Botanics Boleyn Bluebell

Sun 5th May - Day 1

This morning we will depart the West Country to make our journey east on the way we will stop at the Chichester for lunch. We will reach the hotel late afternoon to allow you plenty of time to relax and get settled before dinner.

Mon 6th May - Day 2

We begin our day at Wakehurst Place in Sussex. The house is one of the finest examples of Arts and Crafts workmanship, with Morris & Co. interiors whilst the hillside garden offers year-round highlights.
In the afternoon we embark on a train journey from East Grinsted to Sheffield Park on the Bluebell Railway, the UK’s first preserved standard gauge passenger railway. Whilst steaming through the pretty Sussex countryside, we tuck into a tasty cream tea and admire the views.

Tues 7th May - Day 3

Today we visit the romantic, double-moated, 13th century Hever Castle. Well known as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, we discover 700 years of history, exploring its panelled rooms, fine furniture, tapestries and antiques. Highlights include the Dining Hall, Long Gallery, Library, King Henry VIII’s Bedchamber and Anne Boleyn’s Bedroom. Outside we can wander 125 acres of award-winning gardens. See the Italian Garden, the giant topiary chess set & more than 5,000 rose bushes in the English Rose Garden.

Weds 8th May - Day 4

Today begins with a visit to Emmetts Garden, a lovely hillside garden showcasing an amazing variety of flowering plants and exotic trees, with sweeping views of the Kent countryside. Take in the formal early 20th
century Rose Garden, an extensive collection of trees and shrubs in the South Garden and the Rock Garden’s varied alpine plant collection. This afternoon we make our way to Knole, a magnificent 600 year old estate
covering around 1,000 acres in Sevenoaks, Kent, home to an historic country house and vast parkland. Explore the Showrooms, with textiles, paintings and a collection of Royal Stuart furniture to admire, and climb
the spiral stairs of the Gatehouse Tower to take in the panoramic rooftop
views. Outside we can stretch our legs in Kent’s last medieval deer park,
home to a herd of around 350 deer which famously roam the grounds.

Thur 9th May - Day 5

Our last day together starts with a hearty breakfast to see us on our journey home to the West Country taking time to stop and enjoy the Cathedral City of Winchester.
Following a stop for lunch in Winchester you will meet your feeder vehicle that will take you home safely.