Top 5 Expert-Led Tours for 2026
The island of Madeira is known for its horticultural highlights and on this eight-day tour, you'll experience them all. From the orchid nurseries at Palheiro Gardens to the vibrant colours of the Monte and the exceptional rose gardens at Quinta do Arco in São Jorge - whether you're a garden hobbyist or a budding horticulturist, this tour is for you. The highlight is seeing the fabulous Flower Festival with Gardeners' World presenter Adam Frost. Adam will also give a talk and answer your questions in a Q&A.
Can't make this date? Join Adam Frost as you cruise Dutch waterways and visit the Keukenhof Gardens in the spring.
Cruise through Bordeaux & the Médoc wine region with renowned chef Daniel Galmiche. Enjoy wine tasting experiences at local vineyards and the beautiful Château Royal de Cazeneuve wine estate which includes sampling some fresh oysters, a real regional delicacy. Daniel will join you on board for part of the cruise to host a cooking demonstration and answer your questions in a Q&A session. He will also accompany you on a visit to Libourne Famers' Market.
Join Michelin-starred chef Theo Randall and cruise the Venetian lagoon on board the luxurious ship SS La Venezia. You'll have exclusive access to some of the city's top sights including St Mark's Basilica, the church on Torcello and Doge's palace. You'll also have the opportunity to spend time in Burano, Murano, Mazzorbo, and Chioggia - with excursions included along the way. Theo will join you during the cruise, hosting a talk, Q&A, and cooking demonstration. He'll also accompany you on a visit to Rialto's famous market, and talk you through some of the wonderful Italian produce on offer.
Stay in the picturesque town of Padstow and spend six days taking in the horticultural and culinary delights of Cornwall. This tour is packed full of highlights - from a visit to the Eden Project and a private guided tour of Caerhays Castle and Garden, with afternoon tea, to a visit to the Philleigh Way Cookery School at the Cove cafe, for a seafood demo and dinner. You'll also meet Jack Stein, son of Rick, for a Field to Fork Experience at Padstow Kitchen Garden - which includes a four-course meal prepared by Ross Geach with wine, and a talk from Jack.
Discover the spectacular islands of the Outer Hebrides, renowned for their scenic beauty, pristine beaches and incredible wildlife. Enjoy scenic ferry crossings from Mallaig to Lochboisdale and Benbecula. Visit historical monuments including the Standing Stones of Callanish, the Norse Mill at Shawbost and the Black Houses at Gearrannan. A highlight of the trip is the company of travel journalist and broadcaster Monty Halls who will join you for one day of the tour as you explore the islands of Barra and Eriskay. He will also host a Q&A where you can ask him questions about his time as a volunteer wildlife ranger during while filming Monty Halls' Great Hebridean Escape.
