The sight of the white cliffs of Dover has long been a symbol of ‘home’ to many Brits – so this is the perfect starting point for a journey through British culture and heritage, before heading to Leeds Castle. This place oozes history, with its picture-perfect moat, but is also a local cultural hub with open-air cinema and theatre, sculpture walks, and live music. Kent is fondly called the ‘Garden of England’, and at Hever Castle, this certainly rings true. Explore the unique water maze, acres of lakes and inventively landscaped gardens, and discover an icon of British history at the childhood home of Anne Boleyn.

Stay at Ockenden Manor, set on nine acres of beautiful grounds. An Elizabethan house with an outstanding spa and glorious views towards the South Downs.

Crossing the South Downs, through its bustling market towns, along country roads with endless views, you head towards the deep blue of the Channel. Historic Arundel with its imposing castle is your next stop, where medieval culture comes to life in dazzling displays of jousting, falconry, and archery.

Stay at Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa, where charming medieval-style architecture complements a spa inspired by the style of local Sussex barns and 30 acres of private parkland lead to the beach.

Pass through Chichester, surrounded by the most intact Roman walls in the South of England, towards the heart of the Downs. An exhilarating match of Polo in the beauty of Cowdray Park should only be accompanied by a picnic, naturally, and perhaps a glass of Gusbourne English Sparkling Wine.

Stay at Park House Hotel & Spa, where the tennis courts and golf offer standout experiences complemented by great hospitality.

Up next, Winchester – once one of the largest towns in Roman Britain. History hides around every corner, from Roman settlers to the Normans who built the city’s iconic cathedral. Stroll the cobbled streets to uncover a vibrant, ancient, and cultured place, and don’t miss Winchester farmers’ market, the largest in the UK. History meets modern cultural phenomenon at Highclere Castle, or as many recognise it, Downton Abbey. Wander the extensive grounds imaging a bygone era or take a behind-the-scenes tour for all the showbiz intrigue.

Stay at The Vineyard Hotel, where stepping through the front doors you’ll be greeted by a floor-to-ceiling glass vault full of iconic wines.

Follow the River Thames as it flows to the capital, and you’ll find the charming waterside town of Henley-on-Thames. This small-town packs a big punch, with its renowned Royal Regatta bringing it to life every June, an icon of British culture. With the backdrop of the green Chiltern Hills, its high street offers everything from quirky shopping to vibrant bars and restaurants.

Stay at The Relais Henley, where riverside views, rich history and classically British hospitality combine – right in the heart of Henley-on-Thames.

Winding further along the Thames, you reach Windsor. The home of British royalty, with the grand Castle dominating the town’s skyline, there’s no question you’re at the heart of British heritage here. A tour of the Castle is a must, but take time to explore the town too, and enjoy a boat trip on the river.

At last – London. Capital of culture, historic yet contemporary, metropolitan yet green, iconic yet full of unexpected gems. Start on Museum Lane in South Kensington, where the Natural History Museum takes centre stage. A giant blue whale skeleton dominates the inner hall, but there is much more to see here. Stroll a few minutes to the V&A, where the power of creativity comes alive with vibrant exhibitions about everything from fashion to furniture, photography to paintings. An evening in London is not complete without seeing a show, either in the West End where long-running musicals rule the roost, or at the genteel Royal Albert Hall, for booming classical concerts.

Your stay options:
The Athenaeum, in the heart of Mayfair, opposite the tranquillity of Royal Green Park. For ultimate privacy and abundant space, book one of the fully serviced apartments.
Or
Stay at The Capital Hotel, right in the heart of the action in Knightsbridge. Probably the closest hotel to Harrods to fit in a shopping spree.
Or
Stay at The Hari, situated in chic Belgravia. Wander the iconic streets, or simply admire the view from your elegantly designed suite.