COST PER PERSON: £475 PER PERSON

Includes RHS Hyde Hall

Essex is a part of the country we don’t usually visit, but after a special request last year, we thought we would try out the classic sea-side resort of Southend-on-Sea, home of the longest pier in the World!

We begin our tour with a visit to the city of Chelmsford, with a Cathedral, museums and shops. It even has it’s very own Central Park, so you can imagine you’re in New York! Our next stop is The Tiptree Jam Tearooms, where you can wander round the museum and find out about the famous preserves before trying them out. The ice-cream shed and iconic Tiptree Routemaster Bus are also well worth a look. We finish with a cream tea.

There is a lot to do in Southend, with it’s 7 miles of award winning beaches, museums, aquarium, gardens and the shortest cliff-lift in the World, as well as a myriad of bars, cafes and shops, and of course the mile long pier with it’s own train. Leigh-on-sea with it’s famous cockle sheds, and Westcliff are nearby and well worth a visit, just a short walk along the sea-front.

Finally, we will stop in Maldon, home of the salt and picturesque Hythe Quay, home to many of the remaining Thames Barges. The highlight of the tour is a visit to RHS Hyde Hall, with it’s electric mix of traditional and modern styles, ablaze with colour at this time of year.  Set in rolling hills and with beautiful panoramic views, it is an oasis of peace and tranquillity.

Tour Price For 5 Days Includes:

• 4 nights half board

• Entry to RHS Hyde Hall

• Excursion to Chelmsford & Maldon

• Visit to Tiptree Jam Tearooms & Cream Tea

• Porterage

Your Hotel - The 3*Palace Hotel, Southend-On-Sea

Very well situated only a short walk from the sea front and within easy walking distance of the shops & harbour. There are three lovely airy lounges with wi-fi throughout. The rooms have tea/coffee making facilities, a hairdryer & TV. A lift serving all floors, with some steps to rooms on split levels.

Supplement:

Single room £125

Sea-view £25