This morning we are touring the whimsical Painswick Rococo Garden to witness spring on display.  This idiosyncratic, mid-1700s garden reflects the playful, fantasy world of the Rococo - a style evident in European painting, fashion and architecture - enthusiastically adopted by wealthy Britons of the period. It was designed by Benjamin Hyett, painted by Thomas Robins and survived dereliction by a whisker, almost succumbing in the 1980s but rescued (partly using the painting for inspiration). Today it dazzles with 'Strawberry Gothic' pinnacled and turreted pavilions and charming plantings.

On the way home we pass through the Slad Valley, home to the village of Slad, immortalised in Laurie Lee's novel Cider With Rosie. The author went to school here, walking out one day to explore the world. As an older man he drank in the Woolpack Pub, where they have kept a collection of his beer bottles, and he is buried in the local church of the Holy Trinity. Let us know if you wish to hike the Laurie Lee Wildlife Way, a 5-mile loop dotted with poetry posts, each of which features one of Laurie Lee’s poems.

Otherwise, return to the hotel in time for lunch on your own and an afternoon free to enjoy a blissful retreat at our Spa hotel, take a vacation from your vacation.

This evening, join us for an epic croquet championship in the garden then gather for a magical dinner party on the estate – grand and unapologetically country. 

CALCOT & SPA (B, D)