Discover the best of Kent and Sussex on our inspirational five-day tour of the counties’ most famous towns, stately homes and gardens set against the backdrop of the breath-taking Weald of Kent. Explore hundreds of years of history as you visit the magnificent stately homes of Penshurst Place and Knole House, and stroll along the pretty Pantiles in Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Hever Castle
Bluebell Railway Credit Peter Edwards
Chiddingstone Castle
Emmetts Garden © National Trust Images David Sellman www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Hever Castle Credit Peter Smith
The Flag Garden Mound © Penshurst Place
Itinerary
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Bluebell Railway & Hever Castle
This morning, we enjoy a nostalgic train ride on the iconic Bluebell Railway from Sheffield Park to East Grinstead. In the afternoon, we visit the famous Hever Castle set in 125 acres of glorious grounds, once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. With over 600 years of history to discover at the picturesque 14th century castle and award-winning gardens to explore, our visit will be a memorable one!
OR
Chiddingstone Castle
Visit Chiddingstone Castle, again set in beautiful rolling Kentish countryside, this historic home features international collections of artefacts as well as beautiful and grand rooms including the Great Hall, White Rose Room, Victorian Kitchen & Library. In the grounds, visit the Grade II listed Victorian Orangery, enchanting woodland walks, fish lake and all with stunning views.
Day 3 Penshurst Place & Royal Tunbridge Wells
This morning, we visit Penshurst Place set in the picturesque rolling Kentish countryside. Enjoy the guided tour of the authentic stately house and gardens dating back to the 14th century and once used as a hunting lodge for King Henry VIII. Home of the Sidney family since 1552, the opulent staterooms of The Solar, Queen Elizabeth Room and Long Gallery display family portraits, antique furniture and spectacular tapestries. This afternoon, we have free time to explore Royal Tunbridge Wells and the historic Pantiles, home of the famous landmark of the Chalybeate Spring. Stroll along the stylish Colonnade and browse the range of stylish shops and cafés. Stroll past King Charles the Martyr Church and up through the old high street with its stylish designer shops.
Day 4 Emmetts Garden & Knole House
This morning, we head to another Kentish gem, the Edwardian hillside Emmetts Garden situated at one of the highest points in the Weald of Kent with amazing surrounding views. We have time to explore the range of different styled planting including the rose and rock gardens with plants from around the world. This afternoon, we visit one of the National Trust’s most impressive historic houses, Knole House. The 600-year-old estate was once an Archbishop’s palace, royal residence and currently the Sackville family home. This magnificent stately home is set amidst a 1000-acre deer park. As we stroll around the house see the textiles, paintings and incredible collection of royal Stuart furniture.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Hotel
Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel
Tunbridge Wells
A great base for touring, Mercure Tunbridge Wells is situated on the edge of the most picturesque and historic towns in Kent. Each of the 84 bedrooms are well equipped with hairdryer, TV and tea/coffee making facilities. The hotel does not have a lift, but plenty of ground floor rooms are available. Enjoy dinner in the atmospheric Mallows Restaurant and relax with an after-dinner drink in the Oast Bar.
BarGround Floor RoomsParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Pricing
Mercure Tunbridge Wells
Tunbridge Wells, Kent
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £412pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £118
Inclusions
• Return train ride on the Bluebell Railway
• Entrance to Hever Castle or Chiddingstone Castle
• Guided tour of Penshurst House & Gardens
• Entrance to Emmetts Garden
• Entrance to Knole House
Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.
