The British Social Season - Hiking
Country
England
Region
London
Theme
Limited Edition
7
Days
6
Nights
Accommodation
5*
Ceremony, culture and country house style.
An immersion into the ideal British Social Season, bringing together ceremonial occasions, cultural landmarks and “weekends in the country”. Designed as an example itinerary for bespoke travel, guests could enjoy Horse racing at Ascot, opera in the Sussex countryside, private palace access and evenings dressed for the occasion. Between these highlights, the pace softens with walks through historic towns, open landscapes and carefully chosen neighbourhoods of London. This is not a fixed departure itinerary. Each element can be adapted, substituted or re-timed depending on seasonality, access and client interests
Highlights
- Walking tour of Windsor and private guided visit to Windsor Castle
- Attendance at Royal Ascot during the summer racing season
- South Downs walking and Seven Sisters coastal scenery
- Opera at Glyndebourne with traditional picnic culture
- Private viewing within Buckingham Palace
- Evening performance at the Royal Albert Hall Proms
Handpicked Accommodation
100 Queen’s Gate Hotel, London
Occupying a row of restored Victorian townhouses opposite Hyde Park, this Kensington hotel blends classic proportions with modern design.
Why we chose it
Of the thousands of hotels, we chose this elegant London base as it delivers the location without the intensity of the West End.
The Star, Alfriston
A refined village inn at the heart of Alfriston, blending historic character with quietly confident design. Think crackling fires, polished wood and rooms that feel both classic and contemporary.
Why we chose it
Alfriston is one of the South Downs’ most charming villages, and The Star places you right at the region’s heart. From here, some of the area’s finest walks begin at the front door.
The Oakley Court, Windsor
A grand Victorian Gothic mansion set on the banks of the River Thames, The Oakley Court has a long association with society gatherings, private entertaining and discreet luxury.
Why we chose it
Its riverside grounds and richly decorated interiors feel firmly rooted in the tradition of English country house hospitality.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival and Windsor
A chauffeur meets you at your London hotel or airport for the transfer to Windsor. On arrival, meet your guide and begin a leisurely walking tour of the town, whose streets and riverside paths reflect centuries of royal presence. Walk through Windsor Great Park, originally established as a Norman hunting ground, before a guided visit to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. The afternoon sets the tone for the journey, formal history balanced with open green space. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – Royal Ascot
Today is devoted to one of the defining events of the British social calendar. Dress for the occasion and attend Royal Ascot, where horse racing, fashion and tradition are inseparable. The race meeting has been attended by the royal family since the early 18th century and remains one of the most recognisable fixtures of the English flat season. After a full day at the races, return to the hotel for a quiet evening.
Day 3 – Sussex and The South Downs
Transfer south into Sussex, leaving the Thames Valley behind for the open chalk landscapes of the South Downs. Begin with a gentle walk along the downs, passing the dramatic white cliffs of the Seven Sisters before following the River Cuckmere inland. The afternoon is spent at Rathfinny Wine Estate, a leading English sparkling wine producer, for a guided tour and tasting. Later, explore the boutiques and streets of Alfriston, your base for the next two nights.
Day 4 – Glyndebourne
This morning is unhurried, allowing time to enjoy Alfriston before heading to Glyndebourne. Since 1934, this country house has hosted world-class opera in a setting that is both formal and famously relaxed. Black tie picnicking on the lawns is part of the tradition, as is the long interval between acts. After the performance and dinner, return to Alfriston.
Day 5 – The Museums of London
Travel back to London and settle into Kensington. In the afternoon, take a guided walk along Museum Mile, including a curated visit to the Victoria and Albert Museum, whose collections span centuries of decorative art and design. The remainder of the afternoon is free for shopping along High Street Kensington or strolling through Hyde Park. Dinner is enjoyed locally.
Day 6 – Royal London and the Proms
Begin the day with a relaxed walking tour of central London, taking in ceremonial streets and historic quarters. Enjoy privileged access with a private viewing of the East Wing of Buckingham Palace, offering insight into the workings of the royal household. In the evening, attend a performance at the Royal Albert Hall as part of the BBC Proms season. The Proms are known for their accessibility and celebration of classical music, making them a fitting close to the social season theme.
Day 7 – Departure
After breakfast, a chauffeur transfers you to the airport or onward destination, marking the end of the journey.
Itinerary Designer
These occasions have endured the test of time for good reason. The British social season is, truly, a unique way to experience this great country.
Gaby
Featured Experience
An Evening at Glyndebourne
Dressing for the opera, picnicking on the lawns and lingering between acts is as much a part of the experience as the performance itself.