Spring Bulletin 2026 | April 2026 by ACE Cultural Tours

ACE CULTURAL TOURS

2026 SPRING BULLETIN

Travel for the

Culturally Curious

Welcome Welcome to the ACE Cultural Tours Spring Bulletin, our first publication featuring releases from our upcoming 2026 schedule. We are delighted to present a selection of departures exploring diverse destinations from the United Kingdom, Europe and further afield. With this new collection we hope to inspire and delight both new and old travellers. In 2026 we look forward to returning to well-loved destinations, such as Roman & Byzantine Ravenna with its early Christian monuments and the beautiful cobbled streets of Aquileia on Aquileia: City of Antiquity. Our music lovers, meanwhile, can experience one of the most unique Baroque music festivals in the world on Bolivian Baroque: Music from the Missions, including a journey to the beautiful city of Sucre, where European and Bolivian architectural styles combine to stunning effect. We are particularly looking forward to Art Treasures of Mexico: Diego, Frida & the Muralists, which offers unparalleled access to Frida Kahlo’s iconic paintings and Diego Rivera’s emblematic murals. Also, beginning in Tashkent, travellers joining new Tour Director Chris Aslan will enjoy captivating views of the Fann Mountains, Tajik Sea and desert ruins as we journey along the Silk Road on Uzbekistan & Tajikistan: Traversing the Silk Road. Guests searching for a break closer to home need look no further than historical Ludlow, our base as we explore some of the region’s finest churches with medievalist Imogen Corrigan on Churches of Herefordshire & Shropshire. Earlier in the year, travellers can discover magnificent Welsh monuments, from the grandeur of Cardiff Castle to the stunning guise of Caerphilly Castle, on Cardiff: A Cultural Capital. We are also excited to return to Spain to see a range of works by eminent figures such as Velázquez, Bosch, Goya, Raphael and Picasso, including his Guernica at the Reina Sofia Museum, on Art Treasures of Madrid and Malaga. Our 2026 collection includes preliminary details of tours celebrating significant anniversaries in art, music and literature. These will include Winnie-the-Pooh at 100, Constable & Gainsborough in Suffolk and Wagner’s Ring Cycle, a celebration of all four Ring operas in the 150th year since the cycle’s first complete performance.

Above & Cover: Façade details of Dar al-Makhzen, Fez – From Spain to Morocco: Roman Hispania and Mauretania

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We invite you to explore our full schedule on pages 86 to 89. To register your interest and receive full tour details by email as soon as these tours become available, please complete the form on our website or contact the ACE Cultural Tours office on 01223 841055 or email sales@aceculturaltours.co.uk

CONTENTS

Tours FURTHER AFIELD A Journey through Vietnam: History, Art & Culture

6–7

South Korea: Pagodas, Palaces & Temples

8–9

Algeria: Encounters Between Rome & North Africa

10–11

Bolivian Baroque: Music from the Missions

12–13

Uzbekistan and Tajikistan: Traversing the Silk Road

14–15

14 –15

Wonders of Georgia: Archaeology, Culture & Landscape 16–17 Great Art Collections of New England

18–19

Kazakhstan: From the Silk Road to Sir Norman Foster

20–21

Great Art Collections of New York: 250 Years of Independence

22–23

From Spain to Morocco: Roman Hispania and Mauretania

24–25

Frida, Diego & Modernism in Mexico City

26–27

Ancient Egypt and the Nile: From Cairo to Aswan

28–29 Wildlife & Walking in Extremadura

EUROPE

46–47

Music & Art in Provence

48 49

Music & History of Malta

30–31

Art Treasures of Belgium: The Flemish Masters

Pompeii with Herculaneum

32–33

Art Treasures of Berlin

50–51 52–53

La Folle Journée de Nantes: Rivers of Music

Wildlife & Walking in the Alentejo & Algarve

Venice: The Triumph of Light & Colour

Art Treasures of Tuscany & Umbria: Masterpieces of the Renaissance

54–55

Lycian Cruise

56–57

Art Treasures of Madrid & Malaga

36–37

Art Treasures of Naples: From the Romans to the Baroque

Imperial Rome: The Might of the Emperors

Roman & Byzantine Ravenna

40–41

Art Treasures of the Cote d’Azur

42–43

Aquileia: City of Antiquity

44–45

Towns & Palaces of Poland

58–59

Douro River Cruise on the Royal Barge

60–61

Ancient Sicily

62–63

Iceland: Forces of Nature

64–65

Rhône River Cruise: Ancient Treasures & Musical Legacies

66–67

Wagner’s Ring Cycle: 150th Anniversary Tour

UNITED KINGDOM Wild & Ancient Somerset: Winter Tour

75 2

Cardiff: A Cultural Capital

70–71

Art Treasures of Liverpool

72–73

Cornwall Calling: The Artists of Newlyn and St Ives

Wild & Ancient Cornwall

Churches of Herefordshire & Shropshire

76–77

Great Bardfield & Beyond: Mid-Century Art & Design in East Anglia

78–79

Wildlife & Walking on the Isles of Scilly

80–81

Constable & Gainsborough in Suffolk: 250th Anniversary Tour

Children’s Literary Classics: Winnie-the-Pooh at 100

Stained Glass in England: Style, Technique & Colour

84–85

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CONTENTS

Tours by Subject ARCHAEOLOGY Algeria: Encounters Between Rome & North Africa

10–11

Wonders of Georgia: Archaeology, Culture & Landscape 16–17 From Spain to Morocco: Roman Hispania and Mauretania 26–27 Ancient Egypt and the Nile: From Cairo to Aswan

28–29

Pompeii with Herculaneum

32–33

Imperial Rome: The Might of the Emperors

Roman & Byzantine Ravenna

40–41

Aquileia: City of Antiquity

44–45

Ancient Sicily

62–63

ART & ARCHITECTURE Great Art Collections of New England

18–19

Great Art Collections of New York: 250 Years of Independence

22–23

Frida, Diego & Modernism in Mexico City

24–25

Venice: The Triumph of Light & Colour

Art Treasures of Naples: From the Romans to the Baroque

16 –17 CULTURAL CRUISES

Art Treasures of Madrid & Malaga

36–37

Lycian Cruise

56–57

Art Treasures of the Cote d’Azur

42–43

Douro River Cruise on the Royal Barge

60–61

Rhône River Cruise: Ancient Treasures & Musical Legacies

66–67

Art Treasures of Belgium: The Flemish Masters Art Treasures of Berlin

50–51

Art Treasures of Tuscany & Umbria: Masterpieces of the Renaissance

54–55

Kazakhstan: From the Silk Road to Sir Norman Foster

20–21

Towns & Palaces of Poland

58–59

Churches of Herefordshire & Shropshire

76–77

Cardiff: A Cultural Capital

70–71

Art Treasures of Liverpool

72–73

Cornwall Calling: The Artists of Newlyn and St Ives Great Bardfield & Beyond: Mid-Century Art & Design in East Anglia Constable & Gainsborough in Suffolk: 250th Anniversary Tour Stained Glass in England: Style, Technique & Colour

HISTORY

74 78–79 82

MUSIC Bolivian Baroque: Music from the Missions

12–13

Music & History of Malta

30–31

La Folle Journée de Nantes: Rivers of Music

Music & Art in Provence

Wagner’s Ring Cycle: 150th Anniversary Tour

NATURE

84–85

Wildlife & Walking in Extremadura

46–47

Wildlife & Walking in the Alentejo & Algarve

52–53

Iceland: Forces of Nature

64–65

Wild & Ancient Somerset: Winter Tour

Wild & Ancient Cornwall

Wildlife & Walking on the Isles of Scilly

80–81

REGIONAL CULTURE A Journey through Vietnam: History, Art & Culture South Korea: Pagodas, Palaces & Temples

8 –9 aceculturaltours.co.uk

Uzbekistan and Tajikistan: Traversing the Silk Road

6–7 8–9 14–15

LITERATURE Children’s Literary Classics: Winnie the Pooh at 100

Small Grains Meets Brutalism by Kate Romano, CEO & Education lead An update on Stapleford Granary’s acclaimed education programme with Stapleford Primary School (and the emotive power of concrete)

Creating a model of a dystopian Brutalist housing estate probably isn’t your runof-the-mill Friday afternoon activity for Key Stage 1 pupils. But then again, our nationally acclaimed twinning between an Arts Centre and a Primary School isn’t run-of-the-mill either. Small Grains is founded on regular school visits to the Granary (42 per year) where we share our music, exhibitions, interests and discoveries with the children in a ‘real life’ arts centre setting. This month, we’ve been exploring Mandy Payne’s wonderful exhibition at the Granary. Mandy is a Sheffield-based artist who paints beautifully intricate images of everyday urban buildings. She has a special interest in Brutalism, and she paints directly on to concrete (and other materials) using spray paint and oils. For 13 years, her work focused on Park Hill, the Grade II* listed Sheffield council estate and one of Britain’s largest examples of Brutalist architecture, now undergoing regeneration. We talked with the pupils about the gritty ‘unloved’ places that Mandy paints, social histories and Brutalist architecture. ‘Who knows what the recipe for concrete is?’ I asked year 2. A surprisingly large number of hands shot up. ‘Cement, sand, water, stone’ they tripped off, as if I’d asked them to list their favourite pizza toppings. Their classroom teacher looked bemused. ‘How did you know that?’ I asked. ‘Bob the Builder!’ they chimed. And with this enhanced prior knowledge base, we launched into a conversation about materials, lines, perspective, and Mandy’s striking use of colour (a palette of greys and a ‘pop’ of something brighter). We learnt how to spot Brutalist buildings in comparison to other types of architecture and watched a short film of Mandy working in her studio, mixing concrete, spraying paint and using tiny 4

Making of the 3D model of Park Hill

masking strips to create her lovinglydetailed pictures. After looking and chatting, years 4, 5 and 6 used collage to create their own muscular Brutalist monoliths, layering cut-out architectural pictures in clever and unexpected ways. Some of the pictures have a sense of humour, and many make use of vivid colour very effectively. We have selected 9 to display on the walls of the Granary. Meanwhile,

the youngest years threw themselves into the task of making a 3D model of Park Hill. They decorated little boxes (the ‘flats’) using images of ‘old Park Hill’ and bright colourful ‘new Park Hill’, which we further emphasised in strips of red, green, yellow and blue paper. The shape of our model references the futuristic curved blocks of the original design. As the children snipped, glued, and chatted animatedly, I was struck by

Small Grains exhibition

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3D Model of Park Hill

Brutalist work by student from Stapleford Primary School

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knobbly balconies protruding from the Barbican Estate towers. A year 4 pupil painstakingly layered heaving concrete cracks over a smooth paper-marble surface. Two girls in year 3 imagined the lives of the people who lived in the utopian estates they were designing, and made sure that their needs were met. It’s moments like these that open a window into the transformative power of the arts in early years education; how an artist’s painting can tell a story of hope, pride, sadness and loss, and how young minds will animate these ideas. We witness children ‘having an experience’ with art; self-sufficient and individualising, a continuous flow from something to someone, which feels different to other experiences. We see them working out what that experience means to them in their own artistic creations, attaching emotions to things and objects, breaking down and reconstructing the complexity of what they are sensing. Our Small Grains programme aims to help children add depth, breadth and completeness to that experience, ultimately nurturing an artful life.

MAGE COURTESY OF MANDY PAYNE VIA STAPLEFORD GRANARY

their empathy for the honest materials, the crumbling buildings and the communities, and there was a palpable sense of care in the work they were creating. I wondered if they had picked up on Mandy’s deep connections to the places she depicts? Mandy used to work as a community dentist, and her paintings are her love-letters to bygone ambitions, the overlooked, the neglected and the decaying. A boy in year 5 spent 30 minutes cutting around the

Regeneration (Park Hill Estate), Mandy Payne

In February 2025, Stapleford Primary School was awarded the prestigious Platinum Artsmark Award. Arts Council England described the Small Grains programme as an exemplary, empowering model and ‘an example that must be shared as widely as possible’. Stapleford Granary’s arts and education programme is supported by profits generated from ACE Cultural Tours, which enable us to begin the process of lifelong cultural learning in the earliest years.

VIETNAM

A Journey Through Vietnam: History, Art & Culture January 19–31, 2026 Temple of Literature, Hanoi

F U RT H E R A F I E L D

Travel the length of Vietnam’s east coast, from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, becoming immersed in its cultural riches and beautiful landscapes Visit the former imperial capital of Hué with its exquisite imperial tombs, and discover the Cham sanctuary complex at My Son, capital and religious centre of the Champa Kingdom Enjoy a dragon boat trip on the Huong (Perfume River) From Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south, we will journey through Vietnam on a stimulating and enlightening cultural adventure, seeking out the myriad historical and artistic influences that have shaped the nation and its people over time. Our explorations begin in Hanoi, the first capital of Vietnam, a city of tree-lined boulevards, faded yet stately colonial buildings and centuries-old temples. The Temple of Literature was built in 1076 and was the home of Vietnam’s first university, whilst the Tay Phuong Pagoda contains a wonderful collection of 17th century Buddhist 6

“All most stimulating, knowledgeable and well prepared” – ACE customer on a previous tour to Vietnam led by Alex Koller

statues. We will also travel to Hoa Lu to visit the 10th century temples of the Dinh and Le dynasties, and take in the 12th century Keo Pagoda, a masterpiece of traditional Vietnamese architecture. It was the Nguyen Kings, Vietnam’s last – and perhaps most glorious – dynasty who established Hué as the capital of a unified Vietnam in 1802. For the next 150 years, successive monarchs adorned their adopted city with elaborate citadels, palaces, mausoleums, temples and pagodas, including the imperial complex known as the Forbidden Purple City, modelled on Beijing’s Forbidden City. From Hué we will make a scenic drive to Hoi An, situated on the South China Sea and the focus of Vietnam’s commercial activity from the 15th century onwards; today, its exceptionally well-preserved wooden buildings and shop-lined streets reflect the region’s former trading links with China and Japan. UNESCO-listed My Son, set in a verdant valley dominated by Cat’s Tooth

Mountain, lies at the heart of Southeast Asia’s most mysterious civilisation, the Hindu-inspired Chams, who flourished between the 4th and 15th centuries. Our travels conclude in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, where the Jade Emperor Pagoda, perhaps the country’s finest, was constructed by the Cantonese community at the turn of the 20th century. We will stay at a series of comfortable hotels of four and five-star quality, well located for our visits. This tour will be led by Alex Koller, PhD, an expert in art history and experienced tour leader. Alex studied in Vienna, Salzburg and Cambridge, where he gained his PhD in History of Art from Magdalene College and also lectured and supervised. Alex has been leading tours since 1998 and is an accomplished linguist. His experience ranges from Eastern Europe, Russia and the Himalayas to Japan and Southeast Asia, and he has developed a particularly keen interest in Buddhist art and architecture.

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Hanoi Train Street, Old Quarter FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This is one of ACE’s more adventurous tours, with a full itinerary to make the most of our time in Vietnam and take in a breadth of sites, so a good level of fitness, stamina and mobility is required. As we journey through Vietnam, our itinerary involves six separate hotel stays, two internal flights and a significant amount of travel by coach. For instance, day 5 involves approximately 5.5 hours’ travel by coach (with stops en route for visits), providing an interesting perspective on North Vietnam. We have some early starts in order to coincide with the quietest times for visiting sites. Participants should be comfortable with extended periods of walking and standing, as well as traversing uneven or rough ground and steps without handrails. There will also be a boat trip on the Huong (Perfume River) on a dragon boat, and opportunities during the tour to sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

ITINERARY

Please note the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. Certain visits may be exterior only, or time permitting on the day, depending on local conditions. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 1100 on Vietnam Airlines. Day 2 Arrive Hanoi 0520. Transfer to Silk Path Hotel, Hanoi, for two nights. Some time to rest. Afternoon walking tour in Old Hanoi, including St Joseph’s Cathedral and Ngoc Son Temple (Temple of the Jade Mountain), Temple of Literature (built in 1076, home of Vietnam’s first university) and National Museum of Fine Arts. Day 3 Morning in Hanoi: One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (exterior), Ho Chi Minh’s

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House, Tran Quoc Pagoda (Buddhist pagoda located on small island in centre of West Lake) and Quan Thanh Temple. Afternoon excursion to 11th century Thay Pagoda (home of water puppetry) and Tay Phuong Pagoda (17th century Buddhist statues). Day 4 Depart for Hoa Lu (10th century temples of Dinh and Le dynasties), Tam Coc Caves (‘Dry Halong Bay’) and Bich Dong Pagoda. Continue to Ninh Binh for overnight stay at Ninh Binh Hidden Charm Hotel. Day 5 Visits to Phat Diem Cathedral, 12th century Keo Pagoda (masterpiece of traditional Vietnamese architecture) and Haiphong for Den Nghe Temple (Le Chen Temple) and An Bien Communal House. Overnight stay at Haiphong Harbour View Hotel. Please note, this day involves coach travel of approximately 5.5 hours in total, with visits en route. Day 6 Short tour of colonial Haiphong followed by visits to But Thap Pagoda (founded in 1037 and home to 13th century prayer wheel) and Dau Pagoda (one of the oldest in Vietnam). Continue to Hanoi for internal flight to Hué and two nights at Silk Path Grand Hué. Day 7 By dragon boat on the Huong (Perfume River) for visits to Thien Mu Pagoda (Pagoda of the Celestial Lady with beautiful gardens), Temple of Literature (Nguyen dynasty) and An Hien Garden House. Afternoon: Hué Imperial City, including Forbidden Purple City and Royal Citadel, followed by Museum of Antiquities in former Long An Palace. Day 8 Further visits in Hué: Redemptorist Church, Tu Dam Pagoda, Tu Hieu Pagoda and royal tombs of King Tu Dac, Khai Dinh and Minh Mang. Afternoon: scenic drive to Hoi An via Lang Co (views of peninsula and bay) and over Hai Van Pass (‘Pass of the Ocean Clouds’, highest and

longest pass in Vietnam). Two nights in Hoi An at Almanity Hoi An Resort & Spa. Day 9 Early morning excursion to historical Hoi An: Folk Museum, Tan Ky House, Quan Cong Temple and Chinese Assembly Hall. Afternoon excursion to UNESCO World Heritage site of My Son (capital and religious centre of the Champa Kingdom): Cham sanctuary complex with 7th to 13th century towers, temples and tombs set in a lush valley. Free evening in Hoi An. Day 10 Transfer to Da Nang for visit to Cham Museum (Hindu-inspired sculpture). Afternoon internal flight to Ho Chi Minh City for two nights at Grand Hotel Saigon. Day 11 Visits in Ho Chi Minh City: Jade Emperor Pagoda (built by the Cantonese community), Fine Arts Museum, Reunification Palace, Ho Chi Minh City Museum and Giac Lam Pagoda. Day 12 Day at leisure or optional visit to the Holy See of the Cao Dai religion in Tay Ninh Province. Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport. Day 13 Depart Ho Chi Minh City 0015, arriving Heathrow 0715.

