Royal Sandringham, Regal Stamford & Historic King's Lynn

The highlight of our break, we are treated to a fascinating trip to the ultimate country retreat, Sandringham. Loved by Elizabeth II and built in 1870, this treasure has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs. The interiors feature astonishing exhibits such as a historical collection of arms and armour brought back from the Far East and India in 1876, while the walls are hung with family portraits by leading contemporary court painters. The mostly informal gardens include woodland walks, rockeries, magnificent sweeping lawns, lakes and the more formal North Garden. The museum, housed in the former coach houses and stable block, holds extraordinary collections of royal vehicles, rare ceramics, photographs and memorabilia.

We start the day with a trip to Oakham, the county town of Rutland. This pretty, traditional market town boasts many historic landmarks including a Norman castle, unusual stocks and a town pump beneath the Butter Cross as well as the renowned Oakham School, which dates back to 1584. There’s also an abundance of eateries and stylish shops to visit.

Next, we spend some time in Stamford, one of the finest stone towns in the country, with over 600 beautiful listed buildings, five medieval churches and a range of boutique shops. The Town Trail is a wonderful way to soak up the atmospheric streets, charming passageways and market squares before enjoying a well-earned treat in one of the cosy cafés.

We head to Lincolnshire’s hidden gem of Boston, a pretty port town with a rich history and surrounded by stunning countryside. The open-air market here has been running every week for over 450 years, and with up to 172 stalls selling fresh produce, local delicacies, clothes, fabrics and gifts, it’s the perfect place to pick up a bargain or two!

Afterwards we head to nearby King’s Lynn, a charming market town and seaport renowned for its extensive history and heritage sites. With a wander around the cobbled narrow streets, flanked with old merchants’ houses, we soak up the story of the town’s maritime trade and fishing communities.