Day 1: We depart Kent and make our way to Cambridgeshire; along the way, we step back in time with a stop in the quintessential English market town of Saffron Walden. Nestled in the rolling hills of northwest Essex, Saffron Walden is known for its rich history, vibrant timber-framed pargetted houses and the rare saffron crocus that gave the town its name. Here you will have free time to explore this historical town centre and take a welcome break at one of the many coffee shops or restaurants. After a relaxing afternoon of discovery, we will continue to our hotel, arriving in plenty of time to relax and freshen up before dinner.
Day 2: This morning we make the short journey to Anglesey Abbey. This stunning estate offers visitors an immersive experience of beauty, history, and nature. The Spring Garden is awash with daffodils and hyacinths, complemented by avenues of June berry and the striking shrimp-pink foliage of horse chestnut trees. Look out for the array of statues – widely acknowledged as one of the finest collections in the country with over 100 sculptures on display throughout the grounds. Our visit also includes entry to Lord Fairhaven’s luxurious country house packed with a unique collection of paintings and objects spanning a 350-year period. In the afternoon we visit Cambridge; with time at leisure to explore, you will be spoilt for choice of what to do and see in this compact riverside city. Wander through the charming streets and see the instantly recognisable King’s College Chapel or relax with a guided punt on the River Cam. Cambridge University’s principal museum, the Fitzwilliam Museum is home to world-class collections of art and antiquities spanning centuries and civilisations. If shopping is your passion Cambridge has it all with some of the finest independent boutiques, a seven day a week market, three shopping centres and all the high street brands you can imagine.
Day 3: Our excursion today takes us to Europe’s largest aviation museum, The Imperial War Museum Duxford; an active airfield and colossal historic site. Occupying a former RAF airfield, every hangar offers a vast and immersive experience of military aviation and engineering, from the early days of flight, through to the dramatic days of the Second World War and 20th century conflict. Preserving the heritage of the airfield you’ll discover iconic aircraft, military vehicles and historic objects as well as uncovering hundreds of personal and emotive stories of the many lives impacted by conflict.
Day 4: After breakfast, we start our journey home and en-route we visit Audley End House and Gardens, one of England’s grandest mansions with spacious grounds and opulent 17th century architecture. Explore its impressive great hall, state apartments and Gothic-style chapel. For many, the most fascinating highlight of the House is the service wing where we discover what life was like for the servants (above and below stairs) at this delightful Victorian country home. There will also be time to stroll around the magnificent gardens designed by Capability Brown. After our visit we continue our journey back home to Kent.