Four of the best expert-led gardening trips to book for horticulturists
For the green-fingered experts, aspirational cultivators and botanically curious, Tripsmiths offers a plethora of gardening trips for nascent horticulturists. Whether you're looking to explore a quintessential English country garden, the iconic blooms of Belgium and Netherlands, or even the wildflowers and botanical gardens of South Africa, there's a trip for you. Read on to find some fantastic inspiration through unique, expert-led gardening trips - making for the perfect itineraries to book and look forward to this year.
Isles of Scilly Wildlife & Gardens with Julian Branscombe

Explore the beautiful Scilly Isles of Tresco, St Agnes, St Martin's and Bryer on this six-day tour. Enjoy a range of scenic walks, guided excursions and wildlife explorations in the company of Julian Branscombe, CEO of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust. The highlight will undoubtedly be a guided visit to Tresco Abbey Gardens, a renowned sub-tropical garden - boasting 20,000 plants from over 80 countries. Other adventures include a wildlife cruise and an organic vineyard tour, as well as a special dinner and talk from Julian.

6 days | Departs April 2024

Tresco Abbey Gardens
Cotswolds Gardens & Cotswold Farm Park with Adam Henson

The Cotswolds' rolling countryside and honey-stone houses provide a bucolic backdrop for the exploration of some of the Cotswold's most idyllic and quintessentially English gardens, including Batsford Arboretum, Sezincote House and Gardens, and Painswick Rococo Garden. There are also trips to two charming properties on the itinerary - Sudeley Castle and Gardens and Chedworth Roman Villa. Travellers are also welcomed onto Cotswold Farm Park by its charismatic owner, Adam Henson, known for his work presenting Countryfile - offering the perfect opportunity to glean insightful knowledge about his land and animals.

5 days | Departs September 2023

Cruise the Netherlands' Waterways with Adam Frost

Discover the Netherlands' beautiful waterways by luxury river ship next Spring and join award-winning gardener Adam Frost, as you witness the country's colourful flower fields. Adam will join you on a visit to the Keukenhof Gardens, where you'll see over 7 million flowers covering 80 acres of colourful land. You'll also see the iconic windmills along the canal banks of Kinderdijk and spend time in Rotterdam and Amsterdam. Watch the landscapes pass you by from the panoramic windows of your ship, the MS Emily Brontë and enjoy the springtime in bloom.

5 Days | Departs April 2024

Flower fields alongside the canal in Amsterdam
Madeira Flower Festival with Frances Tophill

Known as the Floating Garden of the Atlantic, Madeira's lush verdant landscapes and stunning gardens make for a wonderful trip. Join gardening expert Frances Tophill as you visit the iconic Madeira Flower Festival. Not only will Frances join you on excursions, but she'll also host an exclusive Q&A session. While other horticultural highlights include the orchids at Palheiro Gardens, the exquisite colours of the Monte Gardens and the Quinta do Arco Rose Garden.

8 Days | Departs May 2024

Funchal's botanical garden