The Heart of Britain: A Journey of Tradition, History and Beauty

Day 1 - Welcome to England

Landing in London, you’re greeted by the city’s vibrant energy and the steady hum of activity, where the pace is lively and cosmopolitan. From there, meet your private transfer and board a train south to Devon, a picturesque escape as the urban sprawl fades into the idyllic English countryside. The journey takes you through a patchwork of emerald fields, historic market towns, and glimpses of the coast before arriving in Devon, where the scenery turns especially enchanting.

You’ll meet your local guide and venture into the heart of Dartmoor National Park, where rolling valleys and rugged tors shape the landscape. Nestled among this wild, captivating beauty, your accommodation provides a perfect blend of rustic charm and comfort, immersing you in the tranquil rhythms of Devon.

Day 2 - Exploring Dartmoor Delights

A day in Chagford, a charming Dartmoor town, unfolds with a leisurely stroll through its narrow, historic streets lined with traditional shops, inviting cafés, and the vibrant bustle of a local market. The community’s warmth is palpable, making it easy to feel at home among its granite cottages and lush countryside. Just outside town, Stone Lane Gardens offers a serene escape, with its enchanting arboretum filled with birch and alder trees, intertwined with whimsical sculptures that create a sense of magic and wonder.

Continuing your exploration, a visit to Castle Drogo completes the day. An imposing granite fortress perched dramatically above the River Teign, where you can wander the beautifully manicured gardens and soak in sweeping views over Dartmoor. The combination of Chagford’s welcoming atmosphere, Stone Lane Gardens’ artistic tranquility, and Castle Drogo’s grandeur offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and art.

Day 3 - Topsham and Rural Pursuits

This morning, visit Topsham to experience a delightful blend of riverside charm and vibrant history, where you can wander along narrow streets lined with colourful Dutch-style houses and quaint boutiques. Stroll along the River Exe, watching sailboats drift by and enjoying the fresh coastal air.

Spend the afternoon enjoying Bovey Castle with an unforgettable taste of countryside adventure. Perhaps try clay pigeon shooting, falconry, or beekeeping. Picture the thrill of shooting clay targets as they soar across the sky, the echo of each shot ringing through Dartmoor’s stunning landscape. Or, experience the awe of falconry, feeling the rush as a majestic hawk lands on your gloved hand under the guidance of an expert falconer. For a more serene experience, beekeeping allows you to suit up and observe buzzing hives, learning about honey production and the vital role of bees. Each activity, set against Bovey Castle’s elegant backdrop, perfectly blends adventure and nature.

Day 4 - Journey to Cornwall

The journey into Cornwall begins with a refreshing morning stroll on Dartmoor, where the early mist lingers over vast, rugged moorland and wild ponies graze freely among the heather. The crisp air and sweeping views of rolling hills and rocky tors provide a sense of serenity and adventure, a perfect start before traveling southwest. As the landscape transforms, winding roads lead past quaint villages and along the scenic Atlantic coast, with glimpses of golden beaches and crashing waves.

Arriving in Newquay, you’re welcomed by the grandeur of the Headland Hotel, an iconic clifftop retreat overlooking the dramatic surf of Fistral Beach. The ocean breeze carries the scent of salt air, and the views from the hotel promise the perfect Cornish escape, blending seaside luxury with the raw beauty of the coastline.

Day 5 - Gardens of Cornwall

A morning at the Eden Project begins with an exclusive guided tour through one of its stunning biomes, either the Mediterranean or the Rainforest. In the Mediterranean biome, you’ll step into a sun-drenched world of vibrant plants, from olive trees to fragrant lavender, as your guide shares fascinating insights into the region’s unique ecosystem. Alternatively, the Rainforest biome envelops you in the lush, humid atmosphere of tropical jungles, where you’ll discover towering trees, exotic flowers, and vibrant wildlife.

This afternoon, wander through the lush, enchanting Gardens of Heligan, where you’re greeted by towering tree ferns and the scent of wildflowers drifting on a gentle breeze. Hidden sculptures like the Mud Maid emerge from the earth, adding a touch of magic to the winding paths and secluded glades. Vibrant blooms and tranquil ponds invite moments of stillness, while secret gardens and unexpected views inspire a sense of childlike wonder.

Day 6 - St Michael's Mount and the Southern Coastline

This morning, set out with your guide to explore St. Michael’s Mount, beginning with the magical crossing. At low tide, you’ll walk the granite causeway from Marazion to this iconic tidal island, where your guide brings history to life, recounting tales of medieval monks and legendary seafarers. Climb to the 12th-century castle perched atop the crag, marvel at sweeping views of Mount’s Bay and wander lush subtropical gardens bursting with exotic plants.

