This exclusive collection of expert-led tours, brought to you by Tripsmiths, offers a unique way to explore the best of Britain. With exclusive experiences, inspirational people and behind-the-scenes access, these trips offer to the chance to explore wonderful destinations and indulge your passions whether they are history, gardens, antiques, sailing or cuisine.
The gardens of the Cotswolds with Christine Walkden
The Cotswolds is home to some of the finest gardens in England and this trip takes in the best of them including Highgrove House, the country home of HRH The Prince of Wales. On this exclusive four-day tour you will not only get the chance to explore the wonderful garden and wildflower meadow that Prince Charles has redeveloped, but you will also be joined by The One Show‘s resident garden expert Christine Walkden. She will be on hand as you visit the quintessentially English Hidcote Manor before giving a private talk, then answering your gardening questions. You will also visit Rodmarton Manor and its eight-acre garden, the Knot Garden at Cerney House and the spectacular Tom Stuart-Smith-designed Broughton Grange. Sezincote’s ‘Hindu’ garden, inspired by Humphry Repton, and Batsford Arboretum.
Four days from £875pp, based on two sharing
Chatsworth and the Peak District’s antiques trail with Paul Martin
The beautiful Peak District is home to some of the UK’s finest country houses as well as one of the largest flea markets in the country. In other words, this is the perfect place to indulge your passion for antiques. On this exclusive four-day tour you’ll not only visit the magnificent Chatsworth House, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, and medieval Haddon Hall, both beautiful stately homes near the village of Bakewell, but you will also meet the brilliant and engaging TV antiques expert Paul Martin. Originally a dealer, Paul will give a private talk from Paul about his life and career and have an opportunity to ask him your own questions. Plus Paul will give you his hints and tips on shopping for antiques and accompany you to Chesterfield famous Flea Market – a great place to spot a bargain of your own.
From £799pp, based on two sharing.
The best of Somerset and Dorset and River Cottage with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall
Ever since River Cottage first came to our screens, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and his beautiful farmhouse have become synonymous with an idyllic self-sufficient life in the South-West. This exclusive five-day tour of Dorset and Somerset not only offers the chance to meet him as he gives a talk and Q&A but also experience life on the famous estate itself as you learn to forage and the art of wood-fired cooking, as well as lunch cooked by the River Cottage team. And this is just the start. You will also explore the six-and-a-half-acre Yeo Valley organic gardens, visit the vineyards of the renowned Furleigh estate, enjoy dinner at world-renowned Hestercombe House, explore the Hauser & Wirth gardens and wander round Lyme Regis. What is more you will stay at the historic Castle Hotel in Taunton (b&b basis) throughout.
Five days from £1399pp, based on two sharing.
Call TS Tours on 020 8131 8975 or see silvertraveladvisor.tripsmiths.com/rivercottagetour
Experience Belmond’s British Pullman and tour Althorp with Earl Spencer
This unique day out in the beautiful Northamptonshire countryside includes two very special experiences exclusively for readers. The first is a glamorous journey, as you will travel to Althorp, one of the UK’s finest stately homes, on one of the world’s most iconic trains. The Belmond British Pullman will transport you back in time to the golden age of travel as you enjoy an extravagant three-course brunch on the way up and a Champagne reception and four-course dinner on your return. Your second special experience will be a personal welcome by Earl Charles Spencer when you arrive at Althorp, which will be closed to the general public. Earl Spencer will give a private talk and let you explore the house and grounds.
From £620pp, based on two sharing.
Call TS Tours on 020 8131 8975 or see silvertraveladvisor.tripsmiths.com/althorpspencer
For more great British breaks, see silvertraveladvisor.tripsmiths.com
