Chester & the Buxton Crescent Experience

4* Shrigley Hall Hotel set in 260 acres of spectacular countryside right on the edge of the Peak District, is the perfect location from which to explore this lovely corner of England. Enjoy a full day in Medieval Chester, home to some wonderful historic sights such as the Rows, the Roman Amphitheatre and Eastgate Clock. Enjoy an included cruise on the River Dee, a visit to the epic Tatton Park, a fascinating boat trip om the Anderton Boat Lift and the recently opened Buxton Crescent Experience. Full of fabulous inclusions and visits, this is one not to miss!

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.Highlights
- Hotel for 4 nights with breakfast & dinner- Porterage- Welcome drink- Tea /coffee after dinner- Included excursions as stated- River cruise at Anderton Boat Lift- Entrance to Tatton Park (mansion, gardens & farm)- Visit to Medieval Chester & Buxton- Two-hour Iron Bridge River Dee cruise- Buxton Crescent Experience

Your Itinerary
Day 1 - After joining your holiday coach, travel north with suitable stops en-route for lunch and refreshments. Arrive at 4* Shrigley Hall Hotel to check in for your 4-night stay with welcome tea / coffee on arrival. DBB

Day 2 - 4 - At leisure at Shrigley Hall Hotel with three included excursions.

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
Buxton Crescent Experience
Head to the elegant spa town of Buxton, the 'Gateway to the Peaks'. Famed for its natural spring water, Buxton has many beautiful buildings including the Opera House. A visit is included to the Buxton Crescent Experience which is a superb new visitor attraction. The impressive Crescent Building dominates Buxton town, but it closed in 1992 in need of major repair. Now, following a £70 million facelift, this unique Grade I listed building has been saved and restored to its former glory. Accompanied by a guide, learn the hidden histories and surprising anecdotes behind the town's history as you tour nine renovated rooms . End with a visit to the Grade II listed Pump Room to see the sunken oval pool where 5,000 year old mineral water still rises form the ground. You will receive a complimentary bottle of Buxton Water to taste. Later spend time at leisure to enjoy Buxton's flamboyant Regency architecture, Georgian terraces, charming arcades and manicured parks and take time out to enjoy the award-winning Pavilion Gardens. Market day is Tuesday when you can explore the highest market in England at 1032 ft above sea level!

Day in Charming Chester
Bewitching beauty and unique atmosphere make Chester one of Britain's most attractive cities. The ancient city is a truly breathtaking experience. Each chapter of Chester's history is etched into the very fabric of the city as you walk where Roman Legionaires marched to war, Viking raiders wreaked havoc and Norman invaders conquered Anglo Saxons. Chester has the most complete city walls, the oldest racecourse and the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain, plus a 1000 year old Cathedral with Europe's finest example of medieval carvings - and of course the one and only 700 year old Rows galleries where shopping is a double delight. Step aboard an included two-hour Iron Bridge Cruise to enjoy marvellous views of the leafy Cheshire countryside as you glide along the River Dee, winding through the Duke of Westminster's Eaton Estate and up to picturesque Aldford Iron Bridge. This is a tranquil stretch of the Dee, with many opportunities to spot wildlife including herons, cormorants, and - if you're lucky - a kingfisher or two. There is a sightseeing commentary as the boat passes places of interest along the riverbanks. There is a fully stocked bar available onboard, and you are welcome to bring your own snack and food.

Anderton Boat Lift & Tatton Park
The astonishing Anderton Boat Lift is one of the Seven Wonders of the Waterways and the Visitor Centre explains the concept of this ingenious feat of Victorian engineering. One of only two working boat lifts in the UK, it moved boats between the Trent & Mersey Canal and the River Weaver Navigation about 14 metres (50 ft) below. It was built in 1875, to shorten journeys by cutting out the old route via the Bridgewater Canal. Boats were lifted up, two at a time, in giant tanks of water. Genius! An included 60 minute river cruise along the picturesque Weaver Navigation includes a brilliant commentary of the history of the River and Anderton Lift, and a rarely seen up close and personal view of this incredible scheduled ancient monument (one step up to the boat and three steps down). Only re-opened in 2023 after major repairs, you can now, once again, experience the lift in action. This afternoon travel the short distance to magnificent Tatton Park, one of the UK's most complete historic estates. It is home to a medieval Old Hall, a neo-classical mansion, 50 acres of landscaped gardens, 1000 acres of deer park and a rare breed farm. Your included entrance tickets allows entry to the opulently decorated mansion, from the richness and grandeur of the State Apartments to the extensive Servants' Quarters and cellars for an intriguing glimpse of the domestic life of staff 'below stairs. You can also visit the farm and the gardens with historic glasshouses, formal gardens, walled kitchen garden and a 100-year old Japanese Garden

Day 5 - After a leisurely breakfast, head back south to interchange with comfort stops en-route.SHRIGLEY HALL HOTEL, near Macclesfield
The 4* Georgian country house hotel, Shrigley Hall, is set within 262 acres of spectacular Cheshire countryside and an 18-hole championship golf course, providing a stunning setting on the edge of the Peak District National Park. A warm welcome awaits in the hotels' impressive lobby with its large staircase and imposing chandelier. Bedrooms are classically styled and include TV, WiFi and tea / coffee making facilities. The majority of bedrooms are located in the newer part of the hotel (not the main house). There is a restaurant which overlooks the grounds, a modern conservatory courtyard bar and a traditional lounge. The extensive spa facilities (access charge applies - pre-booking recommended) include an outdoor infinity pool, sauna, steam and gym. There is a lift. NB This hotel does not have rooms with walk in showers

Hotels
• The Shrigley Hall Hotel and Spa (Nr. Macclesfield) - View Information