• 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham* 
• Visit to Snowshill Manor (entrance not included)
• Entrance to Gloucester Cathedral 
• Entrance to National Waterways Museum and boat trip
• Entrance to Sudeley Castle
• Coach travel throughout

* based on shared accommodation

Extras

• Admission to Snowshill Manor approx. £13.30p/p for non-National Trust Members, to be paid on the day of visit. Entry is free for members.

• Optional Curated 1 ½ hours guided highlights and library visit Gloucester Cathedral min 10 persons £13.50 per person.Please be aware, to reach the library there is a narrow spiral stairway. It is not possible to visit the library independently.

Day one – Tuesday 2nd July

Pick up location: Patcham Clock Tower, Mackie Avenue, Patcham, Brighton BN1 8RA (opposite The Ladies Mile pub) 
 
08:30 Depart Brighton for Snowshill Manor and Garden via Broadway (145 miles)
12:30 Arrive Snowshill Manor

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, National Trust Snowshill Manor and Garden beckons with its timeless allure. Step into the meticulously curated manor, an Arts and Crafts style house where every room unveils an eclectic collection of treasures amassed by the eccentric Charles Paget Wade. From Japanese armour to musical instruments, each artifact holds a story waiting to be discovered. Wander through the enchanting gardens where vibrant blooms and serene vistas provide a tranquil escape. The café serves a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks and light meals and offers indoor and outdoor seating.

Please note, this is a National Trust property and entry is not included in the tour price. National Trust members are free, for non-members fee is payable on arrival.

16:30 Depart for DoubleTree by Hilton Cheltenham, Cirencester Rd, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL53 8EA (19 miles)

17:00 Check in for overnight stay

19:00 Dinner at the hotel.
 
Day two – Wednesday 3rd July
 
09:30 Depart hotel for Gloucester Cathedral, (12 miles)

10:00 Arrive Gloucester Cathedral for a two-hour visit

Gloucester Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, stands as a testament to centuries of history and faith. Its soaring Gothic spires and majestic stained-glass windows inspire awe in all who visit. Within its walls lies a hidden gem, the cathedral library collection. Home to rare manuscripts and historic volumes dating back to the Middle Ages, this wonderful collection offers a glimpse into the cathedral's rich literary heritage.

We have arranged an optional curated 1 ½ hours expert guided tour of the cathedral and its library, there is an additional fee for this option: 

On your guided tour learn fascinating insights into the world of the monks who used to live here, visit the tomb of the murdered King Edward II, hear about stunning stained glass, and see where Harry Potter was filmed. The cathedral library is located in a hidden space, up a winding spiral staircase. The collection of books and manuscripts dates back to the 11th century and you will have the opportunity to see some of these beautiful examples and you hear how they are cared for. Please be aware to reach the library there is a narrow spiral staircase.

12:00 Depart for National Waterways Museum, Llanthony Warehouse, The Docks, Gloucester GL1 2EH (1 mile)

12:05 Arrive National Waterways Museum

Enjoy free time for lunch. There are many places to eat within walking distance of the museum, including the restaurants in the Gloucester Quays shopping centre (approx. 4 min walk).
 
13:30 Boat trip provided by the Museum (45 min).

Enjoy an afternoon pleasure cruise on the historic Dunkirk Little Ship, Queen Boadicea II. Built in 1936 as a Thames pleasure boat, Queen Boadicea II played her part in the Second World War as one of the Dunkirk Little Ships. She saw action in Dunkirk harbour where she evacuated many stranded soldiers. Your skipper will provide commentary during your cruise. 

14:15-15:15 Museum Tour – enjoy an hour-long guided tour of the collection which includes interactive exhibits providing a captivating journey through Britain's inland waterway heritage. 

Afternoon at leisure. You may wish to spend time by the waterside or do some shopping in the Gloucester Quays.

16:30 Depart back to your hotel

17:00 Arrive at your hotel

19:00 Dinner at hotel 

Day three – Thursday 4th July
 
10:00 Check out of the hotel and depart for Sudeley Castle & Gardens, Winchcombe, Cheltenham GL54 5JD

10:30 Arrive Sudeley Castle for a four-hour visit.

Nestled in the picturesque town of Winchcombe, Sudeley Castle and Gardens exudes timeless charm and historic significance. Originally built as a medieval fortress, the castle has evolved over centuries, boasting stunning Tudor and Victorian architecture. You will be enchanted by the castle's rich history, lush gardens, and breathtaking views of the Cotswold countryside. Explore the royal apartments, discover the captivating exhibits, and stroll through the award-winning gardens where floral splendour and tranquil beauty await at every turn.  

Lunch at leisure. There is a tempting Pavilion Café on site serving hot and cold drinks, toasties and sandwiches, slices of locally made cake, and ice creams.

14:30 Depart for Brighton (141 miles).

18:00 Arrive at your drop off location, Patcham Clock Tower, Mackie Avenue, Patcham, Brighton BN1 8RA (opposite The Ladies Mile pub) 

Tour Ends

Perched on the edge of Lilley Brook Golf Course, DoubleTree by Hilton 4* mixes contemporary luxury with a Georgian aesthetic. Indulge in a full-service spa, take afternoon tea in the lounge, enjoy the indoor pool, and relax in the steam room.

Breakfast and dinner is included with your stay 

Double Tree by Hilton  Cirencester Rd, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham GL53 8EA

• Booking requires a deposit of £60pp  
• You must pay for your single room supplement of £134 along with your deposit 
• To confirm your booking please follow the link at the top of the page which will take you to our secure online payment portal.  Should you wish, you may also phone during office hours and pay over the phone.
• In your payment confirmation, you will receive a note asking you to complete an online booking form*.  Please complete this as soon as possible. Each passenger must complete and submit a booking form.
• IMPORTANT: Final Cost will be confirmed on group booking of 40 passengers. Any adjustment in fee, additional or discounted, will be made to your final balance. 
• Balance payment will be due 60 days before the departure date and we will be sending you a reminder and a link to make your payment online through our secure payment portal.

BOOKING FORM:

Click here to fill in our online booking form:   https://www.ecttravel.com/booking-form-simon-smith-mini-break

Or Download PDF to fill in and return to us: