TC was designed by David Chipperfield on the site where J.M.W. Turner once stayed.  It was opened as an art gallery in April 2011.  It is situated on Margate's seafront with sweeping views of the North Sea and celebrates the artistic legacy of Turner who drew inspiration from Margate's dramatic skies and coastal light.

DH is a literary museum exploring the life and works of Charles Dickens concentrating on the time he spent in Broadstairs and the works he wrote there. The museum occupies the ground floor and first floor and contains a number of thematic displays and recreated period rooms.

For further information about the visit and how to book please click here

PP was built as a hall house for Sir John Pulteney, a London merchant, in 1341.  It then became part of the crown estates, being used by Henry VIII as a hunting lodge.  He gave it to Anne of Cleves as part of her divorce settlement.

It was given by Edward VI to Sir William Sydney in 1552 and his descendants have lived there ever since.

CC was built by the Streatfeild family and served as their seat from the early 16th century until the 20th century when the family left the castle.  It was sold to Lord Astor in 1938.

Since 1977 the castle and its 35 acres of grounds have been held in trust for the nation by the Denys Eyre Bower Bequest.  Denys, a former bank clerk and antiques dealer, purchased the castle to display his collections of art: Japanese, Ancient Egyptian, Stuart, Jacobean and Buddhist. 

For more information click here

Fully booked

Please note, this visit has been cancelled due to low take-up. 

Step back in time on this magnificent 5 day tour into Suffolk's incredible millenium - old history in the pretty county's setting of rolling landscapes, thatched pink cottages and ancient market towns.  Visit the Tudor mansions and gatehouse of Melford Hall, Christchurch Mansion and Layer Marney and marvel at arts and treasure collections on display.  One of Suffolk's famous artists, Gainsborough's beautiful works of art comes to life with a visit to his Sudbury house before discovering the famous Anglo Saxon royal burial ground of Sutton Hoo.

Join us on a day out to Batemans, East Sussex and Scotney Castle in Kent.

Bateman's is a Jacobean house with the date 1634 marked around the door. Set in the beautiful landscape of the Sussex Weald, Rudyard Kipling and his wife Caroline bought it in 1902 after falling in love with it. They lived here until their deaths in 1936 and 1939. Discover the rooms of the house just as the Kipling family left them.  There is a pretty garden too with a rose garden designed by Kipling.

 Scotney is a ruined medieval castle and Victorian mansion house just 20 minutes away along country roads. It has rolling parkland and beautiful gardens.  Scotney Castle has a long rich history dating from the 12th century. The Hussey family lived here from 1778 and in the 1830s were responsible for transforming the estate into the perfect country house.

Join us for a visit to the home of the American Vogue super model and assistant of Man Ray - Lee Miller.

She became the first female war correspondent for British Vogue during WW!!.  She later married Roland Penrose, the surrealist painter.

The film, 'Lee' (2023) tells the story of her life through her son, Anthony.  He had found thousands of photos in the attic of Farley House after her death in 1977.

Lee had befriended many contemporary artists during her years she spent in Paris.  Amongst them was Picasso who visited her in Farley farm.  In her later years she became a dedicated cook.  Shewas chosen by Vogue as the 'founder of culinary surrealism.

Rachel Kolsky is a Blue Badge guide who has already taken us on several enjoyable walking tours.  On Wednesday 26 March 2025, Rachel will navigate us through the notoriously complex Barbican, an area once densely populated but decimated during WW11.  Following redevelopment in the 1960's the Barbican is now 'home to water gardens and sunken gardens, a surviving 14th century church, the Roman Wall, a cultural centre, ceramics celebrating the white heat of technology, an iconic minotaur and the 'village in the sky' linking Moorgate to the recently revamped Barbican Highwalk'.

This Autumn The Arts Society Epsom are  venturing abroad. Our chosen destination is the fascinating island of Sicily - from September  30th - October 7th 2024. For Arts Society members Sicily has so much of interest  including Roman remains such as the amphitheatre in Taormina, the wonderful mosaics at Piazza  Armerina, the Greek temple complex at Agrigento, Palermo with its mixture of Arab and Norman styles and the Medieval town of Erice, amongst others. As the island is surprisingly large we will be staying in 3 hotels ( 3 nights near Catania, 1 night in Agrigento and 3 nights in Palermo)
The cost is £1959 pp sharing a room  - single room supplement £199 pp.

Single rooms are both very popular and limited in number so it is advisable to book early should you require a single room.

Details of the itinerary are to be found by following the link. below. 
 

https://www.tailored-travel.co.uk/epsomartssociety_sicily_2024

Any questions / queries please contact Jenny Morgan  jgmorg@hotmail.co.uk..

Owned by the National Trust, this was the Country home of the Victorian statesman Benjamin Disraeli. Hughenden Manor offers a vivid insight into the charismatic personality and colourful private life of the most unlikely Victorian Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli, who lived here from 1848 to 1881.

Hughenden’s secret wartime past is revealed in our Second World War room in the cellars, with interactive exhibits and eye-witness accounts.

The formal garden has been recreated based on the original designs of Mary Anne Disraeli and there are beautiful woodland walks surrounding this fascinating country home.

Text is taken from the National Trust website.

Further detail to follow

Breamore House

The magnificent Elizabethan Manor House overlooks the Avon Valley on the edge of the New Forest, just north of Fordingbridge.

The house was completed in 1583 and looks today much as it would have done to its original owners.

Visitors can enjoy seeing a wide variety of paintings as well as tapestries, porcelain, 17th-century needlework and a rare James I carpet. There are also fine examples of period furniture in the house.

Set in its own beautiful parkland amid surrounding farms and fields, the grandeur and magnificence of the house has changed little over the past 400 years.

Further information to follow nearer the date

Rachel Kolskey, a London Blue Badge guide will take us through the busy streets in and around Brick Lane which still evoke memories of the Jewish community of yesteryear, telling us stories of its synagogues, schools, street markets and soup kitchens, interwoven with stories of the other immigrant groups, such as the Huguenots and the Bengalis, who have made this neighbourhood their home

This visit is now complete.  There are no more places available

Join us on a visit to historic Broughton Castle house and gardens where you can explore over 1000 years of history. A moated manor house was built about 1300 by Sir John de Broughton, It was crenelated in 1406 by the owner, Sir Thomas Wykeham, an ancestor of today’s owner, Martin Fiennes, 22nd Lord Saye and Sele. A more detailed history can be found at:           

https://www.broughtoncastle.com/history-broughton-castle/ 

Tea/coffee and biscuits will be served on arrival. We will then be split into two groups for a guided tour of the castle. After lunch you may like to explore the church and gardens. 

Lunch: you may wish to take a picnic, which can be eaten in the designated Picnic Area.  Alternatively, scones, cakes and drinks can be purchased in the café. There is an option to pre-order a Ploughman’s Lunch for £16.50 – full details on request (outings.tase@gmail.com) 

Our coach: we will leave Upper High Street car park at 8.30 a.m., and aim to return there about 6.30 p.m. 

Tickets: The cost is £40 per person. This includes coach travel, driver’s gratuity, entrance fee (including guided tour) and refreshments on arrival. Tickets can be obtained on line by emailing Outings.tase@gmail.com. Please give the following information when requesting tickets: 

• Number of tickets required 
• Full names of participants with contact telephone numbers 
• Name, relationship and telephone number for emergency contact (this must not be anyone travelling on the coach) 

Please state any allergies, dietary or mobility needs 

Requests will be acknowledged when payment has been confirmed. 

Payment:  Please pay by bank transfer to: 

Bank: HSBC UK Internet Banking Account     Name: The Arts Society Epsom  

Account Number: 71237640      Sort Code: 40-08-44 Reference: BROUGHTON (followed by) your SURNAME 

If you do not use internet banking, please take your payment to a Bank/Post Office and ask them to arrange a transfer, using the above information. 

In the event of your cancellation, refunds will only be made if places are later resold. 

Visit Leaders:  

Ann Voase mobile: 07944 236432 (on the day) 

Anthea Young mobile: 07821 687398 (on the day)

Members are invited to join us at Tate Britain for a private lecture in the Clore Gallery at 11.30, followed by a tour at your own pace, of this major new exhibition of the work of John Singer Sargent, devoted to Fashion in Art. 

For more information about arrangements and tickets with details of how to book for this exciting exhibition - ticket prices, payment and booking form, please click here

Members with a love of opera will be delighted to know that Jenny Morgan has once again kindly offered to coordinate the booking of tickets for this years chosen performance, which is Mozart's Don Giovanni on Friday 24th November.

In creating Don Giovanni, Mozart wrote some wonderful music for a rather unsavoury character. Don Giovanni is a cruel seducer, murderer, a man with a total disregard for anyone. It is an opera that is beginning to cause a few problems for directors because of its treatment of women and his long-suffering servant Leporello. Andrei Bondarenko plays the Don. He won the Cardiff Singer of the year competition a few years ago. 

Tickets are £78, £72, or £54 per person according to preferred location.

If you wish to attend this performance, please click here for a booking form that must be returned to Jenny by May 16th together with your payment and a stamped self-addressed envelope for issue of the tickets.

Join us on a visit to the historic Audley End House with Capability Brown gardens, where royalty once roamed and where you can explore 900 years of history.  Found as a monastery in the 12th century, Audley End was converted to a house in Jacobean times, remodelled by Robert Adam in the 18th Century, and has extensive servants quarters.  Polish SOE trained here during the Second World War and you will find a memorial to these resistance fighters in the extensive grounds.  

You may wish to purchase a light lunch in the cafe or bring a picnic to enjoy in the groiunds.

The cost of the tickets is £23 per person for those who hold current membership of English Heritage or National Trust Art Pass and £37 for those who are not members of those organisations.  For more information, click here.

Tickets will be on sale before our next lecture on Wednesday 6 September 

A guided walk round Richmond Park

Friday 8th September 2023

Join us for a guided tour of historic Richmond Park with David McDowall, the author of the Walkers’ Guide to Richmond Park. Starting at the Pembroke Lodge Car park the walk will be about 4 miles long covering the central area of the park. David will point out much of interest in the Park including its geology, ecology, and the history of the terrain, including its political history (its medieval and post medieval ownership) and also its socio-economic history - how its natural products have been used over the centuries.

There is a cafe´ at Pembroke lodge and also a small cafe´ approximately half way through the walk at the Penn Ponds car park.

There is no charge for this walk, but David will collect donations (your committee suggests £10) for the charity Helping Refugees in Jordan, a charity supported by his wife, Elizabeth Laird, the children’s author, who visited the refugee camps in Jordan when researching for her books “Welcome to Nowhere” and a “House without Walls” about children and their families who had to flee from Syria as a result of the civil war.

Details of the charity can be found at: https://mandalatrust.org/ project/helping-refugees-in-jordan.

Numbers are limited to 20 and our Visits secretary, Alistair McGeachy will be taking names of members who would like to come before the

lecture on 6th September. If more than 20 members are interested there is likely to be a second walk on 15th September.

Join us for a one hour guided tour of the Foundling Museum, which tells the story of the Foundling Hospital, that was established in 1739 by Thomas Coran as Britain's first home for children at risk of abandonment. View the many artefacts and archive materials from the hospital, including heart-rending tokens and notes left by mothers upon their babies admission. View the paintings by both past masters and current artists that adorn the walls of the building.

After lunch, join a two hour guided walk, led by Blue Badge guide Rachel Kolsky, that will take us through East Bloomsbury. "Foundlings, Feminism, Students and Squares" will reveal the many diverse and interesting characters that have lived in this corner of London.

Full details of the visit can be found here. Tickets are £29 per person and will  be on sale to members immediately prior to our meeting on Wednesday 21 June.

A 6 day, 5 nights tour to North East England, a region renowned for its wild and rugged scenery and proud heritage. Enjoy en-route stops both ways and from our base at Gosforth Park, Newcastle, enjoy days out to guided tours of Durham and its cathedral, Alnwick, and Bamborough Castle and visit National Trust properties at Cragside and Wallington.

Click here for full details of the tour and information on how to book.

Join us at Tate Britain for a private lecture, followed by a tour at your own pace, of this major new exhibition devoted to the radical Rossetti generation. Their approach to art, love and lifestyles are considered revolutionary and this will be explored thoroughly in an immersive show that uses spoken poetry, drawings, paintings, photography, design and more. 

This will be the first retrospective of Dante Gabriel Rossetti at Tate and the largest exhibition of his iconic pictures in two decades. It also takes a fresh look at the fascinating myths surrounding the unconventional relationships between Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Elizabeth Siddal, Fanny Cornforth and Jane Morris.

Full details of the visit can be accessed by clicking here. Members will need to make their own travel arrangement into London and tickets are £33 each, although reduced prices are available to members who are already members of Tate or the Art Fund.

Join us on a visit to historic Michelham Priory house and gardens where you can explore 800 years of history. Founded by Augustinians in 1229, rebuilt in Tudor times, and later home to evacuees in World War II. On arrival there will be an introductory talk while tea/coffee and biscuits will be served. You will hear the legend of how Thomas a Becket was involved in its founding. Following this we will divide into two groups. One group will have a 90 minute guided tour of the property, whilst the other will have the chance to explore the 7 acres of grounds which include the mediaeval moat, a great barn, a mediaeval gatehouse, a watermill and a mediaeval herb garden. There is a café where you can purchase a light lunch, or you may wish to enjoy a picnic in the grounds. There is also a gift shop.

Our coach will leave Upper High Street car park at 9.00 a.m., and aim to return there about 6.00 p.m.

Tickets cost £28 per person for those who hold current membership of Art Pass, or Historic Houses and £38 for those who are not members of those organisations. They will be on sale from 09.30 am prior to our lecture on Wednesday 5 April, and any remaining unsold will be available prior to our meeting on 3 May.

Please click here for further details and a booking form.

With our first visit date of 20th February oversubscribed, we have secured a second visit date for another 30 members to undertake guided tours of these two most interesting Victorian houses in London; Leighton House, the home and studio of Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830-1896) and Swanbourne House, the home of Edward Linley Swanbourne (1844-1910) the Chief Cartoonist at the satirical magazine Punch. Both houses are filled with sculpture, blue and white ceramics and glassware. Leighton House is famed for its spectacular Arab Hall.

