Enjoy a wonderful autumn break based at the Rothay Garden Hotel in Grasmere, the heart of the English Lakes from where we will explore some of the region’s finest and most beautiful gardens, Arts and Crafts homes and historic castles. Each of our included guided tours has been specially selected to reflect the rich history, romantic landscapes and cultural life of the region. Autumn is one of the most lovely and peaceful times to visit the Lakes. It is also one of the most spectacular as the leaves in the valleys turn to golden yellows, russet browns and bright oranges. To be there in October when the early morning sun sits above the water is to experience the Lakeland landscape at its very best.
Today the Lakes are undoubtedly one of the most iconic areas of natural beauty and heritage in the British Isles. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, every day here will be one to treasure. Beginning with the glories of Hutton-in-the-Forest, the family home of Lord Inglewood; the house respected for its beautiful carved interiors, plaster ceilings, long gallery and porcelain collections contrasts magnificently with a joyous contemporary walled garden and long-established arboretum, which should be resplendent with autumnal tints. Rydal Mount, the favourite and final home of William Wordsworth, complete with its simple but charming garden and collections containing many special family items will provide a deeper insight into the famous poet and his private life.
No Lake District tour would be complete without a visit to Hill Top, the former home of Beatrix Potter; both here and at the associated gallery in Hawkshead you will be able to discover more about the inspiration for her writings and art as well as the impact of conservation work on the landscapes we see today. A visit to the ‘Manor from Heaven’ at Mirehouse, the home of the Spedding family for 350 years, associated with Wordsworth, Tennyson, Southey, Thomas Carlyle and John Constable will immerse you in the literary life of the lakes. Here the house and gardens are set in a magnificent arcadian landscape complete with views across Bassenthwaite Lake to the fells.
Our tour will also include a voyage across Coniston Water, on the restored Steam Yacht ‘Gondola’ to reach Brantwood House and Garden. The former home of the Victorian polymath, writer and art critic John Ruskin, it holds rich literary and art collections, often reflective of his unique garden famed for its plant collections, autumnal hues and magnificent views over Coniston Water. Blackwell House, designed by the architect M. H. Bailey Scott is a gem reflective of the principles and skill of the Arts and Crafts movement. Set in a garden designed by Thomas Mawson it is a joy to behold, with its calm gentle interiors each filled with light, immaculate furniture and subtle artistic touches.
At Levens Hall, we will enjoy a tour of the house to marvel at the glorious oak panelling, ornate plasterwork and collections of furniture, clocks, and paintings; some of which date back to the 16th century. The gardens, which feature the world’s oldest topiary and a fine plant collection, will also provide a grand opportunity for a stroll and time to reflect.
Our final destination is Sizergh Castle, in the care of the Strickland family for over 700 years it has some of the finest panelled rooms and sumptuous interiors in England, home to magnificent collections of ceramics and furniture including examples by Gillows of Lancaster, glassware, paintings, sculpture and tapestries. Here you will also have time to explore the landscaped grounds including the rock garden where hopefully the autumn colours will be at their best.
Rothay Garden Hotel
The four-star Rothay Garden Hotel has an enviable riverside location in the pretty Lake District village of Grasmere and for our five night stay we will take over all 30 rooms allowing us to plan the perfect schedule. This privately owned and meticulously kept hotel is the perfect place for a comfortable stay in a charming Lakeland setting and offers a first class and friendly service that only a small hotel can provide. Many of the well-planned rooms and suites benefit from private patios and balconies which look over the delightful gardens and the hotel is within easy walking distance of the village.
Please note: Due to the layout of the hotel, we do not recommend this tour for those with walking difficulties. The hotel does not have a lift and most of the rooms are only accessible by climbing a number of steps. There are 20 steps to the rooms located on the 1st floor and 11 further steps to the rooms located on the 2nd floor.
Itinerary
Day 1 Grasmere, Lake District.
Arrive at the Rothay Garden Hotel independently during the afternoon. For those wishing to arrive by train a transfer will be arranged from Oxenholme Railway Station which is on the main West Coast Line. Alternatively there is car parking available at the hotel. Meet for welcome drinks and dinner in the hotel. (D)
Day 2 Hilltop House, Beatrix Potter Gallery & Mirehouse.
