Immerse yourself in the grandeur and history of the United Kingdom like never before. There’s no better way to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage than by venturing through the properties managed by the British National Trust. For those of you who delight in the marriage of luxury travel and historical exploration, we have compiled a list of some exceptional cruises that offer comprehensive tours of the British National Trust properties.
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
Experience the captivating beauty of Britain’s heritage with Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, a company renowned for its meticulously planned itineraries and exceptional service. This cruise line offers several journeys that visit British National Trust properties, providing passengers with a tapestry of experiences that span centuries of history.
A highlight of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines’ offerings is a tour of the National Trust’s Stourhead House and Garden, a stunning 18th-century landscape garden and stately home in Wiltshire. The tour encompasses a guided walk through the breathtaking gardens, a visit to the Palladian mansion and a chance to gaze upon its superb collection of paintings and Chippendale furniture.
Similarly, the cruise offers a tour of the National Trust’s Brownsea Island, a vibrant wildlife sanctuary situated in Poole Harbour, Dorset. Visitors can stroll through the island’s woodland and heathland, and might even catch sight of the rare red squirrels that inhabit the area.
P&O Cruises
Another top-rated cruise line that offers detailed tours to the British National Trust properties is P&O Cruises. Known for their vast choice of cruises and destinations, their tours provide guests with an in-depth look into the elegance and grandeur of Britain’s past.
One of the standout tours offered by P&O Cruises is a visit to the National Trust’s Chartwell, the former home of Sir Winston Churchill in Kent. This tour allows passengers to explore the rooms of the house, virtually untouched since Churchill’s time, and walk through the beautiful gardens that he designed himself.
In addition, P&O Cruises gives its passengers a chance to visit the National Trust’s Hidcote Manor Garden in Gloucestershire. This Arts and Crafts garden is internationally renowned for its beautiful vistas and rare, exotic plants. Visitors can explore the series of outdoor ‘rooms’, each with a different character and separated by hedges and walls.
Hebridean Island Cruises
For those looking for a more intimate, luxury experience, Hebridean Island Cruises offers a unique opportunity to explore the British National Trust properties. This cruise line is renowned for its personal service, luxurious accommodation and outstanding cuisine.
A must-see on a Hebridean Island Cruise is the National Trust’s Cragside, a Victorian house in Northumberland. This was the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity. It is filled with quirky gadgets and inventive furnishings, and its gardens are a wonder to behold.
Also on offer is a visit to the National Trust’s Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. This geological marvel is home to an estimated 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption.
Saga Cruises
Finally, Saga Cruises offers a selection of tours that take passengers into the heart of the British National Trust properties. Known for their provision of boutique cruises for the over-50s, Saga Cruises takes their guests on a journey through Britain’s heritage that is both relaxing and enlightening.
One notable tour is a visit to the National Trust’s Standen House and Gardens in West Sussex. This Arts and Crafts house is a testament to the design genius of William Morris. Its charming gardens offer breathtaking views across the Sussex countryside.
Saga Cruises also takes its passengers to the National Trust’s Snowdonia in Wales. This diverse landscape boasts rugged mountains, long sandy beaches and lush farmland. It’s a place of true natural beauty, offering a wealth of opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an admirer of architecture, or someone who simply loves to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, these cruises are sure to provide you with an unforgettable tour of the British National Trust properties. Enjoy the journey!
Noble Caledonia Cruises
For those with a passion for the natural beauty of the British Isles, a cruise with Noble Caledonia is a must. Offering a variety of small group tours, their itineraries have a distinct focus on the natural and cultural heritage of the British Isles, truly showcasing the best of what the United Kingdom has to offer.
A standout experience on Noble Caledonia cruises is the chance to sail on Coniston Water on the National Trust’s Steam Yacht Gondola. The longest lake in the Lake District, Coniston Water is surrounded by a panorama of rolling hills and woodland. The restored Victorian steam yacht offers a unique and relaxing way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake.
Noble Caledonia also has tours that feature Tarn Hows in the Lake District, another stunning National Trust property. This breathtaking spot offers a circular walk around the tarn, with stunning views of the mountains around the Lake District.
Additionally, a Noble Caledonia cruise will take you to the Isle of Man, home to the Calf of Man, a bird sanctuary and nature reserve managed by the National Trust for Scotland. Here, you can experience the dramatic coastline, stunning wildlife and, if you’re lucky, spot some of the resident seals.
Shore Excursions with National Trust Properties
Most of these cruise lines offer the option of shore excursions to National Trust properties. These are a fantastic way to discover more about the United Kingdom’s rich history, culture, and nature. These tours offer a deeper understanding of each property, led by experienced guides knowledgeable in the history and intricacies of each site.
One of the most notable shore excursions is a visit to the National Trust’s Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The sight of the 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption, is a sight you’ll never forget.
For those who prefer a more active exploration, there are options to participate in guided walks or hikes, such as the one around Tarn Hows in the Lake District. These excursions not only provide a way to admire the landscapes but also a chance to learn about the natural history of the area.
In choosing any of these cruises, you’re guaranteed a memorable journey filled with stunning views, rich history, and the chance to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the United Kingdom. From exploring the grandeur of stately homes like Standen House and Cragside to experiencing the breathtaking natural beauty of Coniston Water and Snowdonia, you’ll have the opportunity to truly appreciate the diversity of the National Trust properties.
Each cruise line offers unique itineraries with a variety of experiences suitable for all interests. Whether it’s the personal service and luxury of Hebridean Island Cruises, the focus on the natural and cultural heritage of the British Isles with Noble Caledonia, or the chance to share the experience with like-minded travellers on Saga Cruises or Fred Olsen Cruise lines, there’s a cruise that will enrich your appreciation of the United Kingdom’s National Trust properties.
Remember to view the full details and terms and conditions of each cruise line before booking. So why wait? Start planning your unforgettable cruise tour of the British National Trust properties now!
