Our Sample Itineraries

Arrive at the airport or we’ll meet you at a London hotel; no matter the time, we will be there waiting for you and ready to begin the relaxing journey to Well Cottage with a refreshing glass of champagne, juice for the kids and a selection of canapes – only the best way to start your luxurious vacation!

Settle in to the cottage with a cup of tea (or something a little stronger) and unpack while the children explore the garden and play on the swing. Look forward to your first delicious evening meal prepared by your personal chef Laura all tailored to your and the children’s preferences.

Heading for the Jurassic Coast is the perfect way to begin the week with children. Our first stop will be The Durdle Door where the kids will love walking down to see the famous archway and going those extra few steps down to the beach to dip their feet in the water.

Lulworth Cove will provide the first ice cream of the week and a chance to pick up some dinosaur souvenirs before heading to the seaside town of Weymouth after lunch for some fish n chips, a sandy beach, amusement arcades, mini golf and even an aquarium.

This is an action packed, full family day which provides something for all ages.

The day can start with a tour through the Safari Park- look out for animals such as the big cats, rhinos, an elephant, giraffes, zebras and many more including the infamous monkey enclosure.

Before lunch in the gardens there will be time for a visit to one of the animal enclosures on foot like the Koala’s or the Meerkats. Lunch will be followed by a timed entry into the house for a tour and then there may be time for either a boat trip to feed the sea lions or a chance to ‘get lost’ in the great hedge maze.

Today let’s head for the beautiful Roman city of Bath for a full day of exploring.

After a beautiful trip through the counties of Wiltshire and Somerset we will arrive in Bath with time to visit the Royal Crescent, Great Pulteney Street, Pulteney Bridge including the weir, The Circus, Bath Abbey and of course the Roman Baths museum including the old Pump room.

If the kids, or the kid in you, is still full of energy, Victoria Park boasts a fantastic place for a lawn picnic, glass of wine while the kids play. The gardens are magnificent and the Botanical gardens are a pleasant stroll with lots of places for hide and seek!

Once you have completed your checklist of things to do its time to head home for another wonderful mocktail hour and cake. Maybe some garden games or if it later join Laura for some cooking in her cottage kitchen!

No visit to the Dorset countryside would not be complete without a day closer to home to enjoy our local area, the garden, our games and amenities.

Start off the day with your complimentary spa treatment after breakfast while the children do a puzzle, play croquet or Nathan takes them for a trip to the local woods, play area or tennis courts.

There are endless countryside walks to take advantage of so pop on the wellies that we provide and follow the footpath signs across the fields. A visit to Stonehenge in the afternoon can be enjoyed before stopping off at a pub on the way home for some good old English ‘pub grub’!

An exciting attraction for the whole family!

After a beautiful drive through the Somerset countryside we will arrive in time for your timed guided tour of the caves. Make sure you dress appropriately as the caves will be cool and damp!

Other fun activities include a visit to the old paper mill, a circus show, a theatre, a mirror maze and a museum.

For lunch we can head for the smallest city in England- Wells. The lawn in front of the magnificent cathedral is the perfect spot for an English picnic before exploring this beautiful ‘little’ city.

The beautiful little village of Corfe Castle is named after the ruined castle that stands high above the village.

The younger generation will love making their way right to the top of the hill to enjoy the views, can you spot the steam train from up here?

After a walk around the village and a delicious picnic lunch how about a ride on the steam train down to the seaside town of Swanage where an ice cream can be waiting for you.

We will then head to a beautiful untouched beach at Studland, look out for the Isle of Wight before heading back to Well Cottage to enjoy a bbq dinner in the garden.

It’s time to start reminiscing on the good times spent at Well Cottage. We will ensure you’re well fed and maybe even time for one last swing under the tree before Nathan delivers you to, either your chosen airport, or your hotel in London before saying our heartfelt goodbyes.

Arrive at the airport (or we can collect you at your London hotel*); no matter the time, we will be there waiting for you and ready to begin the relaxing journey to Well Cottage with a refreshing glass of champagne and a selection of canapes – only the best way to start your luxurious vacation!
Settle in to the cottage with a cup of tea (or something a little stronger) unpack and get over the jet lag by sitting in the garden and listen to the birds sing or go for a countryside walk. Look forward to your first delicious evening meal prepared by your personal chef Laura.

*Please note this service is not available on our Shared Cottage package

The old market town of Sherborne is truly a wonderful little place and it is great to visit on your first day after a nice relaxing breakfast. We will head straight for the top of Cheap Street and you can wander down through the high street enjoying all the local independent shops, ending up at the beautiful abbey for a visit. Nathan will then transport you over to the new 16th century castle for your timed guided tour of the private home. Once your interior tour is complete a nice lunch picnic in the gardens will be waiting for you before moving across the lake to the original 12th century castle to explore this site.

Let’s enjoy the relaxing 45 minute journey through the Dorset countryside until we reach the 1000 year old Corfe Castle, which was once a royal residence. The village of which the now ruined castle overlooks is very charming and a great place to get a cream tea or enjoy a ride on the steam train.
After lunch on the way back to the cottage we will visit Kingston Lacy, an elegant 17th century Italian inspired country mansion set amongst formal and mature gardens.

No visit to the Dorset countryside would not be complete without a day closer to home to enjoy our local area and amenities.
Start off the day with your complimentary spa treatment after breakfast;
There are endless walks to take advantage of so pop on the wellies that we provide and follow the footpath signs across the fields. After lunch visit our local town of Shaftesbury before heading up to the incredible Stonehenge for an afternoon/evening visit. This is a great day to stop off at an inn on the way home and take advantage of your complimentary pub meal.

Let’s head for the beautiful Roman city of Bath today for a full day of exploring. After the 1 hour trip through the counties of Wiltshire and Somerset we will arrive in time to ensure you have time to visit the Royal Crescent, Great Pulteney Street, Pulteney Bridge including the weir, The Circus, Bath Abbey and of course the Roman Baths museum including the old Pump room. Once you have completed your checklist of things to do we will head home for another wonderful cocktail hour and/or a cream tea.

We will head for the southern tip of The Cotswolds today, a beautiful area known for its golden honey coloured limestone buildings and slate roofs.

We will visit the beautiful village of Lacock, the home of photography where the first negative was produced and the location of many movies and TV shows. Upon arrival a walk around the village is a great way to stretch your legs and imagine yourself in the scenes of Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, Pride & Prejudice plus many more

We can do a picnic lunch in the grounds of the abbey and manor house before touring the interior of the c1000 year old abbey, stately home and the photography museum/exhibition.

The Jurassic Coast is also a world heritage site and stretches for over 100 miles of coastline. Now of course we can’t show you every mile but we can show you a lot of it- after a 45 minute journey we will start at the Durdle Door and move onto Lulworth cove & village. Then we will embark on a coastal road drive for 1 hour to West Bay for some traditional fish n chips before heading home and stopping off at Thomas Hardy’s cottage- the location where he was born and raised and gained his inspiration for his best selling novels.

It’s time to start reminiscing on the good times spent at Well Cottage. We will ensure you’re well fed before Nathan delivers you to, either your chosen airport (or your preferred location*)  before saying our heartfelt goodbyes.

*Please note: This service may not be available for our Shared Cottage Package, please contact us to discuss your options.

All excursions are subject to availability and in the event that any of our excursions are unavailable on any of our dates it will be replaced with an equivalent experience.

Welcome! We’ll collect you from the airport or from your London hotel; no matter the time, we will be there waiting for you. Nathan is your dedicated chauffeur throughout your vacation with us.

Begin the relaxing journey to Well Cottage with a refreshing glass of champagne and a selection of canapes – what better way to start your luxurious vacation?!

Settle in to the cottage with a lovely cup of tea (or something a little stronger), unpack and relax – sit in the garden serenaded by birds, or go out to stretch your legs on a short walk.

Work up an appetite and look forward to your first delicious evening meal prepared by your very own personal chef, Laura.

Let’s start your walking week in an area we’re so lucky to call our ‘local walk’. You will be walking on the Cranborne Chase – protected as an ‘Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty’.

