Turn of the Season in Lancashire

ITINERARY

Monday - Morning departure from Dorset via stops for refreshment as appropriate to arrive Blackburn that afternoon. Porterage of bags is provided. After settling in enjoy dinner in the restaurant.

Tuesday - To RHS Bridgewater - Immerse yourself in a heritage landscape transformed into an iconic garden blending world class horticulture and striking architectural planting. A garden for all seasons it is particularly attractive during the Autumn with a wealth of colourful interest.

Wednesday - Visit Rufford Old Hall a beautiful Tudor and Jacobean house full of treasures. The gardens offer colourful borders, fruit orchards and a pretty woodland walk running alongside the canal. This afternoon we shall enjoy a special barge cruise from Wigan Pier on the historic Leeds-Liverpool Canal - taking in industrial heritage and countryside views with the benefit of an informative commentary.

Thursday - Back on the water this morning we cruise through the outskirts of Lancaster and over the impressive Lune Aquaduct on the Lancaster Canal - there may be the opportunity to alight onto the structure for photos. Touring back across the Forest of Bowland we enjoy some of the most peaceful and remote scenery in the county with high fells, gentle rivers and intriguing villages. We shall stop at Browsholme Hall where a 2 acre wilderness garden in the shape of the Union Flag is being restored to its former glory. A natural and romantic garden that comes alive in autumn and extends to views of the fells beyond.

Friday - Homewards bound we shall pause for lunch in Tewkesbury to return to Dorset late afternoon.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner