6-Night Gardens and Castles of Southeast England

Day 2

Accommodation

Designer Central Hotel - Canterbury, South East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.

Daily Itinerary

Lively London - Legendary Chartwell House and Sissinghurst - Fabled Canterbury

After breakfast, we make our first stop, Chartwell House. Sir Winston Churchill was a lion-hearted defender of Britain, and his private life was no less extraordinary. He was a brilliant painter, and the surroundings of this home were inspirational. This red stone manor house, from the library to the sitting room, are a glimpse into the man, his family life, and the lives of those with country homes in the 1930’s. Next, we’ll stroll the grounds of Sissinghurst Castle and Gardens, created by the poet and writer, Vita Sackville-West. Considered one of the finest gardens in England, it is designated as Grade 1. There is a stunning collection of an old variety of roses. Then, we head to our beautiful lodgings in fabled Canterbury. Breakfast is included.

Sissinghurst Trivia:
Q. Where did Sissinghurst get its name?
A. Sissinghurst, a small village in Kent, England, was originally called Mylkehouse. That was changed to Milkhouse Street. In the 1850’s the town changed its name to Sissinghurst to avoid association with the smuggling and cockfighting activities of the Hawkhurst Gang. Kent gangs were infamous for raiding customs houses in revolt of taxes. There were 20,000 smugglers operating in Britain at that time, and it seemed a good idea to take on a new name.

Overnight Location

Canterbury, South East Region

On the map: Canterbury, in east Kent, is 55 miles southeast of London, and Dover is 16 miles to the southeast. The coastal towns of Herne Bay and Whitstable are 6 miles north and Faversham is 8 miles northwest. Villages that are close by include Chartham, Rough Common, Sturry, and Tyler Hill. Canterbury is situated on the River Stour, flowing from its source northeast through Ashford to the English Channel at Sandwich.

Day 3

Accommodation

Memorable Castle Lodgings - Maidstone, South East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 10:00 am.

Daily Itinerary

Fabled Canterbury - Luscious Kent Countryside and Coast - Grand Maidstone

After dining, we join our local guide for the breathtaking Canterbury Cathedral. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the cathedral is the oldest working church in England. Canterbury is also home to a Chapter House with an oaken roof and an amazing gothic nave. Medieval ruins and wonders abound. After plenty of time spent exploring Canterbury, we’ll travel through the picture-perfect countryside of Kent. The luscious countryside is interrupted by quaint villages, timbered homes, colorful shops, and pristine views of the coast. Tonight, we come together for a beautiful meal and share our stories. Breakfast and Dinner are included.

Canterbury Trivia:
Q. Why is Canterbury famous?
A. Canterbury has been a pilgrimage site since the Middle Ages, upon the death of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170. The Canterbury Cathedral was founded in 597 AD and is the headquarters of the Church of England. Ancient walls, originally built by the Romans, circle the town’s medieval center. Its cobblestone streets and timber-framed houses, in the shadow of the cathedral, make this UNESCO World Heritage Site one of the most beautiful cities in England.

Overnight Location

Maidstone, South East Region

On the map: Maidstone is the town and district of the richly historic county of Kent. Situated in southeastern Kent, it is on the River Medway, 38 miles southeast of London. The river runs through the center of town, linking it with Rochester and the Thames Estuary. This rural district covers a large central area of Kent. The district is 152 square miles, and the population of the town itself is 90,000.

The River Medway carried the products and produce of agricultural Kent, known as the Garden of England. (There is evidence of human habitation in this generous climate since the Stone Age.) Maidstone is still an agricultural hub, situated in lovely orchard country and is the largest hops-growing area in England. This is a romantic village, home to Leeds Castle, and has a shimmering lake.

Day 4

Accommodation

Memorable Castle Lodgings - Maidstone, South East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 10:00 am.

