Top 5 Expert-Led Tours for 2026
Join an all-inclusive cruise in the company of top chef and TV presenter James Martin. Cruise Norway's coastline, from Tromsø to Oslo and cross the Arctic Circle, where you'll stand a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights. James will give a talk and Q&A about his career, and will host a cooking demonstration on board. Known for its dramatic fjords, remote islands and charming towns, this is a tour not to be missed.
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.
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.
Discover the best of Norfolk by heritage rail and paddle boat on a four-night tour, in the company of esteemed historian Lucy Worsley. Not only will you enjoy three heritage rail journeys, along the Bure Valley Railway, Poppy Line and the Bittern Line, you'll also board the Southern Comfort Mississippi Paddle Boat for a Bure river cruise. However, the highlight of your tour will be a tour of Sandringham - the Royal Family's famous country retreat - with Lucy accompanying you.
