Brookland Travel Heritage and Garden Tours

11/08/2024

🌼Fine Gardens and Villas of The Italian Lakes with Andy McIndoe from La Palma Hotel, Stresa, Italy **** 13 - 18 October 2024 🌼

This is by far, one of our most popular tours and which we are repeating in 2024 and we a few spaces remaining. Join us for this truly magical tour, visiting fine gardens and villas in the Northern Lakes.

This tour includes:
🌼Lake Orta
🌼Private Gardens of Villa Motta
🌼Island of San Giulo
🌼Isola Bella
🌼Lake Maggiore
🌼Isola Madre
🌼Lake Como
🌼Villa Carotta
🌼Villa Tareanto

Included:
🌼Services of a Host/Tours Leader throughout
🌼Any coaching as per the itinerary
🌼Five nights stay in a Standard en-suite room to include an extensive American buffet breakfast
🌼Dinner each evening (2 choices starter and main, cheese or salad course and desserts buffet)
🌼A glass of wine, soft drink or beer with your meal and tea or coffees after
🌼City Taxes
🌼Welcome drink on the first or second evening in the Sky Bar (weather permitting)
🌼All garden visits and tours as per itinerary
🌼All private and standard ferry transfers
🌼One two-course lunch on Lake Como Day
🌼Porterage
🌼Use of Panoramic Gym and Spa facilities

We are staying at La Palma Hotel, Stresa, Italy **** during our stay with the maximum group size of 25 for your enjoyment!

Discover more highlights for our Gardens and Villas of The Italian Lakes with Andy McIndoe tour this October: www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/131/fine-gardens-and-villas-of-the-italian-lakes-with-andy-mcindoe-from-la-palma-hotel,-stresa,-italy-****

06/08/2024

During our upcoming "Gravetye Manor Garden Tour with Lunch and a Fine Collection of Kentish Gardens” tour in September, we enjoy two nights at The Spa Hotel in Royal Tun Garden Tour with Lunch and a Fine Collection of Kentish Gardens” tour in September, we enjoy two nights at The Spa Hotel in Royal Tunbridge Wells.

The Spa Hotel is a luxurious Georgian establishment nestled in 14 acres of picturesque parkland near the town of Tunbridge Wells. This four-star hotel offers an elegant and serene retreat with a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. There are 70 well equipped bedrooms, an award-winning restaurant, Champagne Bar, traditional lounge and an Orangery accessing the garden, an indoor heated swimming pool and gymnasium.

🌼THIS UNIQUE GARDEN TOUR HAS A MAXIMUM OF JUST 19 PLACES – SMALL GROUP TOURING AT ITS VERY BEST AN ALL INCLUSIVE TOUR EXPERIENCE 🌼

Discover more:
:www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/153/gravetye-manor-garden-tour-with-lunch-and-a-fine-collection-of-kentish-gardens

03/08/2024

Soak up the history of Sissinghurst Castle - National Trust Gardens this September. In the 1930s, the poet and writer Vita Sackville-West transformed the castle with her husband, diplomat and author Harold Nicolson. His wife's romance inspired Harold's architectural planning in her poems and writings. The national trust, which now owns the castle, is restoring it to Harold's original plans.

While Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson's influence may be visible in the gardens and around the castle, the castle's history, dating back to the 1700s, is fascinating! From housing French prisoners to being the home of the area's Women's Land Army, the land holds so much history.

We visit Sissinghurst Castle during our upcoming tour “Gravetye Manor Garden Tour with Lunch and a Fine Collection of Kentish Gardens“.

Don’t miss out on our 3 day / 2 night fully escorted break 15 - 17 September 2024.

https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/153/gravetye-manor-garden-tour-with-lunch-and-a-fine-collection-of-kentish-gardens

30/07/2024

A few images to share from our recent tour “Dreamy Dorset Gardens – Private Views - The Dorset Walled Garden & The Manor House Beaminster”. We were delighted to offer a unique opportunity to visit two private Dorset gardens that are rarely open to the public and received wonderful feedback from our tour guests.