Cost of £5445 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, eleven breakfasts, five lunches (one light), ten dinners with water, beer or soft drink & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: visa, travel insurance, single room supplement £475. TOUR CODE: VIET26

F U RT H E R A F I E L D

PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA PIXABAY

VIETNAM

S O U T H KO R E A

South Korea: Pagodas, Palaces & Temples March 9–23, 2026 Explore the fascinating cultural centres of South Korea, surrounded by stunning natural scenery

Bell of Seokguram Grotto

Take in six UNESCO World Heritage sites: Changdeokgung, Gyeongju, Haeinsa, Jongmyo, Seokguram and Bulguksa Discover maritime Hallyeo, a panoramic seascape strewn with hundreds of islands “We had many of the places to ourselves and enjoyed the calm, atmospheric flair of the sites in a way that has become more difficult elsewhere” – Tour Director Alex Koller

From Seoul, we will journey to Busan, Korea’s largest port, for an excursion to the temples of Tongdosa and Beomeosa. Hallyeo Maritime National Park, meanwhile, will be the setting for a boat trip to the naval headquarters of Admiral Yi Sun Shin, famed for his victories over the Japanese in the 16th century. Delving into South Korea’s natural landscape, we will visit Jogyesan Provincial Park, Mount Jirisan National Park and a tea plantation. This tour will be led by Alex Koller, PhD, an art historian who studied in Vienna, Salzburg and Cambridge. Alex has been leading tours since 1998 and his experience ranges from Eastern Europe, Russia and the Himalayas to Japan and Southeast Asia. His travels to the Far East have engendered a keen interest in Buddhist art and architecture. 8

The secluded Temple of Haeinsa on the slopes of Mount Kaya safeguards the Tripitaka Koreana, the world’s most complete corpus of Buddhist texts, engraved in the mid 13th century. We also look forward to visiting the National Folk Museum of Korea in Seoul, located in the grounds of the Gyeongbokgung Palace. Gyeongju, once the capital of the Silla Empire, is heralded as one of Korea’s most traditional cities, akin to a bustlefree Kyoto. Dotted with dozens of royal tombs, Gyeongju parades a memorable array of historical attractions including the 8th century grotto of Seokguram with its monumental Buddha, and Bulguksa Temple with its remarkable twin pagodas. Before returning to Seoul, we will enjoy visits in the Andong area – including

Beongjeongsa Temple, South Korea’s oldest wooden structure, and Byeongsan Seowon and Dosan Seowon Confucian academies – and in Kongju, the National Museum and Beopjusa Temple, the country’s largest timber pagoda. During a traditional overnight temple stay at Hwaeomsa Temple, we will attend chanted ceremonies, witness drumming, speak to the monks, and attend an optional early morning service and countryside walk (see ‘Accommodation & Temple Stay’ box for more). This tour has been scheduled for a time of year that ACE has found to be particularly favourable for visiting South Korea, with sunshine, comfortable temperatures and less crowded sites.

BASILE MORIN / CC BY-SA 4.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

F U RT H E R A F I E L D

South Korea offers a rich landscape of historical, artistic and architectural treasures. Seoul, where our tour begins and ends, was once the capital of the Joseon dynasty. The ancient city’s royal palaces and sacred sites are better preserved than anything of their type in China, with 15th century Changdeokgung sheltering a particularly beautiful secret garden.

Bulguksa Temple entrance

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S O U T H KO R E A Accommodation & Temple Stay This tour includes an opportunity to partake in an overnight temple stay programme at Hwaeomsa Temple. This will involve overnight accommodation in rooms of 3 to 4 people, split by gender. Rooms will be in traditional ondol style, with underfloor heating and a yo mattress (a soft sleeping mat on the floor). Rooms have private bathrooms. A member of the Sales team can discuss this accommodation with you further upon booking; if you have any concerns, alternative accommodation options may be available.

Hallyeo Haesang National Marine Park

“Alex was phenomenal… I would have no hesitation in recommending this tour” – ACE customer on a previous South Korea tour led by Alex Koller FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour has a full itinerary and requires a good level of fitness, mobility and stamina. Participants should meet ACE’s fitness criteria in our Booking Terms & Conditions. To make the most of our time in South Korea and take in a breadth of sites, the itinerary involves several hotel changes and a significant amount of coach travel, as well as a journey made by the country’s high speed rail network. We also hope to enjoy a boat trip at Hallyeo Maritime National Park. Some of our days will involve earlier starts in order to avoid crowds. Several sites are located in mountainous or forested areas and participants will be required to walk uphill, up steps (some steep) and across uneven ground. Not all steps have handrails, so care should be taken. There are longer walks at Bongjeongsa and Haeinsa temples (up to 1.1km) and a steeper climb at Buseoksa (95m). Many sites have rules in place prohibiting vehicles approaching the temples, so participants should be prepared for a significant amount of walking to access them; however, most sites have good facilities at the car parks (restaurants, shops and cafes) so it is often possible to sit out a visit if preferred.

ITINERARY

Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time, or time-permitting on the day. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 1850 on Korean Air.

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Day 2 Arrive Seoul 1615 and transfer to Courtyard by Marriott Namdaemun Hotel for two nights. Short welcome and introduction. Day 3 Visits in Seoul: Gyeongbokgung (Joseon dynasty royal palace), National Folk Museum of Korea, Insadong District (craft shops). Afternoon: National Museum, Namsangol Hanok Maeul (traditional houses) and 19th century Myeongdong Cathedral. Day 4 Depart Seoul by KTX high-speed train for Busan (Korea’s largest port). Visits to Tongdosa Temple in Mount Gajisan National Park and Beomeosa Temple. Overnight in Busan. Day 5 Morning visit to UN cemetery in Busan. Continue to Tongyeong for visits to Sebyeongwan Hall (historical naval headquarters), Chungnyeolsa (shrine) and harbour. Afternoon excursion by boat to Hallyeo Maritime National Park including the naval headquarters of Admiral Yi Sun Shin. Overnight at Stanford Hotel & Resort, Tongyeong. Day 6 Depart Tongyeong for Jinju: Cheoksongnu (riverside pavilion). Continue to Naganeupseong Folk Village and Boseong (tea plantations). Transfer to Suncheon for overnight at Ecograd Hotel. Day 7 Morning: Jogyesan Provincial Park (Songgwangsa and Seonamsa temples). Continue to Hwaeomsa Temple in Jirisan National Park for overnight temple stay (chanted ceremonies, drumming, Q&A session with a monk). Day 8 Optional early morning ceremony at Hwaeomsa Temple and monk-led walk in the countryside. Visits to Ssanggyesa Temple and Haeinsa Temple (Tripitaka Koreana library). Continue to Gyeongju (former Silla capital) for two nights at Lahan Hotel. Day 9 Visits in Gyeongju: Seokguram Grotto (Buddhist shrine), Bulguksa Temple, Tumuli Park (royal burial grounds), National Museum (Silla relics), palace site (Anapji Pond), Bunhwangsa

Pagoda, Hwangnyeongsa Temple site and Cheomseongdae Observatory. Day 10 Depart Gyeongju via tomb of General Kim Yu Shin, Yangdong Folk Village and Oksan (Confucian Academy). Continue to Andong area for Byeongsan Seowon (Confucian Academy), Hahoe Folk Village and two nights at Stanford Hotel, Andong. Day 11 Visits in Andong: Bongjeongsa Temple, Dosan Seowon (Confucian Academy) and Buseoksa Temple. Day 12 Depart for Kongju via Beopjusa Temple (largest timber pagoda in Korea) for visits to King Muryeong’s Tomb and National Museum. Continue to Seoul for three nights at Courtyard by Marriott Namdaemun Hotel. Day 13 Visits in Seoul: Changdeokgung Palace, Huwon Secret Garden (subject to confirmation), Changgyeonggung Palace, Seongkyunkwan University, Jongmyo Ancestral Shrine, Jeongneung Royal Tomb and Dongdaemun Gate (exterior). Free evening. Day 14 Free day in Seoul for optional independent visits. Day 15 Depart Seoul 1040, arriving Heathrow 1630.

Cost of £6795 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, thirteen breakfasts, twelve dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, single room supplement (except overnight stay at Hwaeomsa Temple) £1130. TOUR CODE: SKOR26

F U RT H E R A F I E L D

The rest of the tour will be spent at hotels of four-star standard. Please note that many meals will be centred upon traditional South Korean cuisine, as there are few other options available in the countryside; however, at other points in the tour, some Western-style meals will be offered.

ALGERIA

Algeria: Encounters Between Rome & North Africa March 24 – April 5, 2026 Marvel at the Roman and Byzantine remains of ancient Theveste, modern Tébessa – new for 2026

Tiddis

Engage with Algeria’s military history at Lambaesis, an ancient Roman military town Discover the Punic, Roman and Byzantine remains at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tipasa

F U RT H E R A F I E L D

From the Mediterranean shores to the Atlas Mountains and the vast Sahara, Algeria’s diverse landscape has served as a crossroads for a myriad of civilisations including the Phoenicians, Romans and Byzantine Greeks. The Arab conquests of the 7th century laid the foundation for Algeria’s modern cultural identity, further developed by Islamic Arab and Berber dynasties and the Ottoman Empire between the 8th and 15th centuries. This long and layered history has resulted in a vibrant mix of art, culture and traditions, forged through habitation, conquest and trade. Phoenician colonies emerged along the coast around the 8th century BCE, making a visit to Cherchell a fitting start to our tour. This once grand royal capital and Roman colony features archaeological remains from the 5th century BCE as well as an awe-inspiring collection of mosaics and artefacts, currently housed in the Old Museum. Flying eastwards to Annaba, we will view the evocative ruins of Hippo Regius, once a seat of Saint Augustine and an ancient bishopric, and Seraidi, an area offering glimpses into Algeria’s early past, from initial occupation in the Neolithic to urbanisation in the Roman era.

Smaller group – limited to 20 guests

Our journey continues to the steep hillside site of Tiddis, a significant location known as the birthplace of Quintus Lollius Urbicus, who built the Antonine Wall, and Constantine – ancient Cirta. Following this, we will delve into Madauros, a Roman-Berber city with both educational and military significance. Though a veteran colony was founded there under Emperor Nerva, this city is best known for its ‘schola’, which is thought to have been established earlier than the University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, often credited as the world’s oldest continually operating university. Algeria’s strategic position between the Mediterranean and Africa has resulted in an affluent military past. Emperor Trajan

founded the UNESCO World Heritage site of Timgad and the Roman-Byzantine site Zana, while Emperor Hadrian built the large military base at Lambaesis. Tipassa, originally a Punic trading post before becoming a military colony under Emperor Claudius, offers brilliant examples of Punic, Roman and Byzantine remains, and at Setif, established for veterans under Emperor Nerva, we shall see one of the finest examples of Roman mosaics. A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Djémila, ancient Cuicul, showcases how ancient Algeria seamlessly blended with the natural landscape. Excavations reveal stunning Roman ruins, including a theatre, fora and temples, demonstrating the unique adaptation of Roman architecture within a dramatic mountain setting.

Mauretanian Royal Tomb

We will further enhance our understanding at the little known ruins of Khemissa and its remarkably preserved Roman theatre – Thubursicum Numidarum – which once connected the port of Hippo Regius to ancient Theveste in Tébessa. Established during the Roman Republic, Theveste boasts numerous ancient monuments from the Roman and Byzantine periods, such as the Arch of Caracalla. 10

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ALGERIA

Our journey back to Algiers includes a visit to the National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Art and the Casbah. This area, originally settled by the Phoenicians and Punics as Icosium in the 10th century BCE, features a citadel, historic mosques and Ottoman palaces. During our time in Algeria we will stay in several hotels; while sometimes more basic in standard than typical western equivalents, these welcoming, comfortable establishments have been chosen for their convenient location allowing exploration of the region and sites. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Please note that participants must have a very good level of fitness, mobility and stamina for this tour, and meet ACE’s fitness criteria, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions. This tour offers a unique opportunity to visit places that are difficult to reach alone, but it will be strenuous, over much rough ground, with some long journeys, several hotel changes, an internal flight and long days to make the most of our time in Algeria. The climate will potentially be hot in places. In particular, the visits to Tiddis, Khemissa and Tipasa are physically demanding, with bare rock in some areas; these visits involve walking up and down steep slopes and over rugged ground, especially in the western part of Tipasa’s main site. Some visits involve navigating steps (sometimes without handrails).

ITINERARY

Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. Owing to the unpredictability of certain local factors, travellers should expect to be more than usually flexible about the announced programme.

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This tour will be led by Niccolò Mugnai, BA, MA, PhD, AFHEA, a classical archaeologist who specialises in the architecture, art, urbanism and material culture of the GrecoRoman world, with a particular focus on North Africa. He has led guided visits and been involved in archaeological fieldwork at numerous sites in Italy, Greece, Morocco, Tunisia and Libya, and has published extensively on the archaeology and architecture of ancient North Africa among other subjects.

Day 6 Morning visit to Madauros (remains of a Roman-Berber town) followed by afternoon visit to Tébessa (Roman and Byzantine remains of ancient Theveste). Continue to Timgad for three nights at Trajan Hotel. Day 7 Full day exploration of Tazoult including visits to the Archaeological Museum of Lambaesis, Upper Lambaesis (civil town, Temple of Aesculapius and Capitolium) and Lower Lambaesis (legionary fortress, amphitheatre, Arch of Commodus). Day 8 Full day visits in Timgad (stunning Roman and Byzantine ruins, museum full of mosaics and Byzantine fort). Day 9 Via Medracen (grandiose pre-Roman tumulus-burial) and Zana (ancient Roman remains of Diana Veteranorum) to Sétif (museum and monuments) for two nights at Hotel Novotel. Day 10 Full day exploration of Djémila (ancient Cuicul, extensive Roman ruins and museum).

Day 1 Depart London Gatwick 0740 on British Airways, arriving Algiers 1130. Transfer to Hotel El-Aurassi for overnight stay.

Day 11 Algiers for visits to National Museum of Antiquities and Islamic Art and walking tour of the Casbah (Ottoman Palaces). Two nights at Hotel El-Aurassi, Algiers.

Day 2 Morning talk (on board coach) followed by visits to Cherchell via Mauretanian Tomb, including Old Museum and monuments. Transfer for flight to Annaba for two nights at Sheraton Annaba Hotel.

Day 13 Depart Algiers 1130, arriving Gatwick 1325.

Day 3 Morning: site of Hippo Regius (forum, theatre, ancient basilica, market, museum). Afternoon: excursion to Seraidi, followed by late afternoon walking tour of central Annaba (Cours de la Revolution and Mosque of Abu Merouane). Day 4 Guelma (museum, reconstructed Roman theatre) followed by Khemissa (well-preserved theatre, two fora, baths, sacred spring). Transfer to Constantine for two nights. Day 5 Morning: hillside ruins of Tiddis, home of Quintus Lollius Urbicus. Afternoon: walking tour of the city of Constantine and optional visit to the National Museum of Cirta.

Day 12 Full day excursion to UNESCO World Heritage site of Tipasa (basilicas, museum, theatre, amphitheatre, forum and houses).

Cost of £4795 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, full board with water & soft drinks (some packed lunches), excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: visa, travel insurance, single room supplement £395. TOUR CODE: ALGE26

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Hippo Regius

BOLIVIA

Bolivian Baroque: Music from the Missions April 15–28, 2026 Experience one of the most unique Baroque music festivals in the world Enjoy exclusive conversations with the Festival Director and President of Association for Art and Culture in Bolivia

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Deep in the jungles of Eastern Bolivia there stands a breathtaking series of settlements founded during the 17th and 18th centuries. In this remote region of Chiquitania, Jesuit missionaries once worked with indigenous communities to build churches of architectural and cultural distinction, many of which have since been restored and are now classified as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Jesuits also sparked an interest in learning and collecting music for worship, a great deal of which was written by anonymous local composers. From masses and motets to keyboard music, these fascinating works became central to the cultural life of the local populations. The manuscripts’ rediscovery in the modern era provides an unparalleled glimpse into the past, shedding light on the compositional skills of the local people and the importance of music-making in their lives.

