Chatsworth, Chester & the Highlights of North Wales

Depart your home city and arrive the next day in Manchester

Upon arrival at Manchester Airport, a private transfer will take you to our hotel, the Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa in Cheshire. In the evening, join the group for a welcome drink and canapés, followed by dinner.

Lyme Park & Chatsworth

We immerse ourselves in the sweeping splendour of Lyme Park, where wide, open landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. Situated on the edge of the breathtaking Peak District, this grand estate is set within 1,400 acres of rugged moorland, ancient woodland and beautifully designed formal gardens. A private guided tour of the house reveals a remarkable collection of treasured possessions and family heirlooms, offering a glimpse into its rich history. We then explore the elegant formal gardens, where carefully planned symmetry and structure showcase a deep appreciation for geometry. Stroll among neatly trimmed hedges and towering yew columns before venturing into the historic parkland, home to roaming deer and diverse wildlife, as well as notable landmarks such as The Cage, The Lantern and Paddock Cottage.

At Chatsworth House, we’re treated to a light buffet lunch followed by a house and gardens tour. This magnificent estate is home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and has witnessed 16 generations of the powerful Cavendish family after they acquired it in 1549, featuring grandiose interiors and a superlative art collection. Chatsworth also boasts a 1,000-acre park, chiefly designed by Capability Brown, and the impressive property also appeared as Pemberley in the 2005 movie adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice.

Dunham Massey & Tatton Park

Our visit to Dunham Massey includes admission to the elegant Georgian house, as well as access to its expansive deer park and beautifully maintained gardens. Take time to explore the estate’s rich history, admire the interiors and enjoy a stroll through the landscaped parkland, where ancient trees and roaming fallow deer create a wonderfully tranquil setting. Afterwards, we make a short drive into nearby Altrincham, arriving on a lively market day. Here, you’ll have free time to discover the award-winning indoor and outdoor market, which has been a focal point of the town since 1879. With a vibrant mix of artisan stalls, street food vendors and independent traders, it’s the perfect place to find lunch at your own pace and soak up the local atmosphere.

We then visit Tatton Park, one of Britain’s most renowned and well-preserved historic estates, originally designed by Samuel Wyatt. You’ll have ample time to explore the elegant Neo-Classical mansion, filled with remarkable collections of silver, porcelain, glassware, and finely crafted Gillows furniture. The sense of grandeur continues outdoors, where the beautifully maintained gardens offer year-round colour through the Rose, Italian and Japanese gardens. To deepen your appreciation of these stunning landscapes, we enjoy a History of the Gardens tour led by a Senior Craftsman Gardener.

Speke Hall & Chester

We visit Speke Hall, a charming timber-framed Tudor property cared for by the National Trust, set within peaceful countryside close to the banks of the River Mersey. Built by the Norris family, devout Catholics living under Elizabeth I’s Protestant rule, the house was cleverly designed with a series of hidden features for protection. These include a priest’s hole, a whispering gallery and a secret hiding place beneath the eaves, aptly known as an ‘eavesdropper.’ Following an introductory talk that brings its fascinating history to life, you’ll have time to explore at your own pace. Wander through the tranquil grounds, where highlights include the beautifully restored Secret Garden and the atmospheric Moat Garden.

We travel to the historic city of Chester, famous for its striking black-and-white Tudor architecture and the unique medieval ‘Rows,’ a distinctive feature where charming two-tiered galleries run above the main shopping streets. There’s time to enjoy lunch at your leisure and encounter a wealth of architectural highlights, including the impressive Town Hall with its distinctive clock tower, the remains of a 1st-century Roman amphitheatre and the magnificent cathedral. Originally founded as the Church of St Werburgh’s Abbey, the cathedral dates back to the Norman period and showcases a range of architectural styles, reflecting centuries of history. 

Brynkinalt Estate, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct & Llangollen

Explore the Brynkinalt Estate, where acres of beautifully maintained grounds surround the Grade II-listed hall, dating from 1612. This historic home has been in the care of the Trevor family for generations, with an extraordinary lineage that can be traced back to the union of Severa, daughter of Emperor Maximus, and Gwrtheyrn Gwrtheneu, the 82nd King of Britain. During a guided tour, we delve into the estate’s fascinating past and the family’s extraordinary heritage, before rounding off the visit with tea, coffee, and traditional Welsh cakes. 

