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Day 1 Gardens of Kent & Hever Castle
Today we head out of London to the world-famous gardens at Wisley, home of the Royal Horticultural Society and a trailblazer in garden design, innovation and cultivation techniques. Every type of garden is featured, and there are beautiful water features and woodland walks. This afternoon we head out into Kent, our highlight being the wonderful Hever Castle. The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s ill-fated second wife, this is all that a real castle should be, from its gateway and courtyard to its surrounding moat. The garden comprises 30 acres of classical and natural landscapes, including the Italian Garden and the Rose Garden. You can stroll through the Tudor Garden, the Rhododendron Walk and along Anne Boleyn’s Walk. (D)
Day 2 Sissinghurst & Chartwell
We head to Sissinghurst to see Vita Sackville-West’s world-famous home and garden. The grounds have a formal structure with extensive views, but a sense of privacy has been achieved by dividing the garden into separate enclosures including the White Garden, the Rose Garden, the Orchard and the Cottage Garden. We are also able to visit those parts of the house open to the public. Next on to Chartwell, home to Winston Churchill, the house contains a wonderful collection of paintings, photographs and memorabilia. In the grounds there are beautiful rose and water gardens, a restored vegetable garden, and wonderful countryside walks offering stunning views. (B)
Day 3 Kew Gardens & Ham House
Today we spend much of the morning exploring the world-famous Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew, an absolute must on any garden tour. Kew, which has just celebrated its 250th anniversary, is responsible for the world’s largest collection of living plants, more than 30,000 species in all. And the herbarium, also the largest in the world, has over 7 million plant specimens. There are many gardens and stately homes along the banks of the Thames, but for our afternoon visit we have chosen Ham House, a magnificent Stuart mansion with lavish interiors. The beautiful gardens include the famous Cherry Garden, the 17th century Orangery and formal avenues of more than 250 trees. (B, D)
Day 4 The Hampton Court Flower Show
Our last day is devoted to the Show, Hampton Court Palace providing a spectacular backdrop for what is the world’s largest flower show. There is something for everyone to enjoy, and you can spend the day amidst the fine show gardens and horticultural exhibitions. After a wonderful day we return to our departure point in London. (B)
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