England is packed with palatial properties and the Midlands is an excellent place to explore the best of them, especially when you have celebrated historian Lucy Worsley with you to explain their fascinating pasts.
And this is exactly what you can experience on Good Housekeeping's exclusive journey around the Midlands' grand houses with the TV star this July and September.
Magnificent houses rich with royal history – many of which were built to impress the kings and queens of the times – dot the Midlands. William Cecil spent a fortune on the architectural treasure that is Burghley House in an effort to catch the eye of Elizabeth I, while Grimsthorpe Castle was once owned by Charles Brandon, Henry VIII’s brother-in-law.
On our superb four-day tour, you’ll visit some of the finest buildings in the region, including Lamport Hall and Kelmarsh Hall, and get fascinating historic insight from author and TV historian Lucy Worsley.
At Deene Park, Mr and Mrs Brudenell, the current owners of the house, will give you a private tour, followed by dinner. Lucy will then give a lecture, with time for her to answer your questions in a Q&A session afterwards.
You’ll be based at Barnsdale Lodge Hotel, on the north shore of Rutland Water. The hotel is the perfect place for a relaxing break in the heart of the rolling English countryside, with the charming market towns of Oakham and Uppingham nearby.
Why you'll love this fabulous staycation
Events with Lucy Worsley
Lucy will join you to give a lecture on the history of the stately homes you’ll see on your visit and will answer your questions in a Q&A session. Lucy Worsley is chief curator at Historic Royal Palaces and the author of many books. She has presented Jane Austen: Behind Closed Doors and various other shows
Exclusive dinner at Deene Park
A highlight will be a meal in the elegant dining room at Deene Park, a grade I-listed building that dates back to the 14th century.
Stay in comfort at a charming hotel
Converted from a farmhouse that has been in the owner’s family since 1760, the three-star Barnsdale Lodge Hotel offers comfortable accommodation, excellent food and a warm welcome.
What's included?
- An exclusive talk and Q&A session with Lucy Worsley
- A tour of Deene Park with its current owners and a welcome drink
- Visits to Burghley House, Grimsthorpe Castle, Lamport Hall and Gardens and Kelmarsh Hall and Gardens
- Three nights at the three-star Barnsdale Lodge Hotel
- Enjoy breakfast every day and other meals, as detailed in the online itinerary, including one dinner at Deene Park and two at the hotel
Like the sound of exploring the Midlands' grand houses with Lucy Worsley this July or September? Visit our holiday website for more details about the wonderful four-day trip and how to book.