Thomas Hardy came to this area as a boy with his parents on their holidays. A lot of it, including the nearby Saxon town of Shaftesbury, can be referenced in his novels. (We can even arrange a visit to the birthplace of this great novelist!)

Various distance options are available, from as little as 1 mile all the way up to about 10 miles. You can start and finish at the cottage or be dropped off or collected. All walks are flexible and Nathan will be on hand to drive you to where you need to be, wait for you or collect you at an agreed time.  He’ll even deliver a delicious packed lunch if you don’t want to carry provisions with you, or you can use backpacks provided. Or simply stop off at a pub while out on your rambles!

Come home to a tumbler of whisky in front of a crackling fire, play some board games or chill out with a good book – Tess of the d’Urbervilles, perhaps?

After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll make the short trip to the enchanting Stourhead House & Gardens. This is a huge estate spanning 2,650 acres over chalk downs, ancient woodland and farmland which is now owned by the National Trust.

There is a wonderful walk where you can begin at the house and then head up to King Alfred’s Tower, passing the source of the river Stour on the way before finishing at the magnificent gardens.

If you still have the legs and/or the energy, you can circumnavigate the lake but if you don’t – how about a refreshing drink in a traditional English pub instead – The Spread Eagle Inn.

You can start off the day with your complimentary spa treatment after breakfast before heading out and about.

A well deserved rest to either relax at the cottage and get stuck into a book, or how about venturing off out to one of our set itinerary excursions like Stonehenge, Sherborne or the cities of Bath or Wells.

If you do want to continue hiking, we have an abundance of gorgeous public footpaths in the area. We would recommend somewhere like Ashmore Woods or Win Green on the Cranborne Chase. The landscape is simply breathtaking!

A spectacular day awaits as we head for this world-famous, 185-million-year-old coastline. The Jurassic Coast is the first natural World Heritage site in the UK. Today, you will be walking on the south west coastal path. This is England’s longest marked trail, stretching for 630 miles from north Somerset all the way around Land’s end and then up the south coast all the way to Poole in Dorset.

You can literally walk as little or as much as you would like today (and every day). Remember, Nathan will always be available to fetch and carry at your whim! Expect to hike up over headlands and down to sea level multiple times.

There are pubs en route and Nathan can also meet you for lunch. You can choose to amble out and back on your own steam, or take a linear route where Nathan drops you off at point A and picks you up at point B. Tip: Golden Cap, the highest point on the south coast, makes for a spectacular target!

After yesterday’s rolling headlands and beaches, another well deserved break for the legs may be in order… But of course if you still want to get out and explore, we have plenty of suggestions for you!

Like day 4, the Cranborne Chase offers unlimited hiking opportunities. Or how about something like Hambledon Hill, which is an Iron Age hill fort just a few miles south of the cottage where you can enjoy stunning 360 degree views from the top.

If you want to take a break from your hiking boots, you can visit somewhere local like our Saxon town of Shaftesbury, or Old Wardour Castle.

Starting off at Studland beach, you will hike up towards Old Harry Rocks where you’ll be able to see the Isle of Wight before turning inland towards the ridgeway. The Isle of Purbeck ridgeway offers tremendous views over the area; although not actually an island, it gets its name from the low-lying land that often flooded once upon a time.

You will arrive at the pretty little village of Corfe Castle, the name taken from the atmospheric 11th century fortress ruins that overlooks the village. Built by William the Conqueror in around 1066, it was destroyed during the English civil war in the 1600’s. Many of the village buildings were constructed using stone masonry from the ruined castle.

Unfortunately, your stay with us is coming to an end and it’s time to start reminiscing about all the good times spent at Well Cottage.

It is your last breakfast with us – but don’t worry, Laura will ensure you are leaving well fed! Nathan will deliver you to your final destination safely and in good time, whether you’re heading for the airport or to a London hotel.

We will say our heartfelt goodbyes, wish you a safe onward trip and hope to host you again in the not-too-distant future!

*Please note: All excursions are subject to availability. In the event that any excursion is unavailable on any of your dates, it will be replaced with an equivalent experience.

Upon your arrival in London, Nathan will warmly greet you, be it at the airport or a central London hotel. Toast to the start of your English vacation with delightful, festive refreshments and Canapes aboard your luxurious vehicle. Once at Well Cottage, Laura’s delicious lunch awaits.

