The Midlands including the Birmingham International Tattoo

September 9, 2020

Proposed Itinerary

Day 1 – Departing this morning we journey north, stopping en route at *Waddesdon Manor (NT), where lunch can be purchased. This manor was built (1874-89) by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild to entertain his guests and display his vast collection of 18th-century French decorative arts. The furniture, Savonnerie carpets and Sèvres porcelain rank in importance with those in the Louvre in Paris and the Royal and Wallace Collections in London. There is also a fine collection of portraits by Gainsborough and Reynolds, and works by Dutch and Flemish Masters of the 17th century. The Victorian gardens are considered one of the finest in Britain and famous for the parterre, seasonal displays, shady walks and views, fountains and statuary. Once at the hotel dinner is included.

Day 2 – Breakfast included. This morning’s excursion is to Coventry beginning with an included guided tour of the Cathedral, the best way to fully appreciate this ‘casket of jewels’. Your enthusiastic guide will lead you through the history of the Ruins, the Blitz, and the building of the New Cathedral. There are many aspects to the Cathedral aside from its history, including the Architecture and Basil Spence’s vision, the Arts contained within the building and the Artists who created them, and the story of Reconciliation which continues today. This afternoon’s included visit is to the Black Country Museum. Historic buildings from around the Black Country have been moved and authentically rebuilt here creating a tribute to the traditional skills and enterprise of the people that once lived in the heart of industrial Britain. You will be transported back in time from the modern exhibition halls to the canal-side village, where costumed demonstrators and working craftsmen bring the buildings to life with their local knowledge, skills and unique Black Country humour. Hotel dinner included

Day 3 – Breakfast included. Today begins with an included visit to the National Memorial Arboretum.
This attraction comprises of 150 acres of trees and memorials devoted to the concept of Remembrance. It is also the home of the Armed Forces Memorial. This is a striking and emotive structure that gives recognition and thanks for those who have died whilst on duty, or as a result of terrorist action since WWII, and acknowledges the enduring sacrifice of those who mourn their loss. Included is a 60 minute Land Train Tour which incorporates the outer lying points of the Arboretum and is the perfect way to explore the grounds. This takes in many additional memorials during which there is a complete and informative commentary. Lunch can be purchased here before this afternoon’s highlight, a matinee performance of the Birmingham Military Tattoo. This event brings together over 1,000 performers with 3 hours of spectacular entertainment including massed International Marching Bands, Spectacular Displays and a Grand Finale. Returning to the hotel dinner is included.

Day 4 – Breakfast included. Checking out of the hotel we retrace our steps, making an included visit at Blenheim Palace. Home to the 12th Duke of Marlborough and his family and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a long and diverse history. A masterpiece of Baroque architecture, landscaped Parkland and stunning Formal Gardens, Blenheim Palace provides an awe-inspiring experience. Explore some of the 2000 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown Parkland and 90 acres of award-winning Formal Gardens. Lunch can be purchased whilst here before continuing homewards, returning to Dorking.

*Exception is the NT property which is free for card carrying members. Non–members will pay this locally. Simply Groups reserve the right to make minor changes to this itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control.

This tour is operated by Simply Groups Ltd, Dalton House, 1 Hawksworth Street, Ilkley, West Yorkshire, LS29 9DU

TEL 01943 605999
info@simplygroups.co.uk
www.simplygroups.co.uk