London Cavendish – Kew and Gershwin

Every winter Kew Gardens bring together light artists from around the globe to create bespoke pieces for the gardens.  A mile long sparkling path beneath the unique tree canopies winds its way through the world-famous gardens in a magical after dark experience with over one million twinkling lights.  Fairy-tale meets fantasy as illuminated trees, larger-than-life flora, ever-changing ribbons of light and criss-crossing laser beams and a finale of spectacular kaleidoscopic projections cover the Palm House.

Crazy for You performing at the Gillian Lynne Theatre has opened with 5 * rave reviews.  A Gershwin spectacular pure musical theatre heaven overflowing with glorious Gershwin melodies,  sublime songs and dynamic tap routines, including Someone to Watch Over Me, I Got Rhythm and They Can’t Take That Away from Me.  This large-scale production boasts 16 orchestra members and an incredible 34 strong cast, led by the ‘electrifying’ Charlie Stemp. Top price stalls tickets are reserved.

A new addition to London - The BBC Earth Experience – housed in the Daikin Centre the area that was the old Earl’s Court Exhibition Centre.  Journey through the seven continents with this all immersive audio visual journey allowing you to observe, interact and celebrate planet Earth's biodiversity from a completely new perspective.  The award winning Design Museum in Kensington is devoted to contemporary design in every form from furniture to graphics, and architecture to industrial design.

Finally a very exciting new exhibition taking place at the Queen’s Gallery, Holbein at the Tudor Court - Hans Holbein was one of the most talented artists of the 16th century. From his arrival in England in search of work he rose to royal favour, chosen to paint the portraits of Henry VIII, his family and leading figures. This exhibition showcases one of the most important surviving collections of his work.  Or you may prefer tickets for The Credit Suisse Exhibition: Frans Hal at The National Gallery - The largest exhibition devoted to the work of Frans Hals for more than thirty years.  (Please state which is preferred when booking). 

Saturday 18 November:  Arrive and check into your rooms at the luxury 4 star Cavendish Hotel, St James’s in the heart of London’s Mayfair and convenient both for West End theatre and perhaps some early Christmas shopping.   Your rooms will be ready from 3 pm.  A shared taxi transfer to the theatre or make your own way there for the evening performance of Crazy for You.  Suggestions for pre-theatre dining will be sent.

Sunday 19 November:   A leisurely start before travelling by coach to Earls Court for the timed entry into the BBC Earth Experience.  Then on to the Design Museum in Kensington.  (Refreshments can be purchased here). There will be a late lunch included in the Chiswick House Café before the coach continues to the Queen Victoria gate and the 4.30 pm entry for Christmas at Kew.   In your own time make your way along the path through the different themed areas viewing the fantastic light illuminations, perhaps enjoy some hot chocolate or mulled wine on the way.  The coach then returns to the Cavendish Hotel for around 7.30 pm.

Monday 20 November:  Timed tickets will be purchased for 10.15 for the Holbein exhibition at the Queens House Buckingham Palace – or National Gallery -  make your own way over or share a taxi with others. After the visit return to the Cavendish to collect your luggage and departure.