Exclusive for Mail on Sunday readers: Tour royal country retreat Sandringham with acclaimed historian David Starkey and enjoy scenic trips by train and paddle steamer
Famous for its wide skies, glorious coastline, serene rivers and crimson-red poppy fields, Norfolk is the perfect place to stop and enjoy the view. It’s somewhere where life moves at a slower pace: even the Royal Family come here to unwind. Add in the nostalgic pleasure of travelling along heritage railways and you have all ingredients of an unforgettable trip.
There are no fewer than three different railway journeys and a cruise on a paddle steamer included on this wonderful short break, with ample time to explore delightful Norfolk destinations such as Wroxham, Horning and Cromer.
However, what turns this five-day tour from special to extraordinary is the chance to meet and hear from the brilliant historian Dr David Starkey. Fascinating, incisive and never afraid to speak his mind, Dr Starkey will give an exclusive talk to readers about ‘Sandringham and the Modern Monarchy’ before joining you on a visit to the Royal Family’s famous country retreat.
Royal refuge: Sandringham House, which is the Royal Family’s famous country retreat
Stylish: Enjoy a scenic coastal trip on the North Norfolk Railway, affectionately known as the Poppy Line
Dr Starkey says: ‘The British monarchy is ancient but the House of Windsor – which turned an autocratic German dynasty into a homely English family – is barely a century old. One building more than any other symbolises the change: Sandringham House. It’s the cosiest, most ordinary and least palatial of palaces. I look forward to taking you round this much loved, slightly battered place where the modern monarchy was born.’
MEET OUR EXPERT
You will be joined by Dr David Starkey
Dr David Starkey is one of Britain’s leading historians. He has written a host of acclaimed books on subjects ranging from the Magna Carta and Henry VIII to histories of the English monarchy through the centuries. Often outspoken, Dr Starkey is also an accomplished public speaker and broadcaster. His TV documentary series include The Six Wives Of Henry VIII and Monarchy With David Starkey. Readers who join Dr Starkey on this tour will receive a complimentary copy of Crown & Country (one per booking), his fascinating survey of the British monarchy.
Reasons to book
Talk and Q&A with Dr David Starkey
You will enjoy a private talk from the celebrated historian on the subject of ‘Sandringham and the Modern Monarchy’, with the chance to ask Dr Starkey questions afterwards. Readers will also receive a complimentary copy of Crown & Country, his fascinating history of the Kings and Queens of England, which he will be happy to sign in person following his talk.
Tour Sandringham with Dr Starkey
The Royal Family’s country retreat since the mid-19th Century, Sandringham is a fascinating estate to explore, where the walls could tell many a tale. Dr Starkey will offer his own insights before you stroll through the house and its delightful formal gardens and admire the collection of vintage vehicles and exotic curiosities.
Historic rail journeys
You’ll enjoy three fantastic railway journeys on this break. Admire Norfolk’s unspoilt countryside as you ride the Bure Valley Railway, travel between Norwich and Sheringham on the Bittern Line, and enjoy a scenic coastal trip on the North Norfolk Railway, affectionately known as the Poppy Line.
Cruise on the Broads
There are few better ways to enjoy the beautiful Norfolk Broads than on an afternoon cruise on the Southern Comfort Mississippi Paddle Boat. Relax as you follow the course of the river Bure, passing windmills and spotting water birds in the reed beds.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
Dr Starkey’s Crown & Country
- Four nights’ half-board accommodation in Holiday Inn Norwich North.
- Talk, Q&A and Sandringham tour with Dr David Starkey.
- Copy of Dr Starkey’s Crown & Country (one per booking).
- Coach transfers for our excursions.
- Services of an experienced tour manager.
- Steam-train journey on the Bure Valley Railway.
- Journey aboard the Bittern Line.
- Steam train journey on the Poppy Line.
- Cruise on the Broads aboard the Southern Comfort Mississippi Paddle Boat.
- Entrance to the Sandringham Estate.
HOW TO BOOK
The price: From £575*pp for five days. The dates: September 16-20, 2020.
Call 01858 582 784, quoting reference MAILSUN. To find out more, visit mailtravel.co.uk/norfolksteam.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: *From price based on two sharing. Subject to availability. Single room supplement: from £120. Please note: we cannot guarantee that all rail journeys will be steam-hauled. This trip is exclusive to Mail Travel and other selected media partners. Our travel partner, Arena Travel, is ABTA-bonded. For full terms and conditions, go to mailtravel.co.uk/norfolksteam.