Following a successful tour in 2011, we have managed to secure 50 rooms for sole use at the wonderful Olde Barn Hotel, and take you to see the best that southern Lincolnshire has to offer. We visit historic Belton House, take two boat trips and have a guided tour of the sites made famous by 617 Squadron – The Dambusters.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Once all the taxis have met our coach, we travel northwards stopping in St Albans before continuing to our hotel in Marston.

Day 2 Today we travel the short distance to Belton House, a wonderful English country-house estate, set in its own magnificent deer park. The 17th Century house has opulent décor, fine furnishings, stunning silverware and gorgeous gardens. We return to our hotel mid afternoon to enjoy the leisure facilities.

Day 3 We visit the historic city of Lincoln with its many little alleyways filled with interesting shops and tearooms, its magnificent cathedral and Norman Castle. We have also included a one hour boat trip.

Day 4 Today we enjoy our ‘Dambusters Tour’ through the Lincolnshire landscape rich in aviation history with our local guide. We visit many of the sites important to 617 Squadron as they prepared for their 1943 raid on the Ruhr Valley, including Woodhall Spa and Mertheringham. We have included a visit to the Linconshire Aviation Heritage Centre which houses interesting displays and memorabilia and an original Lancaster.

Day 5 We travel south to visit the pretty conservation town of Stamford. Most of the buildings are constructed of old Lincolnshire limestone and the town boasts many pubs and cafés. We then travel to beautiful Rutland Water where we have included a cruise on the Rutland Belle.

Day 6 Departing after breakfast, we travel southwards making suitable refreshment stops along the way and arrive in the local area late afternoon.