Adam, son of Brena (Brookland MD), was our outstanding tour guide at Beaminster Manor - keeping it in the family! He was joined by family friend, Michelle Brown – garden designer, lecturer, silver gilt Chelsea medallist and creator of two borders at Beaminster Manor.

27/07/2024

Experience a Private Tour of Gravetye Manor Garden & A Fabulous Michelin Dining Experience with Brookland Travel.

Gravetye Manor, is a luxury 4* hotel with a Michelin Star Restaurant. Nestled in beautiful countryside in East Sussex and set over 35 acres, these private gardens were originally created by visionary gardener William Robinson in 1885. They are considered to be his masterpiece and one of the most important historic gardens in England. They are famed for their flower garden, specimen trees and a kitchen garden that supplies seasonal produce to this luxury hotel's Michelin Star Restaurant.

Morning coffee will be served on arrival followed by a guided tour of the gardens with one of the senior gardeners or Head Gardener. At the end of our tour, we are served an aperitif before we sit down for a truly memorable private dining experience at this Michelin starred establishment; a fitting way to end our three-day garden tour journey. Our expected departure time from Gravetye Manor is 1545 hours and therefore the return time to Wi******er/Wi******er Railway Station is approximately 1745. The Potters Heron Hotel, Wi******er Rd, Romsey 1815 and Romsey Bus Station 1830.

Don’t miss our upcoming tour “Gravetye Manor Garden Tour with Lunch and a Fine Collection of Kentish Gardens, 15 - 17 September 2024”

Discover more:
https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/153/gravetye-manor-garden-tour-with-lunch-and-a-fine-collection-of-kentish-gardens

25/07/2024

🌿Exploring the Beauty of Dumfries House and Gardens of Dumfries and Galloway 🌿 Our tour guests had a wonderful time discovering the breath-taking gardens and nurseries of Dumfries House, the blend of history and horticulture shone through despite the damp weather!

We look forward to returning to Dumfries House and Gardens of Dumfries and Galloway in 2025.

Register your interest here: https://www.brooklandtravel.com/contact

23/07/2024

🌼Gravetye Manor Garden Tour with Lunch and a Fine Collection of Kentish Gardens, 15 - 17 September 2024 🌼 An All-Inclusive Break Showcasing A Private Tour of Gravetye Manor Garden & A Fabulous Michelin Dining Experience.

This delightful tour includes:
🌼Gravetye Manor - luxury 4* hotel with a Michelin Star Restaurant. Nestled in beautiful countryside in East Sussex and set over 35 acres, these private gardens were originally created by visionary gardener William Robinson in 1885.
🌼Long Barn - a private garden set against the backdrop of a beautiful house dating from the 14th century.
🌼Hole Park Gardens (private) - created by the owner’s great-grandfather in the early 1920’s and have a very personal feel to them.
🌼
Sissinghurst Castle - National Trust - blends seamlessly into the Wealden landscape and is a joy to visit at any time of the year, thanks to its creators Vita Sackville -West and Harold Nicolson.
🌼Tonbridge School (private) - set within a magnificent 150- acre site in the heart of Kent, with beautiful gardens and stunning architecture.

Included:
🌼All meals and light lunches included and Michelin dining at Gravetye Manor on Day 3
🌼Two nights dinner*, bed and breakfast at The Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells****
🌼Welcome drink and a glass of wine or two or soft drink with dinner each evening
🌼Professional Tour Leader Throughout
🌼Light lunch on Day 1 and Day 2 Refreshments at private garden visit Day 2 🌼Exclusive Private Garden Tour at Gravetye Manor
🌼Day 3 lunch at Gravetye Manor includes coffee on arrival, an aperitif, three courses, coffee, petit fours plus, a glass or two of wine to enjoy with your lunch
🌼All Private/ Garden Visits and guided tours as mentioned in the brief itinerary Touring quality coaching for three days

🌼THIS UNIQUE GARDEN TOUR HAS A MAXIMUM OF JUST 19 PLACES – SMALL GROUP TOURING AT ITS VERY BEST AN ALL-INCLUSIVE TOUR EXPERIENCE 🌼

Discover more:
:www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/153/gravetye-manor-garden-tour-with-lunch-and-a-fine-collection-of-kentish-gardens

21/07/2024

This August, we visit The Irish National Stud and Gardens, a famous horse breeding facility located in Tully, County Kildare. In the early 20th century, eminent Japanese landscape gardener Tassa Eida and his son Minoru designed a Japanese Garden here to symbolize the "Life of Man" through trees, plants, flowers, lawns, rocks, and water. These gardens are a living monument to the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures and are internationally renowned for their period design.

