Canal Cruise
17 day Royal Gardens of England & Scotland
A Royal Passion for Gardens & the Lord of the Highlands
This Botanica journey uncovers the attraction that English royalty has had for all things gardening over the years. Gain an appreciation for this passion as we visit key royal locations, including Dumfries House and Kensington Palace. Our journey also features an exclusive charter of the Lord of the Highlands small ship. Cruise the famed Caledonian Canal and visit the remote Scottish Isles.
This journey departs:
5 July 2026
4 July 2027
Highlights
The following highlights provide an overview of some of the captivating encounters awaiting you on tour.
Royal Palaces, Gardens & Ecology
Learn about the passion King Charles III has for gardens, from their positive influence on mental health to sustainability benefits.
A Festival of Flowers
Enjoy time at the world’s largest annual flower show, Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival. In 2026, the festival will be held at Badminton Estate.
Highgrove House and Gardens
Wander the grounds of Highgrove House and Gardens, admiring its striking wildflower meadows and walled gardens. The 18th-century property is the private residence of King Charles III.
Sandringham Estate
Tour the formal gardens of Sandringham Estate, one of King Charles’ many royal residences.
Botanical Guide - Colin Crosbie
Be escorted by an expert Botanical Guide, who will offer insightful talks on various topics and be available for informal discussions, enriching your travel experience.
Scottish Isles & Canal Cruise
Discover spectacular Scottish gardens during a privately chartered cruise aboard the Lord of the Highlands small ship.
Inclusions
See below for an overview of your tour’s inclusions and featured sightseeing.
Escorted by an expert Botanical Guide, Tour Manager and Cruise Director
Privately chartered seven-night cruise aboard the Lord of the Highlands, taking a maximum of 36 guests, and nine nights’ accommodation in centrally located four- to five-star hotels
Return private transfers from door to door, tipping and porterage, port taxes, plus 36 meals and select beverages
All sightseeing, shore excursions and entrance fees as per the itinerary
Visit the royal gardens of Dumfries House; Sandringham Estate; and King Charles’ private residence, Highgrove House and Gardens, in Tetbury (subject to confirmation)
Enjoy a day at the world’s largest flower show, Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival, held at Badminton Estate
Visit premier Scottish gardens, including Inverewe, Lip na Cloiche, Attadale Gardens, and Cawdor Castle Gardens
Discover the history of Clan Donald at Armadale Castle on the Isle of Skye, as well as the brightly coloured fishing village of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull. Cruise the scenic Caledonian Canal to legendary Loch Ness
Itinerary
Your day-by-day itinerary details the gardens and other sights that make up your journey.
Trip Notes
Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
Fitness rating: Medium
Exclusive charter of Lord of the Highlands for up to 36 guests. To view deck plans, visit www.botanica.travel/cruise-fleet
Our experience of gardens, their flora, and other aspects of nature, is subject to weather conditions and seasonality, which may vary
*Dates for Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival are subject to change
**Entry to Highgrove House & Gardens in Tetbury is subject to confirmation