England: Great Gardens of Cornwall in the company of Mike Nelhams 1110

England: Great Gardens of Cornwall in the company of Mike Nelhams 1110

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5 Days From

$2795

England: Great Gardens of Cornwall in the company of Mike Nelhams 1110

5 Days Starting and ending in London, England

Visiting: Truro, Cornwall, Tresco

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BCMN

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Gentle

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $2795

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting gardens of Cornwall with the esteemed Mike Nelhams. This exclusive tour offers a personal welcome from Sir Tim Smit at the Lost Gardens of Heligan, followed by a guided exploration with Alasdair Moore. Delight in a private visit to Caerhays Castle, where you'll enjoy lunch and a garden tour hosted by the owner. Experience the breathtaking Abbey Gardens on Tresco Island, guided by Mike Nelhams himself, and discover the unique Tregothnan Tea Plantation with insights from Lord Falmouth. With comfortable train and coach travel, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Cornwall's horticultural treasures, all while staying at the charming Alverton Hotel in Truro.

Highlights

  • Personal welcome and introduction from Sir Tim Smit at the Lost Gardens of Heligan.

  • Tour of Heligan with Alasdair Moore, Head of Gardens.

  • Lunch and welcome from the owner at Caerhays Castle, followed by a guided garden tour.

  • Private visit to the Tregothnan Estate and Tea Plantation with a welcome from Lord Falmouth.

  • Day trip to Abbey Gardens on Tresco with a personal tour by Curator Mike Nelhams.

  • Visit to the privately-owned garden of Lamorran House, designed in an Italianate style.

  • Opportunity to taste and buy rare teas at the Tregothnan Tea Plantation.

Places You'll See

England: Great Gardens Of Cornwall In The Company Of Mike Nelhams 1110

England: Great Gardens Of Cornwall In The Company Of Mike Nelhams 1110

England: Great Gardens Of Cornwall In The Company Of Mike Nelhams 1110

England: Great Gardens Of Cornwall In The Company Of Mike Nelhams 1110

Itinerary

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Day 1

Location: Truro

Accommodation Name: The Alverton Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

We depart by train from London Paddington for Truro and continue by coach to our hotel in Cornwall. There is also the option of travelling independently to the hotel (£100pp discount per person) and regional rail connections can also be arranged at a supplement. Before dinner our guide Mike Nelhams will give a presentation on his favourite Cornish gardens including those we are about to see.
We are based at the 4-star Alverton Hotel, Truro.

Day 2

Location: Cornwall

Accommodation Name: The Alverton Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Following our full English breakfast, we begin today with a visit to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, where we will be welcomed by Sir Tim Smit who, together with John Nelson, ‘discovered’ and restored the gardens to their former glory. He then went on to co-found the Eden Project, which he will also talk about in his introduction. We will then be joined by Alasdair Moore, Head of Gardens and a former assistant to Mike Nelhams on Tresco, for a tour of the gardens.
Following this we transfer to Caerhays Castle, where we will be welcomed Charles Williams, whose family have owned Caerhays since the mid-19th century. After lunch in the castle we will enjoy a guided tour of the garden with a member of the family. This is very much a spring-time garden, with a spectacular collection of magnolias, camellias and rhododendrons.

Day 3

Location: Tresco

Accommodation Name: The Alverton Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today, following breakfast, we have an action-packed and stimulating day ahead of us as we transfer to Penzance and take a short helicopter to the island of Tresco, where Mike will take us on a personal guided tour of the Abbey Garden, without doubt one of the most stunning gardens in the British Isles. Caressed by the Gulf Stream, the exceptionally mild climate allows for a wide range of exotic, sub-tropical plants to thrive here, earning the Abbey Garden the soubriquet ‘Eden with the lid off’. We fly back to the mainland by helicopter and return to our hotel.

Day 4

Location: Cornwall

Accommodation Name: The Alverton Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we depart for a visit to the privately-owned garden of Lamorran House, which has been designed by the owner in an Italianate style, although there are also Japanese influences here. Many features are included to divide the garden into intimate compartments which the visitor can explore.
We continue to Tregothnan Estate, where we hope to be welcomed by the owner Lord Falmouth. After lunch we will be joined by Managing Director Jonathon Jones for a tour of the unique Tregothnan Tea Plantation, which has expanded greatly since the first bushed were planted in 1999. Blessed with the optimum microclimate for growing tea, Tregothnan produces some of the world’s rarest and highest rated teas and new varieties are tested all the time. There will of course be an opportunity to taste and buy some of the teas produced here.

Day 5

Location: Truro

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following breakfast the morning is free to explore Truro and perhaps visit the Cathedral. Later we will travel home independently or transfer to Truro railway station for our train back to London Paddington.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.

  • Meals - as per the itinerary

    Meals are provided according to the itinerary.

  • Train travel

    Train travel is included in the tour.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Comfortable coach travel is provided throughout the journey.

  • All visits as outlined in the itinerary

    All visits mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    A professional tour manager will be available throughout the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Independent travel to the hotel

    There is an option to travel independently to the hotel with a discount of £100 per person.

  • Regional rail connections

    Regional rail connections can be arranged at a supplement.

Mode of Transport

The tour includes train travel and comfortable coach travel throughout the journey.

Accommodation

Accommodation details are not provided in the tour information.

Check out our Q&As

  • Who will be guiding the tour of the Abbey Garden on Tresco?

    The tour of the Abbey Garden on Tresco will be personally guided by Mike Nelhams.

  • What unique experience is offered at the Tregothnan Estate?

    At the Tregothnan Estate, you will have the opportunity to tour the unique Tregothnan Tea Plantation, taste some of the world's rarest and highest rated teas, and potentially meet the owner, Lord Falmouth.

  • Is there an option to travel independently to the hotel?

    Yes, there is an option to travel independently to the hotel, which offers a £100 discount per person.

  • What is special about the gardens at Caerhays Castle?

    The gardens at Caerhays Castle are known for their spectacular collection of magnolias, camellias, and rhododendrons, making it a beautiful spring-time garden.

  • What type of climate does the Abbey Garden on Tresco benefit from?

    The Abbey Garden on Tresco benefits from an exceptionally mild climate due to the Gulf Stream, allowing a wide range of exotic, sub-tropical plants to thrive.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

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Prices last published on 20-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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