Daily Itinerary

Grand Maidstone - Delightful Faversham and Whitstable - Grand Maidstone

Leeds Castle, just outside Maidstone, is the star of our Kent adventure today. Our local guide will give us an up-close-and-personal tour of the famous moat, the strange areas below the stairs, and the grand bedrooms. King Edward VIII, who abdicated in favor of Elizabeth II’s father, George, frequented Leeds Castle. You can almost hear the footsteps echoing in the hallway… Next, we visit Faversham’s own, Shepherd Neame Brewery. Founded in 1698, it is Britain’s oldest brewery. Of course, after our tour, we’ll enjoy a tasting of these award-winning brews. Brilliant! This is the ideal time to stretch our legs on a coastal walk in the lovely town of Whitstable. We’ll head back to our exquisite lodgings and spend an evening at leisure. Breakfast is included.

Maidstone Trivia:
Q. What is there to do in Maidstone?
A. Maidstone is Kent’s county town, and it’s situated at the heart of the “Garden of England.” It is surrounded by orchards, hop gardens, romantic villages, and heritage sites—take a stroll! The luscious landscape is home to fascinating Leeds Castle whose soaring towers and graceful architecture are set off by a shimmering lake. People have made this area home for eons. The remains of Neolithic people, Romans, and Normans in the way of their artifacts, roads, and tumbled villas stand testament to the pull of Maidstone

Overnight Location

Maidstone, South East Region

On the map: Maidstone is the town and district of the richly historic county of Kent. Situated in southeastern Kent, it is on the River Medway, 38 miles southeast of London. The river runs through the center of town, linking it with Rochester and the Thames Estuary. This rural district covers a large central area of Kent. The district is 152 square miles, and the population of the town itself is 90,000.

The River Medway carried the products and produce of agricultural Kent, known as the Garden of England. (There is evidence of human habitation in this generous climate since the Stone Age.) Maidstone is still an agricultural hub, situated in lovely orchard country and is the largest hops-growing area in England. This is a romantic village, home to Leeds Castle, and has a shimmering lake.

Day 5

Accommodation

Elegant Tudor Inn - Rye, South East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Daily Itinerary

Grand Maidstone - Essential Tenterden - Magical Rye

We enjoy breakfast in Maidstone and then head to Tenterden, a purely English town. This beautiful village overlooks the River Rother, and our tour leader knows the finest places for views and photos. Next up… wine country in England? Yes! Our stop is a cozy winery where we’ll imbibe a bit and make a toast to each other. Feeling joyful, we go to our last stop of the day, the charming market town of Rye. Take this day to spend at leisure, perhaps stopping in to the Rye Heritage Centre. The winding lanes and alleys of Rye look as if they’re straight out of a storybook. Breakfast is included.

Tenterden Trivia:
Q. Is Tenterden worth a visit?
A. Definitely! A town in the borough of Ashford in Kent, the town overlooks the River Rother. Known as “The Jewel of the Weald”, weald meaning forested area, the town’s history was shaped by its ideal location. In the Middle Ages sheep grazed on its lush pastures. Today, the town has a lovely wide street, named High Street, lined with Georgian, Jacobean, and Victorian shops. Broad, shady trees are a joy. Many of the newer buildings date from the 18th century. In all, the town is a pleasure to explore.  

Overnight Location

Rye, South East Region

On the map:  In the Rother district, in the historic country of Sussex, Rye is in southeastern England, and is 76 miles SE of London. It is perched on a hill by the River Rother and just 2 miles from the English Channel. The district of Rother runs along the English Channel coast for 23 miles and includes the ancient sea ports of Winchelsea and Rye. It was the site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings.

The town center of Rye has cobblestone lanes, such as Mermaid Street, and those lanes are postcard-perfect. Lined with medieval, half-timbered homes and shops, Rye is stepping into a dream. You’ll see a red brick home called the Lamb House, once owned by Henry James. The 900-year-old Norman St. Mary’s Church overlooks the town; climb the tower for extraordinary views of the town and country. The 14-century Ypres Tower is now the Rye Castle Museum, filled with art and artifacts.

