The Making of the Tudor Dynasty Tour

As the most famous dynasty in British history, everyone is familiar with the Tudors. But not everyone knows where they came from, and how they came to occupy England’s throne – against all odds – in 1485. This tour will provide the historical backdrop for their unlikely victory, as we visit some of the sites in which the fortunes of Henry Tudor – later Henry VII – rose and fell. It will be complimented by a series of talks from Dr Nicola Tallis, whose book, Uncrowned Queen, charts this thrilling tale.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival
Arrive independently at the Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel from 15.00. This evening there will be a welcome reception and private dinner with wine, followed by a talk from author and historian Dr Nicola Tallis: ‘The Wars of the Roses and the Tudors’.

Day 2: Ludlow Castle and Worcester Cathedral
Ludlow Castle was a significant royal residence during the Tudor period, home of Prince Edward (later Edward V), Prince Arthur (eldest son of Henry VII), and Catherine of Aragon. We gain a glimpse into the lifestyle of medieval and Tudor society as we walk through the Castle grounds and take in the superb views over the Shropshire countryside.  After lunch (own expense) we coach to Worcester Cathedral where Prince Arthur Tudor was buried. His chantry is to the right of the High Altar, and features heraldic carvings symbolising the various houses such as York, Lancaster, Beaufort and even Catherine of Aragon's pomegranate. This evening, dinner will be held in the hotel restaurant, followed by a talk from your guide and host, Nicola: ‘The Making of the Tudor Dynasty’.

Day 3: Raglan Castle, Ross-on-Wye and Tewkesbury Abbey
Morning visit to Raglan Castle, a symbol of power and prestige during the Tudor era. Originally built in the 15^th century by Sir William ap Thomas, and later transformed into a luxurious residence by his son, Raglan Castle hosted important figures and events before being partially destroyed during the English Civil War.  Continue to the picturesque market town of Ross-on-Wye, and St Mary’s Church which served as a central place of worship and community gathering during the Tudor period. After lunch (own expense) we travel back towards Tewkesbury, for a guided visit of the Abbey, a stunning example of Norman architecture.  Return to the hotel for approximately 17.00.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion

Please note: Post tour extra nights are available at a supplement.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 42 passengers. 

Tour grading: This tour has been graded as moderate due to the amount of walking around sites, and lots of standing for viewing at each attraction. At each attraction there are steps, and limited places to sit for rest. For more information please visit the mobility page of our website, or phone our team if you have any questions.

INCLUDED

• Two nights’ bed and breakfast at the four-star Hilton Puckrup Hall, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Welcome reception
• First night three-course dinner with wine
• Second night dinner in the hotel restaurant
• All talks, guided tours and entrance fees as per the itinerary
• Coach touring as per the itinerary
• Dr Nicola Tallis throughout
• Tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Transport to the hotel is not included
• Double for sole use supplement - from £172
• Extra nights on bed and breakfast basis
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc 
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Hilton Puckrup Hall, Tewkesbury

This modern four-star hotel is located on the edge of the Cotswolds, amid 140 acres of grounds, offering a restaurant, fitness centre, indoor swimming pool, and WIFI. All rooms have private bathroom facilities, TV, hairdryer, telephone and desk. Complimentary car parking is available at the hotel. 

Hotel Website