Members will need to make their own return journey to Kensington High Street tube station, from which both houses are a short walk.

Tickets at £27 pp will be on sale to members on a first come, first served basis from 09.30am on the morning of our meeting on Wednesday 1 February. Please click here for further details and a booking form. Note that the size of the properties limits the visiting group to a maximum number of 30. Members already holding a ticket for the visit on 20th February should not seek to purchase another ticket for 20th March, nor will they be able t swap between dates.

Join us for guided tours of two of the most interesting Victorian houses in London; Leighton House, the home and studio of Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830-1896) and Swanbourne House, the home of Edward Linley Swanbourne (1844-1910) the Chief Cartoonist at the satirical magazine Punch. Both houses are filled with sculpture, blue and white ceramics and glassware. Leighton House is famed for its spectacular Arab Hall.

Members will need to make their own return journey to Kensington High Street tube station, from which both houses are a short walk.

Tickets at £27 pp will be on sale to members on a first come, first served basis from 09.30am on the morning of our meeting on Wednesday 4 January. Please click here for further details and a booking form. Note that the size of the properties limits the visiting group to a maximum number of 30.

Join us at Tate Modern for a private lecture followed by a tour at your own pace of the new once-in-a-lifetime exhibition of Cezanne's paintings, watercolours and drawings.

Cezanne once claimed "With an apple, I will astonish Paris", and leaving his native Aix-en-Provence for the French capital in his 20s, this is precisely what he did. Cezanne’s still lifes, landscapes and paintings of bathers were to give licence to generations of artists to break the rule book. The history of painting was never to be the same again.

Focusing on the many tensions and contradictions in Cezanne’s work, this exhibition seeks to understand the artist in his own context, as an ambitious young painter proudly from the Mediterranean South, yet eager to make it in metropolitan Paris. Featuring many works shown for the first time in the UK, the show will follow his struggle between seeking official recognition and joining the emerging impressionists before relentlessly pursuing his own unique language. We will witness an artist wrestling with what it means to be a modern painter while remaining deeply sceptical about the world he lived in, from political unrest to a continually accelerating way of life.

Full details of the visit can be accessed by clicking here. Members will need to make their own travel arrangement into London and tickets are £35 each, although reduced prices are available to members who are already members of Tate or the Art Fund.

Once again its time for opera enthusiasts to book for our annual visit to the glorious Sussex countryside and the opera house at Glyndebourne. Jenny Morgan is kindly coordinating the booking of tickets and the proposed performance is a new production of Puccini's much loved opera La Boheme on Wednesday 12 October at 4pm. 

This follows the tragic love affair of the seamstress Mimi and the poet Rudolfo and the lives of their friends in 19th century France. There is tragedy, humour and love in this ever popular opera.

Floris Visser directs an exciting young cast in Glyndebourne’s first new La bohème for over 20 years. Jordan de Souza conducts. Sung in Italian with English sub-titles.

Tickets are £78 per person for the foyer circle or £54 person for the upper circle.

If you wish to attend this performance, please click here for a booking form that must be returned to Jenny by May 9th together with your payment and a stamped self-addressed envelope for issue of the tickets. (Group booking starts on May 10th).

Join us on a visit to the beautiful Waddesdon Manor, a Grade 1 listed house built between 1874 and 1889 for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in a mostly Neo-Renaissance style, copying individual features of several French chateaux. 

On arrival we take the shuttle bus from the coach park to the house. There will be time to view the stunning gardens or seek refreshment before we enter the Manor with timed tickets. Inside the house you can admire the rich decoration and the Rothchild’s extensive collection of art and furniture, one of the most rare and valuable in the world. A new display shows the recently cleaned and restored “The Pink Boy” by Gainsborough, that can be viewed alongside three other Gainsborough works. 

In addition to the house, you can visit the wine cellars, the Coach House Gallery, see rare birds in the aviary and wander the landscaped gardens. This year there is a site-wide exhibition “Alice’s Wonderlands” which celebrates the life, legacy and collections of Alice de Rothschild. There is of course a gift shop, restaurant and café, or you might choose to take your own picnic.

Full details are available under Documents, or by clicking here.

Tickets are £18 pp for members who are also members of National Trust, ArtPass, or Historic Houses. Otherwise tickets are £40 pp. Tickets will be on sale first immediately prior to our meeting on Wednesday 1 June, and then again on Wednesday 6 July.

PLEASE NOTE: Regrettably, this visit has been cancelled.

Members who had already purchased a ticket have been advised and refunds are in process.

Join us on a visit celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee as we head to Windsor Castle and then on to The Savill Garden.

At Windsor, we have a timed entrance to the castle at 10.00 am for a self-guided tour that includes the State Apartments where the Queen hosts official visits, the Grand Reception room and Queen Mary’s Doll’s house. There is also St George’s Chapel, construction of which started back in 1475, that has hosted many Royal weddings and is home to the Order of the Garter. This year we can also see the Coronation dress and robe worn by the Queen and designed by Sir Norman Hartnell.

Continuing to The Savill Garden that was commissioned in 1932 by George V and designed by Sir Eric Savill, we will arrive in time for lunch. This is NOT included, but there is a cafe, a restaurant or you may wish to take your own food. We have free time to explore the extensive gardens, beautiful herbaceous borders and the rose garden opened by the Queen in 2010.

Full details of this Visit can be found under Documents or by clicking here. Tickets are £44 pp and will be on first sale to members from 09.30 am at our monthly meeting on Wednesday 4 May, and again on Wednesday 1 June.

Join us on a visit to the magnificent gardens of Pashley Manor and the historic house and gardens of Great Dixter.

Pashley Manor: after an introductory talk in front of the Manor House enjoy ample free time to explore the many different areas of the 11 acres of gardens. All the ingredients of an English country garden are present - herbaceous borders, ha-ha, kitchen garden and an historic walled garden.  

Great Dixter: visit the family home of Christopher Lloyd built in the 15th century, then restored and enlarged by Sir Edwin Lutyens revealing the medieval splendour of the Great Hall which is the largest surviving timber-framed hall in the country.

Tickets are £50 pp and will be on sale immediately prior to our monthly meetings of 6 April and 4 May.

 Click here for further details and a booking form.

Join us for a nostalgic journey through 200 years of consumer culture and social change as we visit the Museum of Brands in Notting Hill. Making your own travel arrangements, gather at the Museum by 11.15 am where will be welcomed with a private introductory talk about this fascinating collection. We are then free to explore the chronologically organised Time Tunnel that puts our favourite brands into their historical context, along with royal coronations, two world wars, the moon landing and even the digital age.

After lunch (not included) enjoy a private 2 hour Guided Walking Tour beginning at 2.15 pm outside the Museum. Led by Blue Badge Guide, Rachel Kolsky we will savour the delights of Portobello Road and Notting Hill, from synagogues to Fascist dictators, and architecturally renowned toilets to film and TV locations.

Tickets are £22 pp excluding transport and will be on sale from 09.30 am at our monthly meeting on Wednesday 2 March. Members will need to make their own way to The Museum of Brands at 111-117 Lancaster Road, London W11 1QT (nearest Tube Ladbroke Grove). The total number of places is limited to 25.

NB: This visit is now sold out.

Whitchurch is the oldest silk mill in the UK still in its original buildings and using 19th century machinery. A guided tour in small groups will take in the waterwheel and Victorian machinery, and describe the production process. 

Laverstoke Mill is home of the Bombay Sapphire distillery, where we will learn about the production process and see the glasshouses designed by Heatherwick Studios, before entering the Botanical Dry Room to discover our preferred flavours.

Ticket sales for this visit  are now closed.

Join us at Tate Britain for a private lecture by Dr James Hicks followed by a tour at your own pace of this new exhibition that, for the first time, will bring together William Hogarth’s greatest works alongside those of his peers across the continent as they capture the modernity of the middle of the eighteenth century. Access to the exhibition will be by flexible timed ticket valid for entry to commence shortly after completion of the lecture.

During this period, European society and culture changed dramatically. It was an age of opportunity, enlightenment and innovation, and Hogarth became famous for paintings and prints which captured this new modern experience with energy and wit. He and his peers across Europe created vivid images of the rich and poor, the immoral and self-deluding, and the selfish and the selfless which took art in novel directions.

Transport is not included and members will need to make their own way to Tate Britain at Millbank. We will gather at 11.15 am outside the Djanogly café (lower ground floor), then enter the lecture hall ready for Dr. James Hicks to begin his talk at 11.30 am.

The combined cost of the private lecture and entry to the exhibition is £29, but discounts are available for members who are also members of Tate or of the Art Fund - see event flyer.

Please Note: bookings for this visit are now closed. (03.11.21)

Prepare for tales of exploration, heroic seafarers, smuggling, shipwrecks, saints and the supernatural as we embark on an online excursion to Yorkshire for a tour of Whitby in the company of Blue Badge Guide Sarah Cowling.

An online room-by-room guided tour of one of the most beautiful 17th century monuments in Holland that has been the home of the Royal Cabinet of Paintings for nearly 200 years. The collection of 17th century Dutch paintings are considered one of the top four in the world. The fact that this top collection is found in the intimate atmosphere of a residence of the same era known as the Dutch Golden Age makes it very special. and also explains why it is often called the smallest of the great museums and the greatest of the small museums.

An online gallery talk and tour that will view the comprehensive retrospective exhibition of McCullin's work that was first mounted by Tate Britain in London in 2019 and more recently has been on display in Liverpool.

Sir Don McCullin is a legendary photojournalist particularly recognised for his war photography and images of urban strife. His work has specialised in examining the underside of society and his photographs have frequently depicted the harsher side of life.

Details of how to register for online access to the tour will be issued to members a week beforehand.

Join us at 2.30 pm for a virtual walking tour that gets up close and personal with the street art and graffiti of Shoreditch and Spitalfields - view the art on walls, the sides of buildings and sidewalks that together illuminate a dynamic East London art scene.

On this walk we will see work by Banksy, quite possibly the most famous living street artist in the world, as well as street art by Ben Eine whose piece “Twenty First Century City” was presented by Prime Minister David Cameron to Barrack Obama. We will also see work by Shepherd Fairey the most celebrated street artist working in the US today, known around the world for his Obey and Hope campaigns.  

We will discover how the huge growth and popularity of Street Art is reflected in the astonishing transformation of Spitalfields and Shoreditch from a once seedy and deprived area into one of the most vibrant, most fashionable, most happening neighbourhoods in London.

Join us for a guided walk through York and learn of the history, methods of manufacture and styles of medieval stained glass and view some of the stunning windows to be found in York, a medieval centre of excellence in the craft.

Medieval Stained Glass: The Colours of Heaven will be led by Sarah Cowling, who has been a Blue Badge Tourist Guide since 2011.

This virtual walk will commence at 2.30 pm on the day and details of how to register for this online event have been issued to members. 

The latest round of government restrictions on travel and the size of group gatherings due to the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has meant that the Society has regrettably cancelled plans for any visits in the first half of 2021.  

At the present time, few galleries, museums, and historic properties are open and it is very difficult to investigate and arrange potential visits.  It remains our hope that some visits will yet be possible in the last quarter of the year, but this is highly dependent on circumstances outside our immediate control.

Members will be advised as soon as a new programme can be prepared.

Posted: 7th January 2021

Following on from the story of 'The Old East End' visited in October, we take to the streets again with Blue Badge Guide Pepe Martinez for another vibrant virtual tour to now see the incredible transformation of the East End from one of the worst slums in Europe to the centre of one of the most important technology hubs in the world.

Beginning with the arrival of thousands of people from what is today Bangladesh, Pepe will continue the East End's rich history of providing shelter for those less fortunate and introduce us to several key figures who have helped shape the New East End.

This virtual tour will commence at 2.30pm and details of how to register for online access on the day was issued to members on 2nd December. 

A virtual walk through one of London's most fascinating and dynamic districts. Essentially a story of immigration as wave after wave of people came to London to seek refuge and to look for a better way of life.

Using powerful images, video and street view, award winning Blue Badge Guide, Pepe Martinez will take us on a journey from the arrival of the French Huguenots in the 1680's to the more than 10,000 Jewish Kindertransport children who arrived at Liverpool Street station in 1939.

Full details of how to register for and access this event will be circulated to members a week beforehand.

The disruption to the Society's activities caused by the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic means that regrettably there can be no further visits in 2020.

At this time, with many galleries, museums, and historic properties only just beginning to re-open to the public it is very difficult to investigate and arrange potential visits for 2021. However, it is hoped that some of the visits cancelled from summer 2020 can be rearranged for summer 2021.

Members will be advised as soon as a new programme can be prepared.

Posted: 26th June 2020

Regrettably it has been necessary to cancel this visit on account of Coronavirus

An opportunity for a second group of 30 members to undertake a tour of the Livery Hall led by the Beadle and his staff.

Tickest for this visit will be on first sale to members from 09.00 on the morning of our AGM and lecture on 1st July.

Regrettably it has been necessary to cancel this visit on account of Coronavirus

16th Century Syon House is the London home of the Duke of Northumberland and holds a wealth of art within its grand classical interiors.

At Kew, we can hear a wonderful collection of self-playing musical instruments.

Tickest for this visit will be on first sale to members from 09.30 on the morning of our lecture on 17th June.

Regrettably it has been necessary to cancel this visit on account of Coronavirus

Built for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the 1870's, this imposing manor houses a superb collection of 18th Century art treasures and is set in one of the finest Victorian gardens in Britain.

