Great British Heritage
Gardens of the Cotswolds
We explore Gardens of the Cotswolds in the company of Tony Russell, bringing together private gardens, Arts and Crafts design, arboretum planting and Highgrove House. Batsford, Kiftsgate, Rodmarton Manor, Hidcote and Bourton House give the tour a strong horticultural range.
The Cotswolds has a rich tradition of glorious gardens; this tour considers how setting, ownership and design have shaped some of its most magnificent gardens.
Alongside the better-known names, privately owned gardens give the chance to hear more about history, planting choices and sources of inspiration. Throughout, the emphasis is on individual character, careful horticulture and the relationship between each garden and its wider landscape.
what’s included
At A Glance
Meet Your Expert Guide
Tony Russell
Tony has worked in horticulture for almost forty years, including fourteen years in charge of Britain’s National Arboretum at Westonbirt and ten years as a plant consultant to the National Trust. His career began with the Forestry Commission and has given him exceptional knowledge of trees, shrubs and designed landscapes.
Tony has also presented television and radio programmes and appeared on BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time. His expert commentary combines botanical detail with the stories behind each garden, making him an informed and thoroughly engaging companion.
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Day 1: Arrive Independently At The Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel
Arrive from 15.00. Welcome reception, dinner with wine and an introductory talk ‘Cotswolds Gardens’ from your horticulturalist tour guide, Tony Russell.
Day 2: Batsford Arboretum & Kiftsgate Court Gardens
Our first visit today is to Batsford Arboretum, 56-acres of garden with a wide range of plants and trees from around the world with an emphasis on the Far East. Visiting in the summer months we should be able to enjoy the beautiful wildflower areas and see some of the rarer trees including the California Nutmeg, Dawn Redwood and Maidenhair Tree.
Time for lunch (own expense) after a visit of the impressive grounds. Then, we are off to the glorious gardens at Kiftsgate Court, tended with loving care by three generations of lady gardeners dating back to Heather Muir in the 1930s, taken on by Danny Binny in the 1950s and, more latterly, by the Chambers family.
Day 3: Rodmarton Manor & Highgrove House Gardens
This morning we visit the privately-owned garden and house at Rodmarton Manor, where we will have a short tour of the house before exploring the lovely gardens.
We then head to King Charles III Highgrove House for a guided tour of the magnificent gardens, a passion of the King for close to 40 years, with a 2-course lunch included. Please note that for security reasons, a photo ID such as driving licence or passport is required. Return to hotel for approximately 18.00.
Please note: the visit to Highgrove House Gardens is subject to confirmation of HM King Charles’ diary which is not published until later in the year and can change at short notice. In the case of the gardens being closed the tour date will be rearranged accordingly.
Day 4: Hidcote Manor Garden & Bourton House Gardens
We start our last day with a visit to Hidcote, a delightful Arts & Crafts garden, run by the National Trust. One of the country’s great gardens, it was designed as a series of outdoor “rooms” by the American horticulturalist, Major Lawrence Johnston in the 1910s.
After lunch (own expense) we visit Bourton House Gardens with its stunning plant, texture and colour combinations, plus a topiary walk, Shade House, and a raised 18th century walk which provides a stunning view of the Cotswolds landscape. Return to the hotel around 17.00.
our guests say
Recent reviews
“The visit to Highgrove, with its beautiful gardens and a delightful lunch, was an unforgettable highlight. Each garden we visited was unique and memorable, and Tony Russell’s knowledge, professionalism, and friendly guidance added greatly to the whole experience. It was a superb holiday from start to finish.”
Mrs F, August 2025
“Every garden on this tour seemed to surpass the last, each with its own charm and beauty. The itinerary was wonderfully balanced, and the experience of exploring such special places in good company made it a most enjoyable holiday.”
Mrs A, August 2025
“The visit to Highgrove was particularly memorable, but the whole programme of gardens was excellent. The organisation and leadership made the tour smooth and enjoyable, and the holiday as a whole was an absolute pleasure.”
Mrs S, August 2025
“This was a truly enjoyable holiday, with a fine selection of gardens and excellent leadership throughout. Tony was a personable and knowledgeable guide whose insights greatly enriched the experience, making the tour one to remember.”
Mrs G, August 2025
Availability
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HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Hilton Puckrup Hall, near Tewkesbury
The four-star Hilton Puckrup Hall, near Tewkesbury is set in 140 acres of grounds and boasts excellent facilities. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, swimming pool, spa and steam room. Bedrooms are comfortable with en-suite bathroom, TV, telephone, wifi, safe, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. Parking: complimentary.
Hotel Website
our regular tours
Mobility Information
This tour has a moderate fitness rating, reflecting a fuller itinerary with a good balance of visits, walking and time spent exploring on foot.
Some visits may involve cobbled streets, uneven paving, slopes, steps, stairs, limited seating, or walking from the coach drop-off point to the entrance of a site or attraction. The exact demands will vary from day to day, and we highlight specific practical details within the itinerary wherever possible.
You should feel comfortable walking at a steady group pace, standing during visits and enjoying a full day of sightseeing. If you are unsure whether this tour is right for you, please contact us before booking.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
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