Includes return travel by luxury coach, free time in Ely and entrance to Chippenham Park gardens.

Our excursion today takes us first of all to the ancient city of Ely. Lying in the heart of the Fens, Ely is dominated by the magnificent Norman Cathedral (entrance not included). The most famous resident of Ely was Oliver Cromwell, and his former home is open to the public (entrance not included). Due to its historic isolation, Ely has remained small. Explore the antique shops and tearooms of this ancient city. The Cathedral Close has the largest collection of domestic monastic buildings in the country. There is a pleasant park which leads down to the river. After lunch we visit Chippenham Park to admire the snowdrops. Situated between Newmarket and Ely, Chippenham Park is a private Grade II listed family home set in 300 acres of parkland, with lakes, canals and award-winning gardens. The gardens have been restored and greatly added to over the last 30 years and during February, they have possibly the greatest display of delicate and naturalised snowdrops and aconites in East Anglia. The Potting Shed Tearooms in the kitchen garden are fully licensed and serve hot food, teas, coffee and cake.

PLEASE NOTE: Chippenham Park is a cash only site. Wheelchair access is limited in places, although there are wood-chip paths in most places. Outside toilets are wheelchair accessible, though the indoor toilets do have steps.

Thursday 20th February 2025 • £33.50pp

FIRST PICK-UP: Halstead 8am.
Arrive back in Halstead around 6pm.