Devon Coast & Dartington Crystal 7 Days - Imperial
- Duration: 7 days
- Board Basis: Half Board
- Tour Ref: D2TALF112
Holiday Summary
- Travel Type: Coach
Ilfracombe nestles around a harbour as old and as beautiful as any in Britain with the breathtaking scenery of North Devon as a backdrop. For the energetic there are splendid walks along the Coastal Path, the famous Torrs walks or swimming from the Tunnel beaches and coves. For those who like to take things a bit easier, one can simply stroll through the delightful gardens or while away an hour or two watching the ever-changing harbour scene. A boat trip is a "must" during your stay to see the spectacular cliffs of North Devon or visit the legendary Isle of Lundy. There is also plenty to do in the evenings with theatre, concerts, and cinema, as well as the entertainment provided at our hotel.
PLEASE NOTE: Price is per person and based on two people sharing a twin/double room. Single room supplements and upgrades are not included.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Outward Travel
Day 2 - Barnstaple & Bideford
This ancient market town lies on the River Taw./nBarnstaple’s Pannier Market dates back to Saxon times. /nSt. Anne’s Chapel sits in a pedestrianised precinct in the centre of Barnstaple./nThis historic port town is situated on the estuary of the River Torridge./nSir Richard Grenville, who founded many of Elizabeth I's overseas colonies, is commemorated in the parish church./nThe arched bridge is one of the longest medieval bridges in England./n
Day 3 - Great Torrington & Dartington Crystal
During the Civil War, the church was a Cromwellian prison and gunpowder store. In 1646 it was accidentally blown up along with 200 prisoners and then rebuilt in 1651. /nTorrington Heritage Museum has some fascinating exhibits and it aims to reflect the diverse history of this ancient market town./nThe Pannier Market was built in 1842 and refurbished in 1999. It features shops, workshops and a cafe. There is also a general market on Thursdays and Saturdays. /nLearn the history of glass making and the unique story of Dartington Crystal, the visitors centre lets you experience how molten glass is transformed into items of beauty and function./nWalk through the viewing areas and overhead walk ways at your own pace watching the craftsmen at work. /n
Day 4 - Day at Leisure
Day 5 - Day at Leisure
Day 6 - Dunster & Minehead
Set in Exmoor National Park and first referenced in the Doomsday Book./nDunster Castle is a Grade I listed building surrounded by spectacular gardens. (Entrance fees apply. May not be suitable for mobility impaired guests due to steep hills and steps)/nDunster Water Mill is a fine example of a fully-restored working water mill in the West Country./nMinehead, once a port on the Bristol Channel, now has a flat promenade housing cafés, bars and shops as well as offering access to the beach./nSt. Michael’s Church, built around the 14th to 15th century, can be found on the lower slopes of North Hill./nBlenheim Gardens, Minehead’s largest park, opened in 1925 and remains a popular attraction./n
Day 7 - Return Travel
Imperial Hotel
Situated in one of the best positions in Ilfracombe, The Imperial Hotel is overlooking the gardens and splendid Landmark Theatre and Conference Centre. Close to the shops and only a short almost level walk from the harbour. There are 100 rooms, each with central heating and a bath or shower and WC. All rooms have tea/coffee making facilities, intercom, hair dryer and TV with radio channels. There is also a TV lounge, attractive cosy bar and lounge area. Dance floor where entertainment is provided most evenings. Lift to all floors although the majority of rooms are three stairs above the lift floor levels.