Blooming Beautiful Gardens of the Isle of Wight

Day 1

Today, we travel south before crossing the Solent by ferry, arriving at our hotel later today.

Day 2

One of the UK's original seaside destinations and much loved by Queen Victoria, explore Ryde in your free time this morning. You'll find a quirky mix of traditional seaside fun, home to long stretches of sandy beaches and a thriving, independent shopping scene. Later, we visit the Benedictine monastery of Quarr Abbey. Situated in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Quarr is home to a small group of Benedictine monks who strive to dedicate their lives to the glory of God. Feel free to explore the church, wander around the tranquil grounds and gardens, visit the art gallery or browse the bookshop for light historical reading.

Day 3

This morning, we visit far east of the island with a visit to the small town of Yarmouth, a historic port with a pretty marina. Sitting at the mouth of the River Yar, you'll find a sixteenth-century castle alongside some of the oldest architecture on the Isle of Wight. Afterwards, we will take you to the iconic Needles at Alum Bay, renowned for its multi-coloured sand cliffs and stunning Solent views. Today's final stop is the nearby Farringford House and Gardens, the home of the renowned poet Lord Albert Tennyson from 1853 until his death in 1892, where you'll be free to explore this lovingly restored Gothic house and its tranquil estate.

Day 4

A full day at leisure in your vibrant resort of Ryde, the Isle of Wight's largest town. Enjoy the traditional seaside charm, from its long stretches of sandy beach to its independent shops and cafés. Ryde also boasts a quirky musical claim to fame; it is widely believed that The Beatles' hit "Ticket to Ride" was inspired by a visit Paul McCartney and John Lennon made here in the early 1960s.

Day 5

Welcome to Ventnor, one of Britain's most famous Victorian health resorts with a unique micro-climate. Here, you'll enjoy a guided tour of the famous Ventnor Botanic Gardens. Found just a short distance from the seafront, this unique garden is unrivalled for its collections of subtropical plants, including its impressive collection of succulents and cacti, flowering aloes and mature palm trees. We return via a visit to the picture-postcard village of Godshill.

Day 6

Our final full day excursion takes us to the sailing destination of Cowes and Queen Victoria's Osborne House seaside palace, where she often visited with her beloved Prince Albert and their nine children. Take an intimate glimpse into Queen Victoria's family life as you tour the nursery and private rooms of the Royal couple. Marvel at the magnificence of the Royal Apartments, stroll around the magnificent formal gardens and step out onto Queen Victoria's private beach (a pleasant 20-minute stroll from the palace).

Day 7

After breakfast, we travel home by ferry and road.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner