TOUR DATES: May 25 – June 2, 2025 (Recently Updated)
We are delighted to present an exclusive opportunity to explore the architectural and horticultural heritage of the Arts and Crafts Movement through our “Houses and Gardens in England and Wales” tour. This specially curated journey offers a rare chance to visit some of the most significant homes and gardens that embody the spirit of the Arts and Crafts era, combining historical insight with the beauty of carefully preserved landscapes.
Our tour begins at Munstead Wood, the iconic home of Gertrude Jekyll, one of the most influential landscape and garden designers of the Arts and Crafts Movement. Collaborating with the famed architect Edwin Lutyens, Jekyll created a garden that was both a working garden for her pioneering ideas and a welcoming space for visitors. This visit sets the stage for our journey, highlighting the profound relationship between architecture and nature that characterizes the Arts and Crafts aesthetic.
As we travel into the heart of Wales, a land rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, we will encounter gardens and estates designed by leading figures of the Movement, including works by landscape architect Thomas Mawson. The gardens of Wales provide a unique backdrop, where the rugged terrain and lush greenery have inspired designers to blend the formal and the natural seamlessly. Among the highlights is Portmeirion, the imaginative Italianate village designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. This picturesque village reflects his visionary approach to architecture and landscape, harmonizing whimsical design with the Welsh coastline’s dramatic beauty.
Our tour will also include visits to private estates where the principles of the Arts and Crafts Movement are evident in both the architecture and the meticulous garden designs. Each location has been selected for its historical significance and its role in preserving the movement’s ideals. Whether wandering through lush gardens or exploring intricately restored interiors, you will gain an appreciation for the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and aesthetic principles that define the Arts and Crafts Movement.
The journey will conclude with a visit to Madresfield Court, a moated manor house that remains one of the finest examples of Arts and Crafts interiors. This historic residence offers a glimpse into the lives of those who embraced the Movement’s ideals, featuring exquisite details and thoughtful design that speak to the era’s emphasis on artistry and authenticity.
Throughout the tour, accommodations will be in charming hotels and inns that reflect the character and elegance of the regions we visit. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, allowing for in-depth discussions, private access to select sites, and the opportunity to engage with fellow enthusiasts and experts in the field.
Join us for this unforgettable exploration of the Arts and Crafts Movement’s enduring legacy. This tour offers not only the chance to see beautiful homes and gardens but also to deepen your understanding of the Movement that shaped much of Britain’s architectural and cultural landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned garden enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of well-designed spaces, this tour has something to offer.
Space is limited, so book your place today to secure your spot on this exclusive tour. We look forward to sharing this passion with you on this wonderful and exciting tour.