RHS Garden Bridgewater & 'The Garden in the Sky'

This great little weekend away combines the unique waterfront destination of Salford Quays with the stunning RHS Garden Bridgewater. The former site of Worsley New Hall is an iconic heritage landscape that's been transformed into the fifth RHS Garden. Landscape architect, Tom Stuart-Smith created the masterplan together with award winning garden designers to bring 'gardens within a garden' to life by blending history with world-class horticulture. You will also visit the incredible Grade II-listed Castlefield Viaduct, the 330-metre temporary park which features 3,000 plant species in gardens created by architects and community groups.

Departure points to suit you...
Crusader Holidays uses an interchange system, taking place at either Beaconsfield Services (M40), South Mimms Services (M25/A1M) or Thurrock Services (M25).

Here you may have to change to your holiday coach and we are renowned for ensuring that this is smooth and efficient.

The holiday coaches typically depart from Beaconsfield Services at 11.15, Thurrock Services at around 09.30 and South Mimms Services at 10.30. Some customers find it more convenient to join direct at the interchange, please let is know when booking if this is the case.

*Due to increased operational costs, from Monday 16th October 2023 Dover, Folkestone, Canterbury & Ashford joining points will be subject to a £25.00 per person supplement on all 2024 UK Tours.

NOTE: Pick up points are a guide so please refer to your holiday confirmation for specific locations as details are subject to change.Calling all garden lovers!
DAY 1 - From your chosen joining point our feeder vehicle will take you to your designated interchange point where your weekend begins. A comfort stop will be made en-route to your hotel in Salford Quays for the next 3 nights DBB

Salford Quays is an impressive, redeveloped docklands waterfront destination, where you will find MediaCityUK, home to the BBC and ITV. The Lowry Arts Centre with the visually striking exterior is opposite The Quayside outlet shopping mall (Opening Hours - Saturday 10.00 - 19.00 // Sunday 11.00 - 17.00).

DAY 2 - 3 - At leisure in Manchester with two included excursions

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
Day at RHS Garden Bridgewater
RHS Bridgewater is a stunning new 156 acre RHS Garden, created in the heart of the North West, which brings back to life the lost historic grounds at Worsley New Hall. Once visited by Queen Victoria and King Edward VII, Worsley New Hall, a grand Gothic-style mansion, survived a fire and two World Wars before it was demolished in the 1940s. The £35 million development of the inspirational gardens embraces the site's heritage and is the biggest hands-on gardening project the charity has undertaken in its over 200-year history - a true labour of love. There is so much to see from the Welcome Building to the Weston Walled Garden (one of the largest walled gardens in Europe); from the Chinese Streamside Garden to Moon Bridge Water. A 60-minute garden tour in the company of one of the knowledgeable guides will give you a captivating insight into the history, plantings and seasonal delights of the garden

Castlefield Viaduct & Guided Tour of Manchester
Start the day at Castlefield Viaduct and the 'Garden in the Sky'. Built in 1892, the viaduct is a core part of Manchester's industrial heritage. After years of standing empty, it was transformed by the National Trust as part of a move to introduce greenery into a post-industrial landscape. Developed as a pilot project in 2023, it is now planned to remain open until Autumn 2024. During the summer months, the focus falls on densely planted ferns, grasses and herbaceous perennials. Enjoy a brief guided tour of the urban 'Garden in the Sky' to explore the trees, flowers and shrubs on display. NB There is a public lift (as well as a staircase) available to access the viaduct and the main route of the viaduct is level and gravel

Time to explore Manchester with a local guide on a city tour (part coach / part walking). Known throughout the world as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Manchester has a proud history in science, politics, music, arts and sport. Discover the city's vibrant history, passing by Manchester's key sights such as Manchester Cathedral, the National Football Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry and Old Trafford football stadium. End the visit in Salford Quays with time to explore under your own steam

DAY 4 - After breakfast, check out and head south with an interesting stop en-route before heading to interchange

Highlights
- Hotel for 3 nights with breakfast & dinner- Porterage on arrival- Entrance to RHS Garden Bridgewater with guided tour- Visit to Castlefield Viaduct with guided tour- Guided city tour of Manchester- Visit to Salford QuaysCopthorne Hotel Manchester, Salford Quays

Overlooking Manchester's Salford Quays, this contemporary 4* hotel offers modern rooms and facilities.

It has easy access to the city centre by tram and is less than a mile from Old Trafford. Some bedrooms at Copthorne Manchester overlook the water and all are spacious, offering flat-screen satellite TV, coffee and tea making facilities and en-suite bathrooms.

There is a 24-hour room service. The stylish Quays Restaurant offers British and international cuisine and the bar is ideal for drinks or a snack.

Copthorne Hotel Manchester is a short walk from Exchange Quay and Salford Quays Metrolink tram stations.

The Lowry Centre theatre and gallery are just under a mile away.

Hotels
• Copthorne Hotel Manchester (Manchester) - View Information