Best expert-led trips in the UK for 2024
Explore London's finest Royal Palaces on this illuminating four-day tour with Tudor historian, Dr Tracy Borman. Enjoy guided tours of Westminster Abbey, the Queen's State Apartments and King's Apartments Rooms at Kensington Palace, a tour of the Tower of London and a private tour of Windsor Castle. A highlight of the trip is a tour of Hampton Court Palace - where you'll meet Dr Tracy, who'll give an exclusive talk.
This one's for horticulturists and fans of English country gardens, as there are no fewer than seven visits on this four-day trip. The highlight of the tour will be a day in the company of Sarah Raven, as you visit her garden in Perch Hill, East Sussex and listen to an exclusive talk about the 25-year transformation from a dairy farm into 90 acres dedicated to flowers and colourful gardens. You'll aldo have a private tour accompanied by the gardeners and enjoy a two-course lunch. Other botanical highlights include the gardens at Sissinghurst, Lullingstone Castle and Scotney Castle.
One for slow-paced travel advocates and history-buffs alike, you will enjoy journeying through Norfolk's glorious scenery, famed for its wide skies, serene rivers and gorgeous coastline, it's no wonder the Royal Family head here to unwind. You'll be joined by acclaimed historian Lucy Worsley, who will give a fascinating talk about 'Sandringham and the Modern Monarchy' before joining you on a visit to the Royal Family's country retreat, and there's also plenty of time to enjoy all Norfolk has to offer.
5 days - departing April 2025 and September 2025
Known for their sub-tropical climate, wonderful wildlife and impressive landscapes, this six-day tour is the perfect introduction to the beauty of the Scilly Isles. Head of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, Julian Branscombe, will give a talk to explain the trust's work and share more about the Isles' native flora and fauna. But the real highlight will be a visit to Tresco Abbey Gardens - often referred to as "Kew without the glass". You'll explore four islands: St Mary's, Tresco, St Agnes and St Martin's.
Explore the idyllic Cotswolds, famous for its honey-coloured stone building, rolling hills and cosy pubs. A highlight is an exclusive visit to Cotswolds Farm Park, where owner Adam Henson will give a private Q&A on conservation and sustainable farming, followed by a special lunch and farm tour. During the trip you will also visit the pretty village of Broadway, Chedworth Roman Villa, Painswick Rococo Gardens and Sudeley Castle.
