history repeats itself

March 5th, 2010

Bodysgallen Hall (left) and Hartwell House

Bodysgallen Hall (left) and Hartwell House

In anticipation of greener, warmer months, Historic House Hotels has organized its second year of guided garden tours. The 300-year-old, participating properties include Bodysgallen Hall & Spa in northern Wales and Hartwell House & Spa just outside of London. The historic homes were a gift to The National Trust in 2008. As such, members of the Trust’s U.S. affiliate, The Royal Oak Foundation, receive special concessions at the houses.

Enjoy spectacular views of Snowdonia and Conwy Castle during a three-night stay at the 17th-century Bodysgallen Hall, nestled amidst 200-acres of wooded parkland in northern Wales. From May 18-21, guests can participate in visits to nine beautiful gardens, including the world-famous Bodnant garden and the exotic plant nursery of international plant hunters Bleddyn and Sue Wynn-Jones.

Or channel your inner royalty with quick trip from Central London to the rural landscaped countryside of the stately Hartwell House in Buckinghamshire. Stay for three nights, June 21-24, and explore ten gardens, including the late Nancy Lancaster’s former garden near Oxford, Lord Carrington’s garden at Bledlow, plus some National Trust gardens at Cliveden and Waddesdon Manor. 

Price per person sharing a double or twin bedroom is £1150 for either property. Cost includes accommodation for three nights, luncheon for three days, transport between the halls and garden destinations, dinners, breakfast, a tour of nine or ten gardens, and full use of the spa (including VAT).

The Royal Oak Foundation is the United States partner of the National Trust of England, Wales and Northern Ireland.  Royal Oak members gain free entry to over 300 important historic houses and gardens. The Foundation supports National Trust conservation projects and offers a series of lectures and other public programs across the US on topics including British history, architecture, gardens, and the fine and decorative arts.  As a U.S. not-for-profit organization, membership dues and donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

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