Beth and Nell's Adventure - Final Information

Day 1 - Tuesday 1^st October - Welcome to England

On arrival at the airport you will be met by a private driver who will transfer you to your hotel in the glorious Kent countryside known as the ‘Garden of England’. Upon arrival at Leeds Castle you will be met by peaceful grounds set in over 500 acres. Spend the afternoon settling into your abode for the next few days and soak in the sense of history at this Tudor Estate, once home to Henry VIII’s first wife, Catherine of Aragon. Close the curtains on your first night as adventure awaits.

Leeds Castle Accommodation confirmation number:
DBM348978680045130

Overnight: Maidstone | Leeds Castle
Room Type: Lakeside Lodge
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Wednesday 2^nd October - Exploring Leeds Castle

You’ll spend today exploring the captivating journey through history and stories behind Leeds Castle. From the moment you catch sight of the castle’s fairy tale silhouette against the lush greenery, you’re immersed in its enchanting atmosphere. Exploring the meticulously maintained gardens, gliding on the tranquil moat and embarking on a guided tour through the opulent rooms reveal the castle’s rich heritage and royal connections. Enjoy a quintessential Afternoon Tea overlooking the castle and savour finger sandwiches with fluffy scones and delicate pastries before delving into afternoon activities like navigating the maze or marvelling at the birds of prey display. As the day draws to a close, retire to your tranquil Lakeside room, filled with memories of a day filled with wonder, history, and natural splendour.

Please note: Includes Afternoon Tea

Overnight: Maidstone | Leeds Castle
Room Type: Lakeside Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Thursday 3^rd October - Sissinghurst Castle

This morning, meet your guide Astrid and start exploring the Weald of Kent.

Venture deeper into the Wealden countryside with your guide and visit Sissinghurst Castle to discover the home of author Vita Sackville-West and husband Harold Nicholson. In the 1930’s, the couple purchased the property as a run down mansion and completely renovated the house and garden to create a symbol of love and horticultural ambition. Enter the Formal Garden, Vegetable Garden, Library and Tower; home to Vita’s writing room where she sought inspiration for her poems. Take in the stunning panoramic views from the top over the 450 estate and the quintessence of the English garden. Your guide will transfer you back to your hotel for the evening.

Before your guide departs, they will organise a meeting time for the following day with you.

Overnight: Maidstone | Leeds Castle
Room Type: Lakeside Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Friday 4^th October - Exploring Hever Castle

Today, you’ll make a trip to Hever Castle, once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, famously the second wife of Henry VIII and Mother of Elizabeth I, where a tumultuous chain of events in these grounds changed the course of Britains History. Marvel at the fine furniture, tapestries, antiques and one of the best collections of Tudor portraits after the National Portrait Gallery. Witness the depiction of the saga from the Wars of the Roses to the Reformation in the Long Gallery room. Learn about the Astor family and how their fortune was used to restore and extend the castle in the 20th Century. Enjoy the breath-taking display of the 500 acre gardens; see the Italian Garden and The Dahlia Border in all its glory as the autumnal colours cast a warm glow across the striking landscape.

Your guide will take you back to Leeds Castle for the evening.

Before your guide departs, they will organise a meeting time for the following day with you.

Overnight: Maidstone | Leeds Castle
Room Type: Lakeside Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Saturday 5^th October - Alton

Depart Leeds Castle and meet your guide to journey West towards the South Downs and stop along the way to admire Waverley Abbey, a monastery founded almost 900 years ago. Feel the solitude experienced by the monks while absorbing the tranquil surroundings in a loop of the River Wey.

Shortly, arrive at your accommodation in Alton with the opportunity for some free time to explore this market town with historic buildings, shops and eateries.

Before your guide departs, they will organise a meeting time for the following day with you.

Overnight: Alton | Alton House Hotel
Room Type: Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Sunday 6^th October - A day of Austen

This morning, your guide will meet you and transfer you to Jane Austen’s House for a private exclusive tour of this treasured site. As the birthplace and home of Austen’s six novels, you’ll make your visit extra special with a bespoke out of hours guided tour as an expert to takes you through Jane Austen’s life, house, works and legacy with the opportunity to ask questions and gain inside knowledge.

Later in the afternoon, venture to Chawton House, an Elizabethan manor belonging to Jane Austen’s brother, Edward. Referred to as the ‘Great House’ in Austen’s letters, admire the restored house and relax in the tranquil gardens as the peaceful settings bring this historic literature estate to life.

Before your guide departs, they will organise a meeting time for the following day with you.

Overnight: Alton | Alton House Hotel
Room Type: Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Monday 7^th October - Neolithic Wonders

This morning, set off with your guide into the picturesque landscapes of Wiltshire for a morning filled with ancient wonder. Stop and be taken back in time to the Neolithic marvels of Stonehenge, where colossal stones stand sentinel against the ages. Feel the weight of history in the air as you explore this iconic site, marvelling at the architectural ingenuity of ancient civilizations.

Continue South to arrive at the rugged coastline and cross over onto Burgh Island. Depending on your arrival time, step onto the beloved hydraulic sea tractor (the only one of its kind in the world!) and be transported across the waves to your charming hotel where a marvellous stay awaits. Spend the evening settling into your accommodation by the sea.

Before your guide departs, they will organise a meeting time for the following day with you.

Overnight: Bigbury-on-Sea | Burgh Island
Room Type: Luxe Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Tuesday 8^th October - Greenway House

Meet your guide and visit the nearby Greenway House, a 1950’s Georgian holiday home to Agatha Christie and her families collections. Imagine Agatha and her family making memories together over many summer times and Christmases, this home is filled with items close to the family’s hearts. See inside the impressive Library where a 5,000-strong collection of books awaits with unexpected hidden gems. Stop and appreciate the spectacular views of River Dart from Agatha’s bedroom which contains her treasured mother-of-pearl chest. After your day exploring this dream house, your guide will transport you back to Burgh Island for the evening where you will bid them farewell and enjoy your final day at leisure.

Later this afternoon, say farewell to your guide. 

Overnight: Bigbury-on-Sea | Burgh Island
Room Type: Luxe Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Wednesday 9^th October - Burgh Island - Day at Leisure

Today is yours to explore Burgh Island. this iconic landmark and retreat boasts it’s own unique beauty and stories of eccentricity. Take the opportunity to see the islands enchanting landscape and perhaps wander the tidal beach to spot the flora, fauna and even discover the natural sea water Mermaid Pool. Admire the art Deco interior, regarded as one of the best experienced within Europe. Visit one of Englands oldest taverns and spend the afternoon enjoying local cuisine in this coastal hideaway with inspiring landscapes. Feel the solace of the island and hear the sound of waves crashing as you imagine Agatha Christie be inspired to write her novels as she made Burgh Island her second home.

Overnight: Bigbury-on-Sea | Burgh Island
Room Type: Luxe Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Thursday 10^th October - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the train station to make your onward connections in London. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast