A romantic journey through middle England
A little taster for the romantic couple… Step into the charm and refinement of a bygone era as you journey through the heart of middle England. This curated escape unveils some of the country’s most magnificent stately homes and gardens, offering a rich tapestry of history, heritage, and cultural splendour.
Begin your journey in York, a city steeped in medieval grandeur and timeless charm. Enclosed by ancient walls and woven with winding snickelways, York invites exploration at a leisurely pace. Wander through The Shambles, a beautifully preserved 13th-century street, or admire the soaring architecture of York Minster, with its roots stretching back two millennia. Spend an afternoon browsing independent boutiques, exploring world-class museums, or placing a quiet wager at the historic racecourse.
Stay at Middlethorpe Hall, a William III country retreat just two miles from the city centre, nestled within 20 acres of manicured gardens and parkland. Here, city and countryside meet in perfect harmony.
Travel on through the atmospheric fenlands to the serene expanse of Rutland Water. This tranquil reservoir, known for its unspoiled beauty and abundant birdlife, holds whispers of the past in the form of The Lost Village — a submerged settlement, now a haunting memory beneath the surface. Enjoy a moment of stillness, try your hand at fly fishing, or simply immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Visit nearby Barnsdale Gardens, a treasure trove of horticultural wonder that delights in every season.
Your base here is Hambleton Hall, an exquisite country house overlooking the water. With a Michelin-starred restaurant that has held its acclaim since 1982, and a charming artisan bakery in a neighbouring village, this is a place of refined indulgence.
Continue south to the village of North Kilworth, where rural character and quiet sophistication combine. Here, art and nature meet at the Kilworth House Theatre — an open-air venue set within a wooded glade on the 38-acre estate of Kilworth House Hotel. Its striking sail-like canopies ensure performances continue under the stars, whatever the weather.
Stay at Kilworth House Hotel, a graceful and welcoming haven at the heart of Leicestershire’s countryside.
Your final destination lies in the Vale of Aylesbury, on the fringe of the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Along the way, pause in Oxford, where golden-stone colleges and cobbled lanes whisper stories of scholars, poets, and philosophers. Then continue to Waddesdon Manor, a magnificent French-style château surrounded by formal gardens and woodland trails — one of the finest examples of Victorian elegance in Britain.
Rest at Hartwell House, a National Trust-owned Grade I listed estate set within 90 acres of parkland. With its Jacobean and Georgian architecture, regal heritage, and serene landscape, it offers a fitting finale to a journey defined by history, culture, and considered luxury.
