Castles, Gardens & Heritage of Kent - Mon 24th May 2021

Kent, The Garden of England, is a superb holiday destination with beautiful countryside and a wealth of Castles, Country Houses and fine gardens to enjoy. Always one of our most popular tours of the year, so come along and enjoy exploring England’s oldest county’s history and landscape. This is a holiday for those who have a  healthy interest in our great history and enjoy the benefits of a quality hotel. The itinerary is fairly busy and due to the nature of some of the destinations, may not be suitable for all.

All entrance fees are included – discount for National Trust Members - £20 off!!

DAY 1
Collected from your home around 8.00am we have an extended lunch stop in the charming town of Guildford. Lovely historic centre with plenty of eateries and riverside walks along the River Wey. Arriving mid afternoon with plenty of time to enjoy the grounds of the  hotel before dinner.

DAY 2
In the morning we head into the Kent countryside for Sissinghurst Castle Garden - one of the most celebrated gardens in the country if not the world. Climb the 78 steps to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the estate. After lunch here, we make the short journey to another Kent gem, Penshurst Place & Gardens. One of the best-preserved fortified manor houses in England, Penshurst has a stunning mix of paintings, tapestries and furniture but perhaps its best feature are the gardens. From the 11 acres of Elizabethan walled gardens to the beautiful displays divided by a mile of yew hedges , each garden gives a spectacular display for every season

DAY 3 
After breakfast we head for Canterbury. This historic destination is dominated by the magnificent Cathedral, the oldest in England, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which has played such an important part in world history as the base for the Anglican Church. But there is much more to Canterbury, with other ancient ruins such as the Castle and a lovely cobbled centre to explore on foot. Returning to the hotel late afternoon.

DAY 4
Leeds Castle in Kent, England, has been called the “loveliest castle in the world”. Listed in the Domesday Book, this castle has been a Norman stronghold, a royal residence and a royal palace. Set on two islands in a magnificent lake, Leeds Castle is one of the most iconic views of British history.  During its lifetime, the castle has been home to six medieval queens and Elizabeth I was imprisoned here for a time before her coronation. Enjoy a full day visit so time to also explore the 500 acres of landscaped parkland and beautiful gardens.

DAY 5
We head home with a stop for lunch in historic Chichester. Arriving back in the local area around 3/4.00pm - returned to your home by our service.

Meal plan - Dinner Bed & Breakfast

4* Tudor Park Marriott

Surrounded by 200 acres of ancestral parkland this highly rated 4* hotel has a lovely rural aspect - great to return to after a day spent exploring the attractions of Kent. The hotel has excellent leisure facilities - with a renowned 18 hole golf course, a lovely indoor pool and extensive gym. There are lovely areas where you can relax with both the lounge and bar enjoying a homely atmosphere - step out on to the terrace for lovely views over the golf course. Enjoy your meals in the stylish restaurant with a full English Breakfast buffet and 3 course evening meal with choice of menu and tea or coffee. All 120 bedrooms are comfortably furnished en-suite bathrooms, TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Lift.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED HOTEL