Tickest for this visit will be on first sale to members from 09.30 on the morning of our lecture on 6th May.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the Coronavirus pandemic and resulting Government restrictions and recommendations regarding non-essential travel and social distancing, this tour has been rescheduled for 2021.  Members who have booked to go on this tour will be advised directly about the new tour dates and a revised date for settlement of final payments with Success Tours. Dated: 11.06.20

A 5 day / 4 night tour based in Liverpool, a vibrant city founded on centuries of mercantile history and now through regeneration an exciting cultural hub with many museums and galleries. Visits will include the Walker Art Gallery, the city's cathedrals, the Lady Lever Art Gallery in Port Sunlight, and Chester. En route, stops will be made at Wightwick Manor (outbound) and Ragley Hall (return).

A full itinerary and booking form are available under 'Documents' and have been circulated to members.

Please note that bookings are to be made direct with Success Tours Ltd.

The disruption to the Society's activities caused by the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic means that regrettably there can be no further visits in 2020.

At this time, with many galleries, museums, and historic properties still closed to the public it is impossible to investigate and arrange potential visits for 2021, although it is hoped that some of the visits cancelled from summer 2020 can be rearranged for summer 2021.

Members will be advised as soon as a new programme can be prepared.

Posted: 17th June 2020 

Regrettably it has been necessary to cancel this visit on account of Coronavirus

A visit to enjoy two great gardens.  At 16th Century Pashley Manor the gardens have been substantially renovated and extended by the Sellick family since 1981.  Restored by Lutyens, Great Dixter was home to gardener and writer Christopher Lloyd.

Tickets for this visit will be on first sale to members from 09.30 at our lecture on 8th April.

Regrettably it has been necessary to cancel this visit on account of Coronavirus

Members who have already paid for this visit by cheque will not have their cheques banked, but destroyed. Members who paid by cash will receive a refund cheque.

An opportunity to trace the history and fascinating practices of English Law in an area of London hidden to most visitors.  The route will include Lincoln's Inn, Staple Inn and Carey Street in the morning, and after lunch, Inner and Middle Temple and the spectacular round church of the Knights Templar.

Tickets are £41 pp including lunch, the services of a Blue Badge guide with Vox system, and entry to Temple Church and will be on sale again to members from 09.30 on the morning of our lecture on 8th April.  Members may also invite non-members as guests.

PLEASE NOTE:  THIS VISIT HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Following the announcement by Bombay Sapphire Distillery that it is closing its facility to tour groups with effect from 14th March it has been necessary to cancel this visit at short notice.  Members who had booked to go on this visit are being contacted individually.

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Whitchurch is the oldest silk mill in the UK still in its original buildings and using 19th century machinery.  We will enjoy a 1 hour guided tour in small groups taking in the waterwheel and Victorian machinery and learning about the production process.  There will also be time to visit the shop that sells products made from the mill's silk and other items.

After lunch we travel to Laverstoke Mill for a hosted tour of the Bombay Sapphire distillery.  As well as learning about the production process we will see the glasshouses designed by Heatherwick Studios and enter the Botanical Dry Room to discover our preferred flavours.

Tickets for this visit have sold out.  Waiting ist enquiries should be made to Heather Steere or Elaine Edwards via info@theartssocietyepsom.org.uk

The Worshipful Company of Cutlers is one of the most ancient City of London livery companies, having received its first Royal charter in 1416.  This visit will provide a rare opportunity for 30 members to undertake a tour led by the Beadle and his staff, viewing some of the treasures of the Company, plus its collection of historical swords and cutlery.

Tickets at £20 pp excluding travel sold out quickly at our monthly lecture on 8th January.  However, a second visit for another 30 members has been arranged for Tuesday 22nd September 2020.  This will be separately advertised in June and tickets sold at our monthly lecture on Wednesday 1st July.

Hall Place in the London Borough of Bexley was once the country residence of Sir John Champneys, a successful merchant and former Lord Mayor of London. Explore the 500-year-old historic house and stroll in the spectacular gardens. Temporary displays at the time of our visit feature “Alcock and Brown – knights of the air”, and “Game Plan: Board Games rediscovered”.  We tour the venue in our own time and have a chance to buy lunch before we leave for nearby Red House. 

Red House, the iconic Arts and Crafts home of William and Janey Morris, was designed by Philip Webb and completed in 1860. It was described by Edward Burne-Jones as 'the beautifullest place on earth'. The rooms at Red House give a unique view of William and Janey's life and the establishment of what later became Morris & Co. Red House boasts original features and furniture by Morris and Philip Webb, stained glass and paintings by Burne-Jones and embroidery by Janey and Bessie Burden. Coupled with bold architecture and a garden designed to 'clothe the house', they add up to a fascinating and rewarding place to visit. We tour the house and garden on a free flow basis, with the option of buying a snack in the café before we leave.

This visit has sold out.  Waiting list enquiries should be made to Elaine Edwards or Heather Steere via info@theartssocietyepsom.org.uk

Learn about the long history of Windsor Great Park and hear about it's current operation through a guided coach tour of the Park, taking in the Coronation Groves, the Deer Park, the Royal stables, the Guards Polo Club, the Royal School, and the Estate Village.

Later, enjoy a guided tour of The Savill Garden, one of Britain’s greatest ornamental gardens comprising 35 acres of contemporary and classically designed gardens and exotic woodland.

A few tickets for this visit remain available.  Please contact Elaine Edwards or Heather Steere via info@theartssocietyepsom.org.uk

Stonor Park has been the Stonor family home for over 850 years and its attractions include a Gothic revival hall, 17th Century Library, and Italinate Pleasure Garden.  After coffee / tea on arrival we will have a tour of the house and chapel to discover art and treasures collected from across the globe and view historic maps and documents that reveal generations of service to the country.  There will be free time afterwards to view the gardens.

The nearby River & Rowing Museum houses four permanent galleries featuring rowing, rivers, works of John Piper (who was born in Epsom), and the history of Henley-on-Thames.  We can tour these to our own preferences.

Booking for this visit has now closed.

Compton Verney is an award-winning art gallery in a Grade I listed house set in 120 acres of 'Capability' Brown parkland.  This visit will afford the opportunity to explore the Georgian house and view the six diverse art collections from around the world within its modern exhibition wing.  These include the UK's largest collection of British Folk Art, as featured in the Winter 2018 edition of The Arts Society magazine.

We will have a conducted tour in groups of some of the exhibition highlights and the rest of the day will be free to enjoy the house and grounds.

This visit is sold out.

An opportunity to visit two of Kents finest heritage attractions.

Chiddingstone: Rebuilt in the 19th Century to resemble a medieval castle, time here will afford the opportunity to view the vast collection of Denys Eyre Bower.

Knole: this 600 year house is home to the Sackville family and holds major works of art, tapestries, and furniture.

Full details of the visit are available under Documents.

This visit is now fully booked.  Waiting list enquiries should be made to Heather Steere through info@theartssocietyepsom.org.uk

Explore the art and heritage of North Yorkshire on a tour that will take in some of the finest collections of art and artefacts in the country while enjoying the glorious scenery of North Yorkshire.

Tour such grand buildings as Harewood House, Boughton House and Markenfield Hall.  Also visit Ripon Cathedral, Fountains Abbey, Roche Abbey and the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, and enjoy a guided walking tour of York.

A full itinerary and booking form have been previously circulated to members and are also available under 'Documents' on this website.  Bookings should be made directly with Success Tours.

The magnificent Cathedral has stood at the centre of Chichester for over 900 years. With unique architecture from each century of its life, it is both ancient and modern, where original medieval features sit alongside world famous contemporary artworks, including a John Piper tapestry and Marc Chagall window.  There will be a guided tour (in groups) of the Cathedral.

After lunch, we regroup at the Pallant House Gallery, whose world-class collection tells the story of Modern British art from 1900 to the present day, held within the unique setting of a Grade I listed 18th century townhouse and a 21st century contemporary extension.  We begin our time here with a private talk, and then have free time to explore the gallery.

A 'lecture and gallery' visit with a self-guided tour of the exhibition preceded by a talk from one of the curators.

This is the first solo exhibition of Burne-Jones work at Tate since 1933.  He is regarded as one of the last Pre-Raphaelites and brought imaginary worlds to life in awe-inspiring paintings, stained glass windows and tapestries. With his friend William Morris he was a pioneer of the Arts and Craft movement.

Over 150 objects will be on display, including some of his best loved works, such as his huge paintings telling the dreamlike fairy-tale of Sleeping Beauty, wall-filling tapestries, and his remarkable drawings.

This visit has sold out and waiting list enquiries should be made to Heather Steere or via E-mail at info@theartssocietyepsom.org.uk

Once again Jenny Morgan has kindly offered to coordinate a booking for members wishing to attend this years season of Glyndebourne on Tour at Glyndebourne. 

The chosen performance is Cendrillon on Saturday 20th October.  This is a new production especially for the Tour, and is based on the familiar fairytale Cinderella.  It was written by Massenet and has “A blend of colourful characters, generous melodies and sumptuous orchestral texture which is both heady and strong”. Unusually for opera it has a happy ending!  It is directed by the well known actress and director Fiona Shaw.

Tickets are £61 per person, excluding transport amd refreshments.  Members should return the relevant booking form (circulated on 31st March, but also available under 'Documents' on this website) complete with payment and a stamped addressed envelope to Jenny by April 30th.

A guided tour of Dr Johnson's House, a charming 300 year old townhouse nestled within a maze of courts and alleys in the historic City of London.  A house where Samuel Johnson lived and worked in the middle of the 18th Century, compiling his great Dictionary of the English Language.

Afterwards, a walk entitled 'Dr Johnson's Fleet Street' and led by a City Guide will explore the alleys and courtyards off the western section of Fleet Street discovering several locations where Johnson lived and learning about his life and works and the people he knew.

Tickets for this visit will be on sale immediately prior to our July lecture.

Bateman’s in Sussex dates back to 1634 and was first owned by a Wealden ironmaster. It is most well-known, however, as the home of Rudyard Kipling and his family for 34 years at the start of the last century. The property now belongs to the National Trust.

Most of the day will be free to tour the house on an individual basis (the rooms are small but each has a steward to answer questions). There are also large gardens and a restored watermill. In addition, there will be a talk (in two groups) by “Rudyard Kipling”, who will give us an insight into his life.

This visit has sold out and waiting list enquiries should be made to Heather Steere or via E-mail at info@theartssocietyepsom.org.uk

An opportunity to visit this lavish house that has been home to the Lytton family since 1490, including Victorian novelist, playwrite, and politician Edward Bulwer Lytton and suffragette Lady Constance Lytton.

After a guided tour in groups, there will be the chance to visit the British Raj exhibition and then explore the 28 acres of gardens that include a Gertrude Jekyll herb garden and a forma rose garden.

This visit has sold out.  Waiting list enquiries should be made to Heather Steere or info@theartssocietyepsom.org.uk.

Ely Cathedral is acknowledged as one of the Wonders of the Medieval World. After tea/coffee on arrival, there will be guided tours (in groups) of the ground floor, giving an insight into the history and architecture of this remarkable building.

The Cathedral also houses a stained-glass museum, exhibiting items dating from the 13th century to the present day, and there will be an optional visit (at extra cost) for a maximum of 30 people. Please be aware that access to the museum is via a stone staircase with handrail (about 40 steps). For those not wishing to do this, a virtual guide on the ground floor is available.

After a break for lunch (not included but eating places will be suggested on arrival), we reconvene at Oliver Cromwell’s House, 2 minutes’ walk from the Cathedral, for a costumed guided tour in groups.

This visit is sold out.  Waiting list enquiries to Heather Steere or info@theartssocietyepsom.org.uk

Eltham provides a unique combination of two features that would each be highly significant in its own right.  Firstly there is one of the largest and best preserved medieval great halls of England.  Secondly there is a luxurious and idiosyncratic Art Deco house and garden created by Stephen and Virginia Courtauld.

There will be a guided tour of the palace in the morning of about 90 minutes and free time in the afternoon to explore the extensive gardens that retain archaelogical remains from at least te early 16th century.

This visit is sold out.  Waiting list enquiries to Heather Steere or info@theartssocietyepsom.org.uk

Our first visit by coach for 2018 is to Chawton in Hampshire and offers the opportunity to learn more about its most famous resident, Jane Austen.

Chawton House is the "Great House" referred to in Jane's letters and is now a library focused on early women's writing.  We will enjoy a talk and tour.

After lunch (not included), we will visit Jane Austin's House, which is the only residence where she wrote that is open to the public.  Tours there are self-guided.

This visit is sold out.  Waiting list enquiries to Heather Steere or info@theartssocietyepsom.org.uk

Continuing our popular “lecture and gallery” theme, we have made a booking at Tate Modern for a talk and then group admission to the above exhibition for a self-guided tour.

According to the Tate:

“During his brief and turbulent life Modigliani developed a unique and instantly recognisable pictorial style. Though meeting little success during their time, his emotionally intense portraits and seductive nudes are now among the best-loved paintings of the 20th century. Modigliani’s nudes are a highlight of the exhibition – with 12 nudes on display, this is the largest group ever reunited in the UK. These sensuous works proved controversial when they were first shown in 1917, leading police to censor his only ever solo exhibition on the grounds of indecency.”

Once again it is hoped to arrange an opera trip to Glyndebourne.

Rossini’s Barber of Seville has been a very popular opera for 200 years and has been described as one of the masterpieces of comedy within music. Figaro’s aria Largo al factotum is always memorable. Figaro is the resourceful barber who is willing to assist the young lovers overcome the schemes of the miserly Count.  Performances are always very popular for the Touring season.

At the moment it is not anticipated that a coach will be organised. However if there is sufficient interest in the trip then a coach could be arranged.

The opera will probably start at approx 7 pm and finish at about 10. The precise timing will be confirmed on receipt of the tickets,

The cost per ticket is £ 59 per person

Further information and application form available on the Member's desk on 5th April or contact Jenny Morgan (01737 353501 or jgmorg@hotmail.co.uk)

If you wish to book tickets for this production completed application forms must be returned to Jenny by 25th April.

Following successful tours to The Netherlands in 2015 and Puglia in 2016, and to provide a contrast to our tour to Iran in the spring of 2017, we are coming much closer to home for our autumn tour of 2017, which will be to Shrewsbury and The Potteries.

