Join us for the Start of a Quintessentially British Summer:
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Antique hunting on Colombia Rd, Spring gardens & Strawberry teas...
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England has an unmatched love affair with gardening. Celebrate the opening of the summer garden season at Chelsea on members day as well as soaking in London's rich history+culture and signature gardens of East Sussex (Sarah Raven's Perch Hill, Great Dixter + Sissinghurst Castle).
As with all our Botanical Journeys, we will blend gardens and life with good friends, hands on experiences and the best local food.
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What finer way to immerse yourself in British culture with new flower loving friends?
THE GREAT BRITISH BOTANICAL JOURNEY:
RHS Chelsea + Beyond
Dates TBD for MAY 2022
8 days
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Group size: 5-10
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Countryside: Day at Perch Hill (Sarah Raven's trial garden), Guided Experiences at Great Dixter and Sissinghurst Castle Gardens
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London: Members Day at RHS Chelsea, Central london, the Royal Parks, Colombia Rd Market, Kew Botanic Garden and more
Hands on at Perch Hill + Historic Country Gardens
Our first 3 days will be spent in the countryside exploring the great gardens of East Sussex: a hands on day at Sarah Raven's trial gardens at Perch Hill and personal guided experiences at Sissinghurst Castle and Great Dixter. We will be based at a gorgeous restored country farmhouse .
London Life
Over 5 days in London we will immerse ourselves in local life as we explore the cutest neighborhoods, restaurants and stores, tinker in the East End at Columbia Road antiques + flower market and enjoy a historical walking tour.
We will be based at a sublime 4 star boutique hotel in Central London.
The Royal Parks, Kew Botanic Gardens + New Covent Garden Market
While in London you will have the opportunity to explore Richmond + Kew Botanical Gardens and for the early birds, New Covent Garden Flower Market. Or enjoy free time shopping up a storm in Central London or relaxing in the Royal Parks (Hyde Park, Regents Park and Green Park) just a stones throw from our hotel.
RHS+Chelsea in Bloom
We'll go garden gaga at the most opulent flower show in the world. More than flowers this is a social institution. On our penultimate day we'll potter along the King's Road, taking in the unofficial show with storefront installations and eateries celebrating the art of flowers.
Our grand finale will be a full day behind-the-scenes at RHS Chelsea, with our insider guide to all the best show gardens, floristry, champagne and foodie delights. A celebration of all things fabulous and floral.
YOUR HOSTS
Sylvia
Lukach
Cape Lily founder, florist, travel obsessed, very serious about her morning coffee, British passport holder and London resident for 5 years. Ready to show you the best of British garden culture, the ins and outs of London life and a downright jolly fine time.
Heather Saunders
Photographer extraordinaire, producer, mid-century design devotee, a lover of patterns + pop culture, a fan of contemporary + modern art.
Heather was the official photographer for flower House Detroit and will be snapping all the flower photos so you can enjoy in real life.
For a detailed day-by-day itinerary please contact us
What makes this Cape Lily Botanical Journey Unique?
​​Share it with special people
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We attract curious travelers across generations who are passionate about nature and fine crafts. Our experiences are designed for friends/couples or singles happy to share a twin room
Immerse yourself ​in real British culture
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We curate an authentic travel experience with unique access to the British way of life guided by local friends
Small personalized groups
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Our groups are no larger than 10 people allowing us to personalize the experience to individual preferences, move about easily and eat at the best places
Travel with a purpose
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All our journeys have the opportunity to learn and get your hands a little dirty playing with flowers if you so desire. Return home overflowing with inspiration
Tasteful details
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Every detail of our itinerary is designed to give you the ultimate experience, from where we sleep and eat to surprise treats along the way. That's why we stay in Central London and not on the outskirts and only eat in museum/garden cafes if they're exceptional.
GUEST STORIES:
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" The Botanical Journey was life changing! Every detail was thoughtfully selected and centered around floral life and nature. Everything was taken care of so we could fully immerse ourselves..."
KIM
GUEST STORIES
YOUR HOTELS:
EAST SUSSEX:
Sissinghurst Castle Farmhouse*
A restored Victorian manor on the Sissinghurst estate oozing old world charm. The perfect place to unwind from jetlag before the city. Because afternoon tea +cake should be enjoyed every day!
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LONDON:
The Holmes*
A carefully chosen boutique hotel comprised of 4 restored Georgian buildings in the heart of London's Marylebone Village. Nestled between quaint pubs, shops and the royal parks, it even has a greenhouse on the roof - how perfect for us!
* Or equivalent hotel
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YOUR HOTELS
Included
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7 nights shared occupancy luxury accommodation (twin or double).
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Full day pass + private guide to Chelsea on members day + champagne lunch
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Full day at Perch Hill Garden including lunch, garden tour and demo/workshop
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2 delicious meals a day including breakfast
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Afternoon tea and cake every day at Sissinghurst Castle Farmhouse
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High Tea at a quintessentially british establishment
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All airport transfers and ground transportation for planned activities
Not Included
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Air travel
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Our journeys are designed for sharing (we pair singles with other curious travelers in a twin room) but if you prefer your own room there is an additional $1050 charge (subject to availability)
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Travel & medical insurance (required)
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Personal travel incidentals including incidental room charges in hotels, laundry, etc.
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One meal a day at your own expense
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Alcoholic beverages
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Gratuities e.g. guides, drivers, meals (at your discretion)
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Optional trip extensions
Extend your stay with these optional adventures:
