tea, tales and timeless elegance: A regency trip with Kate Bateman
14th - 22nd September, 2025
This year marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of Jane Austen, one of England’s most famous and beloved authors. She is perhaps most famous as the author of ‘Pride and Prejudice’, but her other books including ‘Sense and Sensibility’, ‘Persuasion’ and ‘Emma’ have also led to films in their honour. And in fact, books such as Emma were the inspiration for contemporary films such as ‘Clueless’.
In honour of this, Kate Bateman, an internationally best-selling Regency author, is leading a tour in conjunction with Diamond Skies Travel, around some of the most iconic Regency places in England. Kate is not only a best-selling author, she also appeared regularly as an antiques expert on BBC shows such as ‘Flog It’ and ‘Bargain Hunt’, as her background is also in auctioneering.
This tour is an opportunity to visit some of England’s well-known Regency highlights, such as Bath, along with lesser known jewels, such as Stamford in Lincolnshire. You will enjoy afternoon tea with an etiquette expert who commentated on the Royal weddings for various UK and US broadcasters, who has written many books on the subject and who has plenty of amusing stories and hints and tips to ensure you will be able to wow your friends upon your return home, with your expertise!
You will enjoy a punt on the River Cam in Cambridge, visits to the Queen’s house in Greenwich, a chance to dance at a Regency ball in Bath and much much more.
Arrival into London
Day 1 - 14th September, 2025
You will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to the hotel for check-in.
Enjoy a free afternoon to settle in, explore nearby landmarks, or simply relax after your journey.
Celebrate the start of your Regency adventure with an elegant dinner at a restaurant known for its refined British cuisine and luxurious setting.
(D)
Overnight: The Clermont Victoria, London
A day in regency london: immersive history and culture
Day 2 - 15th september, 2025
Begin the day with a two-hour walking tour through a neighbourhood rich with Regency history. Discover iconic locations and hear stories of the era’s notable figures and events, all brought to life by an expert in the era.
Spend some time leisurely exploring one of London’s most elegant department stores, famed for its connection to the Regency period. Browse their luxurious teas, preserves, and other quintessentially British goods, before having the opportunity to try them during a delightful afternoon tea. This tea experience will include a session on proper tea etiquette, led by a renowned British etiquette consultant, commentator, and author. With extensive expertise, she has provided training and advice to individuals and organisation worldwide, including the Huffington Post, Sky News, and CNN, and served as a live commentator for the Royal Wedding on the BBC.
After your tea you'll visit London’s oldest bookshop and a favourite among Regency-era readers and authors. After browsing its historic shelves, enjoy an exclusive meet-and-greet with a contemporary author specialising in Regency-era fiction. Engage in discussions about the era, the art of writing historical fiction, and the enduring legacy of Jane Austen and her contemporaries.
(B, T)
Overnight: The Clermont Victoria, London
A journey back in time: regency charm and british heritage
Day 3 - 16th september, 2025
Begin your day with a scenic journey along the iconic river Thames, taking in stunning views of London’s historic skyline. Then, immerse yourself in the world of Regency elegance with a hands-on workshop, where you’ll learn the art and history of an essential accessory and create your own unique version, a true symbol of the era’s charm.
For lunch, indulge in a quintessentially British treat: fish and chips. If the weather allows, enjoy a leisurely picnic in the outdoors, surrounded by gardens that evoke the charm of a bygone time.
Next, step into the world of a Georgian villa, featured in many period dramas, filled with art and treasures that reflect the grandeur of Regency society. As you explore its elegant rooms, imagine the glittering soirees and captivating conversations of the era.
Your evening is free to either further explore this area, or perhaps to head out to view one of London’s famous shows in the West End.
(B, L)
Overnight: The Clermont Victoria, London
discovering one of england’s hidden gems: Stamford
Day 4 - 17th september, 2025
Travel to Stamford and discover the charm of one of England’s most picturesque Georgian towns, famously featured in films like Pride & Prejudice and Middlemarch.
In the afternoon, after having lunch in the Orangery, experience the elegance of the Regency period at one of England’s grandest stately homes. Marvel at its Elizabethan architecture, explore its beautiful gardens, and delve into its literary and cinematic history.
Free evening to explore Stamford
(B, L)
Overnight: The William Cecil, Stamford (*or similar)
A day out in cambridge: Punting and colleges
Day 5 - 18th september, 2025
Today you’ll walk in the footsteps of Regency-era luminaries in the historic university city of Cambridge.
First you’ll glide along the serene River Cam on a guided punting tour, enjoying stunning views of the colleges and bridges. Hear stories of Cambridge’s famous Regency-era figures, including Lord Byron, William Pitt, and Samuel Taylor Coleridge.
After lunch, take a guided tour through Cambridge’s historic streets and colleges. Discover tales of Lord Byron’s pet bear at Trinity College, William Wilberforce’s abolitionist work, and other fascinating Regency connections.
(B, L)
Overnight: The William Cecil, Stamford (*or similar)
regency antiques
Day 6 - 19th september, 2025
This morning you’ll dive deeper into Regency history before travelling to the historic city of Bath. Enjoy an interactive session featuring genuine Regency-era artefacts, including vinaigrette, fans, and letters. This hands-on experience provides a unique connection to the period.
In the afternoon you’ll go via private transfer for a scenic journey to Bath, famed for its Roman baths and Regency architecture.
Your evening will be free to prepare for the next day’s fun.
(B, L)
Overnight: The MacDonald Spa Hotel, Bath
grand regency ball
Day 7 - 20th september, 2025
Today is all about preparation and pageantry!
Begin with a bespoke Regency costume fitting. Immerse yourself in the era’s elegance as you choose your ensemble for the evening’s ball.
In the afternoon, join a dance workshop to learn the steps of traditional Regency dances, or if your skills are already well honed, enjoy leisure time with a stroll through the only remaining eighteenth-century pleasure gardens in the country.
The evening culminates in the grand event: the Regency Ball at the Assembly Rooms, a dazzling night of music, dancing, and period-appropriate splendour.
(B, D)
Overnight: The MacDonald Spa Hotel, Bath
when a man is tired of london, he is tired of life…
Day 8 - 21st september, 2025
After a free morning to discover some of Bath's most iconic places, bid farewell to Bath and return to London via private transfer.
Upon arrival, enjoy a free day to explore the city at your own pace. Perhaps visit iconic landmarks, browse the shops, or indulge in a leisurely afternoon tea.
As it is the final evening, the group will come together for an apéritif at the hotel, before heading to a charming nearby restaurant for a memorable farewell dinner.
(B, D)
Overnight: The Chesterfield, Mayfair, London (*or similar)
cheerio London….
Departure day
Day 9 - 22nd september, 2025
Spend the morning making the most of your last moments in London, whether through last-minute shopping or a relaxing stroll.
In the afternoon, private transfers will take you to Heathrow or Gatwick for your flight home, marking the end of a truly memorable journey.
(B)
Cost per person, based on 2 sharing: £5600
For further details of what is included and how to sign up for this trip, click here