Ashley Solomon with the Arakaendar Bolivia Choir in San Javier Mission Cathedral

There are few more intense cultural experiences than the Festival of Renaissance Baroque Music de Chiquitos, which takes place every two years both to celebrate this music and introduce it to a wider audience. In 2005, Chair and Head of Historical Performance at the Royal College of Music and ACE Tour Director, Ashley Solomon, founded the Arakaendar Bolivia Choir and Baroque Orchestra – the only orchestra using Baroque period instruments to a professional standard – and these ensembles perform regularly all over the world and during the festival itself. Our tour has been designed in collaboration with Ashley to take full advantage of the range of performances

on offer, as well as allowing participants to explore the mission churches themselves, important collections and wider cultural highlights. Music is at the heart of the itinerary, and together the festival performances will form a chain leading us from Santa Cruz through San Javier, Concepción and San Ignacio to San Rafael and San José de Chiquitos. San Javier will include a visit to its museum of musical instruments, while at Concepción Cathedral we will explore the archives of original manuscripts and the Museo Misional. Our itinerary will include opportunities to meet key individuals involved in the foundation and running of the festival, including the Festival Director, Sucre

This tour will be led by Ashley Solomon, FRAM, FRCM, Chair and Head of Historical Performance at the Royal College of Music and Director of Baroque ensemble Florilegium. As a result of his commitment to editing and performing music from the mission churches of Chiquitos and Moxos Indians in Bolivia, Ashley was the first European to be awarded the coveted Hans Roth Prize in 2008. 12

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Travel to the beautiful city of Sucre, where European and Bolivian architectural styles combine to stunning effect

BOLIVIA ITINERARY

Façade of Concepción Cathedral

“Ashley was an excellent Tour Director. His introductions to the music were both scholarly and accessible” – ACE customer who travelled recently with Ashley Solomon

Father Piotr Nawrot, and the President of Association for Art and Culture in Bolivia. While the full festival programme will not be announced until much later in 2025, the music is always of a very high standard, varied and balanced across the event. We will spend our first few nights in Santa Cruz itself, where we will take time to rest before exploring historical and cultural sites alongside the rich flora and fauna at the city’s Botanical Garden, as well as two performances. We will then move onto overnight stays in San Javier, San Ignacio de Velasco and San José de Chiquitos, before returning to Santa Cruz for one final concert. Cost of £7795 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, twelve breakfasts, ten lunches, eleven dinners with nonalcoholic beverages, water and snacks during tours, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: visa, travel insurance, single room supplement £795. TOUR CODE: BOLV26

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From Santa Cruz, we will journey to the UNESCO World Heritage centre of Sucre, whose cathedral is home to a treasure trove of original manuscripts of Gregorian chant. We will stay in a variety of specially selected hotels of a comfortable quality. While the facilities in some hotels will not match the standards usually encountered in western countries, they will be welcoming and well-located. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Please note that participants must have a very good level of fitness, mobility and stamina for this tour, and meet ACE’s fitness criteria, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions. In particular, participants should be prepared for a significant amount of overland travel. This tour offers a unique opportunity to visit places that are difficult to reach alone, and it will be strenuous, with some long journeys of 4-6 hours (with stops), several hotel changes, two internal flights and long days to make the most of our time in Bolivia. Most roads are asphalt or concrete rather than dirt tracks, and are therefore more comfortable to travel than in previous years. The weather is likely to be warm (with highs of around 30 degrees) in Santa Cruz and the Chiquitania region, and cooler in Sucre. At 2,750m above sea level, Sucre’s high altitude can cause mild discomfort for some travellers, however most people adjust reasonably quickly to the elevation. Please note that our Tour Director will be conducting several festival performances, some of which will be included on our tour; an ACE Tour Manager and experienced local guide will look after the group during any periods where Ashley is engaged in rehearsals or directing.

Day 2 Arrive Santa Cruz de la Sierra 0450. Transfer to Los Tajibos Hotel, Santa Cruz, for three nights (with early check-in). Free morning to relax at hotel followed by welcome lunch with Festival Director. Afternoon coach tour of the city, including visits to Plaza 24 de Septiembre and St Lawrence’s Cathedral. Day 3 Breakfast with the President of the Association for Art and Culture in Bolivia, followed by a visit to Porongo in Amboró National Park (Church of San Juan Bautista, one of the last mission churches in Bolivia and a national historical monument). Pre-concert talk followed by festival opening performance in Santa Cruz. Day 4 Morning talk followed by visit to Santa Cruz Botanical Garden. Evening festival performance. Day 5 Drive to the town of San Javier (one of the earliest established missions) for overnight stay. Afternoon talk and concert (subject to scheduling) followed by visit to the church and museum of musical instruments in San Javier. Evening festival performance. Day 6 Drive to San Ignacio de Velasco via Concepción, including visits to Concepción Cathedral, archives of original music manuscripts and the Museo Misional. Evening festival performance. Overnight in San Ignacio. Day 7 Drive to San José de Chiquitos via San Rafael for a visit to the church (intricate carvings) and San Miguel (time permitting). Evening festival performance. Overnight in San José de Chiquitos. Day 8 Return to Santa Cruz de la Sierra for a final festival performance. Overnight at Los Tajibos Hotel, Santa Cruz. Day 9 Flight to Sucre and transfer to Hotel Parador Santa María la Real for three nights. Welcome and introduction to Sucre. Day 10 Morning walking tour of Sucre, including Plaza 25 de Mayo, cathedral (original and rare manuscripts of Gregorian chant), Casa de la Libertad and San Felipe Neri. Afternoon visit to the Nacional de Etnografía y Folklore and some free time. Evening folkloric performance (traditional Bolivian dance). Day 11 Morning visit to Monasterio de la Recoleta (former convent) and Museo de Arte Indígena. Afternoon: optional visit to the Parque Cretácico (one of the largest collections of dinosaur footprints in the world). Day 12 Opportunity to visit the Sunday morning market in Sucre (subject to final flight arrangements) before return flight to Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Overnight at Los Taijibos Hotel, Santa Cruz. Day 13 Depart Santa Cruz de la Sierra 1220 via Madrid. Day 14 Arrive London Gatwick 0900.

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GEOFFREY GROESBECK / CC BY-SA 3.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Day 1 Depart London Gatwick 1725 on Air Europa via Madrid.

U Z B E K I S TA N | TA J I K I S TA N

Uzbekistan & Tajikistan: Traversing the Silk Road April 17 – May 3, 2026 | September 11–27, 2026 Trace the legendary Silk Road across Uzbekistan and Tajikistan Venture into the enchanting Fann Mountains and discover the ancient Sodigian city of Panjakent in Tajikistan Experience Samarkand’s famed Registan Square, bordered by elegant madrasas in shades of gold and turquoise

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From the 2nd century BCE to the mid 15th century, the Silk Road served as a crucial trading network between Asia and Europe. In ancient times, it was a trek few could complete in its entirety. Our tour will explore key sections of this legendary route, including the path between Sogdiana in Tajikistan and the Han Empire in China, as well as the northern route through Uzbekistan’s lush Fergana Valley and the stark Kyzylkum Desert. Our journey begins and ends in Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital. Here, we will experience the grandeur of Independence Square, a space dedicated to modern Uzbekistan. Meanwhile, the Museum of Applied Arts presents glimpses into the nation’s artistic heritage. Tashkent is also the home of Samarkand Kufic Quran – an early example of Quranic inscriptions dating from the 8th or 9th century.

Tashkent Independence Square, Uzbekistan

the Gu-i-Amir mausoleum, and ChorChonor at Urgut will provide a deeper understanding of Uzbekistan’s fascinating religious history. Continuing by train to Bukhara, we will engage with its earliest history at the Ark Citadel as well as the perfectly preserved 10th century CE Ismail Samani Mausoleum. From there, we traverse the Kyzylkum desert to the oasis town of Khiva. Khiva’s Ichan Kala, the first site to be listed by UNESCO in the country, is home to the Tash-Khauli Palace, White Mosque,

Kunya Ark and other fascinating historical sites. In the western city of Nukus lies the Nukus Museum of Art, established by Igor Savitsky and housing the world’s second-largest collection of Russian avant-garde art. We will also be captivated by the sacred Mizdarkhan, a necropolis and archaeological site inhabited from the 4th century BCE. We will stay in a variety of specially selected hotels, chosen for their location as well as their character, reflecting Uzbekistan and Tajikistan’s diverse history.

Crossing into Tajikistan, we will be greeted by captivating views of the Tajik Sea and iconic Soviet-era roadside mosaics. At Sarazm, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Bronze Age settlement, we will trace Tajikistan’s earliest history. Our time in Panjakent will be dedicated to exploring the history of Bactria and Sogdiana and their role along the Silk Road. Returning to Uzbekistan, we will travel to the city of Samarkand for visits to the well-preserved Afrasiab and the awe-inspiring Registan Square. Time spent at the Shah-i-Zinda complex, 14

A ceramic shop in Rishtan, Uzbekistan

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Khujand Citadel,Tajikistan

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A good level of general fitness and stamina is required for this tour, and participants should meet ACE’s minimum fitness criteria, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions. The tour involves some long and full days (for example, the journey from Khiva to Bukhara takes eight hours with stops en route), one journey by train, two internal flights and travel across the border between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Some visits involve traversing steep and uneven ground, and participants should also be prepared for basic facilities in some places. This tour has a selection of hotels, chosen to carefully balance character and location, some of which will be simpler in standard than those on a typical Western tour.

ITINERARY

Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time, or will be time permitting on the day. Sites can close or change their opening times at short notice; therefore, some visits may be reordered. Day 1 Depart London. Day 2 Arrive Tashkent and transfer to Hotel Ramada, Tashkent for early check-in and time to rest. Afternoon: Museum of Applied Arts followed by walking tour of Tashkent including visits to Independence Square and Amir Timur Square. Overnight in Tashkent. Day 3 Transfer to Fergana on early morning flight. Morning visit to Margilan for Sunday Kumtepa Bazaar followed by free time. Two nights at Hotel Grand, Fergana. Evening lecture: The Silk Road. Day 4 Morning: visits in Margilan including silk production workshops. Afternoon: visits in Fergana. Day 5 Morning visits in Rishtan including ceramic bazaar and workshops. Continue across

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Seasonal Departures Our tour offers two distinct seasonal experiences. The spring departure (April/May) features the remarkable opportunity to witness silk production and silkworms (subject to local conditions). The autumn departure (September) will take place during harvest season and allow travellers to discover the delicious melons that have been a Silk Road staple for thousands of years. the border to Khujand, Tajikistan via Konibodom for views of Tajik Sea and iconic roadside Sovietera mosaics. Overnight stay at Parliament Palace, Khujand. Day 6 Visits in Khujand including Khujand Fortress (exterior), Old Soviet Era statues of Lenin and cable car for views of Syr Darya River. Continue to Panjakent via mountain pass. Overnight stay at Hotel Plaza Panjakent. Day 7 Ancient Panjakent ruins and museum followed by visit to UNESCO listed archaeological site of Sarazm. Continue across the border to Samarkand, Uzbekistan for afternoon walking tour of Guri-Amir Mausoleum, The Aq Serai and Registan Square. Three nights in Khosh-Havuz Boutique, Samarkand. Day 8 Morning: ancient site of Afrasiab and the Bibi Khanym Mosque (exterior). Afternoon: observatory built by Ulugh Beg followed by papermaking workshop and winery tour. Day 9 Morning: Depart for Urgut for suzani market, ancient plane trees and holy spring. Afternoon: Shaki-Zinda Funerary complex. Day 10 Depart on train for Bukhara. Transfer to Komil Boutique Hotel, Bukhara for two nights. Afternoon visits to Nakshbandi Mausoleum and Amir Summer Palace and complex.

This tour will be led by Chris Aslan. Chris was born in Turkey and spent his childhood there and in Beirut before studying Media and Journalism at Leicester University. He then moved to Khiva, a desert oasis in Uzbekistan, to establish a UNESCO workshop reviving 15th century carpet designs and embroideries and became the largest non-government employer in town. Following this, he moved to the Pamirs in Tajikistan, training yak herders to comb their yaks for their cashmere-like down, before spending two years in Kyrgyzstan establishing a wood-carving workshop. After further studies and rowing in Oxford, Chris is now based in Cambridge, where he focuses on his writing, with fiction works, including Alabaster, Manacle, Mosaic, and his latest non-fiction book, Unravelling the Silk Road. He also lectures for the Art Society and leads tours to Central Asia whenever he can. Day 11 Bukhara: Samanid Mausoleum, Chashma Ayub, Bolo Hauz, the Ark Citradel, Zindon, Friday Mosque, Mir-i-Arab Madrassah and LabiHauz. Optional Hamans or free time. Day 12 Drive through the Kyzylkum Desert to Khiva. Transfer to Muso To’ra, Khiva for three nights. Day 13 Khiva: silk factory founded by Tour Director Chris Aslan, Pahlavan Mahmud Complex, Ichan Kala Complex. Day 14 Khiva: Feuz Khan madrassah, Kunya Ark, Nurullaboy Palace, Isfandiya Khan Court Room and Khiva Silk Factory. Dinner at Tour Director Chris Aslan’s Uzbekistan family home for rooftop meal and dance demonstration. Day 15 Depart for Nukus via Topraq-Kala desert fortress. Visits to Nukus Museum of Art and Mizdarkhan. Depart Nukus for Tashkent on evening flight. Transfer to Hotel Ramada, Tashkent for two nights. Day 16 Free morning. Afternoon visits to Hast Imam Complex and Chorsu Bazaar. Day 17 Return flight from Tashkent to London. Cost of £6295 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, full board (except one lunch on day 3) with water & tea, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: visa for Tajikistan, travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £595. TOUR CODE: UZT126 / UZT226

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U Z B E K I S TA N | TA J I K I S TA N

GEORGIA

Wonders of Georgia: Archaeology, Culture & Landscape May 5–19, 2026 Undertake a once-in-a-lifetime adventure journeying from Tbilisi to Batumi via Bolnisi, Mtskheta, Kutaisi and Mestia

Jvari Monastery

Highlights will include the fascinating Ananuri Fortress Complex and Nokalakevi archaeological site Visit Ushguli, one of the highest continually inhabited settlements in Europe, surrounded by Georgia’s awe-inspiring landscape

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In May 2026, ACE invites you to join our immersive cultural adventure exploring the breathtaking country of Georgia. Designed to give travellers the very best experience of this rich and wonderful land, there is no more comprehensive tour, which weaves together Georgia’s ancient history and archaeology, art and architecture, modern history and cultural and religious heritage – from gastronomy to music. Spending our first five days in and around the capital, we will delve into Tbilisi’s fascinating historical quarters This tour will be led by Ian Colvin, an expert in the late Roman and Byzantine history of the Caucasus regions. Ian has extensive experience leading tours to Armenia, Georgia, Turkey and the southern Balkans. He trained as a historian and Byzantinist at Oxford in the 1990s, specialising in late antiquity and the Roman Eastern Frontier. He later moved to the University of Cambridge to become a researcher with the Cambridge School Classics Project, before establishing an archaeological excavation at Nokalakevi in collaboration with the Georgian National Museum, which continues to this day. 16

– from the ancient bathhouse district to Sameba (Holy Trinity) Cathedral, resplendent with traditionally-inspired decoration. We will make a day trip to the Kakheti region for the Tsinandali Estate, nestled in Georgia’s wine-making country, an industry dating back over 8000 years. The Palace of King Erekle II served as the royal residence in the 17th and 18th centuries and now houses an impressive museum. Another day trip will take us to Bolnisi, home to the oldest dated Christian structure in Georgia, as well as an excellent new museum showcasing the country’s ancient history from the Chalcolithic to the Middle Ages. Our journey then takes us north to the village of Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), renowned for its stunning mountainous backdrop and 14th century Gergeti Trinity Church, which famously gazes out across the clouds and snow-capped Caucasus. Returning south, we will stop at the fascinating Ananuri Fortress Complex, a classic example of Georgian architecture located at the crossroads of trade routes, and the ancient rock-hewn town of Uplistsikhe.

the archaeological site of Nokalakevi, occupied during the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine eras. UNESCO-recognised Ushguli comprises several ancient villages and is surrounded by an astoundingly beautiful landscape. While in Mestia, in the country’s northwest, we also hope to experience an evening of Georgian polyphony performed by the Svan, an ethnic subgroup living mainly in this part of the country. Our tour ends in Georgia’s second largest city of Batumi, with an excursion to the settlement of Gonio and its Roman fortress. Nokalakevi Archaeological Site

Following an overnight stay at Nika Vacheishvili’s charming guest house and winery, we continue west to Kutaisi and Bagrati Cathedral. We will also discover

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GEORGIA

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A very good level of fitness, mobility and stamina is required for this tour, and participants should meet ACE’s fitness criteria, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions. Some visits will involve moderate amounts of time spent walking, including up steps and over uneven ground, including on our tour of Tbilisi and at the archaeological site of Uplistsikhe (although there is an option to remain in the museum if preferred). Customers should also be comfortable undertaking some long coach journeys and days spent travelling, including (but not limited to) the day excursion to Bolnisi, and riding in 4x4s for certain visits. The ACE office is happy to provide more detail if you wish.

Our Accommodation Echoing the breadth and richness of the tour’s content, our itinerary includes six different hotel stays of a high quality and character. Opened in 1915, the Tbilisi Marriott Hotel is an outstanding five-star property with a beautiful façade, located next door to the National Gallery. In Kazbegi we will stay at Rooms Hotel, a luxurious four-star establishment offering wonderful views. Nika Vacheishvili’s Guest House in Didi Ateni, meanwhile, is tucked away between mountains and vineyards: this small family-run winery will make for a charming oasis for our overnight stay near Gori. We will stay in hotels of a four or five-star quality in our final three centres of Kutaisi, Mestia and Batumi.

