Tours to the North & North East of London

TOUR 11: CAMBRIDGE and SUFFOLK (10 hours)

We visit the historic and picturesque University town of Cambridge and walk through one or two of the colleges in the footsteps of some of the finest minds this University has nurtured - you'll learn all about them as we fall for the charm and fine architecture of this lovely city. Over an excellent pub lunch - or a picnic by the river, if preferred - you can debate your choice of activity for the remainder of the day.

Either, an afternoon spent first with a short, but moving visit to the American Cemetery and chapel, followed by a couple of hours visiting one of Europe's best WWII air force museums - with extensive British, American and German content, all brilliantly displayed.

Or, we'll take a gentle, rewarding drive into the heart of the Cambridgeshire and Suffolk countryside, enjoying village scenes which have inspired painters, including such greats as Constable and Gainsborough.

Suffolk Village High Sreet Village ford

As you explore these charming villages with their amazing 'higgledy-piggledy' 15th -18th century thatched cottages and half-timbered buildings, you get the feeling that time has almost stopped here - it's certainly a very special part of England!

Taking things at an unhurried pace means you'll have plenty of time to pause, stroll and reflect; or perhaps shop for the odd antique or souvenir - plenty of both here, if that's your thing! Alternatively, this is the perfect location to sample an excellent English Cream Tea or the full High Tea (if lunch was light!), before we wend our way home.

Please check my online diary first, BEFORE booking.

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TOUR 12: THE CONSTABLE VILLAGES & ROMAN COLCHESTER (10 hours)

See the intriguing Roman structures and fine medieval castle of Colchester and stroll the town's charming little streets and perhaps do a little shopping - often at lower prices than London can offer.

The afternoon can be preceded by a fine pub lunch in one of the lovely Suffolk villages connected with the great 18th century landscape artist, John Constable. Afterwards we'll retrace his life and the scenes which so inspired him. Afternoon teas are another option for those who want to try local customs (it's good excuse anyway!).

Haywain Boats_on_the_Stour

Please check my online diary first, BEFORE booking.

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TOUR 13: CAMBRIDGE, ELY and the FENS (10 hours)

On this tour we'll visit the historic and picturesque University town of Cambridge and explore one or two of the colleges and admire some of the best architecture in Britain. After lunch, we drive through the Cambridgshire countryside to the historic City of Ely, with a visit to one of the finest Cathedrals in Europe.

King's_College Wind_pump

We'll end the day with a look at the unique Fenland landscapes and windmills - it's very reminiscent of the Netherlands. Here, as in Holland, the area consists of fresh- or salt-water wetlands which have been artificially drained and continue to be protected from floods by drainage banks and pumps. With the support of this drainage system, the Fens have become a major arable farming area - the soils being incredibly fertile and making up around half of England's Grade 1 agricultural land!

Please check my online diary first, BEFORE booking.