Folklore, Fables & Smugglers Tales 2025 5 Days

Itinerary

Day 1
Travel to your hotel in Essex.

Day 2
Today begins in picturesque Saffron Walden, with its heritage reflecting the wealth of this medieval, market town across the ages. Explore the quirky, cosmopolitan market, held here since 1141 on Tuesdays and Saturdays. From here, take the short journey to what was once one of the largest and most opulent houses in Jacobean England, Audley End House and Gardens, to learn about its past, of the fluctuating fortunes and life both above and below stairs.

Day 3
Meet your guide for a half day tour of the Essex coast and Blackwater Estuary. Hear tales of smugglers navigating the many inlets and shifting sands under the cover of darkness. Enjoy a stop in the ancient town of Maldon, home to many a Thames Barge. This afternoon, we venture to award winning Green Island Gardens. The 20 acres of private gardens were designed by its owner Fiona Edmond and display a huge range of unusual trees, shrubs, perennials and bulbs.

Day 4
First stop today is a visit to the Suffolk Punch Trust, founded to protect the endangered oldest English breed of working horse. On a guided tour and tractor ride, meet the horses and learn about the history of this gentle giant. Head then for a scenic drive along the Suffolk coast stopping, time allowing, in some of its charming seaside villages such as Aldeburgh, Thorpeness and Southwold.

Day 5
Homeward journey.