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Smaller group – limited to 20 guests

ITINERARY

Please note that this itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation closer to the time. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 2125 on British Airways. Day 2 Arrive Tbilisi 0530 and transfer to Tbilisi Marriott Hotel for four nights (early check-in). Free time to rest. Welcome and introductory lecture, followed by afternoon walking tour of Tbilisi including Metekhi, Abanotubani (bathhouse district), Old Tbilisi and Sameba Cathedral (private performance of Georgian polyphony) - time permitting. Day 3 Morning visits in Tbilisi: Open Air Museum of Ethnography and Georgian National Museum (Simon Janashia Museum of Georgia). Free afternoon with option to visit the National Gallery. Evening: private classical concert at the Mose Toidze House Museum. Day 4 Whole day excursion to the Kakheti region: Tsinandali Estate (lunch and wine tasting) and Telavi for Palace of King Erekle II and History Museum. Day 5 Whole day excursion to Bolnisi including basilica and museum. Afternoon visit to Betania Monastery (time permitting). Day 6 Transfer to Kazbegi via Jvari Monastery and Mtskheta (Svetitskhoveli Cathedral and Samtavro Convent). Two nights at Rooms Hotel, Kazbegi. Day 7 Morning: Gergeti Trinity Church (by 4x4s). Afternoon: Darial Gorge and Sioni Church. Evening lecture: Georgia & the Eurasian Steppe.

Day 8 Ananuri Fortress Complex, Uplistsikhe and Stalin Museum, Gori. Overnight at Nika Vacheishvili’s Guest House. Day 9 Visit to Ateni Church, followed by Kutaisi for Gelati Monastery (subject to opening) and Bagrati Cathedral. Two nights at Newport Hotel, Kutaisi. Day 10 Optional early morning walking tour of Kutaisi city centre and market, followed by visits to Vani Archaeological Museum and Nokalakevi. Day 11 Transfer to Mestia via Enguri hydroelectric dam and Matskhvarishi Church, Lalati. Two nights at Gistola Hotel, Mestia. Day 12 Morning visit by 4x4s to Ushguli: Lamaria Church. Afternoon: Mestia Museum. Evening performance of Georgian polyphony by the Svan people (based in northwest Georgia). Day 13 Transfer to Batumi via Dadiani Palace Museum, Zugdidi. Two nights at Radisson Blu Hotel, Batumi. Day 14 Walking tour of Batumi followed by excursion to Gonio for Apsarus. Concluding lecture: 12 influences that made Georgia. Day 15 Depart Batumi 1035 on Turkish Airlines via Istanbul, arriving Heathrow 1505.

Cost of £6995 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, fourteen breakfasts, eleven lunches (one packed), thirteen dinners (one light) with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £845. TOUR CODE: GEOR26

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Tbilisi

U N I T E D S TAT E S O F A M E R I C A

Great Art Collections of New England May 11–19, 2026 Visit the historical university collections of Harvard and Yale, featuring important Old Master, American and British paintings, including the Yale Center for British Art following a two-year renovation

Dismounted: The Fourth Troopers Moving the Led Horses by Frederic Remington, 1890

PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA THE CLARK ART INSTITUTE

Explore the treasures of Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, as well as more intimate sites including the studio of artist Daniel Chester French Learn about the collectors and philanthropists who founded public art galleries, including the remarkable Isabella Stewart Gardner

This tour will be led by Sarah Burles, MA, an art historian and museum educator who studied History of Art at Cambridge University before gaining a Masters degree at University College London. Sarah’s career in museum and gallery education included 12 years at the Fitzwilliam Museum as well as work in other Cambridge museums, and she is particularly interested in the lives of the collectors whose legacies have shaped the museums we see today. She is an accredited Arts Society lecturer and experienced tour leader. Sarah looks forward to returning to New England with another ACE group in 2026. 18

them, and revel in masterpieces by artists ranging from Rembrandt to Renoir. Our journey starts in Connecticut, where we will visit the extensive university collections at Yale; America’s oldest public art gallery, the Wadsworth Atheneum; and the New Britain Museum of American Art, founded in 1903 as the first museum dedicated solely to American art. By contrast, works by Monet, Degas and Mary Cassatt are housed in a domestic setting at Hill-Stead in Farmington, a Colonial Revival house designed by Theodate Pope Riddle, one of America’s earliest female architects. We will then head north to rural Massachusetts, spending a day in and around Stockbridge. This picturesque New England town was home to Norman Rockwell, whose images for the cover of The Saturday Evening Post chronicle 20th century American life, and Daniel Chester French, who designed the famous image of the seated President Lincoln for his memorial in Washington.

Ando that provides space for temporary exhibitions and sits serenely in the Clark’s rural setting. Just down the road in North Adams is MASS MoCA, one of America’s largest museums of contemporary art, which opened in 1999 in a series of redeveloped industrial buildings. It is home to large-scale works by leading contemporary artists such as James Turrell, Louise Bourgeois and Anselm Kiefer, and sparks discussion about the role of museums in urban regeneration. The Mohawk Trail, a historical route with spectacular views once used by Native Americans, will take us back towards

Offering the Panal to the Bullfighter by Mary Cassatt, 1873

PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA THE CLARK ART INSTITUTE

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For any art lover, the museum and gallery collections of New England are a must-see. Their rich holdings of European and American paintings are staggering not only for the quality and quantity of works on display, but also for the beautiful buildings and settings that house them. This tour will allow us to explore these collections in depth, discover their histories and the extraordinary patrons who created

The Clark Institute in Williamstown was founded by Sterling and Francine Clark in 1955 to house their extensive art collection. The museum has been enhanced by a beautiful new extension designed by Japanese architect Tadao

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U N I T E D S TAT E S O F A M E R I C A “Sarah was an excellent tour leader” “Outstanding service” – ACE customers on previous Great Art Collections of New England tours

ITINERARY

Courtyard of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Boston. The wonderful collection of paintings and sculpture found at the Harvard Art Museum includes works by Botticelli, Fragonard, Whistler and Picasso. A highlight of our tour will be a visit to the astonishing Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, named after the woman who

Tour Director Sarah Burles writes: “This tour takes us to some of the most important art collections in the United States, where we will be privileged to see superb Old Master, French Impressionist and American paintings, as well as many other stunning works of art. In addition, the lives of the patrons and philanthropists who created these extraordinary collections present us with a series of fascinating narratives, as do the buildings which house them – several of which have recently been redeveloped by the world’s leading architects. The beautiful landscape of New England, the historical city of Boston and the university campuses of Harvard and Yale provide a varied backdrop to what will undoubtedly be a very memorable tour.”

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created her own Italian Renaissance palazzo to house her collection of art. Our itinerary concludes with an extended visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, where the collections are both world-class and wide-ranging: the ancient world, the Renaissance, the Art of the Americas and works from the Far East are all well represented in this stunning museum building with its central rotunda featuring frescoes by John Singer Sargent. The tour begins with three nights at the traditional Simsbury Inn in Hartford, followed by two nights at the comfortable and simply furnished Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Williamstown, selected for its convenient location. We will conclude with two nights at the Sheraton Commander Hotel in the Cambridge area of Boston, an elegant and classically decorated hotel ideally situated for Harvard. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour is not anticipated to be particularly strenuous, but participants will need to be prepared for spending extended periods of time on their feet, walking and standing in museums and galleries, some of which are large. Portable stools or benches are often available but cannot be guaranteed. At some points it is necessary to navigate stairs, but most sites have lifts. This tour also involves a moderate amount of travel by coach and three separate hotel stays. Participants should meet ACE’s usual fitness criteria, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

Day 1 Flight from London to Boston. Transfer to The Simsbury Inn, Hartford, for three nights. Welcome and introduction. Day 2 Whole day excursion to New Haven for Yale University Art Collection (Old Masters and American paintings), lunch at Elm City Club (Yale institution dating back to the 1800s), Yale Center for British Art (Gainsborough, Reynolds, Stubbs, Turner and Constable) and short visit to Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library. Day 3 Morning: Hill-Stead (French Impressionists). Afternoon: New Britain Museum of American Art and Wadsworth Atheneum (Old Masters and 19th century American paintings). Day 4 Transfer to Stockbridge for visit to Chesterwood (Daniel Chester French’s studio, restored first floor of his residence, gardens) and short walking tour of historical Stockbridge. Afternoon: Norman Rockwell Museum. Continue for two nights at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, Williamstown. Day 5 Morning: Clark Art Institute (English silver, early Italian and Flemish paintings, French Impressionists, Winslow Homer). Afternoon: Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA, with large scale works by Sol LeWitt, Anselm Kiefer and James Turrell). Day 6 Transfer via the Mohawk Trail for visit to Worcester Art Museum (significant collections of Old Master paintings, 19th century American art, Paul Revere silver). Continue to Boston for two nights at Sheraton Commander Hotel, Cambridge. Day 7 Morning: Harvard Art Museum (Old Masters, American and French 19th century, modern and contemporary paintings). Afternoon: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (housed in an Italianate palazzo filled with paintings, tapestries and furniture). Day 8 Visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Depart Boston on evening flight. Day 9 Arrive London.

Further details, including the tour cost, will be released in early summer 2025. Please contact the ACE office or visit our website to register your interest. TOUR CODE: GANE26

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KING OF HEARTS / CC BY-SA 4.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer; some elements may be subject to confirmation nearer the time, and we cannot guarantee the availability of all artworks listed. Please also note that all hotels are subject to final confirmation.

K A Z A K H S TA N

Kazakhstan: From the Silk Road to Sir Norman Foster June 5–19, 2026 Trace the span of Kazakhstan’s history from Bronze Age carvings to futuristic landmarks

Lake Issyk

Explore Silk Road connections at the UNESCO site of Turkistan, home to a famous Timurid Imperial mausoleum Discover Kazakhstan’s remarkable landscape and geology, including the ‘Valley of the Castles’ at Charyn Canyon

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A vast country harbouring immense cultural wealth, Kazakhstan is a land of crystal lakes and soaring mountains, Silk Road monuments and 20th century cathedrals. To visit is to experience a staggeringly rich geological landscape, some of the most stunning scenery in the world, and a historical and cultural heritage that stretches from the Bronze Age petroglyphs at Tamgaly, through the Timurid mausoleum at Turkistan, to Sir Norman Foster’s futuristic creations in Astana. We will begin in Kazakhstan’s historical former capital of Almaty, its name famously meaning ‘father of apples’. After familiarising ourselves with aspects of Kazakhstan’s history, geology and religious culture, we will make an excursion to one of its most magnificent and remote sites: Charyn Canyon, where the array of rare and characterful formations is testament to millennia of Tour Director Steve Mastin, MA, PGCE, FHA, studied history and classics before working as a schoolteacher for 17 years. A fellow of the Historical Association, Steve is a regular speaker at history conferences both in the UK and overseas. He has travelled widely and spent seven years living and working in Kazakhstan. 20

Reflecting on Daily Life – Personal Encounters Following a tour spanning the diverse landscape, cities and history of Kazakhstan, the group will meet some of Tour Director Steve Mastin’s Kazakh friends – made over many years living in the country – at a drinks reception on the last night in Astana. Together they will help to enrich our understanding of daily life in Kazakhstan, offering a convivial and uplifting note on which to end our tour. wind and water erosion. Meanwhile, the archaeological landscape of Tamgaly is home to 5000 ancient rock carvings (or petroglyphs), the majority dating to the Bronze Age.

cathedral and mosque, while also tracing Kazakhstan’s history at the new National Museum, which houses exhibits ranging from ancient ornaments (including the armour belonging to Kazakhstan’s mysterious ‘golden man’) to artwork and ethnographic artefacts. We will stay at several hotels throughout the tour, including centrally located four or five-star establishments in Almaty, Shymkent and Astana, and a comfortable three-star hotel in Turkistan, close to the mausoleum. Please note the hotels are subject to final confirmation.

Bayterek Tower, Astana

Leaving Almaty behind, we will fly to the southern city of Shymkent, originally founded as a caravanserai connected with a nearby Silk Road settlement. From here we will discover Kazakhstan’s trading heritage with a visit to Turkistan, home to the 14th century mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, one of the best-preserved monuments from the Timurid Empire. Our final journey will transport us forward in time to Kazakhstan’s modern capital of Astana, site of several astonishing buildings by Sir Norman Foster. We will visit the city’s

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K A Z A K H S TA N

“The experience was altogether illuminating, fascinating and fun” “Steve was outstanding, enthusiastic and very knowledgeable” – ACE customers on the 2024 Kazakhstan tour led by Steve Mastin FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour will involve a significant amount of walking, frequently over uneven ground, particularly at Tamgaly and Charyn Canyon. Tamgaly is a remote site and travellers should be comfortable ascending rugged and rocky pathways here – although to maintain safety standards we will not attempt to cover the entire route. Many of Kazakhstan’s most important sites are spread out from one another and participants should expect some long overland journeys by coach (including some off-road stretches) in addition to two internal flights. Participants should also be prepared for basic facilities on some of these journeys and at the sites themselves, although many places are now establishing more concrete visitor centres. Please also be aware that some visits will involve heights, including the Bayterek Tower in Astana. While we will endeavour to offer guests a variety of meals across the tour, travellers should be

Travelling in Kazakhstan Kazakhstan is not yet used to large groups of Western tourists. While we will endeavour to deliver the itinerary as accurately as possible, there may be some adjustments to the order and timings of visits on the ground.

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mindful that dishes in Kazakhstan frequently include red meat as their primary ingredient, including beef, mutton and horse meat, which we may be offered on occasion (with alternative options available). Participants should meet ACE’s fitness criteria, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

ITINERARY

This itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. Sites can close or change their opening times at short notice; therefore, some visits may be reordered. Day 1 Flight from London to Almaty. Day 2 Arrive Almaty and transfer to Mercure Almaty City Centre for six nights. Free time followed by afternoon orientation walking tour (including Gogol Street, site of Trotsky’s exile by Stalin). Welcome and introduction. Day 3 Morning lecture: The History of Kazakhstan. Visits in Almaty: Ascension Cathedral, WWII Memorial, Russian Imperial Governor’s Residence (exterior) and Central Mosque. Day 4 Whole day excursion from Almaty to Charyn Canyon National Park (spectacular geology). Day 5 Issyk Museum, town and lake (site of the discovery of the ‘Golden Man’ whose remains are now displayed in Astana). Day 6 Morning lecture: Apples & Tulips are from Kazakhstan. Further visits in Almaty: Green Bazaar, Museum of Arts (Russian 19th century art, Soviet era art and Kazakh art) and Republic Square. Optional evening performance in Almaty (ballet or opera – subject to scheduling). Day 7 Whole day excursion to UNESCO site of Tamgaly, archaeological landscape in the Chu-Ili Mountains, site of 5000 Bronze Age petroglyphs.

Day 8 Transfer by air to Shymkent and continue to UNESCO World Heritage site of Turkistan. Two nights in Turkistan. Optional nighttime walk with views of the mausoleum. Day 9 Visits to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi (commissioned by Timur) and the ancient Silk Road desert fortress of Sauran. Day 10 Return to Shymkent via Arystan Bab Mausoleum and Otrar archaeological site. Overnight at DoubleTree by Hilton, Shymkent. Day 11 Transfer by air to Astana and continue for four nights at Hilton Garden Inn. River cruise through central Astana followed by walking tour of the old city. Evening: operatic performance in Astana (subject to scheduling). Day 12 Morning lecture: Kazakhstan in the Soviet Era followed by visits including National Museum of Kazakhstan, Independence Square, Hazrat Sultan Mosque and Palace of Peace & Reconciliation. Day 13 Morning lecture: The Modern Age of Kazakhstan followed by visits including Khan Shatyr (shopping centre designed by Sir Norman Foster) and ALZHIR Memorial Museum. Day 14 Visits in Astana including Bayterek Tower (incredible views over the city) and Assumption Cathedral. Evening: farewell drinks reception with opportunity to talk about modern life in Kazakhstan with guest speakers. Day 15 Return flight from Astana to London. Cost of £5995 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, thirteen breakfasts, ten lunches (five packed), thirteen dinners (one light & one buffet) with water & tea, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £575. TOUR CODE: KAZA26

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Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi

U N I T E D S TAT E S O F A M E R I C A

Great Art Collections of New York: 250 Years of Independence September 14–21, 2026 Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Leutze, 1851

PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART

Explore vibrant collections of modern and contemporary art at the Neue Gallerie, MoMA, the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Bushwick Street Art tour Discover the social history of New York through material culture and personal stories at the Tenement Apartments Museum F U RT H E R A F I E L D

The iconic and dazzling city of New York is the cosmopolitan centre of America, home to an abundance of brilliant art collections. This tour takes place during the 250 year anniversary of independence, which provides a fascinating backdrop for exploring the country’s history and culture through a selection of art installations and institutions. We will begin with a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, brimming with objects that span 5000 years of history, dedicating a day to exploring its treasures. Here we will focus on unravelling the narrative of American art through great painters like John Singleton Copley, John Singer Sargent and Thomas Cole, as well as viewing This tour will be led by Marie-Anne Mancio, MPhil, DPhil, an art historian, writer, experienced tour leader and Arts Society accredited lecturer. Marie-Anne originally trained as an artist before gaining a DPhil at the University of Sussex in art and critical theory. She has written and presented courses for Tate and Dulwich Picture Gallery; writes reviews, catalogue essays and historical fiction; and is a frequent visitor to New York. 22

“New York surpasses every cliché. It’s where world-class collections like the Met and Whitney tell the history of America through its art; where vibrant street art meets state-of-the-art commercial galleries in fashionable districts; where the sun setting on its iconic skyline is a performance in itself. I can’t wait to share my passion for this city that has had a place in my heart for the past thirty years” – Tour Director Marie-Anne Mancio

In conjunction, we will visit the Tenement Apartment Museum, an immersive site that accurately recreates homes of immigrant and migrant families during the 19th and 20th centuries. This poignant and personal retelling of social history uses material culture to encapsulate the lives of the working class who were so integral to the development of the nation and its culture.

some of the collection’s unmissable highlights, from a small Fabergé egg to the immense Temple of Dendur. We will then venture to the Guggenheim, its sculpturally experimental facade making it one of the most controversial museums ever built. Our focus here will be on the temporary exhibition as well as Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and modern French masterpieces. These works by Degas, Manet, van Gogh and Picasso arrived at the museum courtesy of the Jewish art dealer Justin K Thannhauser (1892– 1976), who came to New York to escape persecution during World War Two, and their presence testifies to the importance of European patronage in the story of American art.