After returning to the mainland, embark on a scenic coastal walk, following rugged cliff paths toward the breathtaking Minack Theater, a spectacular open-air amphitheater carved into the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. Absorb the theater’s dramatic setting and finally descend to the golden sands of Porthcurno Beach, where turquoise waves lap gently against the shore, creating an idyllic spot to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Day 7 - Padstow

A morning in Padstow starts with a visit to the fascinating National Lobster Hatchery, where you’ll learn about conservation efforts and see tiny lobsters being raised to help protect marine life. Inspired by this glimpse into the underwater world, set off on an exhilarating boat trip from the bustling harbor, skimming across the sparkling waters of the Camel Estuary and out to sea. With a keen eye, watch for seals basking on rocky outcrops, playful dolphins riding the waves, and seabirds wheeling overhead, while your guide provides insights into the local wildlife.

This afternoon, bid farewell to your guide in Cornwall as you take a moment to soak in the last views of the rugged coast and windswept moors, feeling a pang of nostalgia for the wild beauty and warm hospitality of the southwest. Board the train for a picturesque journey north to Bath. Upon reaching Bath, the grandeur of Georgian architecture welcomes you, as you head to your hotel to check in and settle down. Eager to explore, you soon make your way to No. 1 Royal Crescent, where a guided curator tour awaits. Stepping into this exquisitely restored townhouse, you’re transported to the splendour of 18th-century Bath, as the curator vividly describes the lives and luxuries of its former residents, bringing the past to life with every elegant detail.

Day 8 - Exploring Roman Bath

Meeting your expert local guide in the heart of Bath, you’re immediately drawn in by their passion for the city’s layered history. The day begins with an immersive exploration of the Roman Baths, where your guide expertly leads you through the steam-filled, ancient complex, recounting tales of Roman rituals and the significance of the sacred waters. Marvel at the well-preserved Great Bath, the original stone pavements, and the flickering torches casting shadows over the thermal springs, while your guide breathes life into the past, describing the bustling social hub this site once was.

From there, stroll through the bustling streets to Bath Abbey, its magnificent Gothic spires rising into the sky. Your private tour reveals hidden stories behind the stunning stained glass windows and the intricate fan-vaulted ceiling, as your guide highlights the Abbey’s 1,300 years of history, from its origins as a Saxon monastery to its role in coronation ceremonies. Standing in this breathtaking space, you feel a profound sense of connection to centuries of devotion and architectural splendour.

Day 9 - Travel to the Lake District

Departing from the historic city of Bath, take a train journey to the Lake District that sweeps you through England’s changing landscapes—from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the rugged, dramatic vistas of the North. As the train pulls in to your stop, a fresh breeze scented with pine and distant rain greets you, and your friendly local guide awaits, brimming with knowledge and warm recommendations. Together, travel through winding country roads lined with drystone walls, passing sparkling lakes and lush, green fells, until you arrive at your elegant hotel. Nestled on the shores of Windermere, the hotel invites you to unwind with its breathtaking lake views, where you settle in for the evening, feeling the peaceful magic of the Lake District begin to embrace you.

Day 10 - Grasmere and Ambleside Delights

Begin your day with an exclusive tour of William Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, where you will delve into the life and works of the renowned poet. Enjoy access to the private collection, with a storytelling session that brings Wordsworth’s history vividly to life. This immersive experience is enhanced by a tasting of historic foods paired with drinks, offering a culinary journey through the period’s flavors with insights into the cottage’s storied past.

Following this enriching visit, explore the charming village of Grasmere, where you can taste the famous Grasmere gingerbread, a unique local delicacy that has delighted visitors for generations. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Ambleside, soaking in the picturesque scenery and vibrant atmosphere of this beloved Lake District town.

Day 11 - Hadrian's Wall and Stone Circle's

A day exploring Hadrian’s Wall is a journey through time and stunning landscapes. Start with Vindolanda and wander through this remarkable Roman fort and settlement, where ongoing archaeological digs continue to unearth treasures from nearly two millennia ago. Your imagination comes alive as you explore the ancient stone foundations of barracks, granaries, and bathhouses and marvel at the preserved artefacts on display, such as Roman shoes, writing tablets, and even remnants of armour, which give a vivid sense of daily life on the northern frontier of the Roman Empire.

From there, you back South to reach the Castlerigg Stone Circle, one of the earliest to be found in Britain, set on a grassy plateau with sweeping views of the surrounding fells. As you walk among the ancient stones, some standing as tall as humans, feel the powerful connection to the Neolithic past. The panorama of Skiddaw and Blencathra in the distance adds a majestic backdrop, and the stillness of this mystical site evokes a sense of awe, as if the secrets of the ages are just beyond reach, captured in the whisper of the wind through the hills.

Day 12 - Lake Windermere

This morning, take a private yacht charter on Lake Windermere, where the serene waters and stunning landscapes create an unforgettable experience. As you board your elegant vessel, you’ll be greeted by a knowledgeable captain ready to guide you through the largest natural lake in England. Cruise along the crystal-clear waters, marveling at the rolling hills, lush woodlands, and charming lakeside villages that dot the shoreline. Admire the panoramic views of the Lake District’s majestic fells and hidden coves allowing for quiet contemplation along the way, while your captain shares fascinating stories and historical insights about the area, enhancing this breathtaking region.

Enjoy an afternoon at your own pace.

Day 13 - DepartA private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.