Rutland Water and Burghley House

Thurs 20th August

We leave Devon and head to our hotel just outside Peterborough, arriving with time to check in and unwind before dinner.

Fri 21st August

Today we visit the beautiful, medieval city of Ely (derived from the name the 'isle of eels'). As the second smallest city in England, it offers a wealth of attractions. Ely Cathedral, known as the 'Ship of the Fens', can be seen from miles around. Climb the 170 steps to see the scenes painted on the Octagon Tower lantern before stepping out onto the cathedral roof to admire views of the Cambridgeshire countryside. The beautiful Stained Glass Museum is well worth a visit and also Oliver Cromwells House. Stroll through the city centre, alongside the usual high street stores you'll find a variety of pretty little independent stores selling everything from cards and artwork through to woollens, handmade toiletries and crafts or wander along the beautiful Great Ouse river winding through the city.

Sat 22nd August

After breakfast, we head to Barnsdale Gardens created by TV gardener Geoff Hamilton - with 38 individually designed gardens across an eight-acre site, there is plenty of garden inspiration with ideas for you to recreate at home. We then travel on to the pretty, traditional market town of Oakham? Oundle? look out for the unusual stocks that were used to detain criminals by the legs - the five-hole stocks are somewhat of a mystery! We end the day in style with a relaxing cruise on Rutland Water on The Rutland Belle.

Sun 23rd August

After breakfast we travel to the fabulous Burghley House and Gardens. Burghley is one of the largest and grandest surviving houses of the sixteenth century and a magnificent example of the great Elizabethan 'prodigy' houses. Conceived by William Cecil, Lord High Treasurer to Queen Elizabeth I, between 1555 and 1587. The gardens and parkland were largely designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown in the 18th century. Today, sweeping vistas down to the spires of Stamford in the parkland, mesmerising oasis of flowing water can be viewed in the Garden of Surprises or tranquil walks next to the lake in the Sculpture Garden can all be enjoyed. The Parkland, largely designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown. The collection of Fine Art held within Burghley House is extensive and varied. The collection of Italian Old Master paintings is one of the finest in private hands. The collections of both Oriental and European ceramics are world famous and of great interest to scholars.

Mon 24th August

After a full English breakfast, we head to South Devon, with comfort stops on route.

D=Dinner, FE=Full English Breakfast