Portrait of Madame X by John Singer Sargent, 1884

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PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Become immersed in the iconic masterpieces of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim and Frick Gallery

U N I T E D S TAT E S O F A M E R I C A

Further artwork will be enjoyed at the Frick Gallery, set within an elegant mansion complete with three historic gardens. Here we have the opportunity to view masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, Goya and Turner, along with the newly refurbished Boucher Room, once Adelaide Frick’s private sitting room. New York is also famed for its instrumental role in the evolution of modern and contemporary art, and we will take the chance to explore a variety of important sites. Our trip to the Neue Galerie, where we hope to see Klimt’s exquisite creation Woman in Gold, will provide a fruitful insight into German and Austrian modernism. At the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) we will delight in a tour of the Master Works collection, and at the Whitney Museum of American Art we will We have programmed several free evenings so group members can book their own activities if wished, such as an opera, ballet or concert performance. We also hope to offer a specially curated evening at a city gallery including privileged access and opportunities to ask in-depth questions – more details will be released closer to departure.

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encounter the works of renowned artists like Edward Hopper, Thomas Hart Benton, Ellsworth Kelly, Alex Katz and Jacob Lawrence. The Bushwick Street Art tour presents us with the innovative and exciting scene of contemporary arts. Founded by Joseph Ficalora in 2012, the project invites artists from around the world, and homegrown Bushwick talent, to contribute murals that last for a year before being replaced. With a focus on regenerative creativity and underscoring art in flux, this installation is a unique opportunity to see vibrant art in the heart of the city.

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A good overall level of fitness is required for this tour, as it involves a moderate amount of citybased walking taken at a reasonable pace, on pavements which can be crowded. Most visits will be taken by public transport, an efficient way of getting around New York, so participants should feel comfortable using the subway and going up and down steps in and out of stations.

ITINERARY

Please note that the below itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and we cannot guarantee the viewing of all artwork/artists mentioned. The evening session at a private gallery in New York will be confirmed closer to the time. Day 1 Flight from London to New York. Transfer to a centrally-located hotel for six nights.

We will also take time to explore the intersections of natural environments and cityscapes through a guided tour of Central Park and a jaunt along the High Line, a shining example of biophilic urbanism.

Day 2 Whole day at the Met Museum, including guided visits focusing on American art history and permanent collection highlights. Free evening.

This tour will be based in a comfortable hotel of a four-star standard, with further details released nearer the time.

Day 4 Morning: Tenements Apartments Museum. Afternoon: New Museum followed by a walking tour of the Highline. Free evening.

Full details including the tour cost and final itinerary will be released later in 2025. To register your interest, please visit the ACE website or contact the office. TOUR CODE: GANY26

Day 3 Morning at the Guggenheim Museum followed by a guided walking tour of Central Park. Afternoon: visit to the Neue Galerie.

Day 5 Morning visit to the Frick Gallery, followed by the Museum of Modern Art. Optional visit to Top of the Rock. Free evening. Day 6 Excursion to Bushwick for street art tour followed by free time for independent exploration of Brooklyn and New York. Day 7 Visit to the Whitney Museum. Transfer to airport and depart New York on evening flight. Day 8 Arrive London.

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PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Gas by Edward Hopper, 1940

S PA I N / M O RO C C O

From Spain to Morocco: Roman Hispania and Mauretania November 20 – December 3, 2026 Journey from Spain to Morocco, traversing the trade and conquest routes on the western Mediterranean

St Mary of the See, Seville

Discover the stunning Phoenician and Roman ruins at Cadiz – the oldest city in Western Europe Explore outstanding Roman & Muslim ruins at the ancient port of Chellah and the Mauritanian capital of Voubilis

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This newly updated tour will whisk travellers through the history of Roman Hispania and Mauretania, from Spain to Morocco. We plan to explore a myriad of sites that delve deep into the ancient past of these two fascinating countries while also examining their more modern narratives. Spain and Morocco share a complex history marked by both conflict and extensive cultural, economic and artistic exchange. This relationship, which began in Roman times and continued through the Almoravid and Almohad dynasties to the 18th century, remains relevant today. Located in the Maghreb, “the West” region of North Africa, Morocco’s earliest recorded history begins with Phoenician occupation between the 8th and 6th centuries BCE. Roman expansion into

this vast landscape allowed the extension of its authority and influence across the Mediterranean. The spread of Islam during the mid-7th century then gave birth to an artistic and architectural legacy of enormous diversity. Within Spain similar developments were taking place through the evolution of its architecture, religion and societal structure.

The Spanish portion of our tour promises to reveal a fascinating array of sites and towns where Phoenician, Roman and Moorish influences are evident. Seville boasts the immense Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, a Gothic masterpiece constructed on the foundation of an Almohad mosque. The cathedral’s crowning glory is La Giralda, originally a minaret and a prime example of Moorish Lixus

Our Tour Director is Eireann Marshall, PhD, a Research Associate and Associate Lecturer with the Open University. Educated at Barnard College, Columbia, and the universities of Birmingham and Exeter, Eireann is an expert in the classical and ancient worlds and has published several articles on ancient North Africa. She has led many tours across Europe and North Africa. 24

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El Badi Palace

and Almohad design. The Alcazar, cathedral and General Archive of the West Indies together form a UNESCO World Heritage site, illustrating the fusion of Islamic and Christian design. In Córdoba, the archaeological museum, situated above the remains of a Roman theatre, provides insights into the city’s history, and the Great Mosque stands as a testament to its Islamic legacy. We hope to experience Spain’s ancient past firsthand at Italica and Cádiz. Italica, a Roman city founded in 206 BCE in the region of Hispania, presents an extensive archaeological site featuring Hadrianic buildings, small bathhouses and an impressive amphitheatre, as well as well-preserved Roman streets and mosaic floors. Cádiz, one of Western Europe’s oldest cities, provides glimpses into its Phoenician origins as a trading post and the subsequent historical developments, including Moorish expansion, that have shaped it to the present day. Full details, including the itinerary and tour cost, will be released later in 2025. Please contact the ACE office or visit our website to register your interest. TOUR CODE: MORO26

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Venturing across the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco, our exploration of western Phoenician and Roman history continues at Tétouan and Banasa. Tétouan’s history begins with the ancient Mauretanians in the 3rd millennium BCE, evolving through Phoenician trade to become a Roman colony under Augustus. We will also discover Iulia Valentia Banasa, another Augustan foundation, and its Roman remains, including a basilica, forum and frescoes. Furthermore, we will seek to uncover the mysteries of Lixus, linked to the legendary Garden of Hesperides, and visit the magnificent Roman ruins of Volubilis, ancient Mauretania’s capital, with its extensive 2nd and 3rd century CE remains. Our time in Morocco will reveal layers of ancient and medieval history. In Rabat, we will encounter the Chellah, a captivating walled citadel. Once a bustling ancient port, it was transformed in the 14th century into a necropolis for the Marinid dynasty, forming one of Morocco’s most beautiful ruins. Founded in the 9th century and home to the world’s oldest university, Fez flourished under Marinid rule, leaving

behind a remarkable architectural heritage. Here, we hope to wander through an elaborate plethora of souks, madrasas, mosques and minarets dating from the 13th century. We also hope to visit Meknès. Established in the 11th century and later revitalised by Sultan Moulay Ismaïl in the 18th, Meknès offers an attractive example of the harmonious blend of Islamic and Spanish styles. Finally, we will be captivated by Marrakesh, with its intricate 16th century Saadian tombs and the vast and eloquent remnants of the El Badi Palace. Meanwhile, the snow-capped High Atlas will provide a stunning backdrop to our understanding of this boundless landscape. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A good level of fitness, mobility and stamina is required for this tour, as it involves a significant amount of travel and different hotel stays, as well as time spent walking and standing at historical sites, where there are not always frequent opportunities to sit down. Participants should be prepared for traversing uneven ground, steps and cobbles, as well as dimly lit interiors. Please consult ACE’s minimum fitness requirements in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

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S PA I N / M O RO C C O

MEXICO

Frida, Diego & Modernism in Mexico City November 29 – December 8, 2026

Encounter dynamic architecture within the city from the ethereal Museo Anahuacalli to the modernist buildings at Museo de Arte Moderno Be immersed in Mayan civilisation and its impact on artists and architects at the ancient city of Teotihuacan Frida Kahlo’s art studio at Casa Azul

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“Mexico City is arguably one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world and certainly one of the richest in culture, with a legacy of art, architecture and traditions that spans two worlds” – Tour Director Stephen Nelson The captivating aesthetics of Mexico City, intertwined with its historical legacy, make it an incredible destination for experiencing art and culture. Our tour is centred around modern art and muralism, particularly the work of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, two of This tour will be led by Stephen Nelson, BA, MA. Stephen is an artist who divides his time between London and southern Italy. After completing undergraduate and masters degrees in Fine Art (Cardiff and Birmingham), he has since established his practice as a sculptor, working in a range of materials and media. Stephen’s work has been exhibited internationally and in the UK, and he also curates exhibitions, including shows in Eritrea, Tanzania and London. Stephen has led numerous art and cultural tours throughout Europe and further afield, and has acquired specialist knowledge of Mexico, with Mexico City remaining among his favourite cities in the world. 26

Mexico’s most esteemed artists. We will encounter an abundance of masterpieces within museums, home studios and public spaces, and develop a deep appreciation of Frida and Diego’s distinct artistic identities through the city’s wider backdrop of ancient civilisations, innovative architectural design and flourishing natural environment.

Anahuacalli also boasts a unique and fascinating space to explore Mexican art. Consisting of a studio, art museum and temple, this ethereal gem is boldly influenced by Mayan and Toltec design and contains an ecological reserve for native flora, reflecting Rivera’s deep reverence for his heritage and surrounding environment.

A particular highlight will be the unique opportunity to experience Frida Kahlo’s work at Casa Azul. A biographical museum that preserves objects of her life within her late home, the site’s deeply personal environment influenced many of her paintings such as Self-Portrait with a Thorn Necklace and Hummingbird.

To experience the diversity of modern aesthetics within the city, we plan to visit the Museo de Arte Moderno. This harmonious trio of asymmetrical and minimalist buildings uses light and colour to generate a transcendent

Diego Rivera’s work meanwhile will be explored at the city’s Ministry of Education, which provides a magnificent site for enquiry. Spanning 117 panels across the institution and its courtyards, Diego’s monumental narrative is rooted in the left-wing politics of its time. For a dedicated look into the life and creative practices of the couple, we will visit the modernist Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo, which showcases their original studio spaces within a bright and functionalist building designed by painter and architect Juan O Gorman. Set within lush gardens where wild peacocks roam, the Dolores Olmedo Museum offers us a privileged display of Frida and Diego’s work, amongst an extensive collection of fine art and archaeological treasures. The Museo

“If there is one thing you can expect from Mexico City, it’s the unexpected. This dynamic 21st century capital still stands on the lakesite of the ancient Aztec city of Tenochitlan, a city of temples, palaces, markets, waterways and floating farms, of which traces are visible not only in the fabric and layout of the city but also in modern murals by artists such as Diego Rivera. The postrevolutionary city was and still is a magnet for artists and writers, and it hums with music, colour and unexpected delights, including world-class museums, galleries, parks and cuisine (you can find the world’s only Michelin-starred taqueria).” – Tour Director Stephen Nelson

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CODAS / CC BY-SA 4.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Experience unparalleled access to Frida Kahlo’s iconic paintings and Diego Rivera’s emblematic murals

The History of Mexico by Diego Rivera, 1929-1935 in the stairwell of the Palacio Nacional

Mexico City also offers a wealth of ancient sites, including the Templo Mayor Museum and Teotihuacan. Once a leading centre in the Mayan world, and later claiming the position of Aztec capital, Teotihuacan continues to project a noble monumentality. The site is home to an array of enduring urban structures including the Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon; alongside beautiful artwork such as the red wall paintings and frescoes of the Tepanitla complex. Various lunches and dinners will add to the cultural experience of our tour, including the outstanding La Goruta restaurant set within a cave, complete with colourful seating and candlelit corners. Further, the San Angel Inn, an upmarket restaurant set in a former monastery, presents a decorative atmosphere with original architecture.

ITINERARY

Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. Day 1 Flight from London to Mexico City International Airport. Transfer to hotel for eight nights. Day 2 Visits to the Templo Mayor Museum (original layered pyramids) and the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral (built on the crossroads of the four original neighborhoods of Tenochtitlan). Evening lecture. Day 3 Visits to the Ministry of Education (117 murals by Diego Rivera) and National Palace, followed by Casa Azuljos (exterior viewing of tiled facade). Day 4 Morning lecture followed by excursion to Casa Estudio de Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo (studios with functionalist architecture). Continue to San Angel Inn (coffee break in former monastery), Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo’s home and biographical museum) and Museo

Anahuacalli (art museum, studio and temple conceived by Diego Rivera). Day 5 Full day at Teotihuacan (ancient city complex) including Avenue of the Dead, Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Moon and the Tepanitla complex (red wall paintings and frescos). Day 6 Morning lecture followed by visits to the National Anthropological Museum, Museo de arte Moderno (modern art including Manuel Álvarez Bravo and David A Siqueiros), Dolores Olmedo Museum (significant collection of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera). Free evening. Day 7 Day at leisure with optional visits in the city. Free evening. Day 8 Visits to the Museum of Folkloric Art, Museo Soumaya (European and Hispanic painting) and Museo Jumex. Day 9 Morning visits in Mexico City (subject to final flight arrangements). Evening flight from Mexico City International Airport. Day 10 Arrive London.

We will stay in a comfortable hotel of a four or five-star quality situated in or close to the historical centre of Mexico City.

Full details, including the cost and confirmed itinerary will be released in summer 2025. To register your interest, please visit the ACE website or contact the office. TOUR CODE: MEXO26

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Ancient city of Teotihuacán

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atmosphere in which to view compelling artwork, including evocative stills captured by photographer Manuel Álvarez Bravo and the surrealist social commentary of David A Siqueiros.

RON PRZYSUCHA, US STATE DEPARTMENT / PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

MEXICO

EGYPT

Ancient Egypt and the Nile: From Cairo to Aswan December 2026

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Temple of Philae

Enjoy three nights in Cairo and an exclusive cruise along the Nile in a traditional dahabiya Explore the spectacular archaeological sites at Luxor, including the Temple of Karnak and the Valley of the Kings Visit the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, the permanent home of the treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb Embark on a remarkable journey with ACE along the Nile, from the serene city of Aswan, nestled in the heart of ancient Nubia, to the captivating ‘openair museum’ of Luxor, where many of Egypt’s most magnificent treasures await. This unforgettable cruise aboard a classic and comfortable dahabiya (exclusively chartered for this group) begins with an exploration of the historical wonders in and around Egypt’s vibrant capital of Cairo.

Museum, likely to be the world’s largest archaeological museum when it fully opens in 2025, home to a collection of Pharaonic treasures including those from the tomb of Tutankhamun. Meanwhile, at the desert’s edge in Saqqara, we will uncover the ancient burial ground of Memphis and site of the proto-typical Step Pyramid. We then fly to Luxor to board our traditional dahabiya and begin our cruise. While in the city, we will discover the city’s peerless ancient sites, including the monumental ‘East Bank’ temples of Luxor and Karnak and the world-

renowned ‘West Bank’ tombs and temples, including the necropolis of the pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings. Journeying along the river, we will survey a range of fascinating temples and archaeological ruins. Esna, located some thirty miles south of Luxor, boasts the miraculously preserved Temple of Khnum, the ram-headed god revered by the Egyptians as the guardian of the source of the Nile. An international team has spent five years cleaning and restoring the temple’s ceiling so travellers can now view a wondrous array of astronomical reliefs, cultures and hieroglyphics. Temple Of Khnum

We will delve into Giza, home to the awe-inspiring pyramids and Great Sphinx, before our explorations continue with a visit to the new Grand Egyptian 28

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EGYPT

At Edfu, the most complete of all Egyptian temples, we will admire the vivid reliefs recounting the dramatic struggle for power between Horus and Set. The Ptolemaic ruins of Kom Ombo, standing sentinel on a bend in the Nile, provide the most striking of settings for the Temple of Sobek and Haroeris, dedicated to the crocodile god and his falcon-headed counterpart.

ITINERARY

On arrival in Aswan, we will visit Agilkia Island, the idyllic stage for a remarkable series of monuments saved from the flooded island of Philae, along with Aswan High Dam and a tour of the famous granite quarries.

Day 2 Whole day excursion to Saqqara (including Step Pyramid and mastabas with remarkable paintings) and Memphis (limestone Colossus of Ramses). Short evening talk: An Introduction to Ancient Egypt.

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour requires a good level of fitness as, although our itinerary is not strenuous, we have a full programme of visits. Participants must be prepared for walking over rough ground and in dimly lit temples, using small river boats, and walking over steps, stairs, narrow gangplanks and boat roofs. Crew members are usually available to assist but participants must have a good level of mobility. Please be aware that temperatures are also likely to be warm and days will be long. Sites may also have little to no shade and limited opportunities to sit down; in particular the West Bank and Saqqara are open sites with no cover. We recommend consulting ACE’s usual fitness requirements as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

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Please note that this description and itinerary represent a guide to what we hope to offer, and a final itinerary will be published on the ACE website when this tour is released for sale later in 2025. Please note that some visits and excursions may be subject to confirmation, opening times and/or the weather closer to departure. Some visits may be reordered depending on final sailing schedules. Day 1 Flight from London to Cairo. Two nights in Cairo.

