hotel’s leisure club features a heated indoor pool, sauna and fitness centre.
Single supplement from £xxx Hotel Accessibility
The Delta by Marriott, Heathrow Windsor Hotel staff is trained to accommodate guests with special needs, so that all of our guests, including those with disabilities, are able to have an enjoyable and safe stay.
For more information on accessibility, please contact the hotel directly.
Highclere Castle
Syon House
Blenheim Palace
Hidden Heritage Gems of Surprising Suffolk
Tucked away in the gentle landscapes of East Anglia, Suffolk is a county rich in unexpected treasures. On this five-day tour, we uncover a fascinating array of historic houses, elegant gardens and characterful towns that reveal the region’s richly layered past. We step inside Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury, the birthplace of the great artist, and discover the dramatic Norman keep of Hedingham Castle, steeped in medieval history. At Somerleyton Hall, we admire high Victorian splendour and explore the sweeping parkland before heading to the picturesque seaside town of Southwold, complete with a working lighthouse. We also visit Ingatestone Hall, a beautifully preserved Tudor manor still lived in by descendants of its original owner and ascend the imposing Layer Marney Tower, England’s tallest Tudor gatehouse.
have lived here for nearly 900 years. There’s time to explore the atmospheric interiors, woodland paths and tranquil gardens, soaking up the castle’s rich and layered history. We return to the hotel in time for dinner and a chance to reflect on a day steeped in artistic and architectural heritage.
Wednesday: Somerleyton Hall & Southwold
This morning we visit Somerleyton, a grand estate renowned for its beautiful formal gardens, considered among the finest in Suffolk. Laid out in the mid-19th century, the gardens blend Italianate style with romantic English planting and include a glorious walled garden, intricate box parterre, and a celebrated yew maze. With a backdrop of parkland and glimpses of the stately hall, the grounds are a peaceful and elegant retreat. After time to explore at leisure, we enjoy lunch at The Greenhouse, the estate’s welcoming café set within the former Victorian glasshouses.
Ingatestone Hall, a handsome red-brick manor nestled in the Essex countryside. Built in the 1530s by Sir William Petre, Secretary of State to four Tudor monarchs, the house has remained in the same family ever since. We begin with an introductory talk, followed by a guided tour through the Great Hall, Long Gallery, chapel and family rooms—each one rich with original furnishings, portraits and heirlooms. The atmosphere is one of quiet continuity, with every room offering a personal connection to the lives lived here over nearly five centuries. After our tour, we enjoy lunch in the courtyard tearoom before continuing on.
In the afternoon, we visit Layer Marney Tower, the tallest Tudor gatehouse in England. Built in the early 1520s by Lord Henry Marney, a trusted courtier of Henry VIII, the tower is a bold statement of Tudor power and prestige. With its dramatic brickwork, Italianate detail and late medieval features, it offers a striking contrast to Ingatestone’s intimacy. We explore the tower’s panelled interiors, climb for sweeping views across the Essex landscape, and stroll through the surrounding gardens—beautifully laid out with topiary, wildflower meadows and a sense of quiet grandeur. After a day steeped in Tudor splendour, we return to the hotel for our final evening together.
Friday: Departure
After breakfast, check out of the hotel for the journey home.
Please note: the itinerary order is subject to change and guided tours are subject to availability. Owner-led tours are subject to availability.
What's Included
4 nights at the Holiday Inn Colchester with dinner & breakfast
Porterage
Welcome drink
After-dinner tea & coffee at the hotel
Coach transfers to & from your excursions
Visits to Gainsborough's House
Hedingham Castle & Gardens
Somerleyton Hall Gardens, Southwold, Ingatestone Hall & Layer Marney Tower & Gardens
Guided tour & lunch at Gainsborough's House
Private guided tour with the owner & lunch at Ingatestone Hall
Introductory talk & guided tour at Layer Marney Tower
Lunch at Somerleyton Hall Gardens
Evening talk from a guest speaker
Accompanied by a friendly tour manager throughout
Please inform us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements.
Hotel
Monday: Arrival
Check in to the Holiday Inn Colchester in the afternoon. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager.
Tuesday: Gainsborough's House & Hedingham Castle & Gardens
Our first visit takes us to Gainsborough’s House, the elegant Georgian townhouse in Sudbury that was artist Thomas Gainsborough’s childhood home, now a beautifully refurbished museum and gallery dedicated to his life and work. On our guided tour, we explore thoughtfully
curated galleries showcasing Gainsborough’s early portraits and landscapes alongside grand society paintings, personal artefacts and a working print studio. The charming walled garden, planted with varieties familiar in Gainsborough’s time, offers a peaceful retreat. We then enjoy a light lunch at The Watering Place at Gainsborough's House.
