Highgrove Gardens & the Cotswolds 25th - 28th July 2025
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Join us on this varied and interesting tour based at the 4* Blunsden House Hotel, Swindon.
The highlight of the weekend will be a visit to Highgrove Gardens near Tetbury.
ITINERARY
Day 1: After the pick-ups we will travel towards Swindon stopping at Croome Court (NT) for our visit of the weekend. There’s more than meets the eye at Croome. Owned by the Coventry family since the 16th century, Croome has a fascinating history. The Coventrys used their wealth – from successes as statesmen and lawyers, colonial connections and advantageous marriages – to create this magnificent place.
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A secret wartime airbase, now a visitor centre, was once a hub of activity for thousands of people. Outside is the grandest of English landscapes, ‘Capability’ Brown’s masterful first commission, with commanding views over the Malverns. The parkland was nearly lost, but is now great for walks and adventures with a surprise around every corner. At the heart of the park lies Croome Court, once home to the Earls of Coventry with four floors to explore. The 6th Earl of Coventry was an 18th century trend-setter and today Croome follows his lead by using artists and craftspeople in the house to tell the story of its eclectic past in inventive ways, perfect for making new discoveries..After our visit to Croome we continue to the Blunsden House Hotel, Swindon for check-in and dinner. |
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Days 2-4: Highgrove Gardens: As part of King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s private residence, enjoy a tour of the Royal Gardens where your expert garden guide will lead you round the breath-taking gardens helping you to understand the King's deep commitment to sustainability, while enjoying the rich variety of flora and fauna. Highgrove has always been the private residence of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort, near Tetbury in Gloucestershire. Since 1980 when the then young King Charles first arrived at Highgrove, he had devoted much energy to transforming the gardens around the house, which are renowned as some of the most inspiring and innovative in the United Kingdom. |
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Whilst we can’t visit the house itself, His Majesty kindly opens his gardens to the public and we’ll enjoy a tour with an experienced guide, who will reveal the garden’s history and some of the organic practices the King believes in. Visitors will be welcomed with a short 10 minute video from King Charles III before an experienced garden guide brings guests on a fascinating 2 hour seasonal walk where they will reveal the history, inspiration and unique organic management behind these incredible gardens.
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Cotswold Farm Park: Sitting in the heart of the Cotswolds, Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park has a long-standing reputation for a fun-filled day out. Visitors of all ages can interact closely with the animals and learn about farming, past and present. As the home of rare breed conservation, visitors can meet over 50 flocks and herds of farm animals, including Gloucestershire Old Spot Pigs, Suffolk Punch Horses and Highland cattle. The Animal Barn, Adventure Barn and Discovery Barn can be enjoyed all year round, as they are under cover and protected from the elements. The on-site restaurant, serving locally sourced seasonal food and Adam Henson’s own beer, is a hit with the all ages. There’s plenty to offer outside the Farm Park too. Experience the stunning diversity of animals and plants by completing our two mile wildlife walk. |
| Historic Rugby School: One of the oldest public schools in England it is steeped in a fascinating history and positively crammed with old world charm, a tour of Rugby School and its museum is not to be missed. Top of many international visitors’ ‘must–see’ venues in the UK, the grand school buildings and hallowed rugby ground alone never fail to impress. In fact, there’s so much to see, a tour of the school’s highlights takes up to two hours with one of our knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides. After the tour you will be treated to afternoon tea.
After visiting Rugby School we will make our way back to the Manchester Area, arriving early evening. |
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Your Hotel: Blunsden House Hotel, Swindon - Blunsdon House is a 4* independent hotel with fantastic leisure facilities. Our hotel is set in 30 acres of beautifully maintained grounds with views to the Cotswolds. Relax beside green fields and country views, that you won't have to pay for in journey time. Located in the heart of the hotel all rooms include: King or Queen size beds, en-suite bathroom with power shower, heated towel rail & hairdryer, 32” LCD TV’s, FREE high speed internet access, tea & coffee making facilities and a working desk with ergonomic leather chair. Blunsdon House Hotel | Luxury 4 Star Hotel in Swindon |
Price per person (Based on 2 Adults sharing Twin/Double Room):
- Member Plus Adult - £439
- Member Adult - £454
- Non Member Adult - £469
- Single Supplement - £93
Price Includes:
- 3 Nights Accommodation including Full English Breakfast and 3-course, choice menu dinner with tea/coffee
- Executive Coach & Professional Tour Driver throughout the tour as per itinerary
- Entry to Croome Court
- Entry to Cotswold Farm Park
- Tour of Highgrove Gardens
- Tour of the Rugby School with Afternoon Tea
Not Included:
- Single Supplement
- Any items of a personal nature such as meals, drinks, etc
- Guide/Driver Gratuities
- Travel Insurance
For further details and bookings, you can either use the 
or contact
Please include your Name, Home Address, Contact Telephone Number, Membership Number and the Number Places Required (Member/Non-Member)