Day 3 Pyramids of Giza and Great Sphinx followed by new Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza (full collection of Pharaonic treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun, Solar Boat Museum with original Pharaonic vessel). Flight from Cairo to Luxor. Embark a traditional dahabiya for eight nights. Day 4 West Bank: Valley of the Kings (tombs of Horemheb, Seti I and Ramses III), Temple of Queen Hatshepsut (mortuary temple of 15th century BCE Egyptian queen) and Colossi of Memnon, Ramesseum, Medinet Habu and Deir el-Medina. It may also be possible to visit the tomb of Tutankhamun at an additional supplement, subject to opening times. Day 5 Vast temple complex of Karnak, Avenue of Sphinxes and Temple of Luxor. Cruise to Esna. Day 6 Visit to Temple of Khnum (great hypostyle hall) at Esna. Cruise to Edfu.

Day 7 Visit to Ptolemaic Temple of Horus (most complete of all Egyptian temples) at Edfu. Cruise to Kom Ombo. Day 8 Visit to Temple of Sobek and Haroeris at Kom Ombo. Cruise to Aswan. Day 9 Optional excursion by air to Abu Simbel for Great Temple of Ramses II on shores of Lake Nasser (at an additional supplement), or free time on board. Afternoon: by motorboat to Elephantine Island. Day 10 Morning at leisure on board. By motorboat to Agilkia Island (superb Ptolemaic monuments including Philae Temple), followed by visits to Aswan High Dam (one of the engineering wonders of the world) and ancient granite quarries. Day 11 Disembark. Flight from Aswan to Cairo. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Cairo. Day 12 Morning visits in Coptic Cairo: churches, Ben Ezra Synagogue, Coptic Museum. Flight from Cairo to London.

Full details, including the tour dates, Tour Director, cost, updated itinerary, confirmed vessel and accommodation, will be released later in 2025. To register your interest, please visit the ACE website or contact the office. TOUR CODE: AENC26

F U RT H E R A F I E L D

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Tomb Of Seti I

M A LTA

Music & History of Malta January 18–24, 2026

E U RO P E View of Valletta

Enjoy the superb playing of both international and local artists during the Valletta Baroque Festival Explore the multi-layered history and artistic treasures of the island, from Roman mosaics to Maltese lace

We have designed this tour to offer a rich and multi-sensory introduction to the beautiful island of Malta during a less crowded time of year. Not only will our tour encompass an array of beautiful early music and Baroque concerts, but we will also gain an insight into the vibrant history of a country with foundations stretching back to some of the world’s oldest civilisations and its artistic and architectural treasures. 30

Valletta has, for several years, offered a magnificent annual festival celebrating some of the finest international performers of Baroque music in the world, alongside talented local artists. These concerts will form a key component of our itinerary, with performances often taking place in a stunning selection of venues, from the Baroque jewel of St Catherine’s, Żurrieq, whose walls are adorned with the paintings of 17th century artist Mattia Preti, to the 16th century Verdala Palace, official summer residence of the President of Malta, and of course the capital’s splendid Manoel Theatre. Previous festivals have included performances by the Swiss early music Abchordis Ensemble, harpsichordist and multi-award winner Andrea Buccarella, recordist Erik Bosgraaf and the “stupendous” harpist Keziah Thomas. A particularly privileged experience will be a private lecture-recital with our Tour Director Ashley Solomon, featuring

instruments from the Spohr collection of original baroque flutes. Malta offers a particularly rich concentration of history and associated

The Martyrdom of Saint Catherine, Mattia Preti, 17th Century

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Delve into multiple layers of art, history and music in the city of Valletta and its surroundings

Manoel Theatre

artistic and architectural wonders. Alongside the musical highlights, we will explore the ancient history of the island’s capital with visits to its prehistoric temples, and venture to the island of Gozo, home to St John the Baptist Church in Xewkija with its immense unsupported dome. Also in Valletta, we will stop at St John’s Cathedral – home to works by Caravaggio – as well as the Upper Barrakka Gardens with their captivating views and the Grandmaster’s “A great concert to end the tour on. A popular piece but completely reimagined by the UK based harpist who was exceptional. Very communicative, musical and sympathetic… She won over the audience from the outset” – Tour Director Ashley Solomon on the 2024 tour to Malta

Palace. At the resplendent Casa Rocca Piccola, built in 1580, we will explore one of the most beautiful private collections of Maltese lace in the city. Meanwhile, the island’s Roman heritage is presented in Rabat’s Domus Romana Museum. We will stay throughout at Valletta’s five-star Grand Hotel Excelsior, located a short walk from the major visits on our

tour. This elegant property, occupying a building surrounded by 16th century fortifications, overlooks Marsamxett Harbour and Fort Manoel. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour involves extensive walking within Valletta and during our excursions beyond the city. Participants should be comfortable walking over uneven ground and have a good overall level of fitness and mobility. Please consult ACE’s fitness requirements in our Booking Terms & Conditions prior to booking your place.

“This was an outstanding tour… Everything ran smoothly and was well organised. The content was impressive with a variation of both concerts and archeological interest and visits to wonderful Baroque architecture”

Further details, including the tour cost and itinerary, will be released in summer 2025. Please contact the ACE office or visit our website to register your interest. Please note the tour dates are subject to adjustment following the release of the festival programme. TOUR CODE: MUHM26

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This tour will be led by Ashley Solomon, FRAM, FRCM, and Marie-Anne Mancio, MPhil, DPhil. Ashley is Chair and Head of Historical Performance at the Royal College of Music and Director of Baroque ensemble Florilegium. As a result of his commitment to editing and performing music from the Mission Churches of Chiquitos and Moxos Indians in Bolivia, Ashley was the first European to be awarded the coveted Hans Roth Prize in 2008. He has performed at the Valletta Festival several times in the past and is delighted to be returning to Malta with a group in 2026. Marie-Anne is an art historian, writer, experienced tour leader and Arts Society accredited lecturer. She originally trained as an artist before gaining a DPhil at the University of Sussex in art and critical theory. She has written and presented courses for Tate and Dulwich Picture Gallery; writes reviews, catalogue essays and historical fiction; and is a frequent visitor to Italy. She is currently writing a book about Caravaggio.

“Excellent combination of fine music, talks and visits”

– ACE customers on a 2024 tour to Malta

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Pompeii with Herculaneum January 26 – February 1, 2026 with Jamie Sewell | April 20–26, 2026 with Eireann Marshall October 31 – November 7, 2026 with Steve Mastin Forum of Pompeii with Vesuvius in background

E U RO P E

Gain an understanding of day-today life in the Roman Empire Discover Cumae, one of the most important Greek city-states in antiquity, alongside Pozzuoli with its impressive Roman amphitheatre Explore Paestum with its Doric sanctuaries and the renowned Archaeological Museum in vibrant Naples Our popular tour introduces travellers to the ancient time capsules of Pompeii and Herculaneum, Roman cities in the Campania region of Italy frozen in situ by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE. The itinerary offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore these remarkably preserved sites and provides a unique window into daily life in the Roman Empire. We particularly look forward to viewing the recently unearthed Roman bathhouse complex, discovered by Gabriel Zuchtriedel, the director of Pompeii Archaeological Park. Considered to be the “biggest bath complex in a Pompeiian private home” known to date, these ruins are thought to have been the private residence of Aulus Rustius Verus. 32

As well as investigating the ruins of Vesuvius’s twin victims, we will view the exceptional finds on display at the National Archaeological Museum in the ever-vibrant city of Naples. Paestum, an ancient Greek city founded by Sybaris around 600 BCE, is famed for its well preserved Doric temples and sanctuaries, considered among the finest examples in the ancient world. The city is also known for its distinctive art and paintings, which are featured on pottery and tombs currently on display in the museum.

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A good level of fitness is required for this tour, and participants should be aware that the terrain at the archaeological sites can be uneven with slippery and rocky sections, and few opportunities to sit down. Please note that the optional ascent up Vesuvius involves a steep walk of around 30 minutes, and Cumae also includes an extended uphill walk. For more details on our minimum fitness requirements, please see our Booking Terms & Conditions.

We will also visit Cumae and Pozzuoli. Our visit to the Cumae archaeological site will highlight the influence of early Magna Graecia as well as its significant political and economic prominence during antiquity. Built in the 1st century CE, the Flavian amphitheatre at Pozzuoli hosted gladiatorial and theatrical events. For our January and April departures we will stay at the four-star Hotel Forum in Pompeii, ideally located just a couple of minutes on foot from the Pompeii archaeological site. For our specially extended October departure we will stay at the Hotel La Medusa, Castellammare di Stabia, an attractive four-star establishment set in beautiful grounds.

Villa Poppaea fresco

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I TA LY House of the Golden Cupids, Pompeii

The October departure will be led by Steve Mastin, MA, PGCE, FHA, who studied history and classics before working as a school teacher for 17 years, leading trips to Italy, France and Germany. Steve is a Fellow of the Historical Association and is a regular speaker at history conferences both in the UK and overseas. ITINERARY – OCTOBER TOUR (EXTENDED DEPARTURE) Day 1 Flight from London to Naples. Transfer to Hotel La Medusa, Castellammare di Stabia for seven nights. Welcome and introduction. Day 2 Herculaneum (panoramic villas, palaestra, baths, shops) followed by the Villa Poppaea, Oplontis (fine wall-paintings, huge piscina) and Villa Regina, Boscoreale. Evening talk.

The January departure will be led by Jamie Sewell, PhD who has many years’ experience supervising excavations across Europe, including in Italy. Jamie has authored a book and many articles on the archaeology of towns in Hellenistic Italy and the broader Mediterranean.

The April departure will be led by Eireann Marshall, PhD, who was raised in the Veneto and educated at Barnard College, Columbia University and the universities of Birmingham and Exeter. She is an experienced tour leader, having led many tours throughout Europe and North Africa.

Please note that the itineraries represent a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements, including the lecture titles, may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. Certain visits may happen in a different order depending on the departure.

Day 5 Whole day visit to Pompeii: forum, shopping macellum, Villa of the Mysteries, baths, theatres and Houses of the Faun, Venus and Vettii – the latter recently restored. Evening talk.

ITINERARY – JANUARY & APRIL TOURS Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 1010 on British Airways, arriving Naples 1350. Transfer to Hotel Forum for six nights. Welcome and introduction.

Day 7 Morning visit to Villa San Marco and Villa Arianna, Stabiae (final flight times permitting). Depart Naples 1805, arriving Heathrow 1950.

Day 2 Whole day excursion to Paestum: Temples of Ceres, Hera and Neptune, museum (fine archaic reliefs). Day 3 Morning visit to Naples Archaeological Museum (artefacts from Vesuvian sites). Continue to the slopes of Mt Vesuvius and ascend by coach, followed by optional ascent to the crater (weather permitting; must be done on foot). Evening talk. Day 4 Herculaneum (panoramic villas, palaestra, baths, shops) followed by the Villa Poppaea, Oplontis (fine wall-paintings, huge piscina) and Villa Regina, Boscoreale. Evening talk.

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Day 4 Whole day visit to Pompeii: forum, shopping macellum, Villa of the Mysteries, baths, theatres and Houses of the Faun, Venus and Vettii – the latter recently restored. Day 5 Whole day excursion to Paestum: Temples of Ceres, Hera and Neptune, museum (fine archaic reliefs). Evening talk. Day 6 Cumae (cave of the Sibyl, acropolis) and Pozzuoli (amphitheatre). Day 7 Depart for whole day exploration of Sorrento including visits to ancient Greek and Roman wall (rebuilt in the 14th-16th centuries), cathedral and basilica followed by free time. Day 8 Morning visit to Villa San Marco and Villa Arianna, Stabiae (final flight times permitting). Return flight from Naples to London.

Day 6 Cumae (cave of the Sibyl, acropolis) and Pozzuoli (amphitheatre).

Cost of £2995 (January tour) includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, six breakfasts, two lunches (one packed), six dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Cost of £3095 (April tour) includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, six breakfasts, two lunches (one packed), six dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes.

Cost of £3495 (October extended tour) includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, seven breakfasts, two lunches (one packed), seven dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £385 (January departure) / £415 (April departure) / £485 (October departure). TOUR CODE: POM126 / POM226 / POM326

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Day 3 Morning visit to Naples Archaeological Museum (artefacts from Vesuvian sites). Continue to the slopes of Mt Vesuvius and ascend by coach, followed by optional ascent to the crater (weather permitting; must be done on foot). Evening talk.

FRANCE

La Folle Journée de Nantes: Rivers of Music January 28 – February 2, 2026 Enjoy a breathtaking variety of performances at France’s premier music festival in its 30th year Hear insights from Tour Director Emilie Capulet across a series of dedicated lectures

ACE is delighted to announce a new music destination for 2026 – La Folle Journée – the largest classical music festival in France, which takes place each year in the city of Nantes.

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La Folle Journée – the ‘mad day’ originally described in the subtitle of Beaumarchais’ ‘The Marriage of Figaro’ – was created in 1995 with the ambition to ‘desacralise’ classical music and render it accessible to as diverse and wide an audience as possible. The original festival took place on just one such ‘mad day’ at La Cité des Congrès de Nantes but has since grown into five full days featuring This tour will be led by Emilie Capulet, MA, MMus, PhD). Emilie is an award-winning concert pianist and musicologist who studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. She performs worldwide, is broadcast widely, and has recorded several CDs, including the first recording of the complete piano music of the French-Corsican composer Henri Tomasi in a critically-acclaimed album. A Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, Emilie is the BMus (Hons) Programme Leader at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance as well as the recipient of a prestigious Leverhulme Research Fellowship, and is a Visiting Fellow at Keble College, University of Oxford. 34

Performance at La Cité des Congrés

“The high quality of Emilie’s input – her enthusiasm and her lectures – contributed massively to my enjoyment” – ACE customer on a previous tours led by Emilie Capulet

hundreds of 45-minute concerts running in quick succession. Many concerts take place at La Cité des Congrès, but the festival has also spread to other venues throughout Nantes, bringing the whole city to life in a burst of musical energy. In 2026 La Folle Journée will take ‘Rivers’ as its theme, weaving a journey around the world from Russia to the Americas and from India to Europe and Africa. The festival programme promises to showcase the central role played by rivers across the globe in the cultural and musical development of the regions they cross and the works and musicians they have inspired. As well as immersing ourselves in a busy schedule of varied musical experiences, there will also be plenty of opportunity to explore the city of Nantes and take in its vibrant arts scene. Additional

daytime visits will include a guided tour of the fascinating Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the Musée d’Arts de Nantes, with its vast collection spanning nine centuries of visual arts from the Middle Ages to the present day. This tour will be based at the four-star Mercure Nantes Centre, in the heart of the city near the cathedral, well placed for enjoying the city’s historical and living culture. We also hope to include some local gastronomic highlights. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Please note that many of our visits in Nantes will be made on foot. Participants should be comfortable spending between one and two hours on their feet, sometimes over uneven terrain. Please consult ACE’s fitness requirements in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

Further details, including the tour cost and itinerary, will be released in early summer 2025. Please contact the ACE office or visit our website to register your interest. Please note the tour dates are subject to adjustment following the release of the festival programme TOUR CODE: FOJO26

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Discover the fascinating history of Nantes through visits to the Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the Musée d’Arts de Nantes

I TA LY

Venice: The Triumph of Light & Colour

Explore Venice’s mosaics, monasteries and magnificent artistic creations Visit the beautiful Ca’ Rezzonico, a museum of 18th century art and furniture housed in a palazzo overlooking the Grand Canal Enjoy a visit by private boat to the island of San Francesco del Deserto for a guided tour of the monastery Located in the middle of the Venetian Lagoon, the city today bears witness to its heritage as the Republic of Venice – a major financial and maritime power lasting from medieval times, through the Renaissance, until the 18th century. We will begin with a tour of the Doge’s Palace, where the architecture and adornments speak of its function as a symbol of the city. The Galleria dell’Accademia, located in the Dorsoduro district, houses the largest single collection of Venetian art, and offers an opportunity to view a range of paintings showcasing the Venetian masters’ accomplished use of colour. Our exploration of the richness of the Venetian palette will continue as we discover the city’s fine churches. The Scuola Grande di San Rocco contains superb decorative schemes by Tintoretto,

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a notable member of the Venetian school, while the Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni is home to an exquisite cycle by Carpaccio, a student of Gentile Bellini. We will also enjoy excursions by boat to the islands of Burano, San Francesco del Deserto and Torcello – the latter home to vivid Byzantine mosaics in the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. This tour will be based at the four-star Hotel Ca’ dei Conti, housed in an elegant 18th century building located in the heart of Venice, near to the Piazza and Basilica San Marco, and adjoining a canal. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A good level of fitness is required for this tour, as many of our visits will be made on foot and will involve navigating steps, narrow streets, cobbles and bridges, which can be steep or without handrails. Visits will involve spending time standing, as seats are not always available. A number of journeys will also be made by boat, so participants must feel comfortable on water and when embarking and disembarking vessels, which may feel unstable. Participants should meet ACE’s fitness criteria, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

Cost of £3095 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, six breakfasts, one lunch, four dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £425. TOUR CODE: VENI26

Our Tour Director, Tom Abbott, BA, MA, is an independent art and architectural historian associated with the Foundation of Prussian Palaces and Gardens. Tom is an accomplished lecturer and tour leader, with extensive experience directing cultural and art tours in Europe including in Italy. His expertise ranges from the medieval to the modern, and he is particularly fascinated by the Baroque and Rococo. ITINERARY

The itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to confirmation nearer the time. Historical buildings in Italy sometimes undergo restoration at short notice, and visits may be reordered. We cannot guarantee the availability of all artworks listed. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0835, arriving Venice 1145. Transfer by water taxi to Hotel Ca’ dei Conti for six nights. Afternoon: orientation walking tour followed by welcome and introduction. Day 2 Morning visits to Doge’s Palace and Museo di San Marco. Afternoon: San Giorgio Maggiore for Palladio church and Church of San Sebastiano. Evening lecture: Venice – A History of Art & Architecture. Day 3 Morning: Galleria dell’Accademia. Afternoon visits to Scuola di San Giorgio degli Schiavoni, Dominican Church of Saints Giovanni & Paolo and Santa Maria dei Miracoli. Day 4 Visits to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and Gothic Church of Madonna del Orto followed by walking tour of old Jewish Quarter. Free evening. Day 5 Morning: Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, Scuola Grande di San Rocco. Free afternoon to explore Venice independently. Day 6 Island of San Francesco del Deserto for guided tour of Franciscan monastery followed by island of Torcello for Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Afternoon on island of Burano: Lace Museum and Church of San Martino. Independent dinner followed by private evening visit to Basilica di San Marco. Day 7 Morning: Ca’ Rezzonico. Transfer by water taxi to Venice Airport for 1750 flight, arriving Heathrow 1915.