St Fiachra’s Garden, dedicated to the patron saint of gardeners, features water, trees, and rocks as its basic natural elements, creating a serene and beautiful space. Our visit includes a delicious lunch, as well as timed entry to The Irish Racehorse Experience and The Stud.

We visit Irish National Stud and Gardens during our upcoming tour “Greater Dublin and County Wicklow Gardens Showcasing World Famous, Private and Highly Acclaimed Gardens”.

Don’t miss out on our 5 day / 4 night fully escorted break 11-15th August 2024

Discover more: www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/145/greater-dublin-and-county-wicklow-gardens-with-andy-mcindoe-showcasing-world-famous,-private-and-highly-acclaimed-gardens

20/07/2024

Enjoy exploring over 47 acres of gardens at Powerscourt, featuring Italian and Japanese Gardens, formal rose gardens, and rambling wooded walks. Curated by world-class gardeners, Powerscourt Gardens have been named the third finest garden in the world by National Geographic. Discover the rich history of Powerscourt, including its families and owners over the past 400 years.

Inside the house, you'll find high-quality shopping with fine examples of Irish design, and you can relax with delicious coffee, cake, and snacks at the Avoca Terrace Café. All of this is set within stunning surroundings that have been featured in many films and TV series.

We visit Powerscourt during our upcoming tour “Greater Dublin and County Wicklow Gardens Showcasing World Famous, Private and Highly Acclaimed Gardens”.

Don’t miss out on our 5 day / 4 night fully escorted break 11-15th August 2024

Discover more: www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/145/greater-dublin-and-county-wicklow-gardens-with-andy-mcindoe-showcasing-world-famous,-private-and-highly-acclaimed-gardens

18/07/2024

The mild and temperate climate in Ireland allows a wide variety of plants and shrubs from all over the world to exist side by side. The phenomenal Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens is a satellite garden and arboretum of the main National Botanic Gardens of Ireland and are recommended as a garden visit by Jimi Blake. These gardens offer plants and trees from places such as China and the Himalayas including a beautiful redwood and a Kashmir cedar. Rare trees and shrubs abound thanks to a more favourable climate. Refreshments can be purchased.

We visit National Botanic Gardens of Ireland Kilmacurragh during our upcoming tour “Greater Dublin and County Wicklow Gardens Showcasing World Famous, Private and Highly Acclaimed Gardens”.

Don’t miss out on our 5 day / 4 night fully escorted break 11-15th August 2024

Discover more: www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/145/greater-dublin-and-county-wicklow-gardens-with-andy-mcindoe-showcasing-world-famous,-private-and-highly-acclaimed-gardens

17/07/2024

Visit the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland at Glasnevin to discover over 17,000 species of plants from around the globe. Your senses will come alive as you stroll through themed gardens, each designed to represent different geographical and climatic zones—from the vibrant Mediterranean collections to the exotic orchid houses. The stunning glasshouses are works or art themselves and The Garden Tearooms have a panoramic view over the gardens.

We visit the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland at Glasnevin during our upcoming tour “Greater Dublin and County Wicklow Gardens Showcasing World Famous, Private and Highly Acclaimed Gardens”.

Don’t miss out on our 5 day / 4 night fully escorted break 11-15th August 2024

Discover more: www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/145/greater-dublin-and-county-wicklow-gardens-with-andy-mcindoe-showcasing-world-famous,-private-and-highly-acclaimed-gardens

15/07/2024

🌼 Greater Dublin and County Wicklow Gardens Tour Showcasing World Famous, Private and Highly Acclaimed Gardens, 11 – 15th August 🌼 *Very limited availability*. Travel available from Romsey and Wi******er with flights from Southampton, or own arrangements to Dublin.

