Britain’s Heritage: Aviation Pioneers, Codebreakers & Country Estates 2026
Waddesdon Manor © National Trust Images Hugh Mothersole www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Shuttleworth Collection
Wrest Park
Join us on a tour to learn more about Britain’s early aviation pioneers combined with visits to some of the country’s best preserved historic country estates, all topped off with a relaxing river cruise.
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Shuttleworth Collection and Boat Cruise
This morning, we travel to the Shuttleworth Collection for a guided tour including tea/coffee. A treasure trove of early 20th century aircraft, learn about the bravery of the pilots who flew these planes. Next, we enjoy a 2-hour round trip river boat cruise aboard the John Bunyan Community Boat with a delicious cream tea box included.
Day 3 Waddesdon Manor
Today we visit Waddesdon Manor, the impressive French-Renaissance-style château built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the 1800s to house his fine art collection with stunning views of Oxfordshire and the Chiltern Hills.
Day 4 Wrest Park
We spend today visiting Wrest Park, a magnificent 18th-century mansion surrounded by 90 acres of magical gardens. A highlight includes a baroque Archer Pavilion.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
HOW ABOUT?
Why not an afternoon tea in the grand setting of Waddesdon Manor’s historic Manor Restaurant, once the bustling kitchen & servants’ hall with many original fixtures.
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Shuttleworth Collection and Boat Cruise
This morning, we travel to the Shuttleworth Collection for a guided tour including tea/coffee. A treasure trove of early 20th century aircraft, learn about the bravery of the pilots who flew these planes. Next, we enjoy a 2-hour round trip river boat cruise aboard the John Bunyan Community Boat with a delicious cream tea box included.
Day 3 Waddesdon Manor
Today we visit Waddesdon Manor, the impressive French-Renaissance-style château built by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the 1800s to house his fine art collection with stunning views of Oxfordshire and the Chiltern Hills.
Day 4 Wrest Park
We spend today visiting Wrest Park, a magnificent 18th-century mansion surrounded by 90 acres of magical gardens. A highlight includes a baroque Archer Pavilion.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
HOW ABOUT?
Why not an afternoon tea in the grand setting of Waddesdon Manor’s historic Manor Restaurant, once the bustling kitchen & servants’ hall with many original fixtures.
Mercure Bedford Centre Hotel
Bedford, Bedfordshire
Overlooking the River Great Ouse in the heart of Bedford, this 4-star hotel offers modern and comfortable accommodation. Its 121 stylish rooms are decorated in bold colours with sleek furnishings and are each equipped with hairdryer, TV and tea/coffee making facilities. The Riverside Restaurant serves both local and international fare using the finest locally sourced produce alongside beautiful river views. The Riverside Bar offers a wide choice of drinks.
Mercure Bedford Centre Hotel
Bedford, Bedfordshire
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £409pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £117
Based on Monday arrivals
Inclusions
• Shuttleworth Collection entrance & guided tour
• 2 hour river boat cruise with cream tea box
• Entrance to Waddesdon Manor & gardens
• Entrance to Wrest Park
Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.
Call to tailor this tour 01732 879191
Click to get a quote
Request a call back
