Exclusive for Mail on Sunday readers: Visit the gardens of Highgrove House with Jennie Bond

The Cotswolds are home to some of Britain’s most beautiful gardens and classic honey-coloured stone houses, so it’s no wonder keen gardener Prince Charles chose the area for a home where he could create a haven in field.

Since buying Highgrove House in 1980, the Prince of Wales has redeveloped the garden, taking on a new project each year. With the help of his friend Lady Salisbury, he has surrounded the house with scented wisteria, honeysuckle, jasmine and thyme, and has also created an experimental wildflower meadow of endangered native plants.

On this special four-day tour, you’ll be joined by former BBC Royal correspondent Jennie Bond, who will share insights into the royal family and the history of this magnificent country mansion.

Magical: On The Mail on Sunday special four-day tour, you’ll explore the gardens of Highgrove House (above) in the Cotswolds

You will visit the majestic Windsor Castle (pictured), the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, now used by the Queen as her permanent residence.

MEET YOUR SPECIAL GUEST

Jennie Bond will accompany you

As a royal correspondent for 14 years, broadcaster and journalist Jennie Bond was at the center of headline-grabbing events. She discussed her time as a royal correspondent in a documentary for Channel 5, Jennie Bond’s Royals, and is the author of several books on the subject.

Jennie, who spent 14 years reporting on the monarchy, will give a talk and take part in a question and answer session.

You will also visit Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, now used by the Queen as her permanent residence.

The state apartments are the focal point of the castle and were modernized by Charles II, who was trying to outdo his cousin Louis XIV’s palace at Versailles. Admire the painted ceilings and the many works of art from the Royal Collection that line the walls as you explore the lavish interiors.

Other highlights of this memorable journey will include Henry VIII’s extravagant Tudor mansion, Hampton Court Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London and a walk around the exterior of Buckingham Palace.

REASONS TO BOOK

Tour the gardens of Highgrove House: Take in the fragrant meadow of wildflowers on this beautiful Cotswolds property, which contains some 32 varieties of endangered native plants, as well as plenty of hidden corners and quiet spaces to explore.

Listen to Jennie Bond: You’ll meet Jennie in the gardens of Highgrove House, and the royal expert will share fascinating stories from her many years covering the monarchy during one of its most turbulent periods, as well as answer your questions.

Enter Windsor Castle: Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Its ornate State Apartments are filled with exquisite antique furniture and priceless works of art.

Tour Hampton Court Palace: Perhaps best known for Henry VIII’s life of excess, Hampton Court Palace boasts a maze and lavish rooms. Beware of ghosts: ‘screaming’ queen Catherine Howard is rumored to haunt her halls.

Discover spooky stories: Another of William the Conqueror’s castles, built to protect him from an uprising, the Tower of London was for centuries the most notorious prison in England. Famous inmates included Guy Fawkes and Sir Walter Raleigh.

Stay comfortable: Set in 25 acres of stunning gardens, DoubleTree by Hilton St Anne’s Manor, Wokingham, is a historic manor house with a 14-metre indoor pool, sauna, steam room and an award-winning chef. The hotel also has tennis courts and a 24-hour fitness center.