This morning depart from Broadway to The Laskett to visit the delightful gardens created by Sir Roy Strong and his late wife Julia since they moved here in 1973. Afterwards continue north and cross the border into Wales arriving in time for lunch at Powis Castle & Garden. The castle was built by the medieval Princes of Upper Powys and was the ancestral home of the Herbert family from 1587. There is a magnificent garden originally laid out in the 1680s based on designs by William Wynde, inspired by those of the palace at St Germain-en-Laye near Paris. The famous hanging Italianate terraces which rise to 450 feet to the castle represent the greatest surviving example of the Baroque garden in Britain. The garden retains its original lead statues, an orangery and aviary. A statue of Hercules by the famous 18th century garden sculptor John van Nost stands against a spectacular backdrop of ancient clipped Powis yew.
Later continue north to Betws-y-Coed, gateway to Snowdonia, and surrounded by the Gwydyr Forest. Dinner is at the hotel at leisure.
Accommodations: The Royal Oak (Breakfast and Lunch)