This delightful tour includes:
🌼 National Botanic Gardens of Ireland
🌼 National Botanic Gardens of Ireland Kilmacurragh
🌼 Mount Usher Gardens
🌼 Jimi Blake’s Hunting Brook
🌼 June Blake's Garden
🌼 Powerscourt Gardens
🌼 Private Garden in County Wicklow
🌼 The Irish National Stud and Gardens
🌼 St Fiachra’s Garden
🌼 The Irish Racehorse Experience

Discover more: https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/145/greater-dublin-and-county-wicklow-gardens-with-andy-mcindoe-showcasing-world-famous,-private-and-highly-acclaimed-gardens

20/06/2024

🌼Experience areas of Orford Ness off limits to visitors on a normal open day and make the most of fantastic photo opportunities 🌼 The duration of this tour will be around 3 hours and after a short boat trip to the Ness, we will travel via Land Rover and passenger trailer. At the end of this fascinating guided tour, we return to the hotel where dinner is served in the restaurant.

We visit Orford Ness during our upcoming tour “Discovering Suffolk from Coast to Countryside, Houses and Gardens”.

Don’t miss out on this 5 day / 4 night fully escorted break hosted by expert horticultural tour leader, Duncan Coombs. 9th – 13th September 2024.

Discover more: https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/147/discovering-suffolk-from-coast-to-countryside,-houses-and-gardens

17/06/2024

Soak up the history of Sutton Hoo National Trust, an important archeological site near Woodbridge. This is the site of several Anglo-Saxon burial mounds; historians suspect that Sutton Hoo was the burial grounds for East Anglia’s Royal Dynasty.

Most important finds are Mound 1, the ship-burial, and Mound 17. Both of these significant burial mounds escaped being robbed of their contents, many of which are on display at The British Museum.

After an introduction to the site, we can take a stroll to the Royal Burial Grounds, visit Tramner House and discover what led Edith Pretty to excavate her land at Sutton Hoo. Exhibitions exploring the world of the Anglo-Saxons, featuring replica and original objects discovered at Sutton Hoo, tell the story of this fascinating and important site.

Refreshments can be purchased in the cafe and there is a gift shop selling books, second hand books and a unique range of Anglo Saxon inspired products.

Enjoy a visit to Sutton Hoo during our upcoming tour “Discovering Suffolk from Coast to Countryside, Houses and Gardens”.

Don’t miss out on this 5 day / 4 night fully escorted break hosted by expert horticultural tour leader, Duncan Coombs. 9th – 13th September 2024.

Discover more: https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/147/discovering-suffolk-from-coast-to-countryside,-houses-and-gardens

11/06/2024

🌼Discover the fine architecture of Lavenham 🌼 This September we explore this historic wool town and admire the fine architecture of the houses and churches which can be credited to the wealth amassed as a result of the woollen cloth industry, dating back to the 13th century. We’ll visit the Guildhall, one of the finest timber framed buildings in Britain, which houses museum exhibits charting the town’s rich history as a centre of industry for cloth making and take a walking tour of the town with our guide with free time for lunch.

Enjoy a visit to Lavenham during our upcoming tour “Discovering Suffolk from Coast to Countryside, Houses and Gardens”.

Don’t miss out on this 5 day / 4 night fully escorted break hosted by expert horticultural tour leader, Duncan Coombs. 9th – 13th September 2024.

Discover more: https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/147/discovering-suffolk-from-coast-to-countryside,-houses-and-gardens

08/06/2024

🌼 Glemham Hall 🌼 This red brick mansion, originally of the Elizabethan period, was built (around 1560) by the de Glemhams, a family which took its name from Great (Magna) and Little (Parva) Glemham. Considerable structural changes were made to the Hall between 1712 and 1722, giving it an overall Georgian façade.

