This package includes visits in Leicestershire, Rutland and Lincolnshire where we venture around the historic estate at Belton House and the beautiful Barnsdale Gardens. Discover the fascinating remains of King Richard III, relax with a cream tea cruise on the beautiful Rutland Water and why not top it off with a pie & cheese in Melton Mowbray!
Mediterranean Garden at Barnsdale Gardens
Belton House
King Richard III Visitor Centre Throne Room
Rutland Belle Water Cruises
Oakham
Itinerary
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Belton Estate or Belvoir Castle
Visit the impressive Belton Estate. We embark on a self-guided tour of the house, discovering the story of the Brownlow family as we explore their home, and can head outside and stroll the estate with its fabulous gardens which include an orangery and Italian garden. Watch out for the wild deer as there are over 300 fallow deer in residence!
OR
Visit Belvoir Castle, used as ‘Windsor Castle’ in series 3 of the hugely successful Netflix series, The Crown. We embark on a guided tour of the castle and learn about the rare treasures and impressive painting collection as we walk in the footsteps of past Dukes and Duchesses. We have time to explore the choice of gardens including the Rose Garden, Japanese Woodland, Hermits Garden and Dukes Walk to mention but a few.
Day 3 King Richard III Visitor Centre & Melton Mowbray
This morning, we head straight to the King Richard III Visitor Centre which charts the story of the King’s life and death. Here we learn about one of the greatest archeological detective stories ever told, as we fast forward over 500 years to a car park in Leicester where the long-lost remains of King Richard III are discovered and verified, ending many years of speculation! We also visit the Guildhall, the oldest building still in use in the city. This afternoon, with lunch at leisure, we have free time in the historic market town of Melton Mowbray. Famous for its pork pie and specialty cheeses, we have time to be tempted by some tasty treats.
Please note: The Barn Hotel recommends the King Richard III Visitor Centre as the first visit of the day followed by at leisure with lunch in Melton Mowbray.
Day 4 Barnsdale Gardens, Oakham & Rutland Water
After breakfast, we visit beautiful Barnsdale Gardens, created by one of Britain’s best loved gardeners and star of Gardener’s World, the late Geoff Hamilton. We then travel on to the pretty, traditional market town of Oakham; look out for the unusual stocks that were used to detain criminals by the legs – the five-hole stocks are somewhat of a mystery! We end the day in style with a relaxing cruise on Rutland Water on the Rutland Belle and are treated to a cream tea!
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Hotel
The Barn Hotel & Spa
Grantham, Lincolnshire
The 3-star Barn Hotel & Spa is an excellent group-friendly hotel set in the picturesque, tranquil Lincolnshire countryside, perfect for touring the area. Comfortably furnished public areas include the atmospheric Barn Restaurant and a traditional bar with rustic charm. All 102 bedrooms feature toiletries, hairdryer, TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Most are accessible by lift although ground floor rooms are also available. A contemporary lounge with original features including vaulted ceiling is a great place to relax after a busy day. The hotel’s health club features a heated 15-metre indoor swimming pool, a sauna, a steam room and Jacuzzi.
BarLeisure FacilitiesLiftParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Holiday Inn Leicester
Leicestershire
Conveniently located in the centre of Leicester and recently benefited from a refurbishment in the public areas, the Holiday Inn Leicester is a short walk into the city centre and its attractions. All 194 bedrooms are to a good standard and spacious with twin bedrooms consisting of 2 double beds, and include TV, hairdryer, tea/coffee making facilities and free Wi-Fi. All meals are served in the lovely large garden-style restaurant, with choice of tables and more private booths and is easily reached from the bar and reception, as the hotel offers an open plan style for the public areas, so there are many different areas of seating to relax in.
BarLiftParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Pricing
Inclusions
- Entrance to Belton Estate OR Belvoir Castle
• Entrance to King Richard III Visitor Centre & Guildhall
• Entrance to Barnsdale Gardens
• Rutland Water cream tea cruise
See quote for hotel inclusions
The Barn Hotel & Spa
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £426pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £134
Based on Sunday arrivals
Holiday Inn Leicester
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £375pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £152
