HeritageXplore
 

HeritageXplore Luxe presents three immersive, travel-through-history journeys across England and Scotland in 2026. Spanning the East Midlands, North West England, East Anglia, central Scotland and the eastern Highlands, these programs open the doors to some of the United Kingdom’s most significant private castles, abbeys and country estates.

Led by Viscountess Violet Garnock (née Lady Violet Manners), eldest daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland, and conducted throughout by the stewards or owners of the properties themselves, guests are welcomed not as visitors but as personal guests of the families who have lived in these houses for generations.

Across the three journeys, guests will visit medieval halls, Palladian masterpieces, former monastic abbeys and ancestral ducal seats. Accommodations include nights spent within historic castles and private residences, alongside carefully selected nearby hotels where appropriate. Private tours, owner-hosted meals and candlelit dining in state rooms form the rhythm of each program.

Together, these three departures represent HeritageXplore Luxe’s most comprehensive exploration of Britain’s living heritage.

Private Castle Access

Private access to over a dozen castles, halls and abbeys across England and Scotland, experienced after hours and away from the public eye.

Overnight stays​

Overnight stays in private state bedrooms within historic castles and country houses, hosted by the families who live there.​

Visits to landmark estates including Hatfield House, Belvoir Castle, Grimsthorpe Castle, Haddon Hall and Combermere Abbey.

Black-tie dinners

Owner-hosted stays and black-tie dinners at Euston Hall, Elveden Hall, Sennowe Park, Wolterton Hall and Barnbougle Castle, with candlelit dining in state rooms.

Palladian Exploration

Exploration of Palladian icons such as Houghton Hall and Holkham Hall, with privileged access to art collections, sculpture parks and historic parklands Scottish highlights including Scone Palace, Glamis Castle and Blair Castle, featuring after-hours access to archives and private collections.

Access to Landscaped Gardens

Landscaped gardens, walled gardens and parklands spanning Norman, medieval, Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian eras.

Optional Additions

Optional country pursuits including clay pigeon shooting on private estates.

Optional cultural extensions including the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and the Edinburgh International Festival.

Enquire now with your XO Member Benefits team