famous gardens, hidden gems, and intriguing historical places

The 2026 tour heads North...
Here is the Map of The Lake District, Northumberland (north of Newcastle) and SW Scotland. Tour area includes The Lake District and Northumberland National Parks..

Description:  A Tapestry of Destinations


  • Southwest Scotland: Where wild coastal beauty meets the grandeur of aristocratic estates. Here, ancient castles perch atop cliffs, salt-laden breezes sweep across heather-clad hills, and gardens bloom in glorious profusion—testaments to generations of dedication. The region’s storied past unfolds in the stones of its castles and the traditions of its villages, while the natural splendor is nothing short of breathtaking.
  • The Lake District: Renowned for its dramatic fells, tranquil lakes, and literary charm, this region has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Wander through landscapes immortalized by Wordsworth, savor the vistas from gentle rambles or challenging hikes, and lose yourself in the gardens that mingle wild beauty with cultivated elegance. You’ll find that every glen and dale has a tale to tell.
  • Northumberland: Captivates with its vast moorlands, ancient castles, and rugged serenity. This is a land of windswept solitude, where history and myth entwine amid the ruins of Roman walls and medieval strongholds. The sense of space and freedom is palpable, offering a rare tranquility that is both restorative and inspiring.

Dates

19th - 27th June, 2026
​Picking up and dropping off in Edinburgh

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As usual, the tours will combine visits to exquisite gardens and intriguing historic places, and we will stay in charming hotels that take you back to a bygone age. 
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We specialize in going off the beaten path, so we explore private gardens, as well as local treasures and renowned gardens. Each tour is individually planned to according the season and interests of the participants. We would love to take you with us!​

Prices: 

​Note: Many tours quote 'days', which often include the overnight flights from the US and early morning departures. We do not - we quote 'nights'.

  • Tours are 8 nights
  • Small Groups of 12-16 people

Price includes:
  • A blend of tours fashioned by local guides and self-guided tours to simply enjoy
  • Travel by executive minibus with uniformed driver​
  • Stays in carefully selected independent, historic lodgings. Luxurious rooms with private bathrooms
  • All breakfasts and half the dinners
  • All entry fees for group activities (2-3 gardens/historic places per day)
  • Transfer from meeting point near in Edinburgh to the first lodgings
  • Transfer to Central Edinburgh or Edinburgh airport on the last day
  • Most gratuities
  • Hosted by the Tour Director, Gillian Gray

​This tour price does not include flights.

We strongly encourage you to purchase travel insurance.

Prices are based on double occupancy. 

​Itinerary:

Each tour is unique. We will visit a selection of fascinating places according to the composition of the group, location of the lodgings, season, and special opportunities that may arise.  Some places are so amazing that they are always on the list eg Levens Hall, Alnwick Castle. The itinerary will be provided prior to departure. I specialize in visiting out-of-the way places, so my itinerary is really my secret sauce.

Activity Level:

​Expect moderate physical activity over a period of 6-8 hours per day.  Historic buildings and towns - built hundreds of years ago - can be challenging. You will encounter cobbled streets, narrow staircases (no elevator), uneven paths, moderate slopes.  We visit 2-3 wonderful places a day.  You must be able to walk 1-2 miles at a time unaided; climb in and out of the executive minibus several times a day; walk on uneven ground, floors, and stairs.  It will be worth it!

​Bookings open Thursday, 13 November at 9am