Highclere Castle & Georgian Bath

Beautiful Highclere Castle needs little introduction as the film location of the hugely popularDownton AbbeyTV series and feature film, the international phenomenon with appreciative viewers all around the world. Highclere Castle, home to the Carnarvon family since 1679, is one of England's most beautiful Victorian Castles set amidst 1,000 acres of peaceful gardens and parkland designed by Capability Brown. Longstanding friend of the Carnarvon family, Julian Fellowes, had Highclere Castle in mind as he wrote Downton Abbey. Now you can walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters fromDownton Abbeyincluding the Dowager Countess, Lady Mary Crawley and Bates, Lord Grantham'svalet, and take a closer look at the rooms and vistas that formed the backdrop to this hugely popular series.A day in delightful Bath completes this fabulous short break

For dates to 'Cotswolds & Georgian Bath' click hereItinerary
Day 1 - After joining your holiday coach, continue on for a stop in Burfordand see the medieval bridge, old stone houses and attractive Tudor and Georgian frontages - justifiably one of the most picturesque towns in England. Often referred to as the 'Gateway to the Cotswolds', the town was originally a fortified Anglo-Saxon ford which later grew to be an important regional crossroads and wealthy wool town. Onto your hotel to check in for your 3-night stay DBBDays 2-3 At leisure with two included excursionsINCLUDED EXCURSIONS
The Real ‘Downton Abbey’
Set off for a full-day excursion which includes your entrance ticket and visit of Highclere Castle ('Downton Abbey'). Many of the rooms and vistas will be familiar to viewers of 'Downton Abbey' - both the Drawing Room and Dining Room form the backdrop to the dryly withering put-downs delivered by Maggie Smith, as the Dowager Countess to some poor unfortunate relation. The distinctive gardens and park designed by Capability Brown, offer peace and tranquillity. It was, of course, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon who famously discovered the Tomb of the Egyptian Boy Pharaoh, Tutankhamun, in 1922, the story of which is narrated in the illuminating Egyptian Exhibition.En -route back to the hotel stop in pretty Hungerford, a quintessentially English market town surrounded by an area of outstanding natural beauty. Best known as a centre for antique shops, Hungerford is also home to other unique shops and boutiques, where you can lose yourself. There’s also a range of warm and friendly pubs and cheery tea shopsGeorgian Bath
After breakfast, drive the short distance to the Georgian City of Bathwith its many historical treasures, monuments and beautiful architecture dating back to Roman times. Explore this magnificent city with its many attractions from the Abbey to the Roman Baths (entrances not included) and view the famous Pulteney Bridge or just relax on the banks of the River Avon. Enjoy free time or your driver may offer an optional city sightseeing tour.Day 4 - Returning home today breaking the journey inBenson, a lovely Thames-side village in South Oxfordshire, with time for refreshments by the riverAlexandra House Hotel, Nr Swindon
Set in 20 acres of landscaped grounds, Alexandra House boasts impressive leisure facilities and comfortable rooms. The superb health and leisure club offers an indoor swimming pool, a gym, an all-weather tennis court, a sauna and a steam room. All rooms have the luxury of fantastic scenic views of either the landscaped internal courtyards or landscaped grounds. Bedrooms are spacious, comfortable and provide an abundance of natural daylight with ceiling to floor windows - and come fully equipped with free Wi-Fi, air-con, ensuite bathroom with amenities, tea and coffee making facilities and an alarm clock. There is a stylish restaurant and bar / lounge. Single rooms are double for sole use.

Hotels
• Alexandra House Hotel (Swindon) - View Information