Discover England’s beautiful West Country on our lovely tour taking in the highlights of Devon and Cornwall, with a fabulous full day at the Eden Project.
TOUR INCLUDES
- Return ferry crossings Dublin-Holyhead
- 6 nights hotel accommodation with dinner, bed and breakfast
- Luxury coach with fully qualified Driver/Escort
- Entrance to the Eden Project
- Excursion to Dartmoor and Exeter
- Excursion to North Cornwall
HOTEL
Holiday Inn, Bromsgrove
Copthorne Hotel, Plymouth
COST
€695 per person sharing
€105 single supplement
Group Rate Special Available On This Tour
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ITINERARY
WEDNESDAY 2ND JUNE
After a pick up from your local area we travel to Dublin for the ferry to Holyhead. We then travel south to our overnight stop in the Birmingham area. (Dinner, B&B)
THURSDAY 3RD JUNE
After breakfast we continue our journey, arriving at our destination, Plymouth, mid-afternoon. There will be plenty of rest stops en route. Our hotel is located in the centre of Plymouth, within walking distance of the major sights. Why not take a stroll to the famous Hoe, where Sir Francis Drake spotted the Spanish Armada fleet during a game of bowls? The views out to sea are unbeatable! Or visit the historic Barbican and the Mayflower Steps, the site where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for America. This lively area is now full of bars and restaurants – perfect to take a breather before returning to the hotel for dinner. (Dinner, B&B)
FRIDAY 4TH JUNE
Today’s excursion takes us through the heart of Devon with a leisurely drive across rugged Dartmoor – look out for the famous Dartmoor ponies roaming free in this lovely National Park. We soon arrive in Exeter, Devon’s capital located on the River Exe, and we have plenty of free time to explore this fine city full of character and ancient history. Perhaps visit the Norman Cathedral – its two magnificent towers have dominated the skyline since 1114. Alternatively, venture into the medieval underground passages, built in the 14th century to bring fresh water into the city. Exeter’s Quayside has a lovely atmosphere in which to relax and you can see the historic Customs House and other buildings dating back to Charles II. We return to Plymouth for dinner at the hotel. (Dinner, B&B)
SATURDAY 5TH JUNE
After breakfast we set off for a full day visit to the world famous Eden Project – a truly ‘global’ garden in a breathtaking location, whose art and architecture draw inspiration from nature. Explore the vast Biomes, huge artificial greenhouses containing thousands of species of exotic plants. The Rainforest Biome takes us on a fascinating journey into the humid tropical regions of the world, recreating the steamy rainforests of Malaysia, West Africa and South America. In the Mediterranean Biome we see flora from the Mediterranean, South Africa and California, all of which share a similar climate though each has a unique collection of plants. Around three-quarters of Eden’s planting is actually outside in the stunning gardens, which over 10 years ago were nothing but barren land! The emphasis here is firmly on the environment and sustainability but Eden is also about simple pleasures: enjoying tasty food, taking time to stop and smell the flowers and having a good time! Today’s visit is sure to be an unforgettable experience! (Dinner, B&B)
SUNDAY 6TH JUNE
Today we head to Cornwall’s north coast and the village of Tintagel, renowned for its association with the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. We see the remains of Tintagel Castle, set on a dramatic and picturesque headland, and have time to explore the village. Next we make our way to Padstow, made famous by the TV chef, Rick Stein. Padstow is situated on the west side of the Camel estuary and is an area of outstanding natural beauty with wonderful bays and beautiful golden beaches. The town itself has a colourful history. Old crooked streets slope down to the harbour where many fine medieval buildings can still be seen. We spend some time here then return to Plymouth passing Bodmin Moor, the famed haunt of smugglers and home of the ‘Beast of Bodmin’. (Dinner, B&B)
MONDAY 7TH JUNE
We leave Plymouth this morning and head back to our overnight stop in the Birmingham area. (Dinner, B&B)
TUESDAY 8th JUNE
Our homeward journey continues as we drive to Holyhead for the ferry to Dublin, with onward transfers to original pick up points after disembarkation. |