This morning will start with a visit to the former home, gardens and orchard of renowned children’s author, artist, farmer and conservationist, Beatrix Potter. Later, in nearby Hawkshead see some of her original artwork housed in a 17th century village house. After lunch in Hawkshead we will drive via Bassenthwaite Lake to Mirehouse. Sitting underneath Skiddaw, Melvyn Bragg described it as the ‘Manor from Heaven’. Home of the Spedding family it is indeed a joy and inspiration to behold, as relevant to life today as it was 350 years ago. Here the garden and grounds offer spectacular views of the fells and lakeside. The house and its collections are a treasure trove of literary connections and works of art. Walk through the dining room, drawing room, library, music room and study, all memorable and beautifully apportioned with an approachable and modest grandeur. Return to the hotel for dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 3 Hutton-in-the-Forest & Rydal Mount.
Enjoy a morning visit to the family home of Lord Inglewood. The house has a strong sense of history as well as a lived-in family home feel. Enjoy the significant architecture, furniture, and porcelain collections as well as the Walled Garden and Arboretum. From the terraces view the autumn colour across the designed landscape with a middle pond to the woodlands beyond. After lunch drive to Rydal Mount, near Ambleside, the final and favourite home of William Wordsworth. This charming house in an English garden setting was very much the focus of romantic literature. Today, it continues to be owned by the Wordsworth family and retains the feel of a lived-in family home. A visit to Rydal is like stepping back in time and meeting both William and Dorothy in person. Return to Grasmere in the late afternoon before meeting for dinner and an evening talk, ‘The History of the English Garden - Origins Influencers & Makers’ (B, L, D)
Day 4 Steam Yacht Gondola, Brantwood House & Blackwell Arts and Crafts House.
Start the day with a trip on the fully restored National Trust Steam Yacht across Coniston Water to visit William Ruskin’s house and garden, Brantwood. Take time to explore the magnificent setting, the influence of the Arts and Crafts movement on the architecture as well as the historic collections of paintings, books, china and furniture. Explore the garden and its plant collection which although steep in places is well worth the effort for the fine views of the fells and the autumn colour. After lunch in the Brantwood cafe we depart for Bowness on Windermere to explore Blackwell – the amazing Arts and Crafts house. Designed by architect Mackay Hugh Baillie Scott in 1901, it has beautiful interiors with decorative features including furniture, tiles and plasterwork. Step out to the terrace garden designed by Thomas Mawson and take in the dramatic scenery towards Consiton Fells, Grizedale Forest and Lake Windermere. Enjoy dinner in the hotel followed by a talk, ‘The Dryads Crown – A Celebration of Nature, Arts and Literature’. (B, L, D)
Day 5 Levens Hall & Sizergh Castle.
Drive to Levens Hall in Kendal which, dating from 1170, is famed for its significant architecture, oak panelling, ornate plasterwork and collections of furniture, clocks, and paintings. The splendid gardens feature the world’s oldest topiary. After lunch in the Levens Hall Kitchen Restaurant take a short drive to Sizergh Castle. Now in the hands of the National Trust it has been the home of the Strickland family for over 700 years. Here, are some magnificent interiors including the sumptuous Drawing Room and Queen’s Room. The castle is filled with fine furniture dating from the Elizabethan to Georgian era including many examples by Gillows of Lancaster. Step out to the landscaped grounds especially the rock garden containing a rich collection of ferns, trees and shrubs which should be a riot of autumnal colour. Return to the hotel for farewell drinks and dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 6 Grasmere.