E U RO P E

Madonna and Child between Saints Catherine and Mary Magdalene by Giovanni Bellini, c 1490

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February 17–23, 2026

S PA I N

Art Treasures of Madrid and Malaga February 23–28, 2026 Explore the world-class collection at Museo Nacional del Prado with works Velazquez, Bosch, Goya and Raphael

Fountain of Cibeles, Madrid

Visit Madrid’s Museo Nacional Thyssen for a rich assembly of art that spans the 14th to the 20th centuries

E U RO P E

Madrid is a leading centre for artistic excellence in Europe, home to galleries which together contain some of the most important works in western art history. Coupled with its stunning architecture and festival traditions, Spain’s capital is also vibrant and compelling city to explore independently. Alongside Madrid, and increasingly establishing itself as an artistic hotspot in its own right, Malaga offers the chance to view works by Picasso in his birthplace, as well as remarkable examples of modern and contemporary art. Our new twocentred tour will introduce travellers to these masterpieces, and unravel stories of western art history beneath the Spanish apricity. The principal museum of Madrid, the Museo Nacional del Prado, is home to a wonderful collection of works by eminent western artists, from El Greco to Albrecht Dürer and Raphael. Two guided visits will allow us to experience its treasures, first by exploring the trajectory of Velazquez that culminated in his masterpiece, Las Meninas, along with Bosch’s Garden of Earthly Delights and other exceptional works by Roger van Der Weyden and Caravaggio. We will return for a focused study of 19th century greats, particularly Francisco Goya, whose diversity of works range from the Rococo to royal portraiture, along with anti-war statements illustrated in The Second of May 1808 and the 36

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Experience a range of Picasso’s work at his museum in Malaga and during a dedicated viewing of Guernica at the Reina Sofia Museum in Madrid

“I may never travel again without my own personal art historian, Marie-Anne was excellent” “Marie-Anne was engaging and full of fascinating information about each artist and painting” – Ace customers on a previous tour led by Marie-Anne Mancio

societal disillusionments apparent in his Black Paintings. Another fruitful collection is located in the Museo Nacional Thyssen which spans the 14th to the 20th centuries, its vast body of works offering a rich exploration of genre, period and medium. Highlights of its permanent collection include tiny, exquisite paintings by Jan van Eyck and Edward Hopper’s brooding and atmospheric scenes. Madrid is also home to the Reina Sofia Museum which holds Picasso’s Guernica, a brutal, surreal and harrowing reflection of the Spanish Civil War. This is Picasso’s most poignant work, to which we will dedicate a focused viewing, along with a study of the photographic series by

Dora Saar that captures the process of its creation. Marked by a distinctive cuboid structure, the Pompidou Centre Malaga contains a vibrant assemblage of modern art and presents works that are currently less accessible due to renovations at its Parisian counterpart. Pieces of its permanent collection are organised into sections investigating the historical and social factors that inspired the likes of Frida Kahlo, René Magritte and Joan Miró. We will encounter permanent works, as well as dedicate time to the “Madrid is such an elegant, vibrant city with incredible art collections. It’s possible to trace the history of western art in the Prado and Thyssen alone. But Picasso’s birth town of Malaga has reinvented itself into an art lover’s paradise with smaller but well-known museums like the Pompidou and the Russian Art Museum, a charming, pedestrianised old town with Michelin star restaurants, and winter sun.” – Tour Director Marie-Anne Mancio

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S PA I N This tour will be led by Marie-Anne Mancio, MPhil, DPhil, an art historian, writer and experienced tour leader and lecturer, accredited with the Arts Society. Marie-Anne originally trained as an artist before gaining her DPhil at the University of Sussex in art and critical theory. She has written and presented courses for Tate and Dulwich Picture Gallery, and writes reviews, catalogue essays and historical fiction. She is a frequent traveller and looks forward to introducing an ACE group to the art treasures of Madrid and Malaga.

This tour is part of our new series of Cultural Breaks, specially designed for the more independent traveller. These tours benefit from the same high level of cultural content as our standard tours with time also given to independent exploration. As they tend to be based in city centres, these tours typically make more use of public transport as an easier and quicker way of accessing sites. The Tour Director and Tour Manager will also be on hand throughout to introduce travellers to some of the lesser known sites and recommend local places to wine and dine. This tour utilises half-day visits that will look in depth at Madrid and Malaga’s unparalleled art collections, providing travellers with a wealth of knowledge that will enhance independent exploration later in the day.

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For the first three nights of our tour we will stay at the Only You Atocha Madrid, a stylish and modern establishment situated in excellent proximity to museums and the train station. We will then stay in Malaga for two nights at the AC Malaga Palacio Hotel, its design classical and crisp, nestled amongst numerous galleries and the Alcazaba.

Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer. We cannot guarantee the availability of all artworks mentioned, as occasionally items may be loaned or taken off display for restoration purposes. More details about the temporary exhibitions will be confirmed nearer the time. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0840 on British Airways, arriving Madrid 1210. Transfer to Only YOU Hotel Atocha for three nights. Welcome and short walking tour. Day 2 Whole day in-depth visit to the Museo Nacional del Prado including guided tour of permanent (Velazquez, Bosch, Caravaggio, Goya) and temporary exhibitions, and free time exploring. Afternoon: Museo Nacional del Prado. Free evening. Day 3 Morning: Museo Nacional ThyssenBornemisza (Jan van Eyck and Edward Hopper). Afternoon: optional visit to the Sorolla Museum (subject to early 2026 reopening) or Lázaro Galdiano Museum (Goya, El Greco and Zurbarán). Free evening.

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A good level of fitness is required for this tour, as many of the visits will be made on foot and involve a moderate amount of standing. For more details on ACE’s minimum fitness requirements, please see our Booking Terms & Conditions.

Day 4 Morning: Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia (dedicated to Spanish art) to view Picasso’s Guernica. Afternoon: by train to Malaga. Transfer to Palacio Solecio hotel for two nights. Free evening. Day 5 Morning: Centre Pompidou. Afternoon: Picasso Museum.

Pompidou Centre, Malaga

Day 6 Morning: Coleccion del Museo Ruso (Russian art and culture). Depart Malaga 1720, arriving Heathrow 1915.

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temporary exhibition. The Picasso Museum in Malaga, meanwhile, holds a variety of exciting and innovative exhibitions throughout the year; here we will enjoy a guided visit and an opportunity to explore independently.

ITINERARY

Cost of £2795 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, five breakfasts, one lunch, two dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £445. TOUR CODE: ATMM26

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Las Meninas (‘The Ladies-in-waiting’), Diego Velázquez, 1656-1657

I TA LY

Art Treasures of Naples: From the Romans to the Baroque February 23 – March 2, 2026 Learn about the rich artistic and architectural heritage of Naples, with a particular focus on the city’s Baroque art treasures

E U RO P E

A bustling sea port, the city of Naples has a long and eminent history as one of the few European centres that can claim an unbroken continuity as a metropolis since its classical origins. This tour is dedicated to exploring the rich artistic and architectural heritage that emerged across the centuries. Once the favourite haunt of Roman citizens, and later Italy’s only truly royal city for almost six centuries, Naples was never short of artistic patronage. Dukes, archbishops, nobles and religious orders contributed to an extremely dense collection of buildings and works of art in and around the city: in particular, many examples of Neapolitan painting from the 17th and 18th centuries have remained in their original locations. Our tour covers the main collections of Neapolitan art at the Museo di Capodimonte, Museo Archeologico This tour will be led by Alex Koller, PhD, an art historian who has studied in Vienna, Salzburg and Cambridge, where he gained his PhD in History of Art from Magdalene College. Alex has been leading tours since 1998 and is an accomplished linguist. His experience ranges from Eastern Europe, Russia and the Himalayas to Japan and southeast Asia. 38

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Explore the perfectly preserved monastic complex of Certosa di San Martino overlooking the city and Bay of Naples Enjoy an excursion by boat to Capri, to take in the island’s beautiful scenery

ITINERARY

Royal Palace of Caserta

Nazionale and the Royal Palace. We will also view the Renaissance sculpture adorning Castel Nuovo. Attention will be paid to a number of religious buildings that contain art of the highest order, including the medieval royal tombs at Santa Chiara, and churches that have retained either all or much of their original decoration. Among the most fascinating are Pio Monte della Misericordia, which displays Caravaggio’s Seven Works of Mercy, and the Baroque Church of San Gregorio Armeno, decorated by Luca Giordano. Meanwhile, one of the most outstanding legacies of the Bourbon kings is the palace and parklands of Capodimonte, which houses a fine collection of decorative arts and works ranging from Bellini and Botticelli to Caravaggio and Corregio. We will stay at a four-star hotel well positioned for our visits in the city. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A good level of fitness, mobility and stamina is required for this tour. Many visits will be made on foot and some by public transport, although there is the option to get a taxi independently if wished. Participants should expect to spend a significant amount of time on their feet, walking around the city, and standing at historical sites, in churches and galleries, where there are not always opportunities to sit down. Please note that very few churches have facilities. Most of Naples is on flat ground but the city streets can be uneven, cobbled, slippery and often crowded with people and vehicles, so care must be taken. Some visits involve walking up steps (often without handrails), uphill and over rough ground. The tour includes the opportunity to travel by boat to Capri (a journey of approx 50 minutes, which can be choppy depending on weather). The catacombs are dimly lit. Participants must meet ACE’s fitness criteria, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

Please note that the below itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation, or will be time permitting on the day. Historical sites such as churches in Italy can close with little or no notice, so some visits may be exterior only, and we cannot guarantee the availability of all the artworks listed. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 1355 on British Airways, arriving Naples 1745. Transfer to hotel in central Naples for seven nights. Day 2 Morning introductory lecture followed by visits to Palazzo Reale and Castel Nuovo (Museo Civico). Afternoon visits to religious houses: Gesù Nuovo, Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara and San Domenico Maggiore. Day 3 Visits in the ancient quarters of Naples: Museo Cappella Sansevero, San Gregorio Armeno, San Paolo Maggiore, Baptistery at the Cattedrale di San Gennaro, San Lorenzo Maggiore (catacombs), Pio Monte della Misericordia and Sant’Anna dei Lombardi. Free Evening. Day 4 Morning: Casertavecchia, San Michele Arcangelo (duomo) and San Leucio. Afternoon: Reggia di Caserta. Free evening. Day 5 Morning: Santa Teresa a Chiaia, Santa Maria degli Angeli and Santa Maria Egiziaca, followed by San Giovanni a Carbonara. Afternoon: Complesso Monumentale Donnaregina Vecchia (Santa Maria) and Museo Archeologico Nazionale. Day 6 Morning visits to Villa Bruno and the gardens at Villa Vannucchi (villa exterior) followed by Reggia di Portici (former royal palace). Afternoon: Villa Campolieto and Parco Archeologico di Ercolano (Herculaneum). Free evening. Day 7 Excursion by boat to Capri or day at leisure in Naples. Day 8 Morning visits including catacombs, Certosa di San Martino, Basilica of Santa Maria della Sanità and Museo di Capodimonte (final flight times permitting). Depart Naples 1840, arriving Heathrow 2025.

Cost of £2995 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, seven breakfasts, one lunch, four dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £365. TOUR CODE: ATNP26

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Imperial Rome: The Might of the Emperors February 24 – March 1, 2026 Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica

Discover the Roman port city of Ostia Antica including visits to its impressive ancient buildings and awe-inspiring mosaics and frescos Marvel at the luxurious residences at Tivoli from Hadrian’s imposing villa to the opulent 16th century Villa d’Este Rome boasts over three millennia of history and is considered the birthplace of the Imperial city. From this centre, emperors expanded their power across much of the Western world, and their lasting legacy is evident in the city’s ancient ruins and modern façades. Following Caesar’s assassination in 44 BCE, Octavian was granted powers from the Senate and assumed the new title of Augustus, initiating the era of Imperial Rome. Beginning in the Campus Martius, we will uncover magnificent ancient relics including the Temple of Hadrian and the Column of Marcus Aurelius, both dedicated to emperors and testaments to the era’s power. Nearby are the Palatine Hill, Imperial Fora, Roman Forum and the Capitoline Museums. These buildings, which once served as seats of political, economic and religious authority, illustrate the grandeur of Roman civilisation and its lasting influence on Western culture. Visits to the Pantheon, Colosseum and Ludus Magnus reveal the strength and power of the Imperial era. The Pantheon symbolised the divine connection between Rome, its emperors and the Complete your exploration of ancient Rome with Everyday Life in Rome with Eireann Marshall, departing later in 2025. This tour serves as a perfect complement to Imperial Rome, offering insight into the lives of all Roman citizens and providing a complete picture of the era. Contact the ACE office to register your interest.

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gods. Meanwhile, at the renowned Colosseum and Ludus Magnus, we will contemplate the demonstrations of Rome’s military might that once took place here. Emperor Nero directed much of the design and construction of Domus Aurea, a vast complex that epitomized imperial decadence. Originally adorned with lavish inlays of marble, jewels and ivory, Domus Aurea offers a glimpse into the extraordinary wealth of Imperial Rome through its numerous rooms, frescoes and statues. Additional highlights include Ostia Antica and Tivoli. At Ostia Antica, once a naval base that evolved into a bustling commercial port, we will witness the exceptional preservation of ancient buildings, adorned with stunning frescoes and mosaics. A visit to Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reveals a blend of architectural influences which befitted the emperor’s refined tastes and extensive travels. We will stay at the three-star Albergo Santa Chiara, located in the heart of Rome. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A very good level of fitness is required for this tour, as the majority of the visits are conducted on foot and walking around the city and at archaeological sites can be extensive. Some ground is uneven and cobbled, and may be slipperyif wet. Please also be aware that due to traffic restrictions in Rome, the coach cannot park immediately outside the hotel so participants should be comfortable carrying their luggage for a short distance.

This tour will be led by Eireann Marshall, PhD, a Research Associate and Associate Lecturer with the Open University. Eireann was raised in the Veneto and educated at Barnard College, Columbia University, as well as the universities of Birmingham and Exeter. She is an experienced tour leader, having led many tours throughout Europe and North Africa. ITINERARY

Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation. Historical sites in Italy can close or change their opening hours at short notice and some visits may be reordered closer to the time. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0915 on British Airways, arriving Rome 1250. Transfer to Albergo Santa Chiara for five nights. Welcome and introductory talk followed by walking tour of ancient Campus Martius for visits to Campus Martius, Temple of Hadrian and remains of Temple of Marcus Aurelius (exteriors). Day 2 Morning: Arch of Constantine (exterior), Ludus Magnus (exterior) and Colosseum. Afternoon: Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Evening lecture. Day 3 Visit to Ara Pacis Museum followed by Musei Capitolini, Imperial Fora, Trajan’s Markets and Pantheon. Free evening. Day 4 Ostia Antica for visits to the Neptune baths, theatre, Piazzale Delle Corporazioni, Thermopolium of Diana, bakery, forum, forum baths and mithraeum. Afternoon: Portus (large artificial harbour). Evening lecture. Day 5 Morning: Tivoli for visits including Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este. Afternoon: Baths of Caracalla. Evening lecture. Day 6 Morning: Domus Aurea. Depart Rome 1435, arriving Heathrow 1630.

Cost of £2865 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a standard twin or double bedded room, five breakfasts, four dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, superior single room supplement £250. TOUR CODE: IMRO26

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Delve into the history of Imperial Rome, the zenith of the Roman Empire

I TA LY

Roman & Byzantine Ravenna

Mosaic in Basilica of San Vitale

Visit some of the most impressive early Christian monuments in the world Engage with Ravenna’s remarkable mosaics in the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, including an intense portrayal of the martyrdom of St Lawrence

At the heart of this opulent legacy lies the Basilica of San Vitale, begun during the Ostrogoths’ rule and finished under Justinian, where the glittering mosaic portraiture of Justinian and his wife Theodora captures the essence of Byzantium: the emperor, set against a flat, gold background, is dazzling in imperial purple, a gold paten in his

outstretched hand, a halo encircling his shimmering crown. The seemingly humble Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, erected a century before San Vitale, boasts Ravenna’s earliest mosaics, including a vivid portrayal of the martyrdom of St Lawrence as he approaches the red-hot grid-iron.

