Art & History Abroad Tours
Queens, Castles and Abbeys: A Plantagenet Journey in Medieval France
Join historian Dr Nicola Tallis as she follows the Plantagenets through the landscapes where their power was forged, challenged and remembered, tracing a medieval world shaped as much by formidable queens as by kings, castles and monasteries.
Moving through Anjou, the Loire valley and northern France, the tour explores great fortresses that asserted royal authority, abbeys founded and favoured by queens as places of memory and devotion, and cities that witnessed the rise of one of Europe’s most influential dynasties. At its heart are the stories of women such as Eleanor of Aquitaine and Berengaria of Navarre, whose patronage, marriages and political agency left enduring marks on architecture, religious life and dynastic legacy.
Carefully paced and enriched by expert commentary, the journey offers a richly textured exploration of medieval France through places where power, piety and personal ambition remain vividly present.
what’s included
At A Glance
MEET YOUR EXPERT GUIDE
Dr Nicola Tallis
Nicola is an independent author and historian, a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and an experienced curator, researcher and lecturer. She specialises in late medieval and Tudor England, with particular expertise in the use of jewels and the lives of royal women.
The author of five books, Nicola is also a familiar contributor to television, radio and major historical events. Passionate about making history enjoyable and accessible, she combines rigorous research with lively storytelling, bringing queens, courts and the politics of power vividly to life.
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: London to Saumur
Depart London St Pancras by Eurostar to Paris, continuing onwards into western France, the heartland of the Plantagenet empire. On arrival, transfer by coach to our hotel for a five-night stay. Evening welcome drink, followed by a talk by your tour lecturer, Nicola: ‘Royal Women and Plantagenet France’. Dinner this evening at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Angers Cathedral & the Apocalypse Tapestry
A morning visit to Angers Cathedral reveals a powerful example of Plantagenet‑era ecclesiastical architecture, with its soaring nave, Romanesque foundations and later Gothic additions. Inside, stained glass and sculptural detail reflect the close relationship between royal power and the Church in Anjou.
After lunch at leisure, explore the imposing Château d’Angers, its defensive walls and towers dominating the town and the River Maine. Within the castle, view the extraordinary Apocalypse Tapestry, a vast and vivid cycle illustrating the Book of Revelation. Time at leisure for further exploration of the castle grounds.
Day 3: Fontevraud Abbey, Eleanor of Aquitaine & Saumur
Begin the day at Fontevraud Abbey, one of Europe’s greatest monastic complexes and the burial place of key members of the Plantagenet dynasty, including Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine. A detailed visit explores its architecture, royal associations and evolving uses across nine centuries. After lunch (own expense), continue to Château de Saumur, once a Plantagenet stronghold and later transformed into a princely residence.
The afternoon concludes with a private visit to Bouvet Ladubay for a tour and wine-tasting. A second talk from Nicola this evening: ‘Eleanor of Aquitaine: Mother of Kings’.
Day 4: Chinon, Loches & Plantagenet Power
A private guided visit to the Royal Fortress of Chinon examines its role as a Plantagenet power base. Walk between its fortified enclosures, halls and towers, where Henry II ruled and died, and where Eleanor was imprisoned during rebellion.
Continue to Château de Loches, where royal apartments sit alongside a formidable keep and prison, telling parallel stories of power and control.
Day 5: Le Mans, Berengaria & the Royal Abbey of Epau
Explore Le Mans, birthplace of the Plantagenets, on a private walking tour through the old town, cathedral and former palace that trace the dynasty’s early power.
In the afternoon, enjoy a private visit to the Royal Abbey of Epau, founded by Queen Berengaria, with time to explore its peaceful grounds and ending with a tasting of local specialities and seasonal produce from the abbey’s own garden. Farewell dinner with wine at a local restaurant.
Day 6: Saint-Denis Basilica & Return Home
Travel by TGV to Paris for a visit to Saint‑Denis Basilica, burial place of the kings and queens of France, and a cornerstone of French royal history.
Afternoon transfer to Gare du Nord for the return Eurostar to London.
Availability
Choose Your Departure
HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
The Originals Boutique, Hotel Le Londres, Saumur
Hôtel Le Londres is located in the heart of the historic town of Saumur. This 19th-century building offers stylish individually decorated and furnished rooms with floor to ceiling windows. The hotel facilities include a bar, breakfast lounge, and fitness centre. The comfortable bedrooms offer TV, WIFI, telephone, safe, hairdryer, toiletries, and tea/coffee making facilities.
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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