English Gardens & Chelsea Flower Show
11 Days



Discover the finest gardens and countryside of England on this curated 11-day itinerary. Experience world-renowned horticultural estates, picturesque Cotswold villages, and the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show (in May). This expertly guided journey combines garden tours, cultural experiences, and quintessential British hospitality across three distinct regions.
Highlights
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Afternoon Tea at The Orangery Restaurant
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RHS Chelsea Flower Show
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World-Class Garden Tours
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Castle & Gardens of Kent
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Exploring the Cotswolds
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Highlights of London
Itinerary Details
International Arrival
Upon arrival at London Heathrow, the Tour Manager will meet and welcome the group before they depart by private coach.
3 Nights
Forest Row
Forest Row is a charming village in East Sussex, nestled on the edge of the Ashdown Forest, one of England’s most beautiful and historic natural landscapes. Surrounded by rolling countryside, woodland, and scenic walking trails, the village offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of nearby London.
With its independent shops, cafés, galleries, and welcoming village atmosphere, Forest Row is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the quieter, more picturesque side of the English countryside. Its location also makes it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding Sussex villages, historic estates, and attractions of the High Weald.
Included activities
Day 1 – Arrive in England
Upon arrival at London Heathrow, the group will be met by their Tour Manager and escorted to a private coach for the journey to Forest Row. Enjoy lunch at the charming The Old Dairy Tearoom before continuing to Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club, set within the beautiful Sussex countryside. After hotel check-in, settle into your surroundings before enjoying a three-course dinner at the hotel.
Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club (4*)
Set within 186 acres of beautiful Sussex countryside, Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club offers an elegant country-house retreat on the edge of Ashdown Forest. The historic hotel combines classic English charm with refined accommodations, picturesque grounds, and a tranquil atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the expansive estate, relaxing leisure facilities, and scenic surroundings, making it an ideal base for experiencing the beauty and character of the English countryside. Its grand setting and welcoming hospitality provide a memorable place to unwind throughout the stay.
Day 2 – From Hole Park to Great Dixter
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before meeting your Tour Manager in the lobby. Your Tour Manager will accompany the group throughout the day as your private coach provides comfortable transportation between each destination. Discover the beauty of the English countryside with an admission and guided tour of Hole Park, renowned for its stunning gardens and seasonal displays. Following the visit, enjoy free time to explore the area and have lunch at your leisure. Continue to Great Dixter House & Gardens, where an admission and guided tour offers an opportunity to experience this historic house and its celebrated gardens. Afterward, return to Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club and enjoy some free time to relax before the evening’s dinner. This evening, dine at a local restaurant and enjoy a three-course meal, including one glass of wine, water, and coffee or tea.
Day 3 – Castles & Gardens of Kent
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before meeting your Tour Manager in the lobby. Your private coach will then provide transportation throughout the day as you explore two of Kent’s renowned historic estates and gardens. Begin with an admission and guided tour of Scotney Castle Garden, where picturesque gardens, romantic ruins, and beautiful countryside create a quintessentially English setting. Continue to Birchwood Restaurant at Taywell Farm for a leisurely two-course lunch, including one drink and water, subject to restaurant availability. In the afternoon, discover Sissinghurst Castle Garden, enjoying an admission and guided tour of this celebrated historic garden and its beautifully designed garden rooms. Return to Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club and enjoy some free time to relax before heading out for dinner. This evening, dine at a local restaurant and enjoy a three-course meal, including one glass of wine, water, and coffee or tea.
Transfer by private coach to Cheltenham
3 Nights
Cheltenham
Nestled on the edge of the Cotswolds, Cheltenham is an elegant Regency town known for its beautiful architecture, cultural attractions, and sophisticated atmosphere. Often referred to as the cultural capital of the Cotswolds, the town features grand tree-lined avenues, historic buildings, independent boutiques, galleries, cafés, and restaurants.
Cheltenham is also renowned for its literary, music, science, and arts festivals, as well as its famous horse racing. With the rolling Cotswold countryside just beyond the town, Cheltenham offers a wonderful combination of Regency-era charm, culture, and quintessential English countryside.
Included activities
Day 4 – Gardens, Palace & the Cotswolds
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before meeting your Tour Manager in the lobby. Your private coach will provide transportation throughout the day as you continue your journey through some of England’s most celebrated gardens and estates. Begin with an admission and guided tour of RHS Garden Wisley, one of Britain’s most renowned horticultural destinations, featuring beautifully designed gardens, diverse plant collections, and inspiring landscapes. Continue to The Orangery Restaurant for a quintessentially British Afternoon Tea. Dine like royalty while enjoying a traditional selection of tea-time favorites in an elegant setting overlooking stunning palace views. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Blenheim Palace Gardens and Parkland with an admission and guided tour. Discover the spectacular landscaped grounds surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage Site before continuing your journey west toward Cheltenham. Upon arrival, check in to Ellenborough Park, a historic country estate set against the beautiful backdrop of the Cotswolds. Enjoy free time to relax and settle into your accommodations before dinner. This evening, enjoy a three-course dinner at the hotel, including one glass of wine, water, and coffee or tea. Hotel porterage is included, with one bag per person handled upon arrival and departure.
Ellenborough Park (5*)
Set against the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, Ellenborough Park is a historic country estate that combines centuries of English heritage with elegant modern comforts. Surrounded by picturesque parkland, the hotel offers a peaceful countryside retreat just outside Cheltenham. The estate dates back centuries and features a beautifully restored manor house, charming period architecture, landscaped grounds, and refined guest accommodations. With its tranquil setting and classic English character, Ellenborough Park provides an ideal base for exploring the villages, gardens, and countryside of the Cotswolds.
Day 5 – Exploring the Cotswolds
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before meeting your Tour Manager in the lobby. Your private coach will provide transportation throughout the day as you venture deeper into the picturesque Cotswolds. Start with a visit to Hidcote Gardens, one of England’s most celebrated Arts and Crafts gardens. Explore its distinctive garden rooms, winding pathways, and beautifully landscaped grounds at your leisure. Please note that a guided tour may not be available. Continue to the charming village of Chipping Campden, where you’ll have free time to explore its historic streets, browse local shops, and enjoy lunch at your leisure. Afterward, continue your scenic journey through the Cotswolds, taking in the region’s quintessential villages and rolling countryside. Depending on timing, make stops in Broadway and Stow-on-the-Wold, two of the Cotswolds’ most picturesque villages. This evening, enjoy a three-course dinner at a local restaurant, including one glass of wine, water, and coffee or tea.
Day 6 – Highgrove & the Heart of the Cotswolds
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before meeting your Tour Manager in the lobby. Your private coach will provide transportation throughout the day as you discover the gardens and idyllic villages of the Cotswolds. Begin with an admission and guided tour of Highgrove Gardens, exploring the beautiful private gardens surrounding Highgrove House and experiencing one of England’s most distinctive horticultural treasures. Following the garden tour, enjoy a leisurely two-course lunch at The Orchard Room Restaurant, accompanied by coffee or tea and water. This afternoon, immerse yourself in the quintessential English countryside as you explore the picturesque Cotswolds, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty spanning five counties and approximately 800 square miles. Visit three of the region’s most beloved villages, each offering its own unique character and charm. In Burford, known as the “Gateway to the Cotswolds,” enjoy free time to wander along the historic High Street, browse charming shops, and discover local antiques, cafés, and tea rooms. Continue to Bibury, famously described by 19th-century poet William Morris as one of the most beautiful villages in England. Take time to admire Arlington Row, a picturesque collection of honey-colored 17th-century weavers’ cottages set beside the tranquil River Coln. Your final stop is Bourton-on-the-Water, affectionately known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds.” Stroll along the clear River Windrush, cross its charming stone bridges, or explore the village’s inviting tea rooms and independent shops. Return to the hotel and enjoy some free time to relax before dinner. This evening, dine at a local restaurant and enjoy a three-course meal, including one glass of wine, water, and coffee or tea.
Travel by private coach to London
2 Nights
London
Included activities
Day 7 – From the Cotswolds to London
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out and meeting your Tour Manager in the lobby. Your private coach will provide transportation throughout the day as you bid farewell to the Cotswolds and make your way toward London. Travel a short distance to the picturesque village of Lower Slaughter, where the group will disembark and begin a scenic walk to Upper Slaughter, This easy, approximately one-mile stroll follows the well-marked Warden’s Way along the River Eye and takes approximately 20–30 minutes each way. Along the route, admire honey-colored stone cottages, a historic mill, and peaceful water meadows that showcase the quintessential beauty of the Cotswolds. For guests who prefer not to walk, the private coach will provide transportation from Lower Slaughter to Upper Slaughter. Rejoin the coach and continue your journey toward London, with free time to enjoy lunch at your leisure at a location to be determined. In the afternoon, arrive at Hampton Court Palace, where a guide will meet the group for a guided tour. Explore the magnificent former royal residence and discover centuries of English royal history, grand state apartments, and beautiful palace grounds. Continue to London and check in to The Bailey’s Hotel London. Enjoy some free time to relax and settle into your accommodations before dinner. This evening, enjoy a three-course dinner at the hotel, including one glass of wine, water, and coffee or tea. Hotel porterage is included, with one bag per person handled upon arrival and departure.
The Bailey’s Hotel London (4*)
Located in the heart of South Kensington, The Bailey’s Hotel London is a historic Victorian townhouse that blends classic British heritage with contemporary comfort. Originally opened in 1876, the hotel retains much of its elegant period character, including ornate interiors and distinctive Victorian architecture. Ideally situated opposite Gloucester Road Underground Station, The Bailey’s provides convenient access to London’s many attractions, including the Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Royal Albert Hall, and Kensington Palace. With stylish accommodations, attentive hospitality, and on-site dining and bar options, the hotel offers a comfortable and characterful base for exploring London.
Day 8 – Kew Gardens & London Highlights
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before meeting your Tour Manager in the lobby. Your private coach will provide transportation to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, where you’ll enjoy admission to one of the world’s most renowned botanical gardens. Take time to explore its remarkable landscapes, historic structures, and extensive plant collections at your own pace. Following your visit, enjoy free time for lunch at your leisure. After lunch, meet your guide for a half-day panoramic tour of London. Travel through the city while taking in some of its most iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the London Eye, the Tower of London, and many more. This panoramic tour is designed to showcase the highlights of London from the comfort of the coach, with no scheduled stops. Continue to Neal’s Yard, a colorful and charming enclave tucked away in the heart of Covent Garden. Your guide will provide an orientation tour of the area before you have free time to explore independently, browse the surrounding shops, or enjoy a drink or treat at one of the local cafés. Return to the hotel and enjoy free time to relax before dinner. This evening, an assistant will meet the group in the hotel lobby and accompany you on foot to a nearby local restaurant. Enjoy a three-course dinner, including one glass of wine, water, and coffee or tea, before walking back to the hotel.
Day 9 – RHS Chelsea Flower Show & Afternoon Tea
Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before meeting your Tour Manager in the lobby. Your private coach will transfer the group to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show at a time to be confirmed. Spend the day immersed in one of the world’s most prestigious horticultural events. Enjoy admission to the show and discover spectacular garden displays, innovative designs, beautiful floral exhibits, and inspiration from leading horticulturists and garden designers. During your visit, enjoy an elegant Afternoon Tea with Champagne at The Promenade at The Dorchester, offering a quintessentially British experience in a sophisticated setting. Later in the day, meet your Tour Manager at the flower show before returning to the hotel by private coach at a time to be confirmed. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure, with dinner on your own. Explore London’s vibrant dining scene or choose a restaurant near the hotel at your convenience.
Day 10 – Departure from London
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and preparing for your journey home. Your Tour Manager will assist the group with departure arrangements before you transfer by private coach to London Heathrow Airport (LHR). Upon arrival at the airport, bid farewell to England and begin your journey home, taking with you wonderful memories of the country’s historic gardens, grand estates, charming villages, and quintessentially British experiences.
Inclusions
Includes
- 10 nights in 4-star hotels with daily breakfast
- Private coach throughout entire itinerary
- All ground transfers (airport pickups, hotel-to-attraction transfers)
- Luggage allowance: 1 standard suitcase and 1 small carry-on per person
- Professional guides at attractions
- All guided tours as listed in itinerary
- Skip-the-line entry where available (subject to security queuing requirements)
- Applicable taxes and fees at time of confirmation