Spend the rest of the day unwinding, perhaps with a tranquil stroll in the countryside, taking a bath or nap, chatting to Laura as she prepares your dinner in the Cottage Kitchen or simply relaxing by the fire with a good book!

Tomorrows first exciting day of excursions await! Enjoy Dinner with your loved ones and get a good nights rest.

Immerse yourself in England’s rich past with a visit to the grand Corfe Castle, a millennium-old sentinel overlooking its namesake village.

Post exploration, stop for a classic pub lunch in Corfe Castles idyllic village pub before heading to Kingston Lacy, a Venetian-inspired manor with sprawling gardens awaiting your discovery.

Return to the warm and cosy festive Well Cottage. Take some time to rest, read, chat or play games while Laura delivers you mulled wine and mince pies to enjoy by the roaring fire. Finish your day with a delicious, 3 course evening before retiring at your leisure to your cosy bed and in the satisfying knowledge that tomorrows exciting itinerary awaits you.

Relish a leisurely morning, enjoy a later breakfast, time to read the paper, a nice countryside walk or even the perfect time to enjoy your complimentary spa treatments.

Following a delightful lunch in the garden room, we’ll head to the Longleat Estate. Explore the magnificent and historical grand house, tastefully decorated for a Christmas celebration! As the evening descends, let the magical ‘Festival of Lights’ enchant your imagination and fill your festive spirit as you wander the gardens with a warm mulled cider or hot chocolate in hand!

After a hearty breakfast at Well Cottage, our journey to Bath takes us through picturesque landscapes. Once there, the Bavarian Christmas market beckons with its array of handmade treasures. Delve into Bath’s ancient history with a visit to the Roman Baths. If you’re keen, a guided architectural tour can further enhance your experience and cover many of Baths ancient highlights. There will be time for some Christmas shopping and admiring the Christmas lights or high tea can be arranged at the popular Pump Rooms if you prefer something a little more relaxing.

Heading back to the cottage in comfort and style will have you home in time for a roaring fire and maybe a puzzle followed later on by a delicious dinner cooked by your private chef Laura.

Head of to bed for a dreamy nights sleep before tomorrows adventures begin.

A day of pure yuletide indulgence.

Start your day the right way with a mimosa or two and Nathan and Laura’s family traditional ham and eggs breakfast! followup with presents from under the tree and fun and games for all the family.

A sumptuous Christmas lunch with traditional Roast turkey and all the British roasty trimmings! For full festive cheers we’ll decorate the table, play some Christmas classics and of course break out the British Christmas crackers, all courtesy of your personal gourmet chef, Laura and waiter Nathan.

After a post lunch stroll round our local village, a visit to our charming local town of Shaftesbury offers iconic views of Gold Hill. Cap off the day with the enchanting Christmas evening at Stourhead House and Gardens where another spectacular light show will await you.

Head home to charcuterie, cheese and biscuits, sherry and brandy snaps to finish the day off perfectly.

Engage with festive stalls, delight in the Dorset Farmers market, and be captivated by choirs and the Sherborne Town Band. There will also be church services in the historic Abbey. Santa’s grotto and the Christmas Tree Festival promise merriment, while the day concludes with a parade and the grand illumination of festive lights.

It has do be seen to be believed. This is the essence of England.

Explore the stunning Salisbury Cathedral, an 800-year-old gothic marvel and home to the renowned Magna Carta.

Enjoy a classic cream tea before visiting the museum, showcasing the famed Amesbury Archer. Then on to the home of former Prime Minister, Sir Edward Heath. As dusk approaches, the twinkling lights of the Christmas market in the market square await.

Return home for more pampering and relaxation. With not a worry in the world you can indulge in the beauty of undisturbed time. Time to enjoy a dinner carefully crafted for you, time to laugh and enjoy with your friends and family, time to relax in whatever way you choose. This is your vacation after all.

Though your festive journey at Well Cottage draws to a close, Laura’s hearty breakfast ensures your day begins right. With no rush and in utmost comfort, Nathan will transport you to the airport. Our warmest wishes accompany you, hoping that our paths cross again – no matter the season!