Afterwards, we continue to Hedingham Castle, one of the finest surviving Norman keeps in England. Set within landscaped grounds, the towering 12th-century stone keep reflects the power and prestige of the de Vere family, who
In the afternoon, we head to the charming Suffolk seaside town of Southwold, almost an island, bounded by the North Sea and two rivers. Famed for its colourful beach huts, elegant promenade, and coastal light, Southwold has long attracted artists, writers, and holidaymakers. We return to the hotel for dinner, followed by an evening talk from a guest speaker.
Thursday: Ingatestone Hall & Layer Marney Tower
Today we head south to explore two remarkable Tudor treasures that offer contrasting glimpses into life in 16th-century England. Our first stop is
Located just outside Colchester’s town centre, Holiday Inn, Colchester offers a wonderful base for our break. The en-suite bedrooms feature tea and coffee-making facilities, flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi, while other hotel facilities include a bar, restaurant and health club with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and gym. Single supplement from £190
Hotel Accessibility
Lifts to all floors. Accessible rooms available. Accessible entrance.
Somerleyton Hall
Hedingham Castle
Ingatestone Hall
Somerleyton Gardens
Houses & Castles of Distinction in the Scottish Borders
The compelling and often turbulent history of the border country that separates Scotland and England has resulted in a region that is exceptionally rich in cultural heritage; with a host of defensive forts, ancient castles and impressive stately homes scattered through the scenic and romantic landscape. On this engaging tour, we discover the fascinating stories behind some of these historic treasures and enjoy several memorable experiences, from afternoon tea at Scotland's finest stately home and an exclusive guided tour with the current owner of Traquair House to discovering Bonnie Prince Charlie's room at Thirlestane Castle. With the area immortalised in the work of Sir Walter Scott, we also include a Curator-led tour at spectacular Abbotsford, the home of Scotland's famed writer.
Sunday: Arrival
Check in to the Peebles Hydro Hotel in the afternoon. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager.
Monday: Edinburgh & Hopetoun House
This morning we enjoy a guided walking tour of Scotland’s vibrant capital city of Edinburgh.
Most of the city’s sights can be found within the medieval Old Town and the elegant Georgian buildings of the New Town, all overlooked by the iconic castle perched high above the city.
In the afternoon, we enjoy a guided tour of the imposing Hopetoun House, widely recognised
as Scotland’s finest stately home and one of the finest examples of 18th-century architecture in Britain. Designed by William Bruce and then extended and changed by Scottish architect William Adam, the magnificent interiors reflect the elegance of the Georgian era and are decorated with lovely period furniture, paintings, tapestries and clocks, with beautifully crafted finishes of carving, gilding and plasterwork. Our time here is complemented by a delicious afternoon tea.
Tuesday: Abbotsford & Floors Castle
This morning we visit Abbotsford, the home of Sir Walter Scott, one of the great Romanticists and
contains an impressive collection of historic relics and an extensive library, which we discover during our Curator-led guided tour of the house and estate.
Our next stop is Floors Castle in Kelso, the largest inhabited castle in Scotland and the grand seat of the Duke of Roxburghe. Built in 1721 and boasting fairytale turrets and French-style architecture, the castle is a striking sight on the River Tweed. On our private guided tour, we explore opulent rooms filled with fine tapestries, antiques and paintings, alongside personal touches that reveal the story of a living home. We also enjoy lunch at the Terrace Café and have time to admire the stunning grounds, featuring Victorian Walled Gardens with glasshouses and herbaceous borders.
Room, extensive family portraits and historic toy collections.
A special afternoon awaits at Traquair House, where Catherine Maxwell Stuart, the 21st Lady of Traquair and the current owner, kindly takes us on an exclusive guided tour of the house.
This 12th-century former hunting lodge, which has hosted 27 Scottish monarchs including Mary Queen of Scots, has a fascinating history spanning nearly a thousand years. Trace the footsteps of the Kings of Scotland as you climb the turnpike staircase and uncover how priests escaped in times of danger – this gem of a house is a fascinating peek into times gone by!
Thursday: Departure
the foremost literary figure of his day. Created by the writer himself in the Scottish Baronial style and set in beautiful formal gardens, the house
After dinner this evening, we enjoy an interesting themed talk from a guest speaker.
Wednesday: Thirlestane Castle & Traquair House
We head to Thirlestane Castle for a private guided tour followed by a light lunch. As the seat of the Earls and Duke of Lauderdale and the home of the Maitland family, one of the most reputable families in Scotland, this defensive fort with rose-pink sandstone and fairytale turrets dates back to the 13th century. The interiors are a mix of 19th century and early Baroque styles and highlights include the Duke’s bedroom with its exquisite plasterwork ceilings, Bonnie Prince
4 nights at the Peebles Hydro Hotel Peebles with dinner & breakfast
Porterage where available
Welcome drink
After-dinner tea & coffee at the hotel
Coach transfers to & from your excursions
Visits to Edinburgh, Hopetoun House
Abbotsford, Floors Castle Thirlestane Castle & Traquair House
Guided city tour of Edinburgh
Guided tour & afternoon tea at Hopetoun House
Curator-led tour at Abbotsford
Private guided tour & lunch at Floors Castle
Guided tour & lunch at Thirlestane Castle
Exclusive guided tour with the owner at Traquair House
Themed evening talk from a guest speaker
Accompanied by a friendly tour manager throughout
Please inform us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements.
Hotel
After breakfast, check out of the hotel for the journey home.
Please note: the itinerary order is subject to change and guided tours are subject to availability. Owner-led tours are subject to availability.
Located in the heart of Peebles, historically a royal burgh along the River Tweed, the Peebles Hydro Hotel offers a wonderful base for our break. The elegant bedrooms feature tea and coffee-making facilities, Border biscuits, complimentary Arran Aromatics toiletries and a hairdryer, while other hotel amenities include a relaxing lounge with lovely views, an atmospheric bar, a restaurant focusing on fresh, local produce, a gym, tennis courts, an indoor swimming pool and spa (treatments are available at an extra cost).
Single supplement £270
Hotel Accessibility
Lift to all floors. Accessible rooms available.
Hopetoun House
Charlie’s
Floors Castle
Traquair House
Thirlestane Castle
An Exclusive Tour of Northern Ireland’s Finest Houses
Perhaps most famous for its wildly rugged countryside and breathtakingly beautiful coastline, Northern Ireland is also peppered with stunning houses and impressive estates just waiting to be explored. We learn more about the country’s rich heritage as we visit intriguing places on this unique tour, featuring an exclusive guided tour with the owners of Ballywalter Park; offering an intimate insight into the generations who have lived in this architectural treasure. We also admire the much-loved family home and world-famous gardens of Mount Stewart House plus the exquisite Glenarm Castle, combining these fascinating discoveries with the mystical Giant’s Causeway.
Sunday: Arrival
We fly to Belfast and transfer to the Holiday Inn, Belfast. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager.
Please note: if you wish to make your own way on this tour, a discount of £100pp will be applied.
Monday: Glenarm Castle & Giant’s Causeway
This morning we head to one of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful estates, Glenarm Castle, which has been the private residence of the Earls of Antrim for 400 years. Throughout the castle are superb examples of Irish furniture as well as portraits of family members from the early 17th century
Tuesday: Redhall Estate & Titanic Belfast
Today we take a peek into the Redhall Estate, a private family home which dates back to the 16th century, with a 12th-century motte and bailey still standing proudly near to the house. Sitting pretty in ancient parkland, Redhall has been shaped by various generations and boasts stunning views over Islandmagee and Larne Lough.
Afterwards, we make our way back to Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital to visit Titanic Belfast, a fantastic interactive exhibition located on the site of the original shipyard where the famous liner was built. Hear heart-breaking tales about the vessel's passengers, discover the detail behind the mammoth task of building the ill-fated ship and dive into the depths with an immersive video exploring the wreckage on the ocean floor.
Next, we head to Hillsborough Castle, a beautiful late Georgian mansion created in the 1770s by Wills Hill, the first Marquis of Downshire. Surrounded by 100 acres of glorious gardens, Hillsborough boasts elegant State Rooms filled with wonderful paintings, furnishings and curiosities. Generations of the Hill family lived at Hillsborough until the early 20th century when the castle began to develop the political and royal associations for which it is famous today.
Elizabeth II, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother and Princess Margaret spent many holidays at Hillsborough and since the 1970s, it has been the official residence of both the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and the British monarch.
Thursday: Mount Stewart House & Ballywalter Park
Our destination this morning is the magnificent Neo-classical Mount Stewart House and Garden, located on the shores of Strangford Lough.