We will be guided around most of the Hall, from the ground floor right up to the largely untouched servant quarters in the attics, where Elizabethan elements can still be seen, by family member Lavinia Wells. Lavinia will provide an engaging talk covering art, historical events, previous occupants and what it was like to grow up on a country estate. She is a wonderful host with an abundance of tales to tell from spending time with family here at Glemham. The gardens feature a stunning walled rose garden, herbaceous garden, an avenue of Irish Yews and a summerhouse. Wooden benches dotted here and there encourage you to sit back, relax and enjoy these beautiful spaces.

Enjoy a private visit to Glemham Hall, with a tour of the house and a stroll in the glorious gardens during our upcoming tour “Discovering Suffolk from Coast to Countryside, Houses and Gardens”.

Don’t miss out on this 5 day / 4 night fully escorted break hosted by expert horticultural tour leader, Duncan Coombs. 9th – 13th September 2024.

Discover more: https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/147/discovering-suffolk-from-coast-to-countryside,-houses-and-gardens

06/06/2024

🌼Discovering Suffolk from Coast to Countryside, Houses and Gardens 🌼 This is a repeat of our very successful tour in 2023! Brookland clients loved the diversity of the programme which has been carefully designed to offer a snapshot of Suffolk that covers wide ranging interests - art and architecture, archaeology, glorious gardens, military history, marine conservation and wildlife.

Join us as we explore some of the prettiest villages in the heart of Suffolk where pastel-coloured thatched cottages contrast with the grandeur and fine architecture of the county’s historic houses. These include the picturesque wool towns of Lavenham and Long Melford.

Tour highlights include:

🌼Glemham Hall: this red brick mansion, originally of the Elizabethan period, was built (around 1560) by the de Glemhams, a family which took its name from Great (Magna) and Little (Parva) Glemham.

🌼Snape Maltings: one of the world’s finest acoustic concert halls that was converted from a 19th-century malthouse. It has been given Grade II* listing by the government.

🌼Lavenham: we explore this historic wool town and admire the fine architecture of the houses and churches which can be credited to the wealth amassed as a result of the woollen cloth industry, dating back to the 13th century.

🌼Long Melford: its two-and-a-half-mile main street is the longest in England with many interesting and historic buildings including a delightful row of houses

🌼Sutton Hoo National Trust: an important archeological site near Woodbridge. This is the site of several Anglo-Saxon burial mounds; historians suspect that Sutton Hoo was the burial grounds for East Anglia’s Royal Dynasty.

🌼Orford for our private tour of the Orford Ness. This will include areas which are off limits to visitors on a normal open day and will afford fantastic photo opportunities.

🌼“Constable Country”: John Constable, the famous landscape artist ,was born in East Bergholt and he drew his inspiration from many local viewpoints including Flatford Mill

Don’t miss out on our 5 day / 4 night fully escorted break hosted by expert horticultural tour leader, Duncan Coombs. 9th – 13th September 2024.

Discover more: https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/147/discovering-suffolk-from-coast-to-countryside,-houses-and-gardens

04/06/2024

🌸🌸🌸 Limited Edition Day Tour Featuring Two Dreamy Private Dorset Gardens, Tuesday 18th June 2024 🌸🌸🌸

We are delighted to offer a unique opportunity to visit two private Dorset gardens that rarely open to the public.

🌸 The Dorset Walled Garden: This private garden near Sydling St Nicholas (Dorchester) is set in a large chalk downland valley, within an AONB. The garden's plans were first laid out by Simon Johnson when the current owners arrived. They were further developed by Isabel and Julian Bannerman whose brief was to romanticise and soften the garden with their romantic, blousy, characteristic style of planting, with a focus on scent.

🌸 The Manor House, Beaminster where the owner has kindly agreed for us visit her private garden. Tucked into the centre of Beaminster, a picturesque, little- changed Dorset town, The Manor House sits surrounded by well-kept lawns, C18th cascades, rockwork and horseshoe lake, and a formal walled garden designed by Lesley Cooper.

£95pp including private garden entries, tour and refreshments at the Dorset Walled Garden. Light lunch in Beaminster (Ploughman’s or similar).

We depart from Romsey/Potters Heron Hotel, Wi******er, Stockbridge and Salisbury.