The tour is for four nights/five days from 25 September to 29 September 2017 and takes in The Barber Institute of Fine Arts; Shrewsbury Abbey and Castle; Powis Castle and Gardens; Ironbridge; the Potteries Museums and Art Gallery; the World of Wedgwood; a boat trip on the Dudley Canal; and Winterbourne House and Gardens. The cost is £599 per person (based on two people sharing a twin/double room). The tour is organised by Discovery Cultural Travel (Success Tours).

Full details can be found in the brochure (click here to download) and bookings should be made directly with Success Tours (click here to download the booking form).

Spencer House is London's most magnificent 18th C aristocratic palace, built between 1756-1766 for the first Earl Spencer, ancestor to Diana, Princess of Wales. The Spencer family left the house in 1926 and subsequently let the building to various tenants with the State Rooms being used as offices. Despite this, it was meticulously restored in the last century to its original splendour. 

The Wallace Collection is home to one of Europe's finest collections of works of art, including paintings, furniture, arms and armour. Time spent there will be self-guided, to allow visits to areas of personal special interest. 

The visit to Charleston will provide an insight into the lives, art and home of Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant. It was also the rural retreat for the Bloomsbury Group. There will be a guided tour of the house and time left to enjoy the garden.

After lunch at the Cricketer's Arms we visit the nearby Farley Farm Museum. Now an archive and museum featuring the lives and work of its former residents, the photographer Lee Miller and the Surrealist artist Roland Penrose. 

Sub-titled "Welcome to Oxford: an exquisite, esteemed, eclectic and often eccentric city", the tour is followed by a college visit and some free time to further explore according to your personal preferences. Perhaps the Ashmolean or the Pitt Rivers Museum, Christ Church Cathedral, the famous Blackwells bookshop, the new Weston Library, the covered market..... you will be spoilt for choice! 

Walmer Castle is one of a chain of coastal forts built by Henry VIII in the 1530s. In 1708 it became the official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, a position later occupied by the Duke of Wellington, Sir Winston Churchill and the late Queen Mother, among others. The castle has been adapted over the years to become a comfortable family home and is now full of interesting memorabilia. There are attractive gardens and excellent audio guides will be available.

Note: this visit has sold out.  Waiting List enquiries should be made to Val Douglas and Heather Steere

Chatham Dockyard, now a museum, is based on the site of the Royal Dockyards established by Elizabeth I in 1567. It has had various uses, first as a refitting dockyard and then in the 17th C as a building yard. During World War 1 twelve submarines were built there.

A tour of the site by coach has been arranged, with a tour guide on board. The remaining time will be free for visiting the many attractions, including the ropery.

Our Spring 2017 tour will be to Iran.

The escorted tour is for fourteen nights/fifteen days from 27th April to 17th May 2017. Iran is a beguiling country and home to unique historical and archaeological sites with ancient ruins, colourful mosques, stunning landscapes and the most welcoming people. Tourism is relatively limited and low key but with the recent political changes and relaxation of the Foreign Office advice this is sure to change very quickly. Our ABTA-registered travel agent, Prestige Holidays, has operated tours to Iran for over 15 years, taking small inquisitive groups to safely experience the wonders of this captivating country. 

The cost is £3,200 per person for two people sharing a twin/double room or £3,650 per person for single occupancy.

Full details can be found in the itinerary (click here to download) and bookings should be made directly with Prestige Holidays (click here to download the booking form).

VERY FEW PLACES LEFT (<5).

A guided tour takes us through the 400 year history of this Jacobean house built by Robert Cecil, chief advisor to Queen Elizabeth I. The house was decorated for entertaining the Royal Court with state rooms rich in fine furniture, paintings and tapestries. There are examples of superb Jacobean craftsmanship throughout, including a grand staircase and a rare stained glass window. The house is surrounded by gardens and woodland and has always been in the Cecil family, present owners being the 7th Marquess and Marchioness of Salisbury. 

A group booking has been made at Tate Britain for a one-hour talk at 11.30am followed by entry to the Exhibition, to enjoy at your leisure.

The Exhibition features Nash's lifetime work from his earliest drawings through to his iconic Second World War paintings and reveals his importance to British modern art in the most significant show of his work for a generation.

A ticket application form, which provides further information, can be found in the Documents section of the 'About Us' page or by clicking here.

Once again it is hoped to arrange an opera trip to Glyndebourne.  Puccini’s much loved tragic opera is being performed for the first time by Glyndebourne on Tour.  This opera depicts the story of the very young geisha girl Cio-Cio San who ‘marries’ the American naval officer Pinkerton but is ultimately abandoned by him.  The clash between the East and West underpins this opera as the tragedy unfolds.  Many of  operas best  known  melodies and arias feature including the Humming chorus and Un bel di, vedremo.

Performances are always very popular for the Touring season.

At the moment it is not anticipated that a coach will be organised.  However if there is sufficient interest in the trip then a coach could be arranged.

The performance starts at 7.00 pm and should end at approx 9.45 pm.

It is possible to order afternoon tea, or book a meal in either the dining room or carvery prior to the performance. Full details menus, wine lists and booking forms will be available on line at diningatglyndebourne.com from June 2016.

The cost per ticket is £ 59 per person

These seats are Stalls/Foyer Circle/Circle

Some boxes are also available in this price range.

If you wish to book tickets for this production please email the Society on info@epsomdfas.org.uk by May 7, 2016. 

As a follow up to the lecture at Epsom Playhouse on 5th October (see Lectures page), a group booking has been made at Tate Modern for a one-hour talk at 11.30am followed by entry to the exhibition, to enjoy at one's leisure.  This will be a once-in-a-generation opportunity for audiences outside the United States to view O'Keeffe's remarkable paintings as there are no works by her in any UK public collections.

Our 2016 tour will be to Puglia in Italy.

The tour is five nights/six days from 1st October to 6th October 2016 and takes in Puglia itself; the UNESCO World Heritage site of Alberobello; a guided tour of the Baroque architecture of the town of Lecce, "the Florence of the South"; the UNESCO World Heritage site of Matera; and a guided tour of Castel del Monte and the seaside town of Trani. Flights are between Bari and Gatwick.

The cost is £1,065 per person (based on two people sharing a twin room). A limited number of single rooms are available for a supplement. The tour is organised by ABTA-registered Travel Editions.

Full details can be found in the brochure (click here to download) and bookings should be made directly with Travel Editions (click here to download the booking form).

The coach will leave Upper High Street car park at 8.30am.

Because the Guildhall is unable to serve tea/coffee, we have arranged this at a nearby Pizza Express before our arrival. There will then be a 90-minute tour of the Guildhall Art Gallery, the Heritage gallery (displaying the diary of Robert Hooke and archives relating to the Great Fire and the 1851 Great Exhibition) and the Roman Amphitheatre.

There will be a break for lunch (not included, but there are many restaurants and coffee shops nearby).

We will then drive the short distance to the Charterhouse, which dates back to the mid-14th century. Our tour will take us through its varied history, up to its present day use as a home for the Brothers, a community of retired professionals.

The tour will end with tea before we leave at 4.30pm, arriving back in Epsom at approximately 6.15pm.

The cost of the visit is £36.00. This includes coach travel, coffee, tea, tours and admissions, and driver’s gratuity.

Tickets will be available from 9am prior to the AGM and lecture on 6th July, and will be limited to two (both EDFAS members) per member at the first sale. A copy of the ticket application form is available in the Documents section of the 'About Us' page. 

Please note: in the event of cancellation by members, refunds will only be made if places are resold. 

The coach will leave Upper High Street car park at 8.15a.m. for the journey to Margate. On arrival we will have coffee and biscuit at the Turner Contemporary Gallery, after which there will be a guided tour of the exhibitions: “Seeing Round Corners” and work by Yinka Shonibare M.B.E. whose “Nelson’s Ship in a Bottle” was displayed on the 4th plinth in Trafalgar Square. His work is known internationally.

At 12.30.p.m. the coach will leave for Ramsgate and take us to The Churchill Tavern for lunch.[ Fish and chips, ham, egg and chips, sausage and mash or vegetable lasagne and salad] chosen on the day.

The Tavern is in close proximity to Pugin’s House and Church where guided tours will take place from 2p.m. Both buildings reflect the Victorian-Gothic architecture Pugin is known for. The house was designed and built by him as his family home.

After visiting the house and church, The Churchill Tavern will serve tea and cake before the coach leaves at 4.30p.m. for the return journey to Epsom , arriving at 6.30p.m. approx.

The cost of the visit is £36. This includes the guided tours, coffee, lunch [chosen on the day ], tea and cake and driver’s gratuity.

Tickets will only be available before the lecture at Epsom Playhouse on June 22, or later if tickets remain unsold. A copy of the ticket application form is available in the Documents section of the 'About Us' page. 

Please note : in the event of cancellation by members, refunds will only be made if tickets are resold. 

The coach will leave Upper High Street car park at 8.30 a.m. for the morning visit to Doddington Place Gardens.  On arrival we will be served coffee/tea and biscuits.  There will then be a guided tour (approx. 1hr) of the gardens, recognised for their historical importance and containing a variety of features.  Following the tour there will be an included lunch.

After lunch, the coach will take us to Godinton House, considered one of the most important and fascinating houses in Kent, dating back to the 14th century.  There will be a guided tour of the house (in small groups) and time to enjoy the gardens and purchase tea and cake before returning to Epsom, arriving at approximately 6.15 p.m.

There is no disabled access to the first floor of Godinton House, which is reached by two staircases, one of which is steep.  The garden at Doddington has some uneven paths.  Walking shoes are recommended.

The coach will leave the Upper High Street car park at 8am, with a pick-up in Ashtead at the bus stop opposite Ottways Lane approximately five minutes later, for a journey of a little over two hours to Highgrove.  There will be a comfort stop on the way at a service station.

Highgrove is noted for its extensive gardens, managed according to Prince Charles’ environmental principles.  Full of fascinating features, they have been the subject of several books and television programmes.

Our arrival is scheduled for 11.30am.  There will be a security check before entering the grounds.  A passport, bus pass or driving licence with photo will be required.  ENTRY WILL NOT BE ALLOWED WITHOUT IDENTIFICATION.

At mid-day, a two-course lunch will be served in the Orchard Restaurant, with the menu options (main course and dessert) being chosen on the day.  The menu can be previewed on the Highgrove website if you wish (select ‘The Orchard Restaurant’ from the menu on the left-hand side of the Highgrove home page and then select ‘View menu’ under ‘Special discounted two-course lunch’).  After lunch, we will be taken on a guided tour of the gardens, which will take about 2 hours.  Some of the paths are uneven so walking shoes are recommended. 

There will be time afterwards for purchasing refreshments and visiting the shop before boarding the bus at 4.15pm to take us back to Epsom for approximately 6.30pm.

The cost of the visit is £50.  This includes coach travel, driver’s gratuity, tour, admission and the two-course lunch.

The coach will leave the Upper High Street car park at 8.30am with a pick up in Ashtead at the bus stop opposite Ottaways Lane approximately 5 minutes later.

Occupying a very rural location yet situated just 4 miles north-west of Reading, Mapledurham Estae offers visitors the opportunity to visit the Elizabethan Mansion House, and the last working watermill and the first hydro-powered turbine on the River Thames. On arrival at 10.00am we will have refreshments and there will then be a guided tour of the House and watermill.

At 12.30pm we will leave for lunch at The Pack Saddle, a large, independenltyy-owned country pub.

After lunch we will drive to Basildon Park, a National Trust property comprising a Georgian Manor House set in extensive parkland. We will have free time to explore the House, with its wealth of history and film connections (the most recent was Downton Abbey), and the gardens.

The coach will leave at 4.30pm and we expect to be back in Epsom, via Ashtead, at about 5.45pm.

The cost fo the visit is £35.50 fro NT members or £46.80 for non-NT members.

Please note: in the event of cancellation by members, refunds will only be made if places are resold.

A ticket booking form can be downloaded by clicking here.

NB: All tickets now sold. A waiting list is in operation.

The coach will leave Upper High Street car park at 8.30am with a pick-up in Ashtead at the bus stop opposite Ottways Lane approximately 5 minutes later.

On arrival at the Cathedral (approx. 10.00) we will have tea/coffee and biscuit in the Abbots Kitchen. There will then be a guided tour (in groups) of the Cathedral, with its mix of architectural styles reflecting the many stages of its life.

After lunch (not included), either in the Abbots Kitchen or in the city, the coach will take us the short distance to Verulamium Museum, built on the site of one of the largest Roman settlements in Britain. The curator will give us a talk and guided tour, and then there will be some free time to view the exhibits and possibly visit the nearby Hypocaust (about 10 minutes’ walk away).

The coach will leave at 4.15pm and we expect to be back to Epsom, via Ashtead, at about 5.45pm.

Apart from the Hypocaust, the amount of walking required on this visit is minimal.

The cost of the visit is £25. This includes coach travel, coffee, tours and admissions, and driver’s gratuity.

Tickets will be available prior to the lecture on 3rd February, and will be limited to two (both EDFAS members) per member at the first sale.

Please note: in the event of cancellation by members, refunds will only be made if places are resold. 

A ticket application form can be downloaded by clicking here.

