Book by September 30, 2026 and save $200 per person ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/1%20Meals%20%28red%29_35.png) 25 Meals ![](/sites/default/files/2026-03/2%20Small%20Group%20%28red%29.png) Small Group ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/3%20CT%20Ratings%20%28red%29_36.png) CT Rating 2/5 - Moderately Easy ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/4%20Leader%20%28red%29_33.png) Led by Peter & Janet Holmes **From Private Estates to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show** From the lush countryside of Kent to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and the floral prestige of Chelsea, this journey offers a deep dive into British horticultural excellence. Step behind the gates of England’s most distinguished estates, from the romantic outdoor rooms of Sissinghurst to the avant-garde landscapes of The Newt in Somerset. Beginning in Sussex and the medieval city of Salisbury, history and nature intertwine alongside heritage rail journeys, award-winning English vineyards, and the golden stone villages of the Cotswolds. Private garden visits and a hands-on floral design masterclass in Chipping Campden balance grandeur with intimacy. The tour culminates in London with Hampton Court, Kew Gardens, and the spectacular RHS Chelsea Flower Show—an unforgettable celebration of the artistry and heritage of the British garden. [**Book Now**](https://enrollment.craigtravel.com/booking?departurecode=TEU080527:20270508) [**Download Brochure**](https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/WUR4PBN/EnglishGardensMay2027) [![Garden Tour map](/sites/default/files/2026-03/map_Garden%20tour%202027-rev-to-East-Sussex.jpg)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/map_Garden%20tour%202027-rev-to-East-Sussex.jpg) ### Tour Highlights - RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW - Experience the world’s most prestigious flower show, showcasing spectacular display gardens, innovative designs, inspiring floral exhibits, and Britain’s finest horticultural talent. - ENGLAND’S FINEST GARDENS - Explore a remarkable collection of iconic estates, private gardens, Royal Horticultural Society gardens, and beautifully landscaped parks across southern England. - EXCLUSIVE FLORAL DESIGN WORKSHOP - Enjoy a hands-on flower arranging workshop inspired by the beauty and traditions of the English countryside, guided by expert local florists. - HISTORIC ESTATES & TIMELESS VILLAGES - Discover elegant palaces, Roman history, heritage railways, vineyards, and the timeless charm of the Cotswolds, Bath, Oxford, London, and picturesque English villages. ### Inclusive Features - International and domestic flights, plus airport transfers, with air-inclusive packages - Carefully selected accommodation as listed, or similar - All sightseeing and entrance fees as described - Meals as indicated in the itinerary - B: BREAKFAST (12) L: LUNCH (2) D: DINNER (11) - Dedicated journey leader, national guides, and local specialists where applicable - All gratuities, surcharges, fees, and taxes - International eSIM to keep you connected - Free insurance quote (contact us for details) ### Itinerary Overview Full View DEPART CANADA May 8, 2027 We gather tonight for our overnight flight to the United Kingdom. ARRIVE LONDON / EAST SUSSEX May 9, 2027 Upon arrival at London Heathrow, we will be met by our UK Tour Manager and private coach. Enjoy a scenic transfer into the heart of East Sussex to settle in. The afternoon is ours to relax and enjoy the stately surroundings of the Ashdown Park Hotel. In the evening, we gather together for a welcome dinner. **Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club** (3 nights) Dinner ROMANTIC KENTISH GARDENS May 10, 2027 Today, we travel into Kent, known as the "Garden of England," for a day of beauty and horticultural inspiration. Begin at the world-famous Sissinghurst Castle Garden, renowned for its intimate garden "rooms" and iconic White Garden, where form, fragrance and colour are masterfully composed. Continue to Long Barn Garden for a short introductory talk on its history, followed by a guided tour of the garden, shaped by the creative vision of Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson. Spend the afternoon exploring these historic and deeply personal gardens. Breakfast, Dinner HERITAGE RAIL & VINEYARDS May 11, 2027 Step back in time this morning with a nostalgic one-way journey aboard the Bluebell Railway, travelling from Sheffield Park to East Grinstead through the rolling Sussex countryside. This afternoon, continue to Bolney Wine Estate for a refined experience and included lunch. Enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard and winery followed by a tasting of their award-winning English wines. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner BORDE HILL / ARUNDEL CASTLE GARDENS May 12, 2027 Begin the morning with a tour of the tranquil Borde Hill Garden, renowned for its rare shrubs, rich botanical heritage and royal connections. Its beautifully curated grounds showcase plants gathered from around the world. Continue to historic Arundel Castle for a guided tour of its magnificent gardens, set against the dramatic backdrop of the castle, followed by free time to explore the castle. In the afternoon, depart for the medieval city of Salisbury. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and gather this evening for a group dinner. **Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast, Dinner STOURHEAD & THE NEWT May 13, 2027 Today is devoted to two of Somerset’s most impressive estates. Begin at Stourhead, an 18th-century landscape masterpiece, where classical temples, sweeping vistas, and a serene central lake create one of England’s most iconic garden scenes. Continue to The Newt in Somerset, a vibrant and modern working estate with innovative gardens and woodland. Return to Salisbury in the evening for dinner and a restful night. Breakfast, Dinner ROMAN HISTORY & THE COTSWOLDS May 14, 2027 Bid farewell to Salisbury as we journey to the historic city of Bath, home to some of the best-preserved Roman Baths in the world. Explore these remarkable ancient baths with an included audio guide, bringing their fascinating history to life. Afterwards, enjoy free time to stroll the city centre and choose a local spot for lunch. In the afternoon, we continue into the picturesque Cotswolds. **Kings Head Hotel** (4 nights) Breakfast, Dinner HIDCOTE & CREATIVE BLOOMS May 15, 2027 Embrace the essence of English country life with a guided visit to Miserden’s celebrated garden, an intimate space overlooking a deer park and the rolling Cotswolds hills. After strolling through its charming grounds, enjoy a traditional pub lunch in a cosy local setting. In the afternoon, visit a private garden for an exclusive glimpse into the passion and creativity of local horticulture. Breakfast SECRET GARDEN & PUB LUNCH May 16, 2027 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner OXFORD & BLENHEIM PALACE May 17, 2027 Travel north to the "City of Dreaming Spires" for a guided walking tour of Oxford’s historic centre. Afterwards, continue to the monumental Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its opulent state rooms, then enjoy a garden tour through the vast, carefully designed landscapes that blend natural beauty with classical grandeur. Breakfast, Dinner RHS WISLEY & LONDON May 18, 2027 Leaving the quaint beauty of the Cotswolds, we travel toward London with a stop at RHS Garden Wisley. Take a guided tour of the Royal Horticultural Society’s flagship garden, featuring remarkable plant collections and innovative garden designs. After a day of exploration, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Later, check into the Rembrandt Hotel, perfectly situated for our London stay. **The Rembrandt Hotel** (3 nights) Breakfast, Dinner HAMPTON COURT & KEW GARDENS May 19, 2027 We explore the grandeur of London’s riverside heritage, beginning at Hampton Court Palace. Discover its rich Tudor history and wander through the famous hedge maze of King Henry VIII’s former residence. In the afternoon, we are guided through the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, home to one of the world’s largest and most diverse botanical collections. Breakfast, Dinner THE CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW May 20, 2027 This morning, enjoy a scheduled coach transfer to the world-renowned RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Spend the day immersed in cutting-edge garden design, rare blooms, and elite floral displays. A scheduled return transfer is provided in the afternoon, though you are welcome to stay longer and return independently. The day concludes with a celebratory farewell dinner at a local restaurant within walking distance of the hotel. BD Breakfast, Dinner LONDON / CANADA May 21, 2027 Enjoy a final English breakfast before checking out and catching our flight(s) back home. Breakfast [Download Brochure](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/TEU080527%20English%20Gardens%20brochure%20%20%28REV30JUL2026%29.pdf) [![Aerial views of Hampton Court Palace.](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Hampton%20Court.jpg?h=733feb93&itok=0AX7Sq8b "Hampton Court Palace. Photo courtesy of Pathfinders. ")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Hampton%20Court.jpg) [![The Roman Baths in Bath, England, with the ancient pool and surrounding colonnades.](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Ancient%20roman%20baths%20in%20Bath.jpg?h=e5aec6c8&itok=KUYkElav "Ancient Roman Baths in Bath, England")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Ancient%20roman%20baths%20in%20Bath.jpg) [![Two seniors walking in Borde Hill.](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Borde%20Hill%20Paradise%20Walk%202018%20%282%29.jpg?h=6c6b966c&itok=TGEWAz9v "Borde Hill. Photo courtesy of Pathfinders. ")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Borde%20Hill%20Paradise%20Walk%202018%20%282%29.jpg) [![Sculptured water features and gardens outside a Blenheim Palace](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Credit%20Blenheim%20Castle%20-%20VB8EO3.jpg?h=761283ef&itok=EPf-IjYp "Sculptured water features and gardens outside a Blenheim Palace. Credit: Blenheim Palace courtesy of Visit Britain. ")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Credit%20Blenheim%20Castle%20-%20VB8EO3.jpg) [![Golden light over the historic Laboratory at RHS Garden Wisley](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Wisley.jpg?h=1116cd87&itok=TZ_1EpMI "RHS Garden Wisley. Photo courtesy of Pathfinders. ")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Wisley.jpg) [![The Palm House of Kew Gardens](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Palm_House_Kew_Gardens_AdobeStock_324005067.jpeg?h=a27ff34c&itok=ulnYcX9Y "Step into the world of Britain’s most celebrated gardens")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Palm_House_Kew_Gardens_AdobeStock_324005067.jpeg) [![Kew Royal Botanical Gardens in London, England](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2026-03/Kew%20Royal%20Botanical%20Gardens%20in%20London%2C%20England.jpg?h=e5aec6c8&itok=9voSNqIE "Kew Royal Botanical Gardens in London, England")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-03/Kew%20Royal%20Botanical%20Gardens%20in%20London%2C%20England.jpg) ### Have any questions? Contact Stacey at sharper \[at\] craigtravel.com or call [1-800-387-8890](tel:1-800-387-8890) ![Book early and save](/sites/default/files/2026-03/2026_NEW_EBB_Banner_800x753_English_Country_Gardens.png) ### Tour Cost in Canadian Dollars Per Person Land Only* (Join / Leave at hotel) $12,945 Toronto $14,535 Montreal / Ottawa (Join Montreal) $14,735 Halifax $14,825 St. John’s / Winnipeg $14,865 Saskatoon / Regina $14,925 Edmonton / Calgary / Vancouver $14,865 Victoria $14,925 Single Supplement $2,395 [Book Now](https://enrollment.craigtravel.com/booking?departurecode=TEU080527:20270508) ### **Payment and Booking Terms** Deposit is **$900 per person**. Final payment is due **January 28, 2027**. **SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE** **LIMITED TO 25 MEMBERS** **Important Travel Information**: Starting in late 2026, Canadian citizens travelling to the United Kingdom will need to complete a U.K. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This is not a visa, but a pre-travel security screening required for visa-exempt visitors entering the U.K. The cost is approximately £16 and is each traveller’s responsibility. For details and to apply, visit the official ETA website well before departure ([www.gov.uk/eta](http://www.gov.uk/eta)) Stateroom categories are subject to availability at the time of booking - book early for best choice. See deck plan for more information on available staterooms. Singles are extremely limited and on request. Prices are based on taxes, surcharges, airfares and exchange rates effective November 2025 and are subject to change. This cruise will be escorted with a minimum of 15 travellers. Insurance is NOT INCLUDED but is highly recommended. Premiums are calculated based on the individual’s age, destination (country), trip length, and trip booking window – please contact our staff to receive a quote. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Refer to [terms and conditions](https://www.craigtravel.com/terms-conditions) for more details. #### CT Rating **2/5 - MODERATELY EASY** This is a coach tour with a relatively relaxed pace itinerary. The various garden visits throughout the program will include guided and self-guided touring. Walking tours can be several hours long and include some uneven terrain including cobblestone streets and unpaved trails. To fully enjoy this journey, members should be good walkers and not strictly rely on the use of walking aids. Hotels in the countryside are clean and comfortable. Most are low-rise (two stories) where elevators cannot be guaranteed. Do you have any questions about this journey? [Email Us]() #### Journey Leader ![Profile picture for user Peter and Janet Holmes](/sites/default/files/styles/user/public/pictures/2026-03/Peter-Janet_Holmes-1000011470%20%281%29.png?h=f6b4533d&itok=jiby_hLL) Peter and Janet Holmes - Janet and Peter Holmes' love of gardening goes back to their once frequent visits to Butchart Gardens in their hometown of Victoria. The passion grew while living across the street from Toronto’s Muir Gardens for a quarter of a century, but it is working in their own garden in Grey County that brings them the greatest joy. Janet is a retired RN whose kind and empathetic spirit brought comfort to both patients and their families. Peter recently retired after serving more than twenty-five years as the Minister of Toronto’s Yorkminster Park Church where he was beloved for his gracious warmth, gentle humour, and imaginative storytelling. Together they enjoy cycling, walking, kayaking, but above all gardening as Peter is often found on his knees pulling weeds, planting seeds and praying for rain. Peter and Janet have travelled in Israel, the Middle East and Europe where two of their three children now live. Peter and Janet are also blessed with one delightful granddaughter. ![](/sites/default/files/2025-02/1%20CT%20Loyalty%20Points.png) [Craig Travel Loyalty Points ](/loyalty-club) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-02/3%20Pay%20By%20Cheque.png) [Pay by Cheque Discount](/pay-cheque-discount) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-02/2%20Refer%20a%20Friend.png) [Refer a Friend](/refer-friend) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-02/5%20CT%20Rating.png) [About CT Ratings](/craig-travel-ratings) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-02/4%20Travel%20Insurance.png) [Travel Insurance](/travel-insurance)