BOOK THIS SPECIAL DAY BUT HURRY AS PLACES WILL GO QUICKLY.

www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/154/dreamy-dorset-gardens-–private-views--the-dorset-walled-garden-and-the-manor-house-beaminster

31/03/2024

Of all the gardens we have visited over the years , this beautiful garden is top ten contender 🌼

We are OPEN FRIDAY 29TH MARCH! In addition there is a film of the garden by Noel Kingsbury available for a limited period at gardenmasterclass.com

30/03/2024

🌿 Discover the Timeless Beauty of Hestercombe Gardens! 🌺 On route to our upcoming tour, “Gardens of North Devon and Somerset with Sue Fisher Featuring RHS Garden Rosemoor in Springtime”, we stop at Hestercombe’s exquisite Gardens.

Spanning four centuries of garden design across fifty acres, Hestercombe Gardens is a true testament to the enduring legacy of its storied past.

First mentioned in an Anglo-Saxon charter of 854, Hestercombe has been intricately woven into the fabric of history. For over 480 years, it remained under the continuous ownership of the Warre family, a testament to their enduring connection to the land.

In 1903, a new chapter began as the Hon Edward Portman, his grandson, and Hon Mrs. Portman commissioned the renowned Sir Edwin Lutyens to craft a new formal garden, complemented by the exquisite planting schemes of Gertrude Jekyll. Today, Hestercombe's Formal Garden stands as a pinnacle of their collaboration, a masterpiece of timeless beauty.

Despite changes in ownership over the years, Hestercombe's legacy endured. In 2003, the gardens found new custodianship under the Hestercombe Gardens Trust, marking a pivotal moment in the preservation of its historic landscape.

In a landmark moment in September 2018, the Hestercombe Gardens Trust secured an additional 320 acres of land, thanks to a grant from the National Heritage Memorial Fund. This acquisition ensured the preservation of Hestercombe's world-class, Grade 1 heritage landscape, gardens, and buildings for future generations to cherish.

Today, Hestercombe Gardens stands as a living testament to the enduring beauty of nature and the dedication of those who have lovingly preserved its legacy for centuries.

Don't miss this opportunity to join Sue and our small group for a rejuvenating three-day spring break in North Devon. Escape the winter blues and immerse yourself in Devon's springtime splendour! 🌿

https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/135/gardens-of-north-devon-and-somerset-with-sue-fisher-featuring-rhs-rosemoor-in-springtime-last-few-spaces-remaining

27/03/2024

🌺 Explore Hartland Abbey: A Timeless Haven in North Devon! 🌺 Nestled in a picturesque valley just a mile from Hartland Quay on the NW Devon coast, Hartland Abbey is a stately home steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking spring gardens.

Currently serving as the film location for Enid Blyton’s 'Malory Towers', Hartland Abbey and Gardens offers visitors a chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in its rich heritage. Explore beautiful spring gardens, woodland walks, walled gardens, and parkland, all lovingly restored after decades of neglect.
Join us for our upcoming tour: Gardens of North Devon and Somerset with Sue Fisher, featuring the enchanting RHS Garden Rosemoor in Springtime.

Led by the knowledgeable Sue Fisher, this short three-day spring break is the perfect antidote to the cold, wet wintery days of the past.

https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/135/gardens-of-north-devon-and-somerset-with-sue-fisher-featuring-rhs-rosemoor-in-springtime-last-few-spaces-remaining

26/03/2024

🌸 Discover the Beauty of Spring Gardens in North Devon Featuring Garden Expert and Brookland Tour Leader Sue Fisher 🌸

Join us for a delightful spring break in Devon, led by the renowned Sue Fisher. Explore stunning gardens, including Hartland Abbey and Gardens, RHS Garden Rosemoor , Marwood Hill Garden, Clovelly Court Gardens, and more.

Sue Fisher, a Devon local, brings her expertise as a garden designer, writer, and horticulturalist to our tour. Highly rated by our groups, Sue's warmth and professionalism ensure an unforgettable experience.

Keep an eye out for Sue's features in Garden Answers magazine, where she shares insights on gardening in a changing climate and creating beautiful spaces for pollinators.

