LAKES AND GRAPES - GARDEN OF ENGLAND

Stayinq at the Ashford International Hotel, Ashford

Saturday 1st - Wednesday 5th September 2012

5 Days

Day 1

We board our coach this morning and making the usual refreshment stops en route. We travel across country to Kent for our four nights stay at the four star Ashford International Hotel. Recently refurbished the hotel has a modern atmosphere with all the usual conveniences plus leisure facilities.

Day 2

This morning we have a relaxing cruise on Bewl Water followed by a tempting fork buffet lunch. After lunch we proceed to Biddenden Vineyard, Kent's oldest commercial vineyard and producer of 10 varieties of grapes for various wines and also apples for the famous Biddenden cider. We will have a tour of the vineyard before enjoying a sample of wine and a traditional Kentish cream tea.

Day 3

Today we have an excursion to the Kent coast and the beautiful Herne Bay. Experience traditional seaside magic with ice cream parlours, cafes and friendly pubs with miles of golden sands. After some time at Herne Bay we continue via Margate and Ramsgate to the historic town of Canterbury. Time, at leisure, to explore the historic architecture amid winding lanes and streets. perhaps visit Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury Tales Museum or maybe a boat trip on the River Stour.

Day 4

Our excursion today is to Tunbridge Wells for a guided tour of the elegant pedestrian walkways of the famous Pantiles. We have time to explore the antique and gift shops and the stunning Georgian architecture at this spa resort. This afternoon we visit Penshurst Place. A true English stately home, Penshurst dates back to 1341 and includes a remarkable collection of furniture, tapestries and portraits. The Elizabethan Gardens offer an abundance of flora and fauna to view and admire.

Day 5

We leave our hotel this morning and begin our homeward journey. -En route we visit Leeds Castle described by Lord Conway as "the loveliest castle in the world". The 12th Century castle rises from two small islands in a lake, The interior has superb works of art including statues, carvings and tapestries. The lovely grounds include the Wood Gardens, Culpeper Garden and Lady Baillie Garden and also houses an internationally renowned aviary with several rare species. After time here we continue our journey, arriving home by early evening.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Luxury coach travel

Four nights half board

All rooms en suite

Excursions as stated

Cruise on Bewl Water and vineyard visit

Fork buffet and cream tea

Guided tour of Tunbridge Wells- Pantiles

Admission to Penshurst Place

Admission to Leeds Castle

Porterage

Use of leisure facilities

PRICE PER PERSON

£349.00 per person (sharing twin/double)

£429.00 per person (single)

To ensure your place, add your name to the list now ... numbers are limited and it will be first come first served.