Historic Homes of Kent & Heritage Railways

Make your own way to our hotel, where you will meet our experienced Tour Manager. Enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner served in the hotel's restaurant.

This morning, we travel by coach to the market town of Tenterden. Here, we board the Kent & East Sussex Railway for a return rail journey between Tenterden and Bodiam, soaking up the scenery along the way. Enjoy some free time in Tenterden to explore the shops or relax in one of the delightful cafés before continuing to the iconic Scotney Castle, with included entrance to both the castle and its lush gardens.

Steeped in history, the roots of the Old Castle at Scotney stretch back to 1378, a creation of Roger de Ashburnham. Over the centuries, the Darell and Hussey families have each added their touch. Since Christopher Hussey's passing in 1970, the National Trust took ownership, and in 2007, following Betty Hussey's private residence, its doors were opened to the public. The picturesque gardens are bursting with beautiful colours, and the ruined Old Castle is worth exploring. Venture inside the 19th-century house and discover a vast collection of art, literature, and furnishings, intertwined with stories of its former residents. After a day filled with exploration, we journey back by coach.

Included Highlights

Scotney Castle Kent & East Sussex Railway

Today, our journey begins aboard the coach, heading towards the magnificent Penshurst Place and Gardens. This grand estate has once played host to King Henry VIII, courtesy of Edward Stafford, the 3rd Duke of Buckingham. After the lavish visit, Henry VIII had Stafford tried for treason and Penshurst Place became the property of the crown. It became Henry's hunting lodge, especially during his romantic pursuit of Anne Boleyn, whose family owned Hever Castle nearby. In 1552, King Edward VI entrusted Penshurst to Sir William Sidney. This marked the start of the Sidney family's legacy, including the iconic Elizabethan figure, Sir Philip Sidney.

Our exploration continues as the coach takes us to Hever Castle. This dreamy 13th-century castle, surrounded by a moat, was once the backdrop to Anne Boleyn's childhood tales. Its ownership shifted in 1903 when William Waldorf Astor acquired it, meticulously restoring the castle and creating the beautiful gardens. Meander through the Tudor Garden, enjoy the rhododendron walk, and trace Anne Boleyn's footsteps in her dedicated walkway.

We return to the hotel by coach and enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.

Included Highlights

Hever Castle Penhurst Place and Gardens

After breakfast, we travel by coach to Sheffield Park Station. Here, we climb aboard the historic Bluebell Railway for a scenic journey to East Grinstead station. On arrival, our coach takes us to Chartwell – the cherished family home of Winston Churchill from 1924 until his last days. More than just the iconic Prime Minister's residence, Chartwell offers an intimate glance into Winston Churchill’s personal world. Beyond his political duties, Churchill harboured a passion for painting. With over half a century dedicated to this art, he crafted more than 500 masterpieces, all of which can be admired in his personal studio. You will also have time to explore the gardens here, including Lady Churchill’s rose garden, the Golden Rose Avenue, and the walled garden.

We return to the hotel by coach for dinner this evening.

Included Highlights

Bluebell Railway Chartwell House

After a leisurely breakfast, it is time for you to check out and make your own way home.