15th – 20th September 2015 - Five nights/six days From £925.00 per person (Costs are based on two sharing a twin room) Please note: Single rooms are very limited and on request at the time of booking Discover both the inspiration and legacy of two of the greatest painters, Vermeer and Rembrandt in their beautiful home towns of Delft and Leiden, as well as exploring lovely Dutch towns and world class museums and galleries. Tour Itinerary Day 1 – Arrival & Amsterdam Arrive independently at Gatwick Airport for direct flight to Amsterdam. On arrival there will be time in Amsterdam to visit the Van Gogh Museum (entrance included) before the coach transfer to Delft. Afternoon arrival in Delft and check into the Hampshire Delft Centre hotel for a five night stay. Welcome Dinner this evening is included at the hotel. Day 2 - Full day exploring in Delft - birthplace and home of Vermeer Today there will be a guided walking tour and visits to the Vermeer Centre and the Prinsenhof Museum (entrances included). One of The Netherland’s most beautiful towns, set on several tree lined canals, Delft is famed for its distinctive blue and white ceramics, and offers sights such as the 13th century Oude Church, the 14th century Nieuwe Church and a charming town hall. The Vermeer Centre is dedicated to the life and work of Johannes Vermeer, taking you back to 17th century Delft to discover the stories behind his most famous paintings. The Prinsenhof Museum houses the municipal art collection of sixteenth and seventeenth century works. Housed in a former convent, the building was William of Orange’s main residence from 1572 to 1584, as well as being where he was assassinated. Day 3 - Full day tour to The Hague Your day in The Hague will include entrance to the Mauritshuis collection. The collection is outstanding, including Rembrandt, Vermeer, van Dyck and Rubens. The Hague is the home of the Dutch government and Parliament and is a pleasant, spacious seaside town. With its multitude of parks, squares and gardens interspersed with elegant boulevards lined with mansions and plenty of excellent museums; it is a stately place with an air of being well kept and well moneyed. Whilst in The Hague we shall also visit the Panorama Mesdag. The Panorama Mesdag, housed in a purpose built museum, is 14 metres high and 40 metres in diameter. It is one of the oldest surviving panoramas. The afternoon will be free to spend as you wish – you could visit the Peace Palace or Binnenhof, or wander the city and explore another of the many museums. Day 4 – Full day to Otterlo and Apeldoorn Today we will visit the wonderful Kroller-Muller Museum in Otterlo (entrance included), which boasts 278 works by Van Gogh (not all of them are on show) alongside works by Monet, Manet, Mondrian, Picasso and Cézanne as well as an impressive sculpture garden. Its location is no less impressive, in the midst of a beautiful national park. We will also include a visit to the magnificent 17th century royal palace of Het Loo located in Apeldoorn (entrance included), the summer residence of the Orange family which is often compared to Versailles. Highlights here include the formal gardens and ornate interiors such as William III’s bedroom and the marble-clad dining hall. An excellent audio guide brings the history and stories of the house to life. Day 5 – Full day to Leiden and Haarlem This morning we visit Leiden, home of Rembrandt and the town that inspired him. This old university town is criss-crossed by ancient canals, and is best explored by foot, or by water. Here a canal cruise is included. In the afternoon we will take an excursion over to Haarlem to look around the town and visit the Frans Hals Museum (entrance included). The museum shows much of Hals’ work as well as many paintings by other artists of the Dutch Golden Age. As works are displayed in a roughly chronological order, it is best to tour the museum in an anti-clockwise direction. Day 6 – Amsterdam & departure We will spend much of the day in Amsterdam before transferring to the airport for an evening flight back to London. In the morning we will spend time at the Rijksmuseum (entrance included), which houses one of the world’s finest collections, including several important works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. The afternoon is free for you to choose from the city’s many highlights, which include the Anne Frank House or Rembrandt’s House. The exact order of excursions is subject to change Hampshire Delft Centre Hotel, Delft The family-owned Delft Centre is located on the edge of Delft’s compact centre, just across the canal from the New Church, walking distance from all of the major attractions. There is a lovely waterfront terrace on which to relax with a drink, and the restaurant and lounge bar offer a variety of drink and dining options. Bedrooms are modern and well-appointed and offer both style and comfort with climate control, private bathroom with bath and/or shower, tea and coffee making facilities, TV and telephone. Please visit www.hoteldelftcentre.nl for more details. Flight times Flights are with Easyjet. Please note that these flight times are provisional and may be subject to change: London Gatwick - Amsterdam 08.00/10.20 Amsterdam – London Gatwick 20.15/20.25 Included: * Return flights from London Gatwick to Amsterdam * Five nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation at the Hampshire Delft Centre Hotel * 1 Dinner on Day 1 * Full touring itinerary as specified with entrances fees as detailed * Experienced tour manager throughout * Gratuities Not included in the price: * Holiday insurance (£30pp - if aged 70+ the premium increases to £60 pp) * Single rooms are very limited and on request – supplements will be confirmed at the time of booking * Meals other than those stated above and all drinks * Personal items such as meals (other than those mentioned) drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc * Optional visits * Porterage How to book: A deposit of £200 per person (plus insurance premium, if applicable) is required to secure your booking. To book by credit or debit card, call: 020 7251 0045 quoting Epsom DFAS Netherlands & Dutch Masters. (Please note that there is a surcharge of 2% on credit card booking. No fee on debit cards) Should you wish to pay by cheque, please complete the Travel Editions booking form and return to: Travel Editions Ltd, 69 – 85 Tabernacle Street, London, EC2A 4BD Cheques should be made payable to TRAVEL EDITIONS LTD We strongly recommend sending any booking forms and cheques via secure mail such as recorded or special delivery, to ensure safe receipt

On arrival we will have coffee in a cafe situated in close proximity to the Cathedral (Mrs. Jones’ Kitchen in Palace Street).  We will visit the Cathedral for a guided tour, in small groups, lasting about 1hour and a half. The Cathedral is the oldest church in England still in use and part of our country’s great history, notably the martyrdom of Archbishop Thomas Beckett.

After lunch (not included) we will meet our Green Badge Guide who will take us on a walking tour of the town lasting about an hour and a half or you may prefer free time to discover Canterbury for yourselves. There are many interesting places to visit.

Nuffield Place, once the home of one of the most remarkable men of the 20th century.

Nuffield Place reveals the surprisingly down-to-earth lives of Lord Nuffield, founder of the Morris Motor Company, and his wife. Their home and personal possessions are just as they left them, the decor and furnishings intact. From the comfortable sitting room with a small black and white TV, to Lord Nuffield's humble bedroom with a secret built-in workshop, this intimate home exudes the tastes and interests of its remarkable owner.

Both Lord and Lady Nuffield loved their garden often spending hours tending to the flowers and pottering around doing odd jobs. 

Grey's Court

A family home, delightful gardens and an idyllic setting. An intimate family home and peaceful estate set in the rolling hills of the Chilterns.

This picturesque 16th-century mansion and tranquil gardens were home to the Brunner family until recent years. The house exudes a welcoming atmosphere with a well-stocked kitchen and homely living rooms. The series of walled gardens is a colourful patchwork of interest set amid medieval ruins.

Other buildings from earlier eras include the Great Tower from the 12th century and a rare Tudor donkey wheel, in use until the early 20th century.

The whole estate covers just over 9 acres, with a 4 acre garden which was laid out by the architect of the house, there are lawns, herbaceous borders, a wildflower meadow, vegetable garden and even a rock garden.

The garden team are currently working hard to restore the garden to its former glory with changes happening on a weekly basis. 

On July 7th twe will visit Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

The attractions include: the new Mary Rose museum; the world’s oldest commissioned warship, HMS Victory, Lord Nelson’s flagship; HMS Warrior 1860; a boat tour of Portsmouth Harbour and the National Museum of the Royal Navy. There is a café, a tea room and a restaurant within the complex when you wish to have a break from your sight seeing.

An exclusive visit to Stratfield Saye House  has been arranged for Thursday, 11th June 2015 to mark the bi-centenary of the Battle of Waterloo.

Stratfield Saye was the country retirement home of the first Duke of Wellington, purchased by him in 1817 and lived in by the family since that day.

The house contains a fascinating collection of his paintings and furniture which give an insight into how he lived.

Our coach will leave Upper  High Street car park at 9am, with a pick up point at Ashtead at the bus stop opposite Ottways Lane, approximately 5 minutes later.

On arrival we will be dropped off at the gate and then walk up the drive to the House (about 5-8 minutes) for coffee.

Tours of the house will then begin with groups of 12 approx. and lasting about an hour. (Disabled access downstairs only)

There will be time to enjoy the gardens, see the Exhibition and have lunch, freshly prepared by the Wellington Farm Shop.

4pm pick up for return journey.

The cost of the visit is £38.50 to include admission, guided tour, coffee, lunch, cost of coach and driver’s gratuity.

Tickets will only be available on April 1st prior to the lecture, or later if available.

Please note: in the event of cancellation by a member, refunds will only be made if tickets are resold.

On Thursday May 14th our coach will leave Upper High Street Car Park at 9am to take us to Greenwich. On arrival we will be offered coffee/tea after which we will be guided around the historic buildings in two groups visiting the Painted Hall, the Naval Chapel, Queen’s House and the Park. After lunch (not included) we will visit The Cutty Sark which, since restoration, houses a state of the art museum The coach will leave for Epsom at 4pm. The cost of the visit is £33, which includes coffee, guided tour, admission to the Cutty Sark, coach and the driver’s gratuity. All enquiries to info@epsomdfas.org.uk

On Thursday 23rd April our coach will leave Upper High Street car park at 8.30a.m. with a pick up point at Ashtead at the bus stop opposite Ottway’s Lane approximately 5 minutes later, to take us to Arundel. The Castle is the longest inhabited country house in England, dating back to the C11th with many of its original features standing. After renovation in the C19th,it is now considered one of the greatest works of Victorian England. We will arrive and be dropped off at the Castle gates. For those who might find the climb to the Castle too difficult there will be a buggy for transportation. Within the castle there is a lift.

On arrival at approximately 10 a.m. we will have tea/coffee followed by a guided tour of the rooms in the castle in two groups. The rest of the day will be free to enjoy the gardens[Tulips should be in full bloom],retrace steps within the castle or visit the Cathedral in the town with its antique shops, museum and quaint cafes. 4p.m. coach pick up for our return to Epsom The cost of the visit is £36.This includes the guided tour, coffee, entrance fee, driver’s gratuity Tickets will only be available on February 4th prior to the lecture-or later if available. Please note: in the event of cancellation by members, refunds will only be made if places are resold.

Visit-Arundel Castle and town Thursday 23rd April Name[s]............................................................................................................ Phone number......................................................................... No.of tickets @£36..........................................maximm 2, members Total amount............................................Ashtead pick up yes no please circle

Please make cheques payable to, Epsom Decorative and Fine Arts Society. Thank You

The above concert consists of Stravinski's Requiem Canticles followed by Verdi's Requiem. These works will be performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of their Principle Conductor, Vladimir Jurowski. The soloists are Maija Kovaleska, soprano, Ildiko Komlosi, mezzo soprano, Dmytro Popov, tenor and Vyacheslav Pochapsky, bass, with the London Philharmonic Choir and Orleon Pamplones. Stravinski's piece was inspired by the death of the revered poet T.S. Eliot and is focused on ritual rather than expression and on calm detachment rather than overwhelming grief. Verdi's work was created to express his remorse at the death of Rossini and the literary giant Alessandro Mazzoni and is more hard-hitting and highly charged in its expression of grief. There will be a 20 minute interval between the two performances. Tickets are £27.00 which includes discounted seat price in the rear stalls and coach fare. Tickets for the Concert will be distributed on the coach. For those wishing to travel independently tickets are £16.80, please supply a S.A.E for return of tickets. The coach will leave Epsom Upper High St. Car Park at 5.15pm and leave the South Bank at 10.00pm arriving back at approx. 11.00pm. Tickets will be on sale prior to the November Lecture for E.D.F.A.S. members only and prior to the December Lecture for those on the Waiting List and non-members if tickets are still available.

Once again it is hoped to arrange another opera trip to Glyndebourne. This year’s choice is the tragic life of Violetta a beautiful courtesan who reluctantly falls in love with a young man from a good family. She gives up her chance of happiness for the honour of his family. It is based on the novel La Dame aux camelias by Dumas. This tragic opera contains some of the most lyrical and heartbreaking music that Verdi ever wrote. It is a new production for the 2014 Glyndebourne Festival. Performances are always very popular for the Touring season. At the moment it is not anticipated that a coach will be organised. However if there is sufficient interest in the trip then a coach will be arranged. The performance starts at 7 pm and lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes including one interval of 20 mins finishing at approx 9.50 pm It is possible to order afternoon tea, or book a meal in either the dining room or carvery prior to the performance. Full details menus, wine lists and booking forms will be available on line at diningatglyndebourne.com from June 2014 The cost per ticket is £ 57 per person These seats are Stalls/Foyer Circle Foyer circle sides Circle Some boxes are also available in this price range.

On Tuesday 12th August the coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 9.00 am for our visit to Blenheim Palace in Woodstock. There will be a pick up in Ashtead at the bus stop on the A24 opposite Ottways Lane 10 minutes later. The journey will take just under two hours. Blenheim Palace is home to the 11th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Surrounded by over 2,000 acres of “Capability” Brown landscaped parkland and the Great Lake, the Palace was created a World Heritage Site in 1987. On arrival, we will have coffee and a talk from our private guide on the theme ”A closer look at the Baroque”. This talk and tour explores in depth the many aspects of the Baroque style and its influence on the collection at Blenheim. We will then tour the state rooms with their priceless portraits, exquisite porcelain and tapestries. There are several places to eat lunch in the palace, both cafes and a restaurant with waiter service. In the afternoon there are plenty of other things to do, included an interactive “visitor experience” on the first floor of the palace and a showcase on Sir Winston Churchill. The Palace is surrounded by formal gardens including a walled rose garden. We will leave Blenheim at approximately 4.30 pm, arriving back in Epsom at around 6.30 pm. The cost of this visit is £33. This includes all entrance fees, coffee on arrival and a special guided tour, transport and driver’s gratuity. It does not include lunch or afternoon tea. All enquiries to info@epsomdfas.org.uk

EPSOM DFAS VISIT ON THURSDAY JULY 17TH 2014 On Thursday July 17th our coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street car park at 0800 with a pick-up at Ashtead approximately 5 minutes later at the Bus Stop opposite Ottaway Lane (to be confirmed) for a visit to Art in Action at Waterperry Gardens near Oxford. This is one of the longest running arts and crafts festivals in the UK and brings together hundreds of invited artists who exhibit in a wide variety of artistic disciplines in Painting, Sculpture, Drawing, Printmaking, Ceramics, Calligraphy, Glass, Metalwork& Jewellery, Textiles, Woodwork and others. Free classical music and dance will be performed every hour throughout the day and you can tour the beautiful Waterperry Gardens and also see the frescos inside Waterperry House. There will be regular practical classes run by teachers from some of UK’s finest art colleges. There will also be free talks during the day by a NADFAS lecturer on a first come first served basis. An excellent range of fresh and wholesome food will also be available or you can take a picnic. A catalogue/programme will be available about a month before the show price £ 5 (incl.p&p) from Art in Action, Tel.020 7381 3192 or can be seen on their web site shortly before July 17th www.artinaction.org.uk to help you plan your day. There will be a copy on the coach to give you information. We will leave for Epsom at 4.30pm arriving back about 6.15. The cost of the visit is £25 which includes, transport, entrance fee and driver’s gratuity. Tickets will be on sale prior to the Lecture on May 7th.

