Distinguished Estates of Devon & Agatha Christie's Riviera

Check in to the Devon Hotel, Exeter in the afternoon. Later, we enjoy a welcome drink reception hosted by our tour manager, followed by dinner.

We begin our first day of excursions at Powderham Castle, which has been home to the Courtenay family for over 600 years, having been built by Sir Philip Courtenay in the 14^th century. Located on the peaceful banks of the River Exe, this historical gem offers impressive turrets, an elegant façade and enchanting gardens. We are treated to a guided tour with the owner, Lord Devon, providing the perfect chance to explore the well-preserved interiors packed with rare art and antiques, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its past inhabitants.

Our next visit takes us to Fursdon House, a privately-owned Elizabethan manor close to the cathedral city of Exeter and one of Devon's oldest family homes as it has been continuously lived in by the Fursdon family. The manor features a blend of architectural styles, showcasing its evolution through centuries, from its Elizabethan origins to later Georgian additions. Boasting charming gardens, meandering woodland paths and breathtaking views of the Exe Valley, we step inside only to be transported back in time, surrounded by period features, elegant interiors and ancestral portraits. To round off our visit, we enjoy a cream tea (cream before jam when eating scones in Devon!).

After a journey on the foot ferry we arrive at Greenway, the much-loved holiday home of Agatha Christie and her family. Nestled on the side of the River Dart and surrounded by a picturesque woodland garden, this atmospheric Georgian mansion is set in the 1950s and contains many of Christie's collections and personal artefacts. As you wander through the atmospheric rooms, imagine the world-famous author reading her latest mystery novel to her guests here. The surrounding gardens are equally enchanting, with winding paths, exotic plants and lovely views of the River Dart. Don't miss the boathouse, the scene of the murder in Dead Man's Folly.

We then head to sunny Torquay, not only famous for its continental harbour and palm-tree lined promenade, but also as the birthplace of The Queen of Crime. Did you know that this is where Agatha Christie learned about poisons while working as a pharmacist? We take a guided walking tour, including the Agatha Christie Mile, ticking off the 11 seafront locations connected to her life and works.

Today begins with a guided tour of the imposing Ugbrooke House, home to the Clifford family for centuries. Nestled within the beautiful Devon countryside, this manor has stood proudly for over 900 years, beckoning visitors to discover the grandeur within: think precious artefacts, intricate plasterwork ceilings, majestic paintings, plenty of elegant antiques and a private chapel designed by Robert Adam. Outside offers an enticing network of colourful walkways, secret walled gardens and parkland designed by Capability Brown.

We then take a special trip to the beautiful Art Deco Burgh Island Hotel, either travelling by unique sea tractor from Bigbury on Sea beach or walking across depending on the tide times. Built in 1929 and extended in 1932, the hotel has been restored to its 30s glamour and offers an opulent glimpse into the past. Previous guests include Winston Churchill, Josephine Baker, Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson, and you can just visualise Agatha Christie writing two novels here (Evil Under the Sun and And Then There Were None), with the glitz of the hotel appealing to her as a literary setting. It's the perfect place to indulge in an included afternoon tea and a memorable way to end our visits.

After breakfast, check out of the hotel for the journey home.