Home of the Stewart family, Marquesses of Londonderry, for over 250 years, this recently restored and much-loved family home offers a wealth of treasures. The wonderfully atmospheric garden, with its series of formal themed garden compartments, full of rare and tender plants from across the globe, has been voted as one of the top ten gardens in the world.
Return flights to Belfast
Airport taxes & luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)
Airport transfers in Ireland
5 nights at the Holiday Inn Belfast with breakfast & 4 dinners
onwards. We also explore the castle’s walled garden, one of Ireland’s oldest, originally created to supply the house with fruit and vegetables and now filled with lovely flowers and specimen plants.
We continue along the stunning Causeway Coastal Route with its breathtaking views and rugged beauty, meandering along to the Giant’s Causeway. So-named for the enormous basalt columns produced by volcanic eruptions some sixty million years ago, it is now a designated World Heritage Site. Interactive displays, exhibitions and audio guides in the state-of-the-art visitor centre unveil the stories and science that surround this natural phenomenon. Please note that it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.
This evening we enjoy dinner at the famous National Trust property, the Crown Liquor Saloon in Belfast.
Wednesday: Montalto Estate & Hillsborough Castle
Our first visit is to the impressive Montalto Estate, once a much-loved residence and now open to the public. Dating back to the early 1600s, Montalto has been almost exclusively a family home and we find out more about its history on our guided tour. Outside, the estate boasts exquisite 400-acre grounds of Emerald-green Irish countryside, twisting trails and beautiful gardens.
From here we make our way to one of Ireland’s most important historic houses, Ballywalter Park, for a fascinating guided tour with the owner. Home of Lord and Lady Dunleath, the house was built in the Italianate Palazzo style for the present owner’s great, great, great grandfather between 1846 and 1850 to the designs of the eminent architect, Sir Charles Lanyon. A conservatory and billiard room wing, also by Lanyon, was added around 1870.
The house has been afforded Grade A* listing as being of exceptional architectural importance and is situated within a walled demesne of some 270 acres, featuring pleasure grounds, a fine collection of specimen trees and pretty rhododendrons. We also enjoy some refreshments during our visit.
Friday: Departure
We check out of our hotel and transfer to Belfast airport for our return flight home.
Please note: the itinerary order is subject to change and guided tours are subject to availability.
Mount Stewart House
Ballywalter Park
A Fireside Tour of Festive
Homes in Yorkshire
Step in from the cold and into a host of cosy homes in beautiful Yorkshire, where festive decorations bathe exquisite properties in a warm glow and historic rooms are illuminated with twinkling trees. This is a magical time of year to explore some of the county’s finest gems, including stunning Castle Howard, with its unique annual theme, grand Harewood House and enchanting Burton Agnes Hall; this special break is like walking into a yuletide scene from centuries ago. We also delve into a Georgian Christmas with 18th-century traditions at charming Fairfax House, a time before the Victorian-born customs we know and love today even existed.
Itinerary
Sunday: Arrival
Check in to the Parsonage Hotel, Escrick in the afternoon. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager.
Monday: Castle Howard & Fairfax House
We visit Castle Howard’s festive wonderland and enjoy lunch, then tour Fairfax House to discover Georgian Christmas traditions before free time in York to soak up its seasonal charm.
Tuesday: Brockfield Hall & Harewood House
Today begins with a guided tour and refreshments at Brockfield Hall, followed by a festive visit to Harewood House with afternoon tea and concludes with an engaging themed evening talk.
Wednesday: Burton Constable Hall & Burton Agnes Hall
Enjoy guided tours with refreshments at Burton Constable and Burton Agnes Halls - both beautifully adorned for Christmas, rich in history and art, with elegant interiors and enchanting winter gardens.
Thursday: Departure
After breakfast, we check out of the hotel for our journey home.
What's Included
4 nights at the Parsonage Hotel & Spa, Escrick with dinner & breakfast
Porterage where available
Welcome drink
After-dinner tea & coffee at the hotel
Coach transfers to & from your excursions
Visits to Castle Howard, Fairfax House, York Brockfield Hall Harewood House Burton Constable Hall & Burton Agnes Hall
Lunch at Castle Howard
Guided tour at Fairfax House
Guided tour & refreshments at Brockfield Hall
Festive afternoon tea at Harewood House
Guided tour & refreshments at Burton Constable Hall
Guided tour & festive refreshments at Burton Agnes Hall
Themed evening talk from a guest speaker
Accompanied by a friendly tour manager throughout
Single supplement £150
Please inform us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements.