We will say our heartfelt goodbyes, wish you a safe onward trip and hope to host you again in the not-too-distant future!

Your journey begins the moment you touch down at London Heathrow, where Nathan greets you personally. As you’re whisked away in elegant comfort with celebratory refreshments, the English countryside unfolds before you. Laura awaits at Well Cottage with a sumptuous welcome, whether afternoon canapés or a full lunch, setting the tone for a week of unparalleled hospitality.

“The perfect introduction to what promises to be an unforgettable journey through time.”

Stand atop the dramatic Durdle Door and gaze across the same waters that carried brave souls toward Normandy’s beaches. This natural wonder on the Jurassic Coast offers more than breathtaking beauty – it provides perspective on the monumental D-Day operation. Walk the South West Coast Path to West Lulworth, then explore Portland Castle’s Georgian fortifications and the poignant Castletown D-Day Museum.

Historical Highlight: Visualise the massive fleet assembly that launched the largest seaborne invasion in history.

Portsmouth pulses with maritime history. The D-Day Story museum reveals the meticulous planning behind Operation Overlord, while the Historic Dockyard brings centuries of naval power to life. Walk the decks of HMS Victory, marvel at the Mary Rose’s Tudor treasures, and enjoy Laura’s specially prepared harbour-side picnic as you contemplate the naval forces that shaped the 20th century.

Must-See: HMS Victory—Nelson’s flagship and the most famous warship in history.

Sometimes the most profound moments come in quiet reflection. Enjoy a leisurely morning at Well Cottage – perhaps with an in-house spa treatment or just time in the beautiful garden. After a delectable lunch overlooking the surrounding countryside landscape, explore the medieval charm of Shaftesbury or follow ancient footpaths through countryside that has witnessed centuries of English history.

Perfect for: Recharging while staying connected to the historical narrative.

Bath seamlessly weaves ancient Roman heritage with Georgian elegance and WWII resilience. Your guided walking tour reveals how this UNESCO World Heritage city survived the Baedeker Blitz while showcasing architectural marvels like the Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge. The Roman Baths Museum offers timeless lessons about defence, community, and endurance.

Cultural Connection: From Roman thermal springs to WWII air raid shelters.

Tailor this day to your passions. Aviation enthusiasts will be captivated by Yeovilton Air Museum’s collection spanning generations of flight. Alternatively, journey to prehistoric Stonehenge via the Fovant Badges, where giant military insignia are found carved into chalk hillsides by WWI troops, connecting ancient mysteries with modern military heritage.

Flexibility Feature: Choose your own adventure while staying within the historical theme.

Begin at the world-renowned Tank Museum, home to the planet’s largest collection of armoured vehicles that thundered through both World Wars. Then explore the Isle of Purbeck’s dramatic landscapes: walk through Tyneham Village, the haunting “ghost town” evacuated for D-Day preparations, or climb the ruins of Corfe Castle, where centuries of English conflict played out in stone.

Emotional Impact: Tyneham Village—an entire community’s sacrifice for the greater good can be felt here.

Your final morning begins with Laura’s hearty farewell breakfast, a perfect moment to reflect on your vacation of historical immersion. Nathan ensures your departure is as seamless as your arrival, but you’ll leave with far more than when you came. A deeper understanding of the courage, sacrifice, and determination that shaped our modern world.

Your authentic English adventure begins with Nathan’s warm greeting at London—whether at the airport or your chosen luxury London hotel, as per your preference. Enjoy celebratory refreshments in our luxury vehicle as you’re transported through the genuine English countryside to Well Cottage, where Laura awaits with your first sumptuous lunch or delicate afternoon canapés. Spend your relaxing afternoon unpacking, settling into countryside bliss, and possibly taking a short walk through our grounds to begin your immersion into the real England.

Get off the tourist beaten track today and explore the beautiful county of Dorset with some spectacular local hidden gems. Our first stop is the enchanting Milton Abbas, where you’ll enjoy a gentle stroll down through this picture-perfect village that feels like stepping into a storybook. Continue to historic Dorchester — browse the charming high street and visit the fascinating museum before a delightful lunch stop at Cerne Abbas in front of the famous chalk giant carved into the hillside. Our final discovery is the remarkable 1000-year-old Sturminster Newton Mill, a working piece of English heritage that most tourists never experience.

