Day 1: We arrive at the lovely Duke of Cornwall Hotel in Plymouth in time for dinner.
Day 2: Spend a full day discovering the beautiful waterfront city of Plymouth from its vibrant centre to the historic Barbican, Sutton Port and centuries’ old seafaring heritage. We will enjoy a one-hour harbour cruise setting sail across the Plymouth Sound, flanked by the beautiful Devon and Cornish coasts. Passing Plymouth Hoe and the famous Drakes Island, enjoy spectacular views of Mount Edgcumbe and Royal William Yard before heading for the river Tamar, pulling into one of the largest Naval Dockyards in Western Europe – where mighty warships and submarines await. Our day also includes a visit to the fascinating Mayflower Museum. Travelling over three floors explore the history, encounters and legacy charting the Pilgrims’ voyage aboard the Mayflower to the New World. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy some of the many attractions of this delightful coastal city.
Day 3: This morning, enjoy a relaxing train ride through the picturesque Tamar Valley from Plymouth to Gunnislake, passing through rolling countryside, sleepy villages and tranquil river crossings. The undisputed highlight of the journey is the breathtaking Calstock Viaduct with views of the valley and the river 120 feet below. On arrival in Gunnislake we travel by coach to the vibrant market town of Tavistock, situated on the edge of Dartmoor National park where legend has it the very first cream tea was served. The town has a wide range of craft shops, art galleries and museums and of course plenty of cafes so sample a delicious cream or afternoon tea. After our visit we return to our hotel enjoying a scenic drive through the wild open moorlands and diverse landscapes of Dartmoor National Park.
Day 4: We start the day with a morning visit to the picturesque fishing harbour of Looe. With wide golden sands and secret coves, the coastal town is famous for its natural beauty, pretty harbour front and cobbled streets lined with unique shops and cafes. Travelling further south this afternoon, we will head to Falmouth. There will be free time to explore this delightful town with its many beauty spots from the harbour to its beaches. There’s also a great array of attractions including the Maritime Museum, Falmouth Art Gallery, the impressive Pendennis Castle and Gyllyngdune Gardens. Later this afternoon we check-in at the stunning Royal Duchy Hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner this evening.
Day 5: With an early morning departure, we travel to Penzance to board the Scillonian Ferry to St Mary’s, the largest of the Isles of Scilly. Enjoying a unique climate, warmed by the Gulf Stream we have free time to explore the island’s distinctive landscape of subtropical plants, white sandy beaches overlooking beautiful turquoise seas and unique towns. Hugh Town is the main hub with shops, churches, cafes, galleries, restaurants and pubs. The Town Beach is the perfect spot to sit and watch life on the Quay before we return to Penzance via the ferry and back to our hotel.
(Please note that this day may require an early departure and /or a late return to the hotel depending upon ferry timetable).
Day 6: After a leisurely morning at our hotel we begin our journey deep into the heart of the Cornish Countryside to Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm. Mixing apples and imagination for nearly 40 years, this working farm is the home of Rattler Cyder. Enjoy a self-guided visit and discover the impressive Production Halls, the apple pressing facilities in Kay's Cyderhouse, The Healey Car Museum with its treasured collection of Austin Healey’s, the Cyder Museum and, of course, Healey’s Tasting Room, where you can choose to sample over 60 different products including, cyder, wine, spirits and juice. After our visit we continue our journey to Barnstaple, the largest town in North Devon, idyllically located on the River Taw. We have time to enjoy its points of interest, including the historic Pannier Market with Its wide range of stalls offering everything from local produce, flowers and crafts, to fashion, antiques and freshly baked treats. Later today we check-in for our two-night stay at the Barnstaple Hotel
Day 7: This morning, we spend time at leisure in the twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth, a picturesque coastal destination with stunning natural beauty and Victorian charm. The villages are connected by the impressive Lynton and Lynmouth cliff railway. Offering breathtaking coastal views, the railway is the highest and steepest totally water powered railway in the world and you may wish to travel the 500ft up and down on this unique Victorian water powered funicular. There will be time to explore the pretty villages with their relaxed way of life, quaint cafes and independent shops selling gifts, arts and crafts. In the afternoon, we visit Ilfracombe a well-known tourist destination blending dramatic scenery, award winning beaches and a vibrant arts scene. There will be free time to relax on the seafront, explore the attractions or take in the sights at the delightful natural harbour.
Day 8: After breakfast, we make our way home.