East of England

Go to Day 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

Journey Time:
4 Days
Distance:
156 miles (250 km)
Airport:
London Stansted/London Heathrow/ London Gatwick/Birmingham International Airport

Plan your route: VisitBritain Journey Planner (visitbritain.transportdirect.info/web2)

For a lesson in English history, this glorious 4-day tour starts in the historic university city of Cambridge then heading out to explore much of the East of England on the way. The tour takes in museums, cathedrals and churches - enjoy the route at your own pace or keep to the 4-day itinerary outlined below.

Day 1: Cambridge

All sites for day one are within walking distance of each other.

Anglesey Abbey Gardens

The name Cambridge instantly summons breathtaking images – the Backs carpeted with spring flowers, punting on the River Cam and of course the calm of the historic college buildings. Start off at the exquisite 13th century Anglesey Abbey Gardens with its famous Fairhaven collection of paintings and furniture.

Must see and do:

Fitzwilliam Museum (www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk/) | Anglesey Abbey Gardens and Lode Mill (www.angleseyabbey.org)

Cambridge and Country Folk Museum

From the Anglesey Abbey head to the Cambridge and Country Folk Museum, a part timber-framed 17th century inn, retaining many original fittings. Established as a museum of Cambridgeshire life in 1936, it has wonderful displays depicting Victorian homes, waterway and town planning, clothing, crafts and trade memorabilia.

Must see and do:

Wimpole Hall (www.wimpole.org/hall.html)

King's College Chapel

After the Country Folk Museum head to the King's College Chapel. The chapel, founded by Henry VI in 1441, has a breathtaking fan-vault ceiling, magnificent ornate stained-glass windows, a carved-oak screen presented to the college by Henry VIII and Rubens' masterpiece, the Adoration of the Magi.

Must see and do:

The Kings College Chapel (www.kings.cam.ac.uk/chapel/)

Farmland Museum and Denny Abbey

This has been an agricultural estate since medieval times and features an abbey and an interactive museum. The Farmland Museum and Denny Abbey provide an interesting look at the farming industry of Cambridge. Explore the remains of the 12th century Benedictine Abbey, which provides an excellent example of Normandy architecture.

Must see and do:

Farmland Museum and Denny Abbey (www.dennyfarmlandmuseum.org.uk)

Cambridge All Saints' Church

The spire of this fine church, opposite the gates of Jesus College, is a prominent Cambridge landmark, while the interior represents a milestone of the Gothic Revival. The Cambridge All Saints' Church contains richly painted stencil wall decoration and stained glass by William Morris and other Pre-Raphaelites.

Go to Day 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

Get your Great British Heritage Pass

For any of you garden lovers or those planning a history or heritage themed trip around Britain, the essential "buy before you leave" product is the Great British Heritage Pass. Providing free entry into over 580 castles, gardens and stately homes across the length and breadth of Britain, it really is the key to unlocking Britain's secrets.

For full details and to order click here.