Let’s explore the magical county of Somerset, beginning with the eccentric and mystical town of Glastonbury. The ancient abbey, built in 700AD, holds the legendary burial place of King Arthur and Guinevere — walk where pilgrims have trodden for over a millennium. After wandering the unique high street filled with independent shops and spiritual energy, head to England’s smallest city, Wells. The magnificent cathedral deserves a proper tour, featuring the world’s oldest clock face and the breathtaking Vicars Close, one of England’s most beautiful medieval streets that remains virtually unchanged.

A relaxing day to catch up on rest and truly enjoy the cottage, our beautiful garden, and the peaceful local area. Take advantage of your complimentary in-house spa treatment if you wish – the perfect way to rejuvenate surrounded by English countryside tranquillity. Savour a freshly made lunch overlooking our garden whilst listening to the birds sing, then choose your perfect afternoon: explore our local market town of Shaftesbury with its famous Gold Hill, embark on a countryside walk over local fields through the public footpath network, or simply relax in our garden sanctuary.

We’re delighted to offer you our exciting new discovery — The Newt in Somerset, an exclusive ‘members only’ beautiful estate featuring spectacular walled and kitchen gardens amongst vast grounds that will be bursting into life during your visit. Experience the fascinating fully renovated and reimagined Roman Villa built next to original archaeological remains, explore the innovative Beezantium (bee sanctuary), and immerse yourself in their comprehensive Garden Experience — this exclusive access showcases the very best of contemporary English estate life.

Spend the day exploring the magnificent medieval city of Salisbury. The 800-year-old Gothic cathedral, boasting the UK’s tallest spire, will be our first stop where a church representative provides a guided tour including the world’s oldest working clock and the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta. After lunch, visit the award-winning museum, the elegant Mompesson House, and Sir Edward Heath’s house — Arundells — offering intimate glimpses into both medieval and modern English life.

Discover the western end of the dramatic Jurassic Coast, beginning with a convenient stop at Thomas Hardy’s Max Gate before picking up the stunning Jurassic Coast scenic road. Journey to the charming seaside town of West Bay via the picturesque villages of Abbotsbury, Hive Beach, Burton Bradstock, and Seatown—each offering unique coastal character away from major tourist destinations. Enjoy a delightful English picnic overlooking the sea and this spectacular protected coastline before returning to your cottage sanctuary.

Unfortunately, your stay with us at Well Cottage is coming to an end, and it’s your last breakfast with us, but don’t worry, Laura will ensure you’re leaving well fed with her signature farewell feast. Nathan will ensure he delivers you to the airport or your London Hotel in plenty of time, so there’s no need to rush or panic. We’ll wish you a safe onward trip and hope to see you again in the future, carrying forever the authentic memories of the real England that few visitors ever discover.

Your garden odyssey begins with Nathan’s warm greeting at London—whether at Heathrow Airport or your chosen luxury London hotel, as per your preference. As you’re transported through the English countryside in our luxury vehicle with home made refreshments, watch as manicured hedgerows and cottage gardens create a living tapestry outside your window.

Laura awaits at Well Cottage with either your first sumptuous lunch or delicate afternoon canapés, served overlooking our own enchanting English garden. Spend your relaxing afternoon unpacking, settling into pure countryside bliss, and perhaps taking a short walk through our grounds where roses climb ancient walls and lavender scents the evening air.

“The perfect introduction to eight days of horticultural heaven.”

Journey through Dorset’s most picturesque countryside, heading southwest away from the majority of other tourists toward the stunning Mapperton House & Gardens—often called England’s finest manor house garden. These terraced Italianate gardens cascade down a hidden valley in breathtaking splendour. Enjoy a delicious and decadent picnic lunch surrounded by topiary, fountains, and centuries-old plantings in this extraordinary setting.

Your afternoon continues as we head back toward the cottage, stopping at Athelhampton House & Gardens on the way, where medieval charm meets horticultural perfection in one of England’s finest examples of a 15th-century manor garden.

Garden Highlight: Mapperton’s famous topiary garden and the romance of Athelhampton’s Great Court

Your next stop will be the legendary Stourhead House & Gardens, arguably England’s most famous landscape garden. This 18th-century masterpiece was designed as a living work of art around the serpentine lake, with classical temples, grottos, and rare trees creating picture-perfect vistas at every turn. This nice relaxing excursion allows you to enjoy this famous landscape garden designed around the lake at your own pace. You can also visit the main house, and a picnic lunch can be enjoyed in these sublime grounds before heading back to the cottage.

On the way home, we can visit the charming market town of Shaftesbury with its famous Gold Hill, or discover a hidden gem through an open garden on the National Garden Scheme.

Must-See: The Pantheon reflected in the lake—one of England’s most photographed garden scenes

A relaxing day to truly enjoy the cottage, including our very own beautiful English garden and the peaceful local area. You can take advantage of your complimentary in-house spa treatment if you wish—the perfect way to rejuvenate surrounded by garden tranquility. Savour a freshly made lunch overlooking our garden while listening to the birds sing, then head out for a countryside walk over local fields on the extensive ‘public footpath’ network, or visit a local garden opening through the National Garden Scheme. These private gardens showcase the passion and artistry of England’s dedicated amateur gardeners.

Perfect for: Experiencing the gentle rhythm of English country garden life in complete luxury

A trip toward the stunning Jurassic Coast begins with our first stop at Thomas Hardy’s birthplace cottage, where the famous author’s childhood garden still blooms much as it did in Victorian times, offering intimate insight into the literary inspiration drawn from English gardens. Then head to the coast to visit the spectacular Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, where 20 acres of rare and tender plants thrive in this unique microclimate just miles from the sea. We will then drive the breathtaking Jurassic Coast scenic route toward the cottage, driving past the renowned Minterne Gardens on the way—if we have the time and energy, we can stop for a visit to these Himalayan-style gardens nestled in a magical Dorset valley.

Unique Feature: Abbotsbury’s extraordinary camellias, magnolias, and tree ferns flourishing in England’s mildest coastal climate

If you are Downton Abbey fans, we can look to secure tickets for you to visit the real Highclere Castle and gardens—the ultimate English aristocratic garden experience. If you are not Downton Abbey enthusiasts, then we will visit the enchanting village of Lacock, which features a 1000-year-old abbey and stately home set amongst beautiful historic gardens that have remained virtually unchanged for centuries. We then head up to the magnificent Bowood House & Gardens to visit these spectacular ‘Capability Brown’ designed grounds, showcasing the genius of England’s most famous landscape architect with rolling parkland, serpentine lakes, and the famous rhododendron walks.

Historical Connection: Walk through gardens that have welcomed royalty and inspired Jane Austen

We are pleased to offer you our exciting new discovery—The Newt in Somerset, an exclusive ‘members only’ beautiful estate that represents the pinnacle of contemporary English gardening. Explore their world-renowned walled and kitchen gardens amongst the vast, carefully designed grounds. Experience the fascinating fully renovated and reimagined Roman Villa built next to original archaeological remains, discover the innovative Beezantium (bee sanctuary), and immerse yourself in their comprehensive Garden Experience—this is cutting-edge horticulture meeting ancient English heritage in the most exclusive setting imaginable.

Exclusive Access: Few visitors ever experience this members-only horticultural wonderland

Unfortunately, your stay with us at Well Cottage is coming to an end, and it is your last breakfast with us — but don’t worry, Laura will ensure you are leaving well fed with her signature farewell feast featuring the finest local ingredients, perhaps including herbs and edible flowers from our own garden. Nathan will ensure he delivers you to your final destination in good time, whether that’s London Heathrow, your London hotel, or onward travel arrangements. We will wish you a safe onward trip and hope to see you again in the future, carrying forever the peaceful memories and garden inspiration from your English countryside paradise.

This exclusive experience offers limited availability for the ultimate English garden journey. Your week-long adventure through England’s most exquisite gardens, combined with luxury cottage accommodation and unparalleled personal service, creates memories that will inspire your own garden dreams for years to come.