Coach holidays that don't cost the earth
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If you picture rural Britain, with rolling green hills, cobblestone streets and charming pubs, you are probably thinking of the Home Counties. Just outside the bustle of London, the surrounding districts provide a welcome respite from city life and a glimpse into the charm of the English countryside. Named the Home Counties for the commuters who travel from suburban houses into London for work, the list includes Essex, Kent and Surrey, which all directly border the big city, plus Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire and Sussex a little farther afield from the capital. The area has a rich history, with castles dating back to the Middle Ages and estates visited by figures such as Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. Nowadays, the Home Counties are known for quiet gardens, winding roads and quaint villages, as well as seaside piers and beaches. It’s unsurprising many films have been set here; the thatched roofs, stately manors and ivy-covered brick walls are the epitome of idyllic country living.
Kent
North Wessex Downs
Sussex
The Chilterns
Join us on this charming weekend break to discover spectacular Highclere Castle and explore the home of Downton Abbey, as well as enjoying an afternoon tea cruise on the River Thames with time in the wonderful Royal Town of Windsor, all in a fantastic 2-day tour!Discover historic Windsor with the famous castle dominating the town, before taking our intimate tea room experience cruise on the River Thames, offering the chance to travel in style from Windsor, the late Queen Elizabeth II's favourite home. Relax and witness the wonderful views before enjoying a sumptuous afternoon tea.To top off the weekend, we visit the home of Downton Abbey. Set amidst 1,000 acres of spectacular parkland, designed by the famous 18th century landscape gardener "Capability" Brown, join us as we explore the home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon at Highclere Castle, on a self-guided tour. Admire the stunning State Rooms and 'downstairs' where the lives of the Crawley Family and their servants played out to millions of enthralled viewers. Step into rooms from ‘Downton Abbey’ scenes as well as discovering the beautiful castle gardens and woodlands.Our centrally located overnight hotel in Reading offers a comfortable bed and breakfast stay and allows you to easily explore the town centre.An ideal choice for:* Those who like exploring new destinations* Nostalgia and history lovers* Anyone looking for a fabulous weekend break
2 days only £199
3 days only £219
2 days only £99
Enjoy a fantastic weekend escape to the Garden of England with a Call The Midwife tour!
If you’re a fan of the hit series and you’ve been wondering where Call the Midwife is filmed, put yourself in the picture and explore where the real drama happens with a Call the Midwife Official Location Tour, the only one of its kind in the world. Whilst the show is set in the East End of London, many of the outside scenes from the BBC series are actually filmed at The Historic Dockyard Chatham in Kent.
Walk in the footsteps of Nurse Trixie Franklin, Sister Julienne and Dr Turner. You will be guided through the Historic Dockyard by your very own costumed Midwife, armed with a photograph book and tales of their ‘sisters’, before being allowed to explore the sets, costumes and props in the all-new, exclusive gallery. Also enjoy time to discover the Historic Dockyard itself, a stunning 80 acre site with historic buildings, museum galleries and historic warships.
We also include a visit to the fabulous historic cathedral city of Canterbury which is a delight to explore, whilst the shops, pubs and tea rooms of Faversham, the oldest market town in the county, makes this a great place to wander and browse.Your hotel base near Faversham, set in acres of parkland, is ideally located for your excursions. An ideal choice for:* Call The Midwife fans* History lovers looking to gain a real insight into this historic county* People looking for a delightful weekend break full of experiences
4 days only £299
Get in the festive spirit in stunning medieval city of Winchester and the lovely royal town of Windsor plus a fabulous Christmas lunch cruise on the River Thames, all in a fantastic weekend tour.
You'll have time to explore the cathedral city of Winchester where their Christmas Market will be in full swing. This traditional event is renowned for its bustling atmosphere, stunning location and handpicked high quality exhibitors and is recognised as one of the best in Europe. With pretty chalets and a towering Christmas tree, combined with festive lighting, the sound of Christmas carols and the aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon drifting in the air, you will be transported into a magical setting. The city really does epitomize the true spirit of Christmas!Discover historic Windsor with the famous castle dominating the town, before heading to join our fun and festive 3-hour Christmas lunch cruise experience on the River Thames. Relax and witness the wonderful views before enjoying a wonderful traditional Christmas Dinner on board.Our centrally located overnight hotel in Reading offers a comfortable stay and allows you to easily explore the town centre. So, sit back and prepare to feel very Christmassy...An ideal festive choice for:* Anyone looking for a weekend away to get into the festive spirit* Friends and family looking to get away together and have some fun* Christmas shopaholics
2 days only £169
3 days only £229
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