Dresden and Saxon Switzerland Five nights/six days, 22 – 27 June 2014 From approximately £899 per person (based on two sharing a twin room, single supplements will apply) Day by day itinerary Day 1 Taking am early morning flight from London Gatwick to Berlin with Easyjet, we will transfer on arrival to Dresden via the lovely city of Leipzig, where we will enjoy a guided walking tour. A great city of culture and learning (Goethe was a student at the university here) in the middle ages and the centre of the German Democratic Republic in the 20th century, Leipzig has gone through significant changes over the past century and is today an exciting and vibrant city. Saxony’s second city, most the sights are in the old town, including the Market Square and old City Hall, the Barthels Hof, the Leipzig Coffee Museum and, highlighting the city’s musical heritage, the Opera House and the Gewandhaus concert hall. From Leipzig we will continue to Dresden to check in to the hotel and have dinner. Day 2 Today we will spend a full day exploring Dresden. The capital city of Saxony, Dresden sits in the valley of the River Elbe and was for many years the home of the royal residence for the Electors and Kings of Saxony. Its entire splendid baroque and rococo city centre was destroyed in the controversial Allied bombing campaign and although some reconstruction work has rebuilt parts of the historic areas, the face of the city was changed forever. However, since Germany’s reunification in 1990, Dresden is once again at the forefront as a cultural, educational, political and economic centre. The day will include a walking tour with viewings of the main sights of the historical centre including the State Opera House, Hofkirche Cathedral and Frauenkirche. We will also visit the Residenzschloss, which is home to the flamboyant ‘Green Vault’ collections which you will explore with an audio guide. Day 3 Enjoy a full day tour starting in Meissen including a guided walking tour and a visit to the Porcelain Manufactory followed by admission and guided tour of Moritzburg Castle. The town of Meissen is best known for its porcelain thanks to the extensive local deposits of china clay and potter’s clay. It was the first European hard-paste porcelain produced, with the first factory opening in 1710. Today the porcelain produced is of a high quality and great artistic value, making it very desirable for collectors and connoisseurs. Moritzberg Castle, a moated Baroque palace, began life as a 16th century hunting lodge for Duke Moritz of Saxony for whom it was named. Successive generations of residents extended and remodelled becoming the castle with four round towers that it is today. The interior houses excellent examples of opulent Baroque as well as a collection of red deer antlers, some dating back 400 years. Day 4 The morning will be dedicated to a guided tour of Dresden’s Old Masters Picture Gallery, with the afternoon free to explore independently. The Old Masters Gallery is housed in the Semper Gallery, a wing of the Zwinger palace. The gallery displays about 750 paintings (40% of the collection) from the 15th to 18th century, including a major Italian Renaissance collection, Dutch and Flemish works and outstanding pieces by German, French and Spanish painters. Masterpieces include works by Raphael, Titian, Giorgione, Correggio, Vermeer, Tintoretto, Rubens, Rembrandt and Van Dyck. Day 5 This morning we will take a boat trip from Dresden to the Pillnitz quarter of the city along the Elbe River, with coffee and cake included during the voyage. On reaching Pillnitz we will take a guided walking tour of the lovely park that surrounds the Baroque Pillnitz Castle on the river front. The Castle itself consists of the Riverside Palace and the parallel Upper Palace and the New Palace, which links the two. The buildings frame a Baroque inner garden. This afternoon we will venture into the beautiful Saxon Switzerland National Park in the heart of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains (known as Saxon Switzerland). The landscape is a wild rocky canyon landscape and offers several different habitats and microclimate zones as well as being home to special forms of endangered mountain forest and gorge forest. Admission, lift and a guided tour are also included to Königstein Fortress. One of the largest hilltop fortifications in Europe Königstein Fortress sits 240 metres above the Elbe River on a table hill of the same name. Used as a prison for much of the 20th century, today it is a military history open-air museum. Day 6 We return to Berlin for the flight home via the famous Colditz Castle. The castle gained international notoriety as a prisoner-of-war camp during World War II, though previous it was also a workhouse and a mental institution. The current castle building was constructed in the early 16th century, though it has been somewhat remodelled since, particularly between 1577 and 1591 when it was reconstructed in the Renaissance style. From 1933 it was used as a political prisoner by the Nazis before housing allied prisoners, particularly those who had repeatedly escaped from other camps. From Colditz we will return to Berlin for the return flight back to London Gatwick. The exact order of the excursions is subject to change at the discretion of the tour leader. Hotel Am Terrassenufer, Dresden The four-star Hotel Am Terrassenufer is located on the edge of Dresden’s historic district in the city centre. The location is particularly good – all of the famous sights, as well as the commercial centre and government buildings, can be seen from the hotel itself, or can be reached on foot in ten minutes. Accommodation is in comfortably furnished rooms that are fully equipped with en-suite facilities, TV, mini-bar and telephone. The hotel is completely non-smoking. Flights Flights will be with Easyjet from London Gatwick to Berlin. Times to be confirmed. What’s included • Return flights with Easyjet from London Gatwick to Berlin • All coaching as required in Germany • Five nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation at a four-star hotel • One dinner on first night • Touring itinerary with local guides and entrance fees as stated above • Experienced tour manager throughout • Gratuities Not included in the price: • Holiday insurance (£30pp - if aged 69+ the premium increases to £60 pp) • Single room supplement (£xx per person) • Personal items such as meals (other than those mentioned) drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc • Porterage How to book: A deposit of £100 per person (plus insurance premium, if applicable) is required to secure your booking. Bookings will be taken on a first come first served basis, so please book as soon as possible to ensure your place. To book by credit or debit card, call: 020 7251 0045 quoting Epsom DFAS Yorkshire. (Please note that there is a surcharge of 2% on credit card booking. No fee on debit cards) Should you wish to pay by cheque, please complete the Travel Editions booking form and return to: Travel Editions Ltd, 69 – 85 Tabernacle Street, London, EC2A 4BD Cheques should be made payable to TRAVEL EDITIONS LTD We strongly recommend sending any booking forms and cheques via secure mail such as recorded or special delivery, to ensure safe receipt. For more any queries regarding the tour please contact Travel Editions. Exploring the very best cultural & historical sites 69-85 Tabernacle Street, London. EC2A 4BD Tel : 020 7251 0045 www.traveleditions.co.uk

We will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 08.15a.m for our coach visit to Exbury Gardens in the heart of The New Forest. There will be an Ashtead pick-up approx. 5 minutes later at the Bus Stop opposite Ottways Lane. We plan to arrive at Exbury Gardens not later than 10.30a.m. We will have coffee/tea etc on arrival along with a” Meet and Greet Welcome” by one of the Staff. At 11.00a.m we have arranged a 20minute trip around the Gardens in a Steam Driven Train. From 11.20a.m until 1.50p.m you have free time to have lunch and explore the Gardens. There is a fine restaurant on site for those who want lunch, not included in the price, and plenty of areas around the Gardens for picnic lunches. At 2.00p.m we depart Exbury for Breamore House to arrive at approx. 2.45pm for a guided tour of the House at 3.15p.m. The coach will leave Breamore House for Epsom at 4.15p.m arriving back at approx 6.15p.m. The cost is £37.00 which includes the Coach Fare, Coach Driver's gratuity, tickets for entrance to both properties, Steam Train Tour and Meet and Greet with coffee and tea etc. Exbury Gardens is owned by a branch of the De Rothschild Family and has over 2acres of landscaped gardens famous for their Rothschild rhododendrons. Breamore House has been the home of the Hulse Family for the past 250 years. It was purchased by Sir Edward Hulse “Physician in Ordinary” at the Court of Queen Anne, George 1 and George 11.It contains some unique Mexican ethnological paintings, Family Portraits, Tapestries, Paintings of the 17th and 18th century Dutch School, a very rare James 1 carpet, porcelain and many other artefacts, there is also a very interesting Museum and a Saxon Church in the grounds nearby.

We will first visit Apsley House. Hyde Park Corner, home to the Duke of Wellington after his victory over Napoleon at Waterloo. The interior of the house has changed very little since the days of the Iron Duke. It boasts one of the finest art collections in London, with paintings by Velazquez and Rubens as well as a wonderful collection of silver and porcelain. (It has not been possible to arrange coffee, so you may want to bring something with you.) The coach will then take us to Covent Garden where there are a variety of places to have coffee and lunch, before we meet at the back door to the Royal Opera House at 2.20 pm. We will be taken on a tour backstage, which will include an introduction to the history of the theatre, an insight into the redevelopment of the building and a look at aspects of current productions. The tour may include opportunities to see the dancers in class or the backstage technology in operation. It will not include a performance. We will leave London at approximately 4 pm. The cost of this visit is £23 for English Heritage Members and £30 for Non Members. This includes guided tours, both morning and afternoon, all entrance fees, transport and gratuity. Please complete the form below and bring to the Epsom Playhouse before the lecture on 5th February. Please note: no refunds will be made in the event of cancellation unless places are resold. Tickets will be on sale prior to the February lecture for EDFAS members only. If there are tickets available after the lecture non members may purchase, until the end of February.

This concert is being performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Vladimir Jurowski, the Principal Conductor. The soloist is the renowned Russian pianist Yulianna Avdeeva winner of the 16th Freyderyk Chopin Competition 2010. She has made successful debuts with the Finnish Radio Symphony Orch. & the Czech Philharmonic. The Concert consists of Brahms Piano Concerto No. 1 followed by Beethoven Symphony No. 6(Pastoral). There will be a 20 minute interval between performances . Tickets are £27.00 which includes discounted seat price in rear stalls and coach fare. The coach will leave Epsom Upper High St. Car Park at 5.15pm and leave the South Bank at 10.00pm. Tickets will be on sale prior to the November Lecture for E.D.F.A.S. members only and prior to the December lecture for non-members if tickets are still available.

Discovering Lisbon & the Palaces of Sintra Four nights/five days, 21st – 25th October 2013 From £799 per person (based on two sharing a twin room, single supplements will apply) Provisional itinerary Day one: Fly from London to Lisbon. On arrival you will transfer by coach from Lisbon airport to check into your hotel. Late afternoon you will have a city orientation of the city. Tonight you will have dinner at the hotel included. Day two: Full day guided city tour of Lisbon which will include entrance to the main sights – the 12th century Cathedral of Santa Maria Maior, the National Tile Museum, Igreja (Church) da Madre de Deus and the early 16th century Belém Tower, once part of a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon. Day three: Full day guided excursion to Queluz to visit the Palace and the beautiful hill top town of Sintra to visit the spectacular Pena Palace. Queluz Palace is one of Portugal’s finest examples of Rococo architecture, where you’ll find a grand but elegant Throne Room, lined with mirrors and adorned with twinkling chandeliers which once hosted balls and banquets. The Pena Palace, built in the 1840s and used as the summer retreat of Portuguese monarchs, is one of Europe’s most fantastic palaces. Day four: This morning you will visit Óbidos. The picturesque walled Óbidos has become known as ‘The Wedding City’ as it has traditionally been given as a gift by Portuguese kings to their brides. It is entirely enclosed by ancient walls and perched on a hill top– add this to the cobbled alleys and whitewashed houses and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a medieval age. This afternoon there will be free time to explore Lisbon independently. Dinner include this evening. Day five: Today, you will have a morning excursion to visit the Museum Calouste Gulbenkian – home to a wonderful collection of ancient, and some modern art featuring some of Western Europe’s greatest artists. The museum was founded according to the will of Epsom Decorative and Fine Arts Society Calouste Gulbenkian, to house his extensive art collection – once considered the greatest private collections in existence, and features Rubens, Rembrandt, Rodin, Renoir, Carpaccio, Van Dyck, Manet, Monet, Burne-Jones, Gainsborough and Frans Hals. Return transfer to the airport for your flight home. Hotel Fénix Lisboa The modern and stylish four-star Fénix Lisboa is located on the Marques de Pombal in the heart of Lisbon and offers picturesque views over the city. Rooms are spacious and well-appointed with air-conditioning, en suite bathroom, television and safe. There is free wi-fi internet throughout the hotel. The Espaço Jardim Restaurant serves both Portuguese and European dishes, and there is a furnished terrace in the garden where you can enjoy a drink in the evening. Flights Flights will be a direct service from Heathrow to Lisbon. Timings will be confirmed on your confirmation. Should convenient Gatwick flights become available with Easyjet, the flights will be changed to these. Included in the price: ? Return flights from Heathrow to Lisbon ? Return coach transfers from airport to hotel ? Four nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast basis in Lisbon ? Full coach touring itinerary and English-speaking local guides ? 2 evening meals ? Tour manager throughout ? Gratuities Not included in the price: ? Holiday insurance (£30pp - if aged 70+ the premium increases to £55 pp) ? Single room supplement (£160 per person) ? Meals other than those stated ? Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc ? Porterage IMPORTANT NOTES: The exact order of the excursions is subject to change. There will be a lot of walking involved in this tour. Many of the streets are cobbled or have uneven ground and, please think carefully whether you can cope if you have any mobility restrictions. How to book: A deposit of £200 per person (plus insurance premium, if applicable) is required to secure your booking. To book by credit or debit card, call: 020 7251 0045 quoting Epsom DFAS Lisbon (Please note that there is a surcharge of 2% on credit cards. No surcharge on debit cards) Should you wish to pay by cheque, please complete the Travel Editions booking form and return to: Travel Editions Ltd, 69 – 85 Tabernacle Street, London, EC2A 4BD Cheques should be made payable to TRAVEL EDITIONS LTD We strongly suggest using secure post such as registered or special delivery to ensure safe receipt of your form and cheque. In order to confirm flight seats deposits are required ASAP please. If you have any queries about the tour please feel free to contact Jenny Morgan of Epsom DFAS

