Upon arrival, private meet-and-greet transfers will be provided to The Crescent Hotel in Buxton.

Buxton, nestled in the heart of Derbyshire, England, is a harmonious blend of historical elegance, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy, enveloped by the breathtaking landscapes of the Peak District National Park. It is a historic spa town, renowned for its therapeutic thermal springs and captivating collection of Georgian and Victorian architecture. Its elegant streetscapes and grand buildings, such as the iconic Crescent and the Buxton Opera House, evoke a sense of timeless charm and historical grandeur.

This evening we will have a welcome reception followed by dinner at the hotel.

Overnight at The Crescent Hotel.
(R, D)

After a delightful breakfast, we will celebrate Eucharist at St. Anne’s Anglican Church in Buxton. This remarkable and historically significant church is not only a beautiful example of ecclesiastical architecture but is also believed to be the oldest standing building in Buxton, with the carved date "1625" visible on the porch and in Saxon-era font. However, the church's origins stretch back even further, as its present structure incorporates an earlier building, which is thought to have originally served as a tithe barn or perhaps a farmhouse, hinting at centuries of continuous use and adaptation.

Adding to its storied past, the renowned evangelist John Wesley delivered a sermon within these very walls during his memorable visit to Buxton on May 24, 1783, a detail that further underscores the church's enduring spiritual and community significance.

Following our morning of historical exploration and reflection, lunch will be enjoyed at leisure, allowing everyone to savor the local offerings and the charming atmosphere of Buxton.

The afternoon promises a truly stunning experience as we embark on a scenic drive through the picturesque Wye Valley, traversing the beautiful landscape from Buxton to Baslow. This journey will include a delightful stop en route at Edensor. The serene, picturesque setting provides a place to reflect on the often-overlooked and tragic life of a charismatic Kennedy daughter.

After our visit to Edensor, we will arrive at our lovely accommodation for the next two nights: the Cavendish Hotel. Nestled within the magnificent Chatsworth Estate. The Cavendish will serve as our elegant home base, providing a perfect blend of comfort and access to one of England's most celebrated stately homes. Our first evening will culminate with a sumptuous dinner at the Cavendish Hotel, marking a perfect end to a day filled with history, natural beauty, and refined hospitality.

Overnight at The Cavendish Hotel.
(B,D)

Our day at Chatsworth promises an extraordinary and exclusive experience. Our exclusive arrangements grant us access to areas of the estate not typically open to the general public, offering a truly unique insight into this magnificent stately home.

To ensure an intimate and personalized exploration, guests will be divided into four small groups. Each group will have the privilege of being accompanied by a top Chatsworth guide, experts in the history, art, and architecture of the estate. We will enjoy comprehensive tours of both the opulent house and the stunning gardens, sharing fascinating anecdotes and detailed information along the way.

A delightful lunch is included as part of our full-day visit, allowing us to relax and savor the surroundings before continuing our explorations.

We then return to The Cavendish for relaxation before reconvening for a special private viewing after the house has been closed to the public. This exclusive event will take place in the grandeur of the Painted Hall, where we will have the rare opportunity to admire select items from the renowned Devonshire Collection, including Henry VII's personal prayer book and Rosary of Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon. This private viewing offers a deeper appreciation for the treasures housed within Chatsworth.

To conclude our remarkable day, dinner will be served at Cavendish, providing a perfect setting for reflection and conversation about the day's unforgettable experiences.

Overnight at The Cavendish Hotel.
(B,L,D)

This morning, we depart from Chatsworth, towards York, with a significant and enriching deviation planned. Our route will include a visit to the magnificent Lincoln Cathedral for a deeper exploration of England's rich history and architectural heritage.

John Ruskin called it "the most precious piece of architecture in the British Isles". The Lincoln Cathedral features stunning Gothic elements, such as the intricate vaulting of the choir and the unique Dean's Eye window. The cathedral hosted parliaments under Kings Edward I, II, and III. It was also the site of a significant interrogation of the Knights Templar in 1310. It played a role in this 16th-century rebellion against Henry VIII's religious reforms. Our special tour will grant exclusive access to private and historically significant areas within the Cathedral, offering an unparalleled insight into its grandeur and hidden treasures. A highlight of this visit will be the exploration of the Cathedral’s Museum Center, located above the cloisters. This center houses the most extensive collection of Saxon/Viking crosses, remarkable artifacts discovered in proximity to the Cathedral, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's ancient past and the cultural confluence of Saxon and Viking influences.

Following the Cathedral, we continue to Lincoln's Bishop's Palace, now primarily in ruins. This historic site, once a grand residence, offers a deeper understanding of the ecclesiastical power and daily life associated with the Cathedral throughout the centuries.

To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, a prearranged lunch will be served at the charming Cathedral Cafe, providing an opportunity for the group to relax and reflect on the morning's discoveries amidst the stunning surroundings.

Once lunch concludes, the journey will resume, continuing to the vibrant city of York. Upon arrival, the group will check into The Grand York, a prestigious hotel known for its exceptional service and prime location. The evening will culminate in a delightful dinner, allowing guests to unwind and look forward to the exciting explorations planned for their stay in York.

