Friday 7th: We head east stopping at Melton Mowbray home of the famous pork pie and
one of the homes of Stilton cheese. We have time for lunch before continuing to our hotel
arriving late afternoon.
Saturday 8th: We head west towards Uppingham and the county town of Rutland,
Oakham. The town is a delight with unique independent shops, cafes and tearooms. We
take a break here before continuing along Rutland Water to Stamford. Here we have our
lunch break and the afternoon is free for you to explore. Take a walk around the historic
town – there is much to admire, from the beautiful architecture to the delightful shops, with
an abundance of cafes and restaurants. Later we return to the hotel.
Sunday 9th: We make for the little village of Foxton. Here we board ‘Vagabond’, an
elegant vintage motor launch, for a trip on the Grand Union Canal, seeing the Foxton flight
of 10 locks, and gently passing through peaceful countryside. At Foxton there is a
canalside pub where refreshments are available. We have a treat in store this afternoon as
we visit Boughton House, one of the great treasure houses of Europe. The house has
been the home of the Montagus and their descendants since 1528. The collection here is
staggering – arts, rare furniture, porcelain, weaponry and textiles.
Monday 10th: Norfolk is our destination today as we head east to Kings Lynn, a historic
medieval port situated on the River Great Ouse, near the Wash. This afternoon we visit
Sandringham House and Grounds, the favourite Norfolk retreat of Her Majesty the Queen,
returning later to the hotel.
Tuesday 11th: We begin our journey home via the National Memorial Arboretum.