We make a short stop at the remarkable Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Britain’s most impressive feats of engineering. Towering high above the River Dee, this elegant aqueduct offers  views across the surrounding countryside and a chance to appreciate its striking design, often described as a ‘stream in the sky.’ At the charming riverside town of Llangollen, set amid the picturesque Dee Valley, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace, take a gentle stroll along the river, browse the independent shops, or relax in one of the many cafés and restaurants. There’s plenty of opportunity to enjoy lunch at your leisure while soaking up the town’s scenic surroundings.

Llandudno & Bodnant Garden

We spend time at leisure in the elegant seaside town of Llandudno, often referred to as the ‘Queen of the Welsh Resorts.’ Renowned for its sweeping golden beach, framed by the dramatic headlands of the Great and Little Ormes, the town retains a delightful sense of Victorian charm. Take a stroll along the promenade, visit the iconic Llandudno Pier or browse the shops at the Victoria Center.

Our featured visit today is Bodnant Garden, beautifully set in the foothills of Snowdonia. Established over 150 years ago by Henry Pochin, scientist, industrialist and politician, the garden showcases an extraordinary collection of plants gathered by plant hunters such as Ernest Wilson, George Forrest and Harold Comber. We enjoy a self-guided tour of this internationally celebrated garden, home to National Collections and impressive Champion Trees, all set within its sweeping lawns, grand terraces and lush woodland landscape.

Welsh Highland Heritage Railway & Caernarfon

We travel to Porthmadog, where we board the renowned Welsh Highland Railway for a scenic journey to the historic town of Caernarfon. As the train winds its way through the heart of Snowdonia National Park, we are treated to views of dramatic mountains, ancient forests, shimmering rivers and glimpses of rugged coastline, with occasional sights of historic castles adding to the sense of romance and heritage. There’s also some time to explore the royal town of Caernarfon, site of the investiture of Prince Charles as the Prince of Wales in 1969. Our journey is made all the more special with Gold Service, offering a touch of classic luxury inspired by the golden age of rail travel. Settle into beautifully restored Pullman-style carriages, complete with plush seating and polished wooden tables and enjoy a wonderfully nostalgic and elegant experience aboard the Snowdonia Star. 

Plas Newydd, Puffin Island & Penrhyn Castle

Today, we cross the 19th-century Menai Bridge to the Isle of Anglesey, where we visit the elegant country house of Plas Newydd. Its most notable resident was the 1st Marquess of Anglesey, who famously commanded the cavalry at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Inside, the house reflects a refined 1930s style, influenced by its connection to artist and socialite Rex Whistler, whose life was tragically cut short during World War II. Outside, the mild climate of the gardens allows an impressive variety of plants to thrive, including delicate exotics and Mediterranean species. We also enjoy a memorable wildlife cruise around the nearby Puffin Island, taking in the coastal scenery while keeping watch for Atlantic gray seals and an array of seabirds. As the name suggests, puffins are a seasonal highlight, and with a bit of luck, we may even spot porpoises or dolphins playing in the waters.

Our other featured visit today is the impressive Penrhyn Castle, built in the 19th century in a bold neo-Norman style. Constructed on a grand scale over 13 years, the castle commands spectacular views toward Snowdonia. There is much to explore, from its striking architecture and lavish interiors to its outstanding art collection, restored Victorian kitchens and fascinating railway museum. Along the way, we uncover the estate’s complex history, shaped by wealth from sugar and slate, social tensions, and what became the longest-running industrial dispute in British history.

Conwy Castle, Conwy & Bodrhyddan Hall

We’re taken to the historic walled town of Conwy to explore the impressive Conwy Castle. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this formidable stronghold was constructed by Edward I during his conquest of Wales in the late 13th century and ranks among the finest preserved medieval fortresses in Britain. Its commanding presence is defined by towering curtain walls, robust round towers and heavily fortified gateways, all set against a dramatic coastal backdrop. After time to explore the castle at your own pace, there is an opportunity to enjoy some free time in Conwy, perhaps to stroll along the quayside, browse independent shops, or soak up the town’s rich history.

Bodrhyddan Hall is a remarkable Grade I-listed home that has remained in the same family for over 500 years. Set within acres of beautifully maintained formal gardens and restored woodland, the house was significantly remodeled in 1875 by renowned architect William Eden Nesfield. Still privately owned, it offers a rare glimpse into a grand yet lived-in historic home. During our guided tour, we uncover the stories behind its fascinating collection, which ranges from fine portraiture to an extraordinary 3,000-year-old Egyptian mummy and sarcophagus. This evening, we enjoy a farewell dinner together at the hotel.

Departure

A private transfer will take you take you back to Edinburgh or Glasgow Airport for your return flight home.