Tan Family - UK Road Trip
Saturday 2nd November – Monday 11th November 2024
Saturday 2nd November – Monday 11th November 2024
Upon touch down at London Heathrow, the excitement of a family road trip begins as you navigate through the bustling airport, collect your hire vehicles, and head out onto the open road. The drive to Oxfordshire is smooth, transitioning from city energy to the serene English countryside. Rolling green fields and quaint villages line the route, creating a sense of adventure and escape.
Upon arriving at Estelle Manor, you’re greeted by the tranquility of your exclusive cottage, nestled amid lush grounds. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing together, soaking in the peaceful ambiance, ready to begin your countryside getaway.
Overnight: Oxfordshire | Estelle Manor
Room Type: Bluebell House
Meals Included: None
Today at Estelle Manor offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Perhaps start with a stroll through the picturesque grounds, where manicured gardens meet ancient woodlands. Explore the thrill of archery or air rifle shooting, testing your aim and sharing plenty of laughs with the family. Choose to immerse yourselves in a falconry experience, coming face-to-face with majestic owls, hawks, and falcons, even getting the chance to handle and fly these incredible birds. As the children delight in the gaming den, with its fun-filled activities and games designed just for them, the day winds down. This evening everyone gathers for a delightful family dinner in one of the manor’s elegant restaurants, savouring delicious dishes and sharing stories of the day’s adventures.
Overnight: Oxfordshire | Estelle Manor
Room Type: Bluebell House
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leaving Estelle Manor behind, the road trip continues northward, weaving through the evolving English countryside. The rolling hills of Oxfordshire give way to the rugged, more dramatic landscapes as you head toward the Lake District, with the gentle farmlands gradually transforming into steep hills, craggy peaks, and winding stone walls. Along the way, make a stop at a charming, traditional pub nestled in a sleepy village, where a cosy fireplace and hearty lunch offer a warm respite.
After, resume the journey, with the scenery growing even more stunning as you approach the Lake District’s famous lakes and fells. Arrive at your luxurious retreat—a Grade II listed Georgian mansion house set on the tranquil shores of Lake Windermere. The serene lake views and elegant setting provide a perfect welcome as you settle in for the next chapter of your adventure.
Overnight: Windermere | Storrs Hall
Room Type: 1x Interconnecting Room (King with sofa bed & Twin) & 2x Lake View Doubles
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, meet your knowledgeable local guide who’ll lead the way for your day around Windermere. Begins with a deep dive into the stunning natural beauty and history of the area as the guide shares stories of the Lake District’s heritage, taking you along hidden paths and scenic viewpoints that reveal the breathtaking expanse of the surrounding fells. Explore quaint villages and visit serene spots famous for their family history. Stop in the village of Grasmere to taste the iconic Victorian Gingerbread and explore the quaint streets. As the day unfolds, the connection to this beautiful region deepens, leaving you with a sense of having experienced the heart of the Lake District.
Overnight: Windermere | Storrs Hall
Room Type: 1x Interconnecting Room (King with sofa bed & Twin) & 2x Lake View Doubles
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departing from the Lake District, the road trip continues across the border into Scotland, with the scenery shifting to rugged moorlands, rolling hills, and distant mountains. En route, make a stop at Stirling Castle offering a captivating blend of history and adventure. Explore the grand halls and battlements, learning about Scotland’s storied past while soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
After this enriching stop, the journey continues through Scotland’s lush landscapes, eventually leading to your traditional country house retreat. Nestled amid sweeping grounds, the retreat exudes charm with home from home feel, fireplaces roaring and warm Scottish hospitality. As the evening settles in, unwind in this cosy setting, ready to enjoy a relaxing night after a day of travel and discovery.
Overnight: Blairgowrie | Kinloch House Hotel
Room Type: 1x Standard Room, 3x Superior Rooms, 1x Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your morning begins with excitement as you meet your local guide for a day of adventure. Set out on a Highland safari, led by your own private kilted ranger, whose deep knowledge of the area and its wildlife adds a special touch to the adventure. With binoculars and a telescope in hand, traverse rugged tracks, climbing higher into the remote hills where the views stretch across misty glens and heather-covered moors. The crisp air is filled with anticipation as you scan the landscape for red deer, golden eagles, and elusive mountain hares. Pausing at a scenic spot, warm up with a hot beverage while savouring the tranquility of the wild surroundings. It’s an unforgettable encounter with the raw beauty of Scotland.
As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow over the Highlands, smell the scent of fresh herbs and wood-fired food as it mingles with the crisp air. Enjoy a local farm to table meal together, the peaceful sounds of chirping birds and distant sheep complete the idyllic scene.
Overnight: Blairgowrie | Kinloch House Hotel
Room Type: 1x Standard Room, 3x Superior Rooms, 1x Junior Suite
This morning is a delicious journey through the Highlands, starting with a visit to Drumturk, home to award-winning artisan cheeses crafted from the rich milk of Pure Swiss Toggenburg goats. Wander through the farm, learning about the cheesemaking process from the care of the goats to the careful aging of each wheel, before sampling a range of creamy, tangy cheeses that reflect the unique character of the region.
Afterwards, continue to a nearby chocolatier for a chocolate-tasting masterclass, where the air is filled with the sweet scent of cocoa. Guided by a local expert, discover the art of tempering, molding, and, of course, savouring chocolates, tasting everything from rich truffles to Highland-inspired flavours. After a day 0f culinary indulgence, head back to your home from home.
Overnight: Blairgowrie | Kinloch House Hotel
Room Type: 1x Standard Room, 3x Superior Rooms, 1x Junior Suite
Board the train in Scotland for the journey back south to London, settle into your comfortable seat and watch as the landscapes change from Scotland’s rolling hills and misty lochs to the gentle farmlands of northern England, eventually giving way to bustling towns and city skyline.
Upon arriving at the station in London, your private transfer awaits, ready to whisk you through the city’s vibrant streets. Check into your luxury hotel in the heart of London, where plush surroundings and city views welcome you back to urban life. Choose to spend the rest of today exploring the city at your own pace or take the time to relax at the hotel.
Overnight: London | Mandarin Oriental - Hyde Park
Room Type: 3x Interconnecting Rooms (Suite, Junior Suite & King Room for up to 9 guests) & 1x Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend today with a local guide offering an immersive journey through the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks. Begin at the Tower of London, where your guide shares fascinating stories of this ancient fortress, from its time as a royal palace to its darker days as a prison. Walking along the medieval walls, you glimpse the glittering Crown Jewels and hear tales of famous figures who shaped England’s history.
Afterwards, enter Westminster Abbey where your guide reveals the secrets of this Gothic masterpiece, from the intricate stonework to the famous tombs of monarchs and poets. Perhaps take a wander along the Thames, pass the grandeur of Big Ben, and take in the city’s vibrant energy, making each step a blend of past and present. The guide’s insights bring London’s history to life, making this a day of discovery you won’t soon forget.
Overnight: London | Mandarin Oriental - Hyde Park
Room Type: 3x Interconnecting Rooms (Suite, Junior Suite & King Room for up to 9 guests) & 1x Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, bid farewell to the capital as a private transfer awaits to whisk you to Heathrow for your flight home. Taking with you memories of your UK road trip adventure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pricing:
The NET price for this itinerary, based on 10 clients on a double/twin-share basis, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:
£7,310 GBP per person
Conservation Contribution
This voluntary donation of £12 per person goes towards conservation projects in the locations we operate. If you would like to opt out just let your trip designer know.
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Please see our booking terms here.