Buffalo, NY – The Botanical Gardens, in conjunction with Collette Vacations, presents “The Gardens of London,” featuring the Chelsea Flower Show May 17-24, 2014. This eight day excursion will tour many unique places in London, including Windsor Castle and the Hampton Court Palace. This incredible experience also includes tickets to the members-only opening day of the 101st Royal Horticulture Society (RHS) Chelsea Flower Show and a private gala dinner hosted at the RHS flagship garden, Wisley in the world renowned GlassHouse.
The Chelsea Flower Show is the most prestigious show in all of Great Britain. It is most associated with the royal family, who attend opening day every year. Join this cultural tour of Britain to visit Windsor Castle, take a locally-guided panoramic tour of London and choose the perfect spot from a menu of the city’s great restaurants. Stroll the gardens of Hampton Court Palace, favored home of Henry VIII. Visit Kew, home of the Royal Botanic Gardens - truly one of the world’s most impressive horticultural collections and so much more!
This trip of a lifetime includes round trip air from the Buffalo International Airport, air taxes and fees/surcharges, hotel transfers and hometown pickup from the Botanical Gardens to the airport, all other travel, admissions/tickets, hotel accommodations, six breakfasts and three dinners. Trip itinerary includes: Day 1: May 17 - Overnight Flight to London, England. Day 2: May 18 - Tour Begins - This horticultural adventure begins in London, the cosmopolitan and historic capital of Britain. This evening, guests will enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers and representatives from the RHS. Day 3: May 19 - London - This morning, see the quintessential sights of London with a local guide. View Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, the changing of the guard and some free time to explore. Day 4: May 20 - Chelsea Flower Show – May 20 is the members only opening day of the famous Chelsea Flower Show and trip goers are invited to this prestigious event. Enjoy full access to the extensive variety of gardens and plants on display. Day 5: May 21 - Hampton Court - Discover the wonders of majestic Hampton Court Palace. Chat with Henry VIII and other royals from the Tudor family at this living museum. Listen as they captivate you with their stories as you explore one of Britain’s most important historic buildings. Lose yourself in the world-famous yew tree maze which consists of over half a mile of winding paths. Stroll in the riverside formal gardens and be transported through five hundred years of royal history. Day 6: May 22 - Kew Gardens - Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, a 300-acre site that houses one of the world’s great collections. Explore the iconic Victorian Palm House or tour Kew Palace, former home of George III. Day 7: May 23 - Windsor Castle - Wisley - Step into the formal world of the British Monarchy when you visit the stately and expansive Windsor Castle. Guests will then travel to Wisley, a stunning 60-acre estate. As the flagship garden of the RHS, Wisley houses an astounding array of common and exotic flora. Enjoy an exclusive RHS gala dinner at this world-renowned garden. Day 8: May 24 - Return home with memories and photos to last a lifetime.
Join us for a complementary informational meeting on September 23 at 7:00pm to talk with a representative from Collette Tours, learn more about the sights you will see and find out the benefits of traveling with a local group. This no-obligations meeting will take place in the new administration building at the Gardens. RSVP for the meeting and be entered to win a door prize! Please contact Christina at the Botanical Gardens at 716.827.1584 ext. 219 or cstannard@buffalogardens.com.
London trip tickets are, $4,099 per person for double occupancy and $5,199 per person for single occupancy until November 17, 2013. Rates after November 17 are $4,299 per person per person for double occupancy and $5,399 per person for single occupancy. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to www.buffalogardens.com or call 716.827.1584 ext. 219. The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens Society, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing appreciation for and knowledge of plant life and its connection to people and cultures through its documented living plant collection, historic conservatory, education, research and exhibits.
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