Overnight at The Grand York Hotel.
(B,L,D)

Over the next two days, we will delve deeply into York's significant history, exploring its most important sites and hidden treasures. The city, which retains its medieval walls, has an exceptional quantity of historic buildings.

York holds immense historical significance as the site where Constantine was proclaimed emperor in 306 AD following his father's death. He later became the first Christian emperor to end the persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire.

The city's transformation began in 866 CE when Viking invaders captured the Christian Anglo-Saxon city, then known as Eoforwic, and renamed it Jorvik. This was more than a conquest; it was the genesis of a profound cultural and religious blending. Rather than imposing their Norse paganism and eradicating the existing Christian culture, the Viking settlers embarked on a remarkable process of assimilation and religious syncretism. This unique fusion gave rise to a distinct Anglo-Scandinavian religious identity, where elements of both traditions coexisted and intertwined, leaving an indelible mark on the city's spiritual and cultural landscape.

During our explorations, we will meticulously examine the archaeological evidence and historical accounts that shed light on this fascinating period of transition. We will visit York Minster, the largest of the English medieval cathedrals, which is a treasure trove of original stained glass, and its polygonal chapter house is without peer. We will tour the Minster with our expert guides to see hidden spaces generally closed to the public and hear untold stories about how parts of the Minster were built and the people who made it happen. We will also have several evenings to experience the glory of Evensong in the Minster.

Overnight at The Grand York Hotel.
(B)

We will also visit the Jorvik Viking Centre to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of Viking-Age York, brought to life through award-winning displays and reconstructed street scenes. As we wander through the Shambles, with its overhanging timber-framed buildings, we will discover this historic street and imagine the daily life of its inhabitants through the ages. We will walk along the city walls, known as the "Bar Walls," which are a truly unique piece of York's history. These ancient Roman walls, initially built for defense, still have two miles (3.4 km) of surviving masonry. Walking these historical walls, we can see the city from all the best angles and gain a panoramic perspective of York's historical layout and strategic importance, as well as envision its defenses during both the Anglo-Saxon and Viking eras. We will also uncover rare surviving examples of Anglo-Saxon military architecture, offering insights into the city's pre-Viking defenses.

This afternoon we will offer a scenic and romantic steam train ride through the Yorkshire Moors to Whitby. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is one of the world’s most significant heritage railway experiences, with thrills and education at its heart. Climb on board a steam or heritage diesel train on one of the earliest and most historic lines.

We will visit Whitby, with its narrow streets and bustling harbour, overlooking the striking ruins of Whitby Abbey. In 664, the abbey hosted the Synod of Whitby, a landmark meeting where leaders of the English Church chose to follow the Roman Christian tradition over the Celtic one. This decision was crucial in shaping the direction of Christianity in England.

We have purposefully built in free time for personal exploration and an opportunity to experience York's vibrant culinary scene. From centuries-old tea rooms to York's numerous restaurants and cafes, we will enjoy the city's offerings, which have been recognized as the UK's culinary award winner of 2024.

Overnight at The Grand York Hotel.
(B)

Today, we will travel from York to Durham, pausing along the way to experience two of England’s most storied landmarks—Castle Howard and Fountains Abbey.

Your morning begins with a privately curated tour of Castle Howard, a Baroque masterpiece often described as more palace than castle. For over three centuries, it has been the seat of the Howard family, whose legacy is inextricably linked to the fabric of English history. Before the mansion itself was raised, the land carried a deep spiritual heritage: as early as the 12th century, the priory of Kirkham was established here, reflecting a tradition of faith and devotion that long predates the great house.

There has long been a tradition of monasticism in northern England, especially in Yorkshire, where abbeys were established as early as the 7th century. Despite repeated Viking raids and the harrowing of the North by William I, these abbeys flourished. Perhaps the most impressive of these abbeys (one of the most evocative monastic ruins in all of Europe) is Fountains Abbey. Founded in 1132, the abbey flourished despite centuries of upheaval to become a beacon of monastic devotion in Yorkshire. Today, the vast stone arches and tranquil setting inspire reflection and a sense of wonder. After our guided visit, pause for traditional tea and cake at the National Trust café before continuing to Durham.

Upon arrival in Durham, there will be time to settle into our hotel, the Durham Marriott Hotel Royal County. Dinner is provided this evening, and for those who wish, the day may conclude with the timeless beauty of Evensong in Durham Cathedral—a sacred experience in one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe.

Overnight at the Durham Marriott Hotel, Royal County. (B,L,D)

Today, we embark on a journey following the paths of St. Aidan and St. Cuthbert to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, where Aidan established a missionary base in 635 AD. He was summoned by the King of Northumbria from Iona in western Scotland to introduce Celtic Christianity to northern England.

Lindisfarne is considered one of the "thin places" of the Christian world, where the boundaries between heaven and earth appear to converge. Years after Aidan's passing, St. Cuthbert assumed the role of abbot within the community, which subsequently led to the creation of the remarkable "Lindisfarne Gospels" (currently housed in the British Library) in his honor. Although St. Mary's Priory was destroyed during the Reformation, its ruins serve as a poignant reminder of centuries of devotion at this sacred site.

