Heading towards the beautiful ridges and dales of Derbyshire’s Peak District, we visit Victorian Wightwick Manor and the Italian Renaissance styled Hardwick Hall with it’s unique collection of early needlework, furniture and original portraits. The highlight of this trip is the magnificent Chatsworth House with its exceptional art collection and incredible gardens. We also visit the market town of Bakewell and spa town of Buxton before returning via Leicester Cathedral and the tomb of Richard III.
Details of the tour including costs can be found on the flyer at: Tour Details How to book through Success Tours can be found at: Booking
Highlights of the tour are:
Chatsworth House.The magnificent Chatsworth House is a palatial home in the heart of the Peak District, which dates back to the 16th century. Today, the lavishly adorned interiors house a significant collection of art and treasures that span more than 4,000 years: from ancient Egyptian sculptures and pieces by Reynolds and Rembrandt, to contemporary portraits by Lucian Freud. Don’t miss the incredible gardens – cultivated over centuries, they contain sculptures, a rock garden and a maze.
Bakewell. In a pretty location on the banks of the River Wye, the market town of Bakewell features numerous attractions steeped in history. From the five-arched bridge dating back to Roman times, the Grade I listed church, Bakewell Old House Museum with 500 years of history to tell, and of course, the famous Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop.
Buxton, Eyam & Lady Bower Reservoir. The thermal spa town of Buxton is the gateway to the Peak District, renowned for its fine Georgian and Victorian architecture. The beautiful historic village of Eyam in the Peak District National Park became famous after managing to contain an outbreak of the plague during the Black Death of 1665 and 1666. Ladybower Reservoir sits amongst the stunning scenery of the area, with wonderful views of the woodlands, water & moorland.
Leicester Cathedral. Built on a Roman site, Leicester Cathedral has been a central focus of the city for over 1,000 years. Recent remarkable archaeological discoveries under the Cathedral Gardens include Anglo-Saxon, Roman and prehistoric activity dating back millennia. The newly opened Heritage & Learning Centre is a treasure trove of fascinating ancient objects. See the Cathedral’s magnificent tomb of King Richard III, with two new stained-glass windows by Tom Derry in tribute to the last English King lost in battle.
King Richard III Visitor Centre. The King Richard III Visitor Centre charts the story of the King’s life and death. Learn about one of the greatest archaeological detective stories ever told, and fast forward over 500 years to a car park in Leicester where the long-lost remains of King Richard were discovered.
Wightwick Manor (NT). A must-see attraction for fans of William Morris designs, this National Trust property showcases Victorian art and design with an impressive collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings. The beautiful Edwardian garden is delightful all year round.
Hardwick Hall & Gardens (NT). Set in the rolling hills of Derbyshire, Hardwick Hall is an impressive example of Italian Renaissance architecture surrounded by beautifully cultivated gardens. The hall was created by local businesswoman Bess of Hardwick in the 16th century and preserved by subsequent descendants, the Dukes of Devonshire. A unique collection of the finest 16th and early 17th century needlework, furniture and original portraits are displayed in the richly decorated hall.
The Millennium Gallery, Sheffield. Located in the heart of the city centre, Sheffield Millennium Gallery displays the best of national and international art and design. The Gallery’s collections celebrate the city’s metalworking skills, and the incredible artefacts brought to the city by the artist and writer, John Ruskin. The gallery also houses the Guild of St George’s unique Ruskin Collection which was established in the 1800s to inspire the people of Sheffield.