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 home of Penshurst Place and stroll along the pretty Pantiles in Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Italian Garden & House © Penshurst Place
Bluebell Railway © Peter Edwards
Chiddingstone Castle © Beckie Hood Photography
Hever Castle
Itinerary
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Bluebell Railway & Tunbridge Wells
This morning, we enjoy a nostalgic train ride on the iconic Bluebell Railway from the beautiful Sheffield Park to East Grinstead, a trip back into the world of vintage stream travel. In the 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 cafes. Stroll past King Charles the Martyr Church and up through the old high street with its stylish designer shops.
Day 3 Hever Castle OR Chiddingstone Castle
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
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 4 Penshurst Place & Afternoon Tea
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. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea at the house’s Porcupine Pantry Café.
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
Inclusions
- Return train ride on the Bluebell Railway
- Entrance to Hever Castle OR Chiddingstone Castle
- Penshurst Place House & Gardens & afternoon tea
See quote for inclusions
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £405pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £118