In the afternoon, our journey will continue along the route of the Protected Journey to Durham Cathedral. The cathedral's genesis is inextricably linked to the exodus of a group of monks who, in the 9th century, fled their monastery on Lindisfarne, fearing Viking incursions, and carrying the remains of St. Cuthbert with them. Legend posits that the monks were divinely guided to Durham by a vision, where the coffin became immovably fixed, signifying the saint's desire for his final resting place there. We are privileged to be one of the first to view the Open Treasures Exhibition.

Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is widely recognized as the preeminent example of Norman architecture in England. Its pioneering architectural innovations profoundly influenced the subsequent evolution of Gothic architecture. The Cathedral is celebrated for its breathtaking beauty, architectural ingenuity, and its significant connection to St. Cuthbert, whose shrine it reverently houses.

Guests are at liberty to make their own arrangements for dinner this evening.

Overnight at the Durham Marriott Hotel Royal County. (B,L)

Our morning begins with a profound experience at the magnificent Durham Cathedral, where we will celebrate the Eucharist within its sacred walls, offering a moment of quiet reflection and spiritual communion in a setting that has inspired pilgrims for centuries.

From Durham, our double-decker luxury coach will transport us north through the English countryside to the historic Milecastle Inn, located near Hadrian's Wall. This iconic Roman frontier is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, spanning 73 miles across northern England.

The Milecastle Inn's location allows us to view sections of Hadrian's Wall while we dine. After our meal, we will have the opportunity to walk along a preserved section of the wall.

We will then continue to Edinburgh and check into the Caledonian Hotel, our home for the next three nights in Castle View Rooms, allowing us time to relax and unpack.

This evening, we will gather for tea, sandwiches, and prosecco before a private visit to The Abbey and Palace of Holyroodhouse, Scotland’s official residence of The King. Our special tour will highlight Holyrood’s dramatic past and its role today. We will enjoy a private tour of the State Apartments after the Palace closes to visitors, offering a unique opportunity to go behind the ropes in selected rooms and into the West Drawing Room, which is not normally open to the public. Holyrood Abbey was founded in 1128 by King David I of Scotland. A medieval legend recounts that David was saved from a charging stag that was startled by a crucifix ("Holy Rood") that appeared between its antlers. In thanks, he built the Augustinian abbey on that very spot.

Overnight at The Caledonian Hotel.
(B,L, tea, and sandwiches)

We will begin our day with breakfast at the Caledonian before embarking on an expert-guided tour of Edinburgh's highlights. Our exploration of Edinburgh's history will take us through its streets and buildings, from the narrow medieval alleys and small lanes of the Old Town to the vibrant shops of the Grassmarket, with the neoclassical elegance of the New Town.

Our itinerary includes visits to St. Giles' Cathedral and Rosslyn Chapel. St. Giles, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, is a magnificent medieval church and prominent landmark situated on the historic Royal Mile. It boasts a history spanning over 900 years and is inextricably linked to significant events and figures in Scottish history.

Rosslyn Chapel is a 15th-century Gothic chapel located in the village of Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland, approximately seven miles south of Edinburgh. Founded by Sir William St. Clair, it is renowned for its intricate, mysterious, and highly ornate stone carvings. There is a persistent rumor that a vault beneath the chapel holds treasures such as the Holy Grail or relics of the Knights Templar.

This evening is free for dinner.

Overnight at The Caledonian Hotel.
(B,L)

Today is dedicated to personal exploration.

For those interested, we will offer a unique opportunity to delve into Edinburgh's rich tapestry of independent artisans and historic craft traditions. We have cultivated special relationships with key establishments to ensure an unparalleled experience for our guests.

Our journey into Scottish craftsmanship begins with an exclusive private experience at the Scottish Textile Showcase. From the rugged beauty of the far-flung Highlands and Islands to the pastoral charm of the southern Border country, guests will learn about the intricate processes involved in creating these exquisite pieces, and perhaps even meet some of the artisans themselves.

In tandem, we will visit a renowned Scottish workshop and showroom. Here, the art of traditional leather crafting is kept alive, with skilled artisans creating beautiful, enduring pieces using time-honored techniques. Guests can witness the meticulous process firsthand, from the selection of the finest hides to the hand-stitching and finishing of each item.

We will also offer a private whisky tasting, a journey into the heart of Scotland's national drink. Guests will be guided through a selection of exceptional whiskies, learning about their provenance, the subtle nuances of their flavors, and the rich history behind each dram.

Evening: A Royal Culinary Experience
As evening descends, prepare for a truly unforgettable dining experience hosted on the magnificent Royal Yacht Britannia. Once the floating palace of Her Majesty The Queen, this iconic vessel now offers an extraordinary setting for an evening of exquisite cuisine and unparalleled elegance. Guests will be transported back to a bygone era of royal grandeur, enjoying a gourmet dinner prepared to the highest standards, all while taking in the stunning views from the yacht's historic decks. This exclusive dinner promises to be a fitting crescendo to our time together in Northern England and Scotland.

Overnight at The Caledonian Hotel.
(B,D)