FULL DAY: Today we tour into the heart of the countryside to reach the once capital of Wessex, Sherborne. We then pause to view the Giant of Cerne Abbas - a huge ancient carving - before reaching Abbotsbury Gardens (admission included). Established in 1765 this magnificent 20 acre garden is filled with rare and exotic plants from across the world.

FULL DAY: Heading into the New Forest, we make our way to Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway (admission included), which houses the world-famous Rothschild Collection of azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias, rare trees and shrubs. Our special chauffeur-driven buggy rides showcase the gardens before you enjoy a steam train ride into Summer Lane Garden. This afternoon we visit the peaceful haven of Bucklers Hard (admission included) giving an insight in to how this shipbuilding village shaped the country’s famous maritime heritage.

The Riviera offers fabulous views across Poole Bay and is just a minute’s walk from the wooded Alum Chine. Facilities include lounges, a bar with far reaching sea views, a ballroom, outdoor swimming pool (summer only) with terrace, indoor heated swimming pool, spa bath and sauna and a games room. All bedrooms include private facilities, television, hairdryer, radio and tea and coffee making facilities. • Full breakfast and three course evening dinner plus tea or coffee
• Three nights entertainment
• Lift
*** (AA) (01202 763653)

■ Free local joining points ■ All coach travel ■ Reserved seats on tour coaches ■ Hotel accommodation and board as stated ■ Complete luggage handling ■ Sightseeing excursions as stated ■ The services of the Grand UK Tour Manager

Unashamed luxury in Black & Gold
Representing more than a quarter of a million pounds of trail blazing motoring technology, a Grand UK Gold coach really is the king of the road! As you sink back into the rich leather seats, you’ll immediately appreciate the extra legroom and the individually controlled air conditioning. At the controls sits your Gold driver, a reassuring sight with years of experience - and hundreds of thousands of miles - behind the wheel, as you cruise effortlessly through the countryside…

Getting there is only half the story
As you glide towards your destination from your privileged vantage point, you’ll be presented with our special Gold Welcome Pack. Containing a number of useful travel goodies, it’s all part of the privileged service with Grand UK Gold. En route, your specially chosen Tour Manager will brief you about the journey and make the whole experience enjoyable and informative - only our best Tour Managers get to wear the coveted Gold badge! You can also track your journey from the onboard Satellite Navigation system, or enjoy a drivers-eye view of the road ahead courtesy of the unique onboard camera.

You know you’ve arrived with Grand UK Gold
Arriving at your destination is a pleasure in itself. As you’d expect, we use only specially selected three and four star hotels, so you can look forward to comfortable accommodation, great food, and excellent service. And with Grand UK Gold you’ll also enjoy a Welcome Reception with a complimentary glass of wine and a special commemorative photograph of your Grand UK Gold holiday.

■ 3 & 4 star hotels with great food and service ■ Special welcome reception ■ Gold welcome pack ■ Commemorative photograph ■ Top tour managers & tour drivers ■ Luxury coach travel in a class of its own

Our Gold coaches feature:

■ Extra legroom and comfort ■ Luxury leather upholstered reclining seats ■ Panoramic windows for maximum views ■ Individually Controlled Air-Conditioning ■ Onboard sat-nav to track your journey ■ Driver-eye camera to view the road ahead ■ Onboard library selection ■ Level & easy access to the WC/washroom

For important information on our pick up network please click here.