After breakfast a transfer will be provided to Oxenholme Railway Station for those returning home by train. (B)
Dates and Prices
| 13 to 18 October 2024 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Classic Double Room | Fully Booked | |
| Classic Twin/Double Superior Room | Fully Booked | |
| Deluxe Twin/Double Room | Fully Booked | |
| Deluxe Superior Double Room | Fully Booked | |
| Luxury Twin/Double Room | Fully Booked | |
| Classic Double Room for sole occupancy | Fully Booked | |
| Deluxe Twin/Double Room for sole occupancy | Fully Booked | |
Tour Reference Code: LAAUTUMN
PRICE INCLUDES: Five nights hotel accommodation at the Rothay Garden Hotel • Meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner) • Drinks with meals • Excursions as described • Two after dinner talks • Tour Leader • Guest Speaker • Group transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Rothay Garden Hotel
The four-star Rothay Garden Hotel has an enviable riverside location in the pretty Lake District village of Grasmere and for our five night stay we will take over all 30 rooms allowing us to plan the perfect schedule. This privately owned and meticulously kept hotel is the perfect place for a comfortable stay in a charming Lakeland setting and offers a first class and friendly service that only a small hotel can provide. Many of the well-planned rooms and suites benefit from private patios and balconies which look over the delightful gardens and the hotel is within easy walking distance of the village.
Please note: Due to the layout of the hotel, we do not recommend this tour for those with walking difficulties. The hotel does not have a lift and most of the rooms are only accessible by climbing a number of steps. There are 20 steps to the rooms located on the 1st floor and 11 further steps to the rooms located on the 2nd floor.
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Hotel Directory
Hotel Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the hotel or click on the adjacent Directory to download. The four-star Rothay Garden Hotel has an enviable location in the beautiful Lake District village of Grasmere. For our exclusive tour we are taking over its 30 rooms which are situated around delightful gardens and within easy walking distance of the village. This privately owned and meticulously kept hotel is the perfect place for a comfortable stay in a charming lakeland setting. Many of the well-planned rooms and suites have private patios and balconies which look over the gardens. The Garden Restaurant has been awarded 2AA rosettes consistently over the years and offers some of the finest dining in the area. In addition there are comfortable lounges and a small spa.
ADDRESS
Rothay Garden Hotel
Broadgate Grasmere
Ambleside, LA22 9RJCAR PARK
The hotel has parking onsite which can accommodate your car free of charge for the duration of the tour.CHECK IN/CHECK OUT
Check in time is from 3.00 pm and check out is by 11.00 am.COMMUNICATIONS
To contact the hotel please call 01539 435334. There is a phone in your hotel room which has access to an outside line. The hotel can be contacted by email at stay@rothaygarden.com.DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian and gluten free, please notify the Noble Caledonia Reservations Department. We will endeavour to accommodate your needs but regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed. Once checked in, we recommend you speak with Reception prior to dining in the restaurant on the first evening.DINING & DRINKING
Breakfast is served in the restaurant from 7.30 am to 10.00 am daily.
Light lunch options are served daily in the Bar Lounge.
Dinner is served in the Garden Restaurant from 6.00 pm to 9.30 pm daily.
The Rothay Garden bar is open daily and stocks a wide range of beverages, wines and spirits.DRESS CODE
You may dress however you feel comfortable during the day. Evening attire is smart casual.EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
We request that as soon as you enter your room, you carefully read the safety instructions on the back of your bedroom door. Please make sure that you know the most direct route out to the Fire Point, which is situated in the car park, before you retire for the night. If you discover a fire, please break the clear plastic panel on the nearest call point. Please do not try to tackle a fire yourself.END OF STAY QUESTIONNAIRE
We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and the services provided and in order to do this we welcome feedback from our guests. Your comments are important to us therefore we request that you complete the questionnaire that will be provided to you by your Tour Leader.LAUNDRY
A laundry service is available through a local provider. Items are usually returned the next day, but this may not always be possible.LIFT
There are no lifts in the hotel.LOST PROPERTY
Before you check out, please check your hotel room to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia directly. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.MAIL
Letters or postcards can be left at Reception and the team will be happy to assist with postage. Postage can be bought and charged to your room account.ROOMS
The Rothay Garden Hotel has 30 rooms spread over three floors. The hotel bedrooms are beautifully appointed, individually designed, and offer views over the riverside and fells. All of the rooms throughout the hotel have en-suite bathrooms, TV, radio, direct dial telephones, hairdryers and tea and coffee making facilities. See following chart for specific information pertaining to each room category.
