Dear Members and Friends of The Royal Oak Foundation,

    We are pleased to invite you to join us for an unforgettable journey to London and Britain's West Country in the late spring, when the countryside is in full bloom. Traveling through beautiful coastal, river and moorland scenery, we will visit some of England's most treasured gardens – many with rare plants that often grow in the setting of a historic house or abbey, and stately homes – many preserved by the families who live there.

     Leading us on this specially planned itinerary will be horticulturist, Alex Chisholm. A graduate of Oxford University, Alex is founder of Heritage Bulbs, which specializes in rare and historical bulb varieties. He has lectured and published widely on the subject of bulbs and led garden tours throughout Europe. Alex looks forward to showing us the gardens of his native England.

     During our two-night stay in London, accommodations will be at the well-situated Marriott Park Lane. Enjoy privileged entry to the Chelsea Flower Show on Members' Day, to see breathtaking blooms and new plant debuts.

     In Bath, there will be time to explore the 18th-century architecture, medieval abbey and ancient roman baths of this exquisitely preserved spa town, and to see the splendid Palladian mansion of Badminton. A charming lodge in Exeter is our base for visits to two British National Trust properties: Castle Drogo, built by Sir Edwin Lutyens, with extensive formal gardens; and Knightshayes Court, a Victorian house built in the Gothic Revival style.

     Spend three days in Cornwall to visit the estates and manor houses of the West Country, including medieval Cotehele and Alverton Manor, where we will stay for three nights. Discover the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Europe's largest restoration project, and the Eden Project. Travel by helicopter to Tresco, a subtropical paradise in the Scilly Isles.

     Private hospitality and brisk walks in incomparable gardens complement this exceptional itinerary. We are also most pleased to offer luxury Business Class flights at an attractive rate due to our special partnership with EOS Airlines. Please reserve soon to ensure your place.

Sincerely,

John Oddy
Executive Director