Arundel Castle Tulip Festival and Southampton (April 2026)

In the morning, we will visit the Arundel Castle and Tulip Festival. The 2026 festival will feature an incredible 110,000 tulips spanning over 120 varieties. A more formal display featuring Italianate water features and symmetric planting in the Collector Earl’s Garden. A “wow-factor” display of over 30,000 tulips (including the iconic Oxford Red) cascading down the castle’s ancient earthworks in the Steep Banks. Informal, whimsical plantings where tulips are nestled among wildflowers and ancient upturned tree roots in the Labyrinth and Stumpery.

At noon, we will have lunch at a Chinese restaurant in Southampton and enjoy a selection of fine dim sum.

After lunch, we will visit a vibrant port city on England’s south coast, steeped in maritime history and modern charm, Southampton. It’s the largest city in Hampshire and a key gateway to the world thanks to its deep-water harbor and cruise terminals.

Historical Significance includes: –

• Titanic Departure Point: The RMS Titanic famously set sail from Southampton in 1912.
• Medieval Heritage: The city boasts some of the best-preserved medieval walls in England, including the iconic Bargate.
• Spitfire Legacy: The legendary WWII fighter plane, the Spitfire, was designed and first flown here.

The Tudor House and Garden stands as Southampton’s most important historic building, offering a vivid window into over 800 years of local history. Built in the late 15th century, this timber-framed mansion has transitioned from a wealthy merchant’s home to an industrial workshop and eventually a museum.

The Westgate is one of the most significant surviving medieval gateways in Southampton, serving as the historic entrance to the city’s original commercial West Quay. Built in the 14th century as part of the town’s defensive walls, it features distinctive architectural details like portcullis grooves and early gunports designed for artillery defense.

To end the day, a private vehicle will return you to your departure point, wrapping up a memorable and enriching experience.