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Karen from New York State, USA wrote - A Tudor Tour day:

“After a substantial breakfast, we were briefed by our principal expert guide in the relaxing lounge of the 17th century inn that provided our accommodation. We then set off in air-conditioned vehicles for a drive of 45 minutes through the beautiful golden stone villages of the Cotswolds. We had morning coffee in an old inn in an unspoiled village with thatched houses. We asked for a break in the itinerary to explore the old village church, where the peaceful atmosphere was very moving. We set off again, winding our way through picturesque country lanes, arriving via the deer park at Sudeley castle, the final home of Henry VIII’s last wife, and a childhood residence of Elizabeth I.

We ate lunch in the splendid refectory before beginning our tour of the magnificent house. There was an excellent audio-guide, and our traveling guide’s interesting and amusing explanations brought the whole place to life. The costumes used in a film of Henry VIII and his six wives were on show, so we could take a close-up look at the fine dresses they would have worn. We walked in the Tudor rose garden, in the footsteps of Elizabeth I and the tragic Lady Jane Grey, and sat in the castle church where Queen Katherine Parr worshipped and is buried.

A few minutes’ drive away is the ruin of a monastery that was a major pilgrimage site, sadly destroyed by Henry VIII. Our guide gave us the fascinating background of the abbey, and some of us took the opportunity of the optional audio-tour, which gave us more details, and a real feeling of what life was like when the abbey was full of people. The remainder of the party opted to stroll through the nearby town of Winchcombe with its quaint old houses, shops and cafes. Our guide explained the town’s Anglo-Saxon origins as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mercia.

Leaving the area for our return journey, our group was bubbling with enthusiasm for everything we had seen and enjoyed. The warm sunshine also helped! We arrived back at our ‘home’ for the week, once used by Oliver Cromwell in the 1640’s, and had time to relax before dining ‘like royals’ in the wonderful restaurant. The first full day of our holiday had been marvelous, and we wondered if the rest of our stay could equal it. Then the rest of the week just got better! Of course we’ve booked again for 2004!”

Monika from Germany wrote

“ I will take the possibility to thank you for the most enjoyable days with Tudor Tours. It was a good mixture of sightseeing, travelling, history and relaxing, all well organised. Most of all we enjoyed to meet so interesting people as Mark Bradshaw and of course Lady Saye and Sele herself."

Christine from Illinois wrote

“ I wanted to send this letter to let you know how fabulous your tour was. Every detail was attended to. The hotel was wonderful! Everyone there was friendly, kind and helpful. The food was delicious and well prepared and served. The gardens were delightful and relaxing. Our tour started with Hatfield House – moments which we will long remember. The personal touches you added – the ‘ceremony’ under the oak tree – made the tour something very special. At Coughton Court we climbed the spiral stairs and looked out from the roof over miles and miles of beautiful landscape and gardens, and we viewed the hidden priest holes. Baddesley Clinton was lovely with its splendid moat. The Cotswolds with the thatched roofs and lovely stone fences, houses and gardens were like being in a magnificent dream. The 16th century inns where we took our lunches added to the charm and atmosphere of the tour.

To walk where the Kings and Queens of History played out their lives brought to mind the reality of their lives, their sacrifices, goodness, wickedness, pain or sorrow, happiness or joy. We were very impressed with your knowledge about everywhere we went. Being able to customise our holiday to see the things that were most important to us was the key to the success of our holiday. Thank you very much for your care and concern when our friend fell and hurt herself, along with knowing exactly what to do in an emergency to make everything continue on smoothly.

We do thank you from the bottom of our hearts for making everything we did and saw so very special and memorable. We look forward to another trip with Tudor Tours. We will highly recommend your services to everyone we can. We not only feel like we have found a treasure but also that we have made new friends as well.”

Moira from Rochester, NY wrote

“ My experience with Tudor Tours was absolutely delightful! I had hoped to learn more about Britain’s history close-up. What I learned from the Tudor Tours hosts was fascinating stories about persons and times from the past. They were able to make it all come alive. Our tour was personalised to our interests. The car was comfortable and the hosts were most attentive to our needs. I highly recommend Tudor Tours to anyone who is interested in a premier experience and the time of their lives.”

Maureen from Chicago wrote

“ I am hearing nothing but glowing reports of your organization and presentation of our tour. I have gotten several calls from people who were unable to attend and they are passing on praise. Thank you for a great time.”

Eleanor from Canada wrote

“ Thank you so much for a very wonderful 3 days. You took such good care of us and we got a real taste of Tudor.”