Hotel
The Parsonage Hotel and Spa, Escrick, offers a charming retreat in a picturesque setting.
The en suite rooms include a TV and tea and coffee-making facilities. Additional amenities include a restaurant, an al fresco terrace and a lounge bar.
Hotel Accessibility
Accessible entrance, Lift to all floors..
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit and when is my final balance due?
The deposit payable at the time of booking is £175 per person (£300 per person for holidays by air). If you don’t wish to pay the full balance in one go; the remaining payment is due 8 weeks before departure (10 weeks before departure for holidays by air).
You can make payments against your balance anytime between making the booking and the balance due date. If you are booking online you can pay your remaining balance by logging into your account. You will need to log in using the email address and password you set up during the payment process.
Why do I have to pay a single supplement?
It is standard practice in the hotel trade to charge for single occupancy of a room as the cost of providing heating, lighting and cleaning etc, is the same regardless of the number of people occupying it.
Will I get a more detailed itinerary to take with me?
Yes, your full itinerary will be posted approximately two weeks prior to departure, along with your final confirmation documents.
How many travellers will be in our group?
In most cases there will be no more than 30 to 40 travellers in the group.
Will there be free parking at the hotel?
Please ask for details on hotels where car parking charges apply. Please be aware that at some hotels parking can be limited and is not guaranteed. You should aim to arrive at the hotel no earlier than 3pm.
I have limited mobility; will these tours be suitable for me?
These tours offer a varied level of activity and participants can take on as much or as little as they wish. The minimum requirement is that you are able to climb the steps onto a coach unaided and, to keep up with the pace of the tour, we recommend you are comfortable to stroll for 20–30 minutes at any one time. Any specific restrictions are indicated in the brochure and on the website. Most properties offer a good level of access, but due to their historic nature there may be some upstairs sections without lift access, or gardens with limited walkways.
Many hotels featured offer lift access, but if this is a firm requirement please check with our reservations staff at the time of booking.
Any physical condition which may necessitate special requirements (for example, the need of a wheelchair) must be reported at the time of your reservation, and we advise that you bring a companion with you if you need assistance. Coach space and weight restrictions limit the number of walking aids that we can accept on each tour therefore you must pre-book a space when you book your tour and confirmation of this will be on our correspondence to you. Please be aware that the hire of scooters or wheelchairs at Historic Houses properties must be organised in advance.
Harewood House
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
Hotel Accessibility Information
If anyone in your party has mobility concerns, please inform us at the time of booking. It is a minimum requirement that you are able to climb the steps onto a coach unaided. Please read the tour itinerary carefully to make sure it is appropriate for your mobility level. We also hold accessibility information for each hotel featured on our holidays, and are able to advise if lifts and/or ground floor rooms are available. Further details are shown in this brochure and are also available online at justgoholidays.com/accessibility If you have any queries on hotel facilities in relation to mobility, please contact us immediately for detailed information.
Please note: our brochures and itineraries are put together over a year in advance, therefore unfortunately things may change before the tour takes place and some excursions may be
Terms & Conditions Extract
Self-drive packaged short breaks are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions which are available to read online at justgoholidays.com/about-us/terms Bookings are accepted on the basis that you have read and understood them. Your booking is protected by Bonded Coach Holidays (BCH) and the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT); this is a government approved consumer protection scheme. Tours offered subject to availability. Errors and omissions excepted. Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Single supplements apply. Prices are correct at the time of printing (August 2025) but are subject to fluctuation.
Air package holidays are subject to Just Go! Holidays terms and conditions which are available to read online at justgoholidays.com/about-us/terms Bookings are accepted on the basis that you have read and understood them. Prices are correct at the time of publication but are subject to fluctuation and availability. The final price will depend on your chosen airport, airline and flight time. Financial protection is in place via the ATOL scheme and terms and conditions apply. Please visit our website for more details. Errors and omissions excepted. Operated by Just Go! Holidays, ATOL No.10889. Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a double/twin room. Single supplements apply.
One piece of checked-in hold luggage PER PERSON is included however; the weight allowance does vary between airlines. Please ask for details.
Calls to 033 numbers are free within inclusive minutes packages otherwise standard rates apply. Full terms and conditions will be provided with your booking confirmation. Also available on request, please call 03333 212 772 or visit justgoholidays.com/about-us/terms