Epsom DFAS visit to Ballet School Museum and Osterley House Thursday 17th October 2013 On Thursday 17th October the coach will leave Upper High Street Car Park in Epsom at 08.15am. There will not be a pick up in Ashtead We will drive to Richmond Park and have coffee and a Danish pastry (included) in Pembroke Lodge before the short drive through the Park to the White Lodge Museum and Ballet Resource Centre. Here we will be met and given a talk and a guided tour of the Museum. White Lodge Museum and Ballet Resource Centre is the first dedicated ballet museum in the UK. It is housed within White Lodge - a Grade I listed building, which is now the home of The Royal Ballet Lower School. Visitors to White Lodge Museum can learn about the daily life of students at The Royal Ballet School, the history and development of Classical ballet and the fascinating story of White Lodge itself. Displays feature material from the internationally significant Royal Ballet School Collections, including Margot Fonteyn’s ballet shoe, the death mask of Anna Pavlova, and the school reports of famous alumni. When we leave the White Lodge Museum we will drive to the National Trust Property of Osterley Park. It will be possible to have lunch in the restaurant (not included), or members may wish to bring their own picnic which can be eaten in the grounds (weather permitting). Surrounded by gardens, park and farmland, Osterley Park is one of the last surviving country estates in London. Once described by Horace Walpole as 'the palace of palaces', Osterley was created in the late 18th century by architect and designer Robert Adam for the Child family to entertain and impress their friends and clients. Today the house is presented as it would have looked in the 1780s Members will be able to hear a short introductory talk and then enjoy the house and gardens on a free flow basis. The cost of this visit is £19 for National Trust members and £27.50 for non N.T. members. This includes morning coffee; entrance fees, donation to the Ballet School, transport and driver’s gratuity. Tickets will go on sale on September 4th before the lecture in the Epsom Playhouse.

We will leave Epsom Upper High Street car park at 08.15a.m. for our visit to Bletchley Park. There will be an Ashtead pick up at approx 08.30a.m.at the bus stop opposite Ottways Lane. We hope to arrive at Bletchley Park at 11.00a.m. The times for the tours have yet to be formalised but will include an hour's tour of Bletchley Park with a guide followed by lunch and a guided tour of the Colossus & Tunny Gallery in the afternoon. There is also an optional afternoon tour of the Computer Museum. We will leave Bletchley Park at approx. 4.00p.m. The cost is £35.00 which includes the guided tours, a cold meats lunch, there will be provisions for vegetarians, tea/coffee plus the coach fare. For the optional tour of the Computer Museum an additional cost of £5.00 is required. As you probably know Bletchley Park was part of the G.C.H. Q. during the Second World War and was responsible for breaking many German and Japanese codes. Also famous for cracking the German Enigma Machine. They have recently been filming a series for I.T.V. called "The Bletchley Circle" starring Anna Calder-Marshall.

We will leave Epsom Upper High Street car park at 08.15a.m. for our visit to Broughton Castle near Banbury, Oxfordshire. There will be an Ashtead pick up approx. 5 minutes later at the bus stop opposite Ottways Lane. On arrival at Broughton Castle at approx 11.00p.m we will have coffee/tea with homemade biscuits in the Tea Room. At 11.30 p.m. we will be met by our two guides who will split us up into two groups for the tour this will take 1hr. 15mins- 1hr 30mins. you may use your camera inside the Castle. At 1.00p.m. we will have lunch for those who require it in the Tea Room. After lunch we will have free time to explore the Gardens and Church. The coach will leave Broughton at 3.30p.m. for Epsom arriving at approx. 5.30p.m. The cost is £26.00 without lunch. Lunch is £12.00 which is a set lunch of homemade soup & sandwiches followed by tea/coffee. For those who do not want the set lunch I recommend you bring a packed lunch as the nearest hostelry is over a mile away. There are picnic areas in the Garden. Broughton Castle is a fine example of Mediaeval and Tudor building styles. It has been almost completely occupied by the Fiennes family, the Lords Saye &Sele, since 1448. Some renovation was carried out later by Sir Gilbert Scott. In Simon Jenkins book "England's Thousand Best Houses" Broughton gets a five star rating.

Romsey Abbey and Broadlands. Epsom DFAS Visit on Thursday 11th July 2013. We will leave Epsom Upper High Street car park at 08.15 a.m. for our visit to Hampshire. There will be an Ashtead pick up approx 5 minutes later at the bus stop opposite Ottways Lane. We will start with tea /coffee and cakes in King John’s House, an early medieval building, which also houses the Romsey Heritage Centre which we can visit. There is a very pleasant garden if it is a nice day. Just across the street is Romsey Abbey which was originally the church of a great Benedictine nunnery. This features some of the finest examples of late Norman architecture, with some Saxon stonework. A guided tour is arranged. After lunch – not included in the cost – we visit Broadlands which originally had been part of the estates of the wealthy Romsey Abbey. It was the home of the 1st Viscount Palmerston in the 1700s, and in the family through to the 3rd Lord Palmerston in the late 1880s and, much later, of Lord Mountbatten of Burma who first opened the house to the public in 1979. Admission to the house is by guided tour and limited to a maximum of 12 in each group. For this reason we will only be taking 36 people on this trip. The cost is £34.00 which includes morning tea/coffee and cake, the two timed house tours, plus coach and driver’s gratuity. (Although the websites show a discount for National Trust / Art Fund members I have been clearly told this does not apply for group tours as the cost is already discounted in this case.) Tickets will be on sale on the 1st May - prior to the lecture.

INNER TEMPLE, MIDDLE TEMPLE & LAW COURTS. Epsom DFAS Visit on Thursday13th June 2013. An opportunity to have a guided tour of the Medieval Inns of Court, Temple Church – founded by the Knights Templar in the 12th century and lunch in Middle Temple Hall. On Thursday 13th June we will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 08.45. (No Ashtead pick up). We meet our guides at Temple Place and make a short walk to Middle Temple Hall for tea/coffee. At 11.00 we will start our tour, in two groups following different routes around the Middle and Inner Temple, two of England’s four ancient society of lawyers. Those having the optional set three course lunch will return to Middle Temple Hall at 12.15. This is the working environment of barristers and others in the legal world. At 13.45 we will start the tour of the Law Courts and precincts of Lincoln’s Inn, again in two groups following different routes. We will meet our coach in Lincoln’s Inn Fields at 16.00 returning to Epsom around 17.30. The Cost will be £ 25.00 for tea/coffee, the guided tours, donation to Temple Church, coach and drivers gratuity. Optional – set menu, three course lunch with waitress service, at a cost of £25.00. **Charente Melon with Black Forest Ham, Fig and Stem Ginger Syrup. ** Grilled Supreme of Corn Fed Chicken with a Cream of White Wine &Mushroom Sauce, Baby Carrots, Haricot Vert and Asparagus bundle, and Jersey Potatoes. ** Strawberry Eton Mess. Or a **Vegetarian choice of salad buffet or hot daily option. Tickets will be available on 3rd April prior to the lecture – and later if still available,

Epsom DFAS visit to Tudeley Church and Finchcocks Music Museum Tuesday 14th May 2013. On Tuesday 14th May our coach will leave Epsom, Upper High Street Car Park at 08.30am. This will be the only pick-up. Around 10.00 am we should arrive at All Saints Church, Tudeley, near Tonbridge, Kent. After coffee/tea and biscuits there will be a talk on the background as to how it came about that Marc Chagall, the famous Russian artist, came to design the stained glass windows in this small, picturesque English church. Time to view the windows at leisure, and you can get really close to them. We then travel the short distance to Finchcocks Musical Museum in Goudhurst, Kent. Lunch is not included but there is a selection of hot and cold meals, soup and sandwiches available to purchase in the restaurant at reasonable prices. Finchcocks is a fine Georgian Manor, set in a beautiful garden surrounded by parkland. It houses a collection of 100 historical keyboard instruments, many in working order and some of which you may be able to play. There is also an exhibition of music, prints and ephemera of the 18th and 19th century Pleasure Gardens. The main programme at Finchcocks will start at 2.00 pm with a guided tour of the museum. Some of the rooms on the first floor are small and we may be divided into two groups, with the other group having time to look around the garden and ground floor rooms. At 3.15p.m. there will be a demonstration and musical recital on the keyboard instruments. We depart about 4.45p.m. The cost of this visit is £32.00 which includes morning coffee; entrance fees, transport and driver’s gratuity.

Epsom DFAS visit to Salisbury Cathedral and The Close with Arundells WEDNESDAY 10th April 2013 On Wed. 10th April the coach will leave Upper High Street Car Park at 08.15am. There will be an Ashtead pick-up approx 5 minutes later, at the bus stop opposite Ottways Lane Around 10.30 am we should arrive in Salisbury and have a short walk to the Cathedral Refectory for coffee and cake (included) before our guided tour of the Cathedral and Chapter House which contains one of the best remaining four Magna Carta manuscripts. Lunch is not included but there are many cafes in the Close or nearby town area. At 2.00 pm: 2.30pm: 3.00pm and 3.30pm there are guided tours of Arundells – the former home of The Rt. Honourable Sir Edward Heath KG MBE. (Only open this year to honour groups already booked, and which has an uncertain future). Arundells was a 13th century Medieval canonry and holds Sir Edward’s collection of sailing and musical memorabilia as well as Oriental and European ceramics, paintings, cartoons and photographs. This will allow free time to explore and visit some of the buildings and museums in The Close which includes Mompesson House (National Trust – don’t forget your membership ticket). A Queen Anne house featured in the film Sense and Sensibility, and which contains many fine paintings and the Turnball collection of 18th century drinking glasses. There is also a walled garden. Light lunches and teas are also available. The Rifles Museum, House and Garden- holds the collection and archives relating to the infantry regiments of Berkshire and Wiltshire. (Entrance fee). Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum. Situated in the medieval King’s House (James 1 stayed here in 1610 and 1613 though the building dates back to the 13th C. (Admission charge). Or on your walk around the Close you may like to look out for Malmesbury House, with the Julian Calendar sundial on its exterior wall. By the doorway to Bishop Wordsworth’s School is a blue plaque which commemorates the writer William Golding ( 1st published novel - Lord of the Flies) who won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1983 and who was a teacher and staff member of the school from 1946 until 1961. The cost of this visit is £34 which includes morning coffee; entrance fees, transport and driver’s gratuity.

The Committee is offering members the opportunity of attending what should be an excellent concert at the Festival Hall with a good seat and including transport. There are 51 tickets available at £16.80 (discounted from £21.00). Coach transport will also be provided for an additional £8.80 making a total cost of £25.60 per ticket. The coach will leave the Upper High Street car park at 5.45pm, and will leave the Festival Hall for the return journey at about 10.00pm. Please book your ticket with Mike Ching at The Epsom Playhouse before the November and December lectures or by e mail info@epsomdfas.org.uk

Two very different Kensington houses. The first, owned by the famous Punch cartoonist, filled with furniture and possessions including bills, letters and diaries giving an insight to a late Victorian home. The second was built by Lord Leighton to live in and to reflect his status as president of the Royal Academy at a time of a booming Victorian art market. It has a spectacular Arab Hall, silk room and a vast collection of art works. Leighton House Museum & Linley Sambourne House. Epsom DFAS Visit on Thursday 18th October 2012 We will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 08.30 a.m. (There will not be an Ashtead pick up.) We will have coffee/tea and a cake at the cafe in Holland Park (included in cost) before dividing into two groups – one for Lord Leighton House in Holland Park Road and the other to 18 Stafford Terrace the home of Punch cartoonist Linley Sambourne. N.B. There are about half a dozen steep steps to the entrance of Stafford Terrace, a firm hand rail is in place, and also stairs to the five floors of the house, which can be taken at a gentle pace. Each house is a short walk of 5-10 minutes from Holland Park and each group will be led by a Committee member. Our guided visits start at 11.00 a.m. and ends around 12.30 p.m. when we will have free time for lunch (not included) either in Holland Park again or, at a similar distance, Kensington High Street, where there are a number of cafes and restaurants. 2.00 p.m. will be the start of the afternoon guided tour at the opposite house from the morning. 4p.m. coach pickup for return journey arriving at Epsom Upper High Street around 5.30 p.m. The cost is £32.00 which includes morning tea/coffee and cake, the two guided house tours, coach and driver’s gratuity. Although the websites show a discount for National Trust / Art Fund members I have been clearly told this does not apply for guided group tours as the cost is already discounted in this case. Linley Sambourne House is only open for guided tours. Tickets will only be available on the 5th September prior to the lecture– or later if still available.

Olwen Rowlands and her colleague will conduct our guided tours of these Inns of Court, steeped in history and housing the barristers working environment; Temple Church - founded by the Knights Templar in the 12th century and Lincoln’s Inn Fields and precincts. Optional waitress service set lunch in Middle Temple Hall can be pre- booked.

Epsom DFAS visit on Tuesday August 14th 2012 to Rye and Winchelsea On Tuesday August 14th the coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 8.15 for our visit to Rye and Winchelsea. There will be a pick up in Ashtead, at the bus stop on the A24 opposite Ottways Lane, 5 minutes later. The journey will take about 2 hours and there are facilities for a comfort break on arrival. We are not making a stop for coffee so members may wish to bring a drink. On arrival in Rye we will be met by Dick and Dorothy Bolton, who will be our expert guides for the day. We will have a walking tour of Rye, in two groups, and this will include St Mary’s Church and a visit to the Town Model. Rye is a picturesque town described as the “Medieval Gem of the Cinque Ports”. After lunch, (not included but available in many cafes in the town), we will leave Rye for the short journey to Winchelsea. Dorothy Bolton will join us on the coach to introduce us to Winchelsea. On arrival we will once again split into two groups for a walking tour of the town and visits to the Museum, and the church, which includes stained glass by Dr Douglas Strachan. Before departing for home we will have tea/coffee and cake in The New Inn. The cost of this visit is £35. This includes guided tours in both the morning and afternoon, all entrance fees, transport, the driver’s gratuity and refreshments in Winchelsea.