Classic Rooms: Situated on the first floor and front facing towards Silver Howe and the Easedale Valley, these rooms have a king size bed, and either a shower over a bath or a walk in shower.HOTEL INFORMATION
The four-star Rothay Garden Hotel has an enviable location in the beautiful Lake District village of Grasmere. For our exclusive tour we are taking over its 30 rooms which are situated around delightful gardens and within easy walking distance of the village. This privately owned and meticulously kept hotel is the perfect place for a comfortable stay in a charming lakeland setting. Many of the well-planned rooms and suites have private patios and balconies which look over the gardens. The Garden Restaurant has been awarded 2AA rosettes consistently over the years and offers some of the finest dining in the area. In addition there are comfortable lounges and a small spa.Classic Superior Rooms: Situated on either the ground floor or first floor, these rooms boast impressive views over either the river, the beautiful gardens or the Lake District countryside. They have a king size bed or super king bed and either a shower over a bath or a walk in shower. Many of these rooms have additional seating areas either on their balcony or outdoor terrace area.
Deluxe Rooms: These rooms boast impressive Lake District views over either the river or the beautiful gardens and have a super king bed and either a shower over a bath or a walk in shower. Many of these rooms have additional seating areas either on their balcony or outdoor terrace area.
Deluxe Superior Rooms: Situated on the second floor, these rooms have a super king bed, a separate bath and shower, air-conditioning and fabulous views over the Lakeland fells.
Luxury Rooms: These are situated on either the ground floor or second floor of the hotel and provide a relaxing and decadent stay. They feature extra comfortable sofas, bath and shower (either over or separate), super king Hypnos beds and spectacular views over the gardens or river.
SAFE
If you have any valuables, please deposit them in the safe at Reception.SMOKING POLICY
Smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere inside the hotel or in the hotel grounds.TOILETRIES
All hotel rooms are supplied with White Company soap, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion.WI-FI
Wi-Fi is available in all bedrooms and public areas at no extra charge.
Travelling with You
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Chantal Cookson
Chantal was born in Suffolk very near the sea and now lives in Northumberland where her husband farms and when possible, they go to their cottage in Suffolk. Chantal has been associated with Noble Caledonia since the company was founded in 1991 and was part of the Expedition Team for many years on the MS Caledonian Star and has led tours, be it cruising or land, all over the world, including the Antarctic in 1999, aboard the Caledonian Star on her first voyage there and in 2017 was aboard the MS Island Sky on her first voyage to the Antarctic. Chantal’s initial experience of cruising was in British waters in 1991 when Noble Caledonia did the first cruise around the British Isles, which was a ground breaking voyage and led to a very successful and popular concept. Though her main job for over 25 years was working for Sotheby’s, she is now a Travel and Fine Art Consultant intertwining in her busy life still working periodically as part of the Noble Caledonia Expedition Team and also as a Tour Leader on Land Tours. From the Arctic to the Antarctica, South America to Australia, Africa, India, The Seychelles, Indonesian Islands and many other destinations including many times the West Coast of Scotland, she has been able to pursue her love of the oceans, zodiacing and photography. Chantal is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.
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David Mitchell
David Mitchell was previously a Curator at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh; he is currently Deputy Chair of the National Trust for Scotland, and Director - Curator at Muddy Feet Consultancy. His own environmental education company specialising in landscape assessment, project development, horticulture, and interpretation.His knowledge as curator is augmented with over thirty years’ experience working as a consultant in the private and public sector, supporting organisations that include The National Archives of Scotland, The National Galleries of Scotland, The National Trust for Scotland and the Royal Zoological Society for Scotland. He has extensive broadcasting experience in television and radio with the BBC, STV and Channel Four; augmented by global involvement as an Expedition Lecturer for Noble Caledonia, the National Trust for Scotland and the American Ivy League Universities of Harvard, Dartmouth and Brown. A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture and the Royal Geographical Society he has a passion for nature and the land.
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