Harrogate and Historic Homes and Gardens of Yorkshire

Make your own way to The Old Swan Hotel in Harrogate, where your Tour Manager will be waiting to greet you. Dinner in the hotel this evening.

After a relaxed breakfast we board our coach for the short drive to RHS Harlow Carr, where we enjoy an included morning visit of these wonderful gardens. The gardens are a pleasure to explore any time of the year, with so much to see, including the sub-tropical garden, scented garden, Queen Mother’s Lake and main borders, there is something to catch the eye at every turn. We next head by coach to Harewood House, one of England's Treasure Houses and the family seat of the Lascelles family, built in the 18th century for Edwin Lascelles. In the 20th century the house was lived in by Princess Mary, the only daughter of George V, after she married Henry Lascelles in 1922. The Harewood Estate occupies a beautiful rural setting, with 100 acres of gardens, including the lakeside bird gardens and walled gardens. Along with entry into Harewood, you will receive a light lunch voucher to use at your leisure in the courtyard café. There is ample time to explore the grand interior of Harewood House and extensive grounds before returning to the hotel for dinner this evening.

This morning we head to Raby Castle. The castle has a long history and was built in the 14th century by the powerful Nevill family, who made their home there until 1569. One occupant, Cecily Nevill, was mother of two Kings of England. In 1626 Raby was purchased from the Crown by Sir Henry Vane the Elder, a member of Charles I’s household and an MP. Raby is still owned by the Vane family, the present owner being the 12th, Lord Barnard. On arrival we enjoy a reception of tea, coffee and biscuits in the spectacular entrance hall before it opens to the public. Discover fascinating history as you head off on a guided tour of the castle, after which you can stroll the grounds at leisure. Later, we head to the Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle. The outstanding collection here is housed in a beautiful French-style public museum, and on arrival we have plenty of time to explore.

Today, we head by coach to Newby Hall, the family home of Mr and Mrs Richard Compton. Built in the 1690s by Sir Christopher Wren, the house was later adapted by John Carr and subsequently Robert Adam. Newby Hall is one of Britain's finest Adam Houses along with award winning gardens. We enjoy an informative guided tour of the house before exploring the 25-acre gardens and sculpture park. Make sure not to miss the Dollshouse Exhibition! During our visit we enjoy an included Yorkshire afternoon tea.  Mid-afternoon we depart for our journey back to Harrogate where there is time at leisure to relax at the hotel or take a stroll around the beautiful spa town. Dinner in the hotel this evening.

After a leisurely breakfast it is time to check out of the hotel.