Day 1
Arrival
After joining the coach, we make our way to our hotel and check in.
Day 2
Stamford & Oakham
We visit the picturesque market town of Stamford, widely regarded as one of the finest stone towns in England, with a variety of 17th and 18th-century stone buildings, secret alleyways peppered with alehouses and no fewer than five medieval parish churches. Stamford has formed the backdrop for the television costume drama Middlemarch and the 2005 film adaptation of Pride & Prejudice.
We continue to Oakham, the county town of Rutland. This pretty, traditional market town boasts many historic landmarks including a Norman castle, unusual stocks and a town pump beneath the Butter Cross as well as the renowned Oakham School, which dates back to 1584. There’s also an abundance of eateries and stylish shops to visit. Later we enjoy a traditional ‘Christmas’ dinner with all the trimmings back at the hotel.
Day 3
Birmingham
We visit the metropolitan city of Birmingham, known for its vast array of lively bistros, restaurants, and shops but also its fine, colourful canals and beautiful parks and gardens. There’s time to stop for a bite to eat and take a leisurely stroll around St Philip’s Cathedral or visit one of the many museums or galleries.
Day 4
Optional excursion to Stratford-upon-Avon (£14pp)
Our optional excursion takes us to Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace and a busy, attractive Tudor town of timbered buildings, parks and, of course, theatres. Fans of the Bard can visit the house in which he was born, and there’s a chance to wander the riverside gardens or discover the town’s Swan Theatre, home of the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Day 5
Return Home
After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and head home.