Day 6

Accommodation

Elegant Tudor Inn - Rye, South East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Daily Itinerary

Magical Rye - Dazzling Dover - Magical Rye

This day we’ll set plenty of time aside to discover Rye’s medieval half-timbered homes, cozy shops, and cobblestone lanes. Breathe and let your imagination soar. This is the town that inspired the writing and art of Henry James and Paul Nash. When we’re fully relaxed, we’ll drive to England’s famous coast and the dazzling white cliffs of Dover. They must be seen to be believed. Stunning. Dover Castle, called the “Key to England” awaits. Built in the 11th century, and listed as Grade I, it rivals Windsor Castle in size—both claim to be the largest castles in the country. Explore the atmospheric interior, views from the Great Towers, and deep medieval tunnels. That afternoon, we’ll be back in Rye. Have tea, rest, or wander the town before our farewell dinner. Let’s share our stories! Breakfast and Dinner are included.

Rye Trivia:
Q. Does Rye have a beach?
A. No. Rye has been named one of the top 10 seaside resorts in the UK, although it doesn’t have a seafront. Camber Sands is a nice beach near Rye and has the only sand dunes in East Sussex. In all, Rye is a compact market town. Mermaid Street, in the center of town, has cobblestone streets and medieval half-timbered houses. The author, Henry James, lived here in a red stone house. The Norman St. Mary’s Church keeps watch over Rye, and the 14th century Ypres Tower is now the Rye Castle Museum.

Overnight Location

Rye, South East Region

On the map:  In the Rother district, in the historic country of Sussex, Rye is in southeastern England, and is 76 miles SE of London. It is perched on a hill by the River Rother and just 2 miles from the English Channel. The district of Rother runs along the English Channel coast for 23 miles and includes the ancient sea ports of Winchelsea and Rye. It was the site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings.

The town center of Rye has cobblestone lanes, such as Mermaid Street, and those lanes are postcard-perfect. Lined with medieval, half-timbered homes and shops, Rye is stepping into a dream. You’ll see a red brick home called the Lamb House, once owned by Henry James. The 900-year-old Norman St. Mary’s Church overlooks the town; climb the tower for extraordinary views of the town and country. The 14-century Ypres Tower is now the Rye Castle Museum, filled with art and artifacts.

Day 7

Daily Itinerary

Magical Rye - Tudor Hever Castle - Lively London

On this, the last day of our journey, we have one stop to make before returning to London. Hever Castle was the ill-fated Anne Boleyn’s childhood home. Hever is a treasure-trove of books, Tudor paintings, and antique furnishings. The mother of Queen Elizabeth I, Anne spent happy days here before her marriage to Henry VIII. After touring the castle, we head to London. We’ll say good-bye and have a world of fond memories to bring home with us. Breakfast is included.

Hever Castle Trivia:
Q. How are Hever Castle and the Boleyn family connected?
A. Hever Castle, 30 miles southeast of London, was a country house, built in the 13th century. The powerful Boleyn family took possession in 1462. Hever was Anne Boleyn’s childhood home. Anne became the second wife of Henry VIII and was Queen of England for just under three years. (It was Henry’s obsession with Anne that led to the King renouncing Catholicism and creating the Church of England.) Boleyn gave birth to the child who would become Queen Elizabeth I when she was in her early 30’s. After Henry had Anne executed, he gave the house to another of his wives, Anne of Cleves. It passed from family to family, falling into disrepair, until it was purchased by William Waldorf Astor, the richest man in America, in 1903.

As you'll be arriving late in the day back to London, if you’d like to extend your trip in the UK, please let your Destination Expert know. From London, the world awaits!

Depart From

Depart from London Heathrow Airport, Greater London

Return to London Heathrow Airport three hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. This will allow ample time to check in for your flight home.