Highlighting the best of three of England’s finest counties, our wonderful five-day tour includes visits to two of the most ornate and opulent stately homes – Lincolnshire’s Burghley House and Norfolk’s Houghton Hall. Based in Cambridgeshire’s city of Peterborough, we’ll also enjoy a relaxing and fragrant visit to Norfolk Lavender.
Burghley House Bow Room
Burghley House
Houghton Hall Credit David Valinsky Photography
Norfolk Lavender
Rutland Belle Water Cruises
Itinerary
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Stamford & Burghley House OR Cruise with Cream Tea
This morning we enjoy free time in Lincolnshire’s bustling and picturesque market town of Stamford, known for its beautiful Georgian architecture, Farmers’ market and variety of independent shops and cafes – perfect for browsing. This afternoon, we have a treat in store, a visit to Burghley House, the grand 16th century country home built by Sir William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I. The ornate architecture is as breath-taking as the interior’s opulent state rooms.
OR
A delightfully relaxing afternoon cruise with Rutland Water Cruises including onboard cream tea. With interesting onboard commentary, guests can enjoy the beautiful reservoir scenery and wildlife on the ‘Rutland Belle’ boat.
Day 3 Norfolk Lavender & Houghton Hall
This morning, we will enjoy a fragrant and relaxing visit to Norfolk Lavender, one of England’s best lavender farms. Set in beautiful gardens with an impressive farm shop selling lavender based products, we can also browse in the gift shop and visit the Lavender Lounge Tearooms. Afterwards, we visit Houghton Hall, the house and gardens of the first British Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole (Earl of Orford) who commissioned the magnificent and elaborate House of today. Boasting opulent and rich décor, the State rooms are a testament to the refined Georgian era with painted ceilings and gilded furniture, designed to impress guests and showcase Walpole’s prized art collection. Highlights include the Great Staircase, Stone Hall, The Saloon, the Embroidered Bed Chamber and the Tapestry Dressing Room. We can explore the restored 5 acre walled garden which combines imaginative planting, charming sculptures and stunning blooms as well as the medieval St Martin’s Church before visiting the Stables Café or browsing in the gift shop.
Day 4 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Hotel
Holiday Inn Peterborough – West
Peterborough, Cambridgeshire
Conveniently situated just 5 minutes’ drive from Peterborough city centre, the Holiday Inn Peterborough offers comfortable accommodation with a swimming pool & gym and is a great base for touring the area. The open lobby bar and restaurant is a perfect place to relax with comfy chairs, TV and a selection of drinks. For a relaxing stay, guest rooms feature tea/ coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, bath amenities and free Wi-Fi.
BarLeisure FacilitiesLiftParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Pricing
Inclusions
- Visit to Burghley House or river cruise with cream tea
- Visit to Norfolk Lavender
- Entrance to house and gardens at Houghton Hall
See quote for hotel inclusions
3 Nights Half Board
Twin from £271pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £54
Based on Friday arrivals