Take advantage of this opportunity to join Sue and our small group for a rejuvenating three-day spring break in North Devon. Escape the winter blues and immerse yourself in Devon's springtime splendour! 🌿

https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/135/gardens-of-north-devon-and-somerset-with-sue-fisher-featuring-rhs-rosemoor-in-springtime-last-few-spaces-remaining

24/03/2024

This April, we enjoy a 3-night stay at The Feathers Hotel, an iconic building in Ludlow. The oldest part of the Feathers, including the world-famous timber facade, was built in 1619 (during the reign of King James I) by Rees Jones, a successful attorney in the town who had frequently appeared before the Council of the Marches, which from 1536 until 1689 was situated in Ludlow making the town in effect the capital of Wales. The real Feathers Hotel, Ludlow is located at the heart of the ancient market town of Ludlow, where there are excellent craft and antique shops and a wealth of historic buildings, all within easy walking distance.

Join our special interest tour led by the renowned historian and writer Julian Humphrys. Explore Ludlow and historic Shropshire with our small group, experiencing what this stunning region has to offer.

Our last few spaces are remaining: https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/133/ludlow-and-welsh-border-castles,-houses-and-gardens-with-julian-humphrys-staying-at-the-feathers-hotel-in-ludlow?fbclid=IwAR3EhbgUC0VPxs__TV0qxLfsUnIZf9Z1bn5ZQh9XUm0I4BF2KiWRYMgwZag

23/03/2024

Stokesay Court is a remarkable late-Victorian survival set within extensive grounds in the rolling South Shropshire countryside, with panoramic views across to Ludlow and the Clee Hills. It was built for a wealthy Victorian manufacturer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, who had made his fortune in the glove making business in partnership with the Dent brothers. Designed by Thomas Harris, the house was at the cutting edge of technology when it was completed in 1892, only six months before owner John Derby Allcroft's death. The landscaped gardens and grounds contain a fountain, grotto, woodland walks and a series of pools connected by cascades, rills and steps.

Stokesay Court features within our upcoming tour: Ludlow and Welsh Border Castles, Houses and Gardens with Private Views and Expertly Escorted by Julian Humphrys.

Don’t miss out! Join Julian and our small group for this unforgettable four-day spring break starting in Hampshire. Other joining options are available, including Gloucestershire.

Book now and make memories in historic Ludlow and Shropshire! 🌟

Discover more: https://www.brooklandtravel.com/tours/133/ludlow-and-welsh-border-castles,-houses-and-gardens-with-julian-humphrys-staying-at-the-feathers-hotel-in-ludlow?fbclid=IwAR3EhbgUC0VPxs__TV0qxLfsUnIZf9Z1bn5ZQh9XUm0I4BF2KiWRYMgwZag

21/03/2024

🌼 Looking for a Spring Getaway? There's still time to book and discover Historic Shropshire Gems and their gardens in April 🌼

Join our special interest tour led by the renowned historian and writer Julian Humphrys historian and guide. Explore Ludlow and historic Shropshire with our small group, experiencing what this stunning region has to offer.

Highlights include visits to privately owned properties such as Pitchford Hall, Brockworth Court, and Stokesay Court. Learn about the rich history and fascinating stories behind these remarkable sites.

🌿 Pitchford Estate, Britain's finest half-timbered house, was owned by the Colthurst family for more than 500 years before being sold in 1992. The house has been bought back by Rowena Colthurst and her husband, who are embarking on the massive task of saving it.

🏞️ Stokesay Court, a remarkable late-Victorian mansion surrounded by picturesque grounds and panoramic views.

🌷 Brockworth Court, a historic manor house with an exquisite garden, visited by Henry VIIIth and Anne Boleyn in 1535.

Discover the charms of Ludlow, explore its medieval streets, visit Ludlow Castle, and embark on scenic journeys through stunning countryside.

With a wealth of historical knowledge and experience, Julian Humphrys has led tours for over twenty years and offers captivating insights into the past.

Don’t miss out! Join Julian and our small group for this unforgettable four-day spring break starting in Hampshire. Other joining options are available, including Gloucestershire.

Book now and make memories in historic Ludlow and Shropshire! 🌟

Julian Humphrys