Luxury Traveller - The Surrey Fringe

Friday

Departing Henley we drive to Windsor where we include entrance to Windsor Castle. Windsor is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world; founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has since been the home of 39 monarchs. It is said to have been much-loved by the late Queen, Elizabeth II, who spent much of her time at the castle. Highlights of our visit included the richly decorated State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel – the setting of many royal weddings and the burial place of many monarchs. Afterwards we continue to our hotel in Woking for #our 3-night stay.

Saturday

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of British motorsport with a visit to Brooklands Museum. Don’t miss the extraordinary Concorde Experience, where you can step aboard the legendary supersonic airliner and marvel at the sleek beauty of this aviation icon. Be transported back in time, discovering vintage cars, motorcycles, and aircraft that shaped the course of engineering and innovation. Delve into the stories of pioneeringdrivers and pilots who pushed boundaries on the site of the world’s first purpose-built racetrack

Sunday

Internationally famous as Britain’s finest example of Georgian Gothic Revival architecture, Strawberry Hill House began life in 1698 as the brainchild of Horace Walpole, whose fascination with all things Gothic turned the house into a curiosity as popular in his day as it is in ours. Delve into 20 distinct rooms, complete with stained glass windows and gold leaf cornices, during a guided tour of the restored gothic castle. Wander the romantic garden, bursting with fragrance and colour down to the River Thames, before relaxing on the expertly recreated Shell Seat – “big enough for three Duchesses”.

Monday

Departing our hotel after breakfast we visit Painshill Park. Designed by Charles Hamilton who planted the first seed box here in 1748 which began an emotional involvement with the breathtaking ‘living painting’ that is Painshill. These 18th century landscaped gardens have developed into a masterpiece of garden design. From European tour inspiration, this new style of magical garden, complete with follies, grottoes, a waterwheel, serpentine lake and vineyard, represents a passion for plants and artistic vision now regarded as “Britain’s’ greatest contribution to the visual arts’. Enjoy Gins produced onsite from home-grown botanicals and fruit,
on an exclusive tasting experience while you take in the view stretching along the banks of the meandering River Mole’s valleys and hills. Departing after lunch, we commence our journey homewards.