Epsom DFAS visit to Cambridge & the Fitzwilliam Museum Wednesday 11th July 2012 On Wednesday 11th July the coach will leave Upper High Street Car Park at 08:00 for our visit to Cambridge. There will be a pick-up point at Ashtead at the bus stop on the A24 opposite Ottways Lane about 5 minutes later. We are due to arrive in Cambridge at 10:30 with a brief comfort stop half way. As time will be tight there will not be time to have coffee so I suggest you bring a drink. At Cambridge there will be an immediate toilet opportunity before we will be divided into 3 groups for a 2 hour tour of the lovely city including King’s College and Trinity College. There will then be a break for lunch (not included) with a choice of many eating places including The Fitzwilliam. At 14:00 we will meet at the nearby Fitzwilliam Museum for a one hour guided tour (again in 3 groups). The Fitzwilliam houses world-class collections of art and antiquities spanning cultures and civilizations. It has painting masterpieces from the 14th century to the present day including a French Impressionist gallery. There will also be a free special exhibition of Tomb Treasures of Han China featuring over 350 treasures in jade, gold, silver, bronze and ceramics if you wish to see it. We will leave Cambridge at 16:30, and arrive back at Epsom between 18:30 and 19:00 with a short comfort stop en route. The cost of this visit is £35 which includes: guided tours of Cambridge and The Fitzwilliam Museum, entrance fees to King’s College and Trinity College, transport and driver’s gratuity.

WADDESDON – (National Trust). Epsom DFAS visit on Wednesday13th June 2012. On Wednesday 13th June 2012 the coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 08.30 for our journey to Waddesdon near Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. There will be a pick-up in Ashtead, at the bus stop on the A24 opposite Ottways Lane approximately 5 minutes later. There will be a comfort stop on the way. We will have coffee/tea and biscuits on arriving at Waddesdon before our guided tour of the ground floor of the house at 11.15. This French Renaissance style Chateau houses the Rothschild Collection with 18th century art treasures and magnificent interiors. Not Booked, but those who wish afterwards, could visit the Bachelors Wing- free to NT members – or otherwise £3.30. Free flow lunch (not included). Possible time to see the gardens and aviary. At 2.30pm there is a booked one hour tour of the private, restored, Victorian Water Garden. At 4.45pm depart for return journey from the Plant Centre, situated in the old walled nursery. (In addition to the plants there are accessories for the house and garden). Arriving Epsom around 6.30pm The cost of the visit is £25.00 for National Trust Members and £37.00 for non N.T. members. This includes the guided tours, as indicated above, morning tea/coffee, entrance fees, transport and driver’s gratuities. National Trust members please bring membership cards. Tickets will be sold ONLY on the day of 4th April, prior to the lecture – or later if still available.

Marble Hill House and Chiswick House 16th May 2012. Both English Heritage. On Wednesday 16th May the coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 08.45 for our journey to Marble Hill House. This will be our only pick-up point. We will have coffee/tea and biscuits on arriving at Marble Hill House before our guided tour of the house at 10.30am The house, situated beside the Thames, contains an important collection of paintings and furniture including some pieces commissioned for the villa when it was built. A recent installation recreates the Chinese wallpaper originally hung in the dining room in 1751. We will leave by coach around 12.15 for the short journey to Chiswick House where we will have lunch (not included). There is modern café or a picnic area is available. Free time to wander in the surrounding park and gardens before our guided tour of the house at 2.30p.m. Chiswick House features many impressive paintings and lavish 18th century interiors with a fine library and collection of art. We finish our visit with a tour of the gardens, which have recently undergone a £12 million redevelopment, and include Italianate gardens with cascade, and statues, urns and obelisk as well as a temple and classic bridge. The cost of the visit is £19.00 for English Heritage Members and £27.00 for non EH members. This includes the three guided tours, as indicated above, morning tea/coffee, entrance fees, transport and driver’s gratuities.

Epsom DFAS visit to the Queen’s Gallery and Royal Mews Tuesday 10th April 2012 On Tuesday 10th April the coach will leave Upper High Street Car Park at 09.15am for our visit to London. This will be the only pick-up point. The coach will drop us off close to The Queen’s Gallery – just down from Buckingham Palace. We have to pass through a security check before entering and you have been requested not to bring any sharp penknives or the like. At 11.00am we will have coffee or tea with an exclusive introductory talk before seeing the photographs at leisure using a complementary audio guide if you wish. The Heart of the Great Alone features dramatic images of Scott’s fateful 1910-12 Antarctic journey and Shackleton’s Polar expedition of 1914-17. Lunch is not included but there are many cafes in the area. Map on reverse of ticket. At 2.30pm we visit the Royal Mews, home to the Royal Collection of historic coaches and carriages. We hope the horses will be on view, sometimes they are on royal duties or training, those stabled at the mews are Windsor Grays and Cleveland Bays, breeds known for their steady temperament and stamina. The cost of this visit is £30 which includes morning coffee; entrance fees, introductory talk, audio guide, transport and driver’s gratuity.

On Wednesday October 12th the coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 8.30 for our visit to Oxford. There will be a pick up in Ashtead, at the bus stop on the A24 opposite Ottways Lane, 5 minutes later. We will stop for a comfort break and coffee (not included), on the way. On arrival in Oxford we will divide into 3 groups to take part in a walking tour entitled “Oxford Past and Present”, led by a member of Oxford Official Guided Walking Tours. In addition, on the walk we will visit Christ Church, Oxford University’s largest college with a fascinating history. Christopher Wren’s Tom Tower is the college’s most famous feature. After lunch, (not included but available in many cafes in the area), we will visit the Ashmolean Museum. The Ashmolean is Britain’s first public museum, founded in 1683, and has recently undergone a major refurbishment. The many exhibits include the worlds finest group of Raphael drawings and the foremost collection of modern Chinese painting in the Western world. Once again we will split into 3 groups for a guided tour of the Museum and then be at leisure to enjoy the exhibits. The cost of this visit is £27. This includes a guided tour in both the morning and afternoon, all entrance fees, transport and the drivOn Wednesday October 12th the coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 8.30 for our visit to Oxford. There will be a pick up in Ashtead, at the bus stop on the A24 opposite Ottways Lane, 5 minutes later. We will stop for a comfort break and coffee (not included), on the way. On arrival in Oxford we will divide into 3 groups to take part in a walking tour entitled “Oxford Past and Present”, led by a member of Oxford Official Guided Walking Tours. In addition, on the walk we will visit Christ Church, Oxford University’s largest college with a fascinating history. Christopher Wren’s Tom Tower is the college’s most famous feature. After lunch, (not included but available in many cafes in the area), we will visit the Ashmolean Museum. The Ashmolean is Britain’s first public museum, founded in 1683, and has recently undergone a major refurbishment. The many exhibits include the worlds finest group of Raphael drawings and the foremost collection of modern Chinese painting in the Western world. Once again we will split into 3 groups for a guided tour of the Museum and then be at leisure to enjoy the exhibits. The cost of this visit is £27. This includes a guided tour in both the morning and afternoon, all entrance fees, transport and the drivOn Wednesday October 12th the coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 8.30 for our visit to Oxford. There will be a pick up in Ashtead, at the bus stop on the A24 opposite Ottways Lane, 5 minutes later. We will stop for a comfort break and coffee (not included), on the way. On arrival in Oxford we will divide into 3 groups to take part in a walking tour entitled “Oxford Past and Present”, led by a member of Oxford Official Guided Walking Tours. In addition, on the walk we will visit Christ Church, Oxford University’s largest college with a fascinating history. Christopher Wren’s Tom Tower is the college’s most famous feature. After lunch, (not included but available in many cafes in the area), we will visit the Ashmolean Museum. The Ashmolean is Britain’s first public museum, founded in 1683, and has recently undergone a major refurbishment. The many exhibits include the worlds finest group of Raphael drawings and the foremost collection of modern Chinese painting in the Western world. Once again we will split into 3 groups for a guided tour of the Museum and then be at leisure to enjoy the exhibits. The cost of this visit is £27. This includes a guided tour in both the morning and afternoon, all entrance fees, transport and the driver's gratuity.

On Thursday September 22nd the coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 8.30 for our visit to Keats House and Kenwood in Hampstead. There will not be a pick up in Ashtead. On arrival in Hampstead we will have coffee (included) and then a 5 minute walk to Keats House. There are no refreshments available in Keats House. We have a guided tour of the House arranged. Keats House is a Grade 1 listed Regency House where John Keats lived from 1818 to 1820 with his friend Charles Brown. He wrote some of his best loved poems here. The house has been extensively restored and the garden redesigned. We travel the short distance to Kenwood, where it will be possible to buy lunch (not included). We have a guided tour of the House and estate. Kenwood was remodelled in the 1760s by Richard Adam. The interior is packed with treasures and the richly decorated library is one of Adam’s great masterpieces. Kenwood includes the internationally important collection of paintings bequeathed to the nation by Edward Guinness, 1st Earl of Iveagh. The cost of this visit is £22. This includes morning coffee, entrance fees and guided tours at both venues, all transport and the driver’s gratuity.

Epsom DFAS visit to Chartwell and Down House, Tuesday August 16th 2011 On Tuesday August 16th the coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 9.30 for our visit to Chartwell and Down House in Kent. There will be a pick up in Ashtead, at the bus stop on the A24 opposite Ottways Lane, 5 minutes later. On arrival at Chartwell, a National Trust property, we will have a short talk about the house and garden from one of the guides, and then the opportunity to explore the house and garden on a free flow basis. There will also be an opportunity to purchase coffee and lunch (not included). Chartwell is the family home of Sir Winston Churchill, and the rooms are left as they were in Sir Winston and Lady Churchill’s time. Many of Sir Winston’s paintings are on view in the garden studio. At around 2p.m. we leave for the short drive to Down House. When we arrive at Down house, an English Heritage property, we will be given a multi media guide, narrated by David Attenborough and Andrew Marr, to enable us to guide ourselves around the House at our own pace. We also have entry to the gardens. Down House was Darwin’s home for 40 years and where he wrote his theory “On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection”. A cream tea is included at Down House. For those who are both National Trust and English Heritage members, the cost of the visit will be £14.25. For those who are not a member of either organisation the cost will be £31. For N.T. members but not E.H. members the cost will be £21, and for E.H. members but not N.T. members the cost will be £24. This includes entrance fees at both venues, a cream tea at Down House, all transport and the driver's gratuity.

Bignor is one of the largest Roman villas to be open to the public in Great Britain with some of the finest mosaics, all in situ and under cover. the mosaics inclde Medsa, Venus and Cupid, Gladiators and Ganymede. Parham is one of the finest examples of an Elizabethan House. It is set in the heart of a 17th century deer park, and the house contains an important collection of needlework, paintings and furniture. The Long Gallery is the third longest in England. The gardens include a four acre walled garden with herbaceous borders, greenhouse, orchard, potager and herbiary.

Epsom DFAS visit to Rousham House and Ditchley Park, Friday June 24th 2011 On Friday June 24th the coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 8.30 for our visit to Rousham House and Ditchley Park in Oxfordshire. There will be a pick up in Ashtead, at the bus stop on the A24 opposite Ottways Lane, 5 minutes later. There will be a comfort stop on the way. On arrival at Rousham House, around 10.45, we will have a guided tour of the House and the opportunity to visit the garden. The house is only open for group visits, and is still in the ownership of the same family. Built in 1635, it contains some 17th century panelling, original staircases, furniture, pictures and bronzes. The garden designed by William Kent is perfectly formed. It has remained unaltered and the many features, which delighted eighteenth century visitors, are still in situ. At around 1p.m. we leave for the short drive to Ditchley Park. We will have the opportunity to have lunch on the way (not included). On arrival at Ditchley Park we have a guided tour of the House and coffee or tea and biscuits are included here. The house at Ditchley Park was designed by James Gibbs, and the magnificent interiors are by William Kent and Henry Flitcroft. Honeyed stone and sculptured landscapes contribute to Ditchley’s status as one of the great houses of England. The house was visited many times by Sir Winston Churchill during World War 11. The cost of this visit is £33.

On Tuesday May 17th the coach will leave Epsom Upper High Street Car Park at 8.30 for our visit to Stourhead, near Warminster. There will be a pick up in Ashtead, at the bus stop on the A24 opposite Ottways Lane, 5 minutes later. There will be a comfort stop on the way. On arrival at Stourhead around 11 a.m., coffee and biscuits will be served. We will then have the opportunity to enjoy a free flow visit around the house. Stourhead House is an 18th century Palladian Mansion, home to the beautifully restored Pope’s Cabinet, furniture by the younger Chippendale and a magnificent collection of paintings. After lunch, which can be purchased in the restaurant (not included), we will split into 2 groups for a guided tour of the garden. “The jewel in the Stourhead crown has to be the world famous 18th century landscape garden. A magnificent lake, shimmering with reflections of classical temples, mystical grottoes and rare and exotic trees.” It has been described as a living work of art. The tour will take about 2 hours. The cost of the visit will be £19 for National Trust Members and £30.50 for non NT members to include entrance fee, coffee and biscuits, a guided tour of the garden, all transport and the driver’s gratuity.

On April 13th we visited Strawberry Hill in Twickenham and Ham House in Richmond. At Strawberry Hill we had a guided tour of this wonderful summer villa created by Horace Walpole in the style now known as Strawberry Hill Gothic. Strawberry Hill has only recently opened after extensive restoration, and work on both the House and garden are still in progress We then went to Ham House and garden. Ham House is rich in history associated with the 17th century and the gardens are a rare example of 17th century garden design.

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