Bask in the ancient port of Classe, shimmering in gold and turquoise Ravenna, once among the Mediterranean’s most distinguished cities, is now a small, peaceful town that conceals a rich history. It served as the Western Roman Empire’s final capital and the base of Theodoric, King of the Ostrogoths, before the Byzantines transformed the city into one of Europe’s foremost centres of art and culture. Ravenna’s surviving collection of early Christian monuments and mosaics is without parallel in Christendom, a beguiling blend of Greco-Roman tradition and Christian iconography. 40

XIQUINHO SILVA / CC BY 2.0 VIA FLICKRS

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PETAR MILOSHEVSKI / CC BY-SA 4.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

March 2–6, 2026 | September 21–25, 2026

Basilica of San Vitale

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I TA LY Tour Director Nick Jackson graduated from the Institute of Archaeology at University College London, and proceeded to a career as a field director excavating the ancient history of the Eastern Mediterranean in Turkey and the Near East. After a research post at the University of Cambridge, he began work as a guide lecturer in Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Israel and Oman, and has continued leading tours to the present day.

Just outside the ‘city of mosaics’ we will visit the ancient port of Classe, founded by Augustus, to view the huge Basilica of Sant’Apollinare with its exceptional mosaics rich in gold and turquoise. While here, we will have an opportunity to stop at the site’s excellent museum, which takes visitors on a journey back in time to explore the origins of Ravenna and Classe. Accommodation is in Ravenna’s threestar Hotel Bisanzio, situated in a quiet area of the city just a few steps from San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. While of a simpler standard, the hotel is comfortable and welcoming, and has been selected particularly for its excellent location in the heart of Ravenna offering an ideal base for our visits. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour has a full programme taken at a relaxed pace, and our visits are conducted primarily on foot from the hotel. While coffee breaks will take place at suitable intervals, the majority of visits are an hour long with few opportunities to sit down. Participants should therefore be comfortable walking and standing for a minimum of 60 minutes. Some museums do not have lifts, so participants should also feel comfortable ascending 1-2 flights of stairs. While the accommodation is of a simpler standard, it is welcoming and comfortable, and has been particularly selected for its excellent location in the heart of Ravenna offering an ideal base for our visits. For more information on ACE’s minimum fitness criteria, please see our Booking Terms & Conditions.

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PETAR MILOSHEVSKI / CC BY-SA 4.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Breathtaking, too, is the interior of the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, erected by Theodoric and later reconsecrated under Byzantine rule: the twin nave mosaics depict a sparkling ceremonial procession of martyrs and virgins, saints and angels.

ITINERARY

Please note that the below itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0835 on British Airways, arriving Bologna 1150. Transfer to Ravenna for four nights at Hotel Bisanzio. Welcome and introduction. Day 2 Morning talk: The Church Architecture of Ravenna. Visits to 5th century Mausoleum of Galla Placidia (exceptional late antiquity mosaics), Basilica of San Vitale (famous mosaics of Justinian and Theodora), National Museum of Ravenna (archaeological objects from early Christian and Byzantine periods), cathedral, Neonian Baptistery (outstanding early Christian mosaics) and Archiepiscopal Museum. Day 3 Morning talk: Church Mosaics of Ravenna followed by Arian Baptistery (built by Theodoric), Church of San Giovanni Evangelista, Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo (splendid frieze of martyrs), 6th century Domus of the Stone Carpets (beautiful floor mosaics), return visits to Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and Basilica of San Vitale. Day 4 Morning: ancient port of Classe for new museum and Basilica of Sant’Apollinare (gold and turquoise mosaics). Afternoon: Mausoleum of Theodoric. Day 5 Depart Bologna 1240, arriving Heathrow 1410.

“Nick was a very engaging and interesting guide, brimming with ideas. He provided far more than a commentary on what we were seeing” “Nick was excellent. I liked the way he broadened the discussions to the development of western europe and the relationship with the east” “Nick brought his own reflections to the sites and artefacts, which was thoughtprovoking. His knowledge of the era was excellent” – ACE customers on a 2024 Roman & Byzantine Ravenna tour with Nick Jackson Cost of March tour: £1795 Cost of September tour: £1895 Cost includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, four breakfasts, one lunch, four dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, single room supplement £150 double room for single use supplement £175. TOUR CODE: RAV126 / RAV226

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Cupola of Basilica San Vitale

FRANCE

Art Treasures of the Côte d’Azur March, 2–9 2026 with Sarah Burles | May, 18–25 2026 with Andrew Spira September, 21–28 2026 with Suzanne Fagence Cooper Visit museums dedicated to individual artists including Matisse, Chagall and Picasso Discover what encouraged these artistic greats and others to travel to the south of France to live and work

Excursions beyond Nice include the historic town of Villefranche-surMer, Château Vallauris in Antibes, the Fondation Maeght’s acclaimed

Walk Under the Trees by Auguste Renoir, 1910

collections of 20th century painting, and the stunning collection at Musée de l’Annonciade in St Tropez.

For more information on our minimum fitness requirements, please see our Booking Terms & Conditions.

For the duration of each tour, we will stay at a comfortable hotel of a four-star standard, well located for our visits. Full hotel details will be confirmed nearer the time.

Please note that these itineraries represent a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. The itinerary for each departure will vary slightly, in terms of the visits and their order. We cannot guarantee the availability of all artworks listed. Sometimes sites have temporary exhibitions taking place, and this may affect which parts of the permanent collection are accessible.

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A good level of fitness is required for these tours, as some visits will be made on foot, by coach and by boat.

ITINERARY

WERNER BAYER / PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA FLICKR

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In 2026, we are delighted to be offering three distinct departures crafted and guided by some of our most popular Tour Directors. During our week in Nice and its environs we will consider what drew renowned artists to the south of France and explore the legacy they left in the region: from Matisse’s stunning Chapelle du Rosaire to Picasso’s work at the former Château Grimaldi in Antibes and Jean Cocteau’s ‘Salle des Mariages’ at Menton. Many sites such as the Musée Matisse, Musée Picasso and Musée Chagall, offer the chance to indulge in an abundance of notable works.

RENOIR MUSEUM / CC BY-SA 4.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Experience the work of leading 20th century artists in the peaceful hillside setting of the Fondation Maeght

Fondation Maeght

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FRANCE Our March tour will be led by Sarah Burles, MA, who read History of Art at the University of Cambridge and University College London, going on to a career in museum and gallery education, including 12 years at the Fitzwilliam Museum. Sarah is an Arts Society accredited lecturer.

Our May tour will be led by Andrew Spira, who studied at the Courtauld Institute of Art and City University, London. He has worked as a specialist in Byzantine and Russian icons at the Temple Gallery, London, and curator at the V&A Museum and Programme Director at Christie’s Education.

Our September tour will be led by Suzanne Fagence Cooper, MA, PhD, a curator and historian who specialises in 19th and 20th century art. An Arts Society accredited lecturer, Suzanne was a curator and Research Fellow at the V&A Museum for 12 years and has also worked at York Art Gallery.

FIRST DEPARTURE: Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0945 on British Airways, arriving Nice 1250. Transfer to hotel for seven nights Afternoon visit to Musée Masséna.

SECOND DEPARTURE: Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0945 on British Airways, arriving Nice 1250. Transfer to hotel for seven nights. Orientation walking tour and short visit to the Musée Masséna.

Day 2 Morning lecture: The French Riviera – Art, Love & Life followed by walking tour of Nice. Afternoon: Fondation Maeght.

Day 2 Morning excursion to St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat for Ephrussi de Rothschild Villa and Gardens. Afternoon: Musée des Beaux-Arts and Russian Orthodox Cathedral of St Nicholas.

THIRD DEPARTURE: Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0945 on British Airways, arriving Nice 1250. Transfer to hotel for seven nights. Transfer to Hotel Nice Riviera for seven nights. Walking tour with visit to the Palais Lascaris.

Day 4 Morning lecture: Matisse followed by Musée Matisse. Afternoon: travel to St Paul de Vence, followed by Matisse’s celebrated Chapelle du Rosaire. Day 5 Walking tour of historic Menton and visit to Salle des Mariages, followed by Villefranchesur-Mer. Day 6 Morning in Biot: Musée National Fernand Léger. Afternoon in Antibes: Musée Picasso, Château Grimaldi and Château Vallauris. Free evening. Day 7 Depart by coach to FAMM Museum in Mougins, followed by St Tropez for walking tour of the old port and Musée de l’Annonciade. Return, part way by boat to Ste Maxime, then continue to Nice by coach. Day 8 Depart Nice 1540, arriving Heathrow 1655.

Day 3 Morning: Musée Matisse and Musée Chagall. Afternoon: Villefranche-sur-Mer. Free evening. Day 4 Morning: Fondation Maeght and walk down the medieval Chemin Sainte-Claire to St Paul de Vence. Afternoon: Matisse’s celebrated Chapelle du Rosaire. Evening lecture. Day 5 Excursion to Menton via Modernist villa E-1027 for Salle des Mariages and walking tour of the old town. Afternoon: ‘Association Diocesaine’ Sanctuary of Notre Dame de Laghet. Day 6 Excursion to the Chapel of Sainte Roseline and Cistercian Monastery at Le Thoronet, followed by Mouans-Sartoux for Espace de l’Art Concret. Free evening. Day 7 Morning: Musée National Fernand Léger in Biot. Afternoon in Antibes: Musée Picasso, Château Grimald and Château Vallauris. Day 8 Short morning visit to Musée Renoir. Depart Nice 1540, arriving Heathrow 1655.

Day 3 Morning lecture: Chagall and his Contemporaries and visits to the Musée des Beaux-Arts and Musée Chagall Biblique. Continue for visit to the Foundation Ephrussi de Rothschild. Free evening. Day 4 Morning: Fondation Maeght and walk down the medieval Chemin Sainte-Claire to St Paul de Vence. Afternoon: Matisse’s Chapelle du Rosaire. Day 5 Excurion to Menton for visit to Musée du Bastion, followed by Cocteau Church at Villefranche-sur-Mer. Free evening. Day 6 Depart by coach for Antibes with a visit en route to the Musée Bonnard in Le Cannet. Visits to the Musée Picasso and Château Vallauris. Day 7 Depart by coach to St Tropez. Walking tour of the old port and a visit to the Musée de l’Annonciade with works by Signac, Seurat, Maillol and Matisse. Return, part way by boat to Ste Maxime, then continue to Nice by coach. Day 8 Short morning visit to Musée Renoir. Depart Nice 1540, arriving Heathrow 1655.

Menton

Cost of March tour: £2995 Cost of May tour: £3395 Cost of September tour: £3295 Cost includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, seven breakfasts, one lunch, five dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £375 (March departure) / £590 (May departure) / £545 (September departure). TOUR CODE: ARC126 / ARC226 / ARC326

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Day 3 Morning lecture: Chagall followed by Musée National Marc Chagall. Afternoon: Musée Renoir. Free evening.

Day 2 Morning lecture: Picasso and Matisse followed by visit to Musée Matisse followed by a visit to Musee Bonnard in Cannes.

I TA LY

Aquileia: City of Antiquity March 9–14, 2026 | September 7–12, 2026

Roman mosaic in Aquileia

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Visit the city’s remarkable basilica with its sequence of 4th century mosaics Explore the cobbled streets and courtyards of Grado, home to historical churches with 6th century mosaics Discover the medieval Duomo in Cividale, high above the Natisone River

Our tour will take in the delightful harbour and tranquil cypress-lined forum, both prime examples of the city as a commercial and social hub, followed by a visit to the magnificent basilica, home to a remarkable sequence of 4th century mosaics and some of the oldest and most illustrious Paleo-Christian memoirs in Western Europe.

historical churches. Cividale is located high above the Natisone River, and although little remains of this important Roman town (its original name of Forum Iulii gives the modern region of Friuli its name), we will explore the fine medieval Duomo, whose foundations date back to the 8th century, and the lovely Lombard Temple from the same period.

Nearby lies the beautifully situated town of Grado, a maze of cobbled streets and courtyards with splendid mosaics from the 6th century located in two of its

Our final excursion is to the enchanting seaport of Trieste. A cultural meetingpoint throughout its history, today the city is the site of interesting Austro-

Aquileia, an important Roman city situated on the Adriatic coast, may be relatively unknown today, but Emperor Justinian once described it as “the greatest of all towns in the West.” Its strategic location in the 1st century CE made it a vital hub within the Roman Empire, facilitating extensive trade between Rome and the East. Throughout its history, from its establishment as a Roman colony amid the local Gallic people in 182 BCE to the arrival of the Huns, Goths and Lombards in the later imperial and early medieval periods, Aquileia has been revered not only for its military and economic assets but also its plethora of cultural and spiritual resources. 44

Aquileia Basilica interior

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I TA LY

Hungarian architecture alongside superb Byzantine mosaics, a Roman theatre and the medieval Castello di San Giusto. The tour will be based at the four-star Astoria Hotel Italia in the city of Udine, where there is an impressive Duomo, and two interesting art galleries, including a pictorial cycle by the Venetian artist Tiepolo.

This tour will be led by expert in ancient history, Jamie Sewell, PhD. Jamie has many years’ experience supervising excavations across Europe, including in Italy, and he has authored a book and many articles on the archaeology of towns in Hellenistic Italy and the broader Mediterranean. His ongoing research is focused on how and why larger settlements in Italy transformed as a result of the Roman conquest of the peninsula. Jamie has lectured at Durham University and Humboldt University in Berlin, and has more than a decade’s experience working as a historical guide.

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“Who knew an archeology trip could be so much fun! Jamie brought ancient places and stones to life” – ACE customers on the 2025 Aquileia: City of Antiquity tour led by Jamie Sewell FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour is not expected to be particularly strenuous, but does involve a moderate amount of walking and standing, including over uneven, cobbled and potentially slippery ground, and up steps (which can be steep, and sometimes without handrails). Some roads can be busy with narrow pavements, so care must be taken, and at times the group will walk back to the hotel from local restaurants in darkness. Participants should fulfil our usual fitness requirements as described in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

ITINERARY

Please note that the below itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation. Sites in Italy can close at short notice for restoration works, in which case adjustments may be made nearer the time. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0835 on British Airways, arriving Venice 1145. Transfer to Udine (in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region) for five nights at the Astoria Hotel Italia. Day 2 Whole day excursion exploring the ancient city of Aquileia including the PaleoChristian Museum, Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta (mosaics depicting scenes of the prophet Jonah, gospels, apostles and portraits of patrons, 11th and 12th century Byzantine frescoes), Archaeological Museum and Roman Forum.

Day 3 Morning in Cividale: Duomo (originally an 8th century structure, rebuilt 15th century), Christian Museum, Lombard Temple and Archaeological Museum. Afternoon in Udine: Diocesan Museum (housed in the Patriarchal Palace), Duomo and Baptistery (subject to confirmation). Day 4 Morning lecture followed by excursion to Palmanova (late 16th century defences) and Grado (Basilica of Sant’Eufemia, Santa Maria delle Grazie and old town). Return to Udine for late afternoon visit to Piazza Libertà (15th century town hall and clock tower) and optional visit to Udine’s Civic Museums of History and Art (housed in a 16th century castle). Free evening. Day 5 Whole day excursion via Miramare (castle) to Trieste: walking tour of seafront and downtown Trieste (important Austro-Hungarian architecture, Roman theatre) and St Justus Cathedral (superb Byzantine mosaics). Day 6 Depart Venice 1245, arriving Heathrow 1415.

Cost of March tour: £2175 Cost of March tour: £2275 Cost includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, five breakfasts, four dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, single room supplement £140, double room for single use supplement £200. TOUR CODE: AQU126 / AQU226

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Roman Theatre of Trieste, Italy

S PA I N

Wildlife & Walking in Extremadura March 18–25, 2026 Explore the rolling plains of Extremadura with its cork and holm oak dehesas in one of the most untouched areas of Spain Stay in the Parque Nacional de Monfragüe, perhaps the finest raptor-watching site in Europe, and in historical Cáceres with its wealth of wheeling swifts Wander through Los Barruecos, extraordinary giant boulders home to nesting storks

E U RO P E

With its wild mountain ranges and limitless rolling plains, Extremadura boasts an enticing variety of landscapes. In the springtime the region’s cork and holm oak dehesas are abundantly carpeted with rock roses and cistus, while the grasslands boast mile after mile of catchfly and marigold. Exploring the Via del Plata, an ancient pilgrimage route running from southern Spain to Santiago de Compostela, we will seek hoopoes, orioles, booted eagles, red-rumped swallows and potentially bee-eaters, all the while surrounded by a wealth of wildflowers and majestic oaks. When summer guests such as the lesser kestrel and pallid swift arrive, the Parque This tour will be led by conservationist, ornithologist and environmental consultant Kevin Hand, MSc, MCIEEM, who has taken tours for ACE since 1992. In 2017 he was appointed President of the Cambridge Natural History Society and continues to act as a Trustee. He currently also chairs the Newmarket Chalk Streams Trust and is a Biodiversity Surveyor for the RSPB. Kevin has a special interest in birds and ecotourism, and has carried out extensive fieldwork in the UK and abroad, making him an ideal director for this Spanish tour. 46

Typical dehesa landscape in Extremadura

Natural de Monfragüe can justifiably lay claim to being the finest raptor-watching site in Europe. Colonies of up to 200 vultures – griffon, black and Egyptian – make their home at Peña Falcón Rock, accompanied by black storks and rock buntings. At Los Barruecos (where “Spain was born”, according to the locals) storks nest on huge granite boulders strewn beside remote paths.

We will spend our first three nights in Cáceres at the four-star Hotel NH Collection Cáceres Palacio de Oquendo, a converted 16th century palace just moments away from the ancient walls of this charming and historical town. We will then spend four nights at the four-star Hospederia Parque Nacional de Monfragüe, located within the heart of the Monfragüe National Park. The

Peregrine falcon

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S PA I N

standard of accommodation here is much simpler with more basic facilities, however its position within the park is perfect, immersing us in the natural surroundings of this magical part of Spain. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Please note that participants on this tour should meet ACE’s general fitness requirements, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions. On this tour in particular, walks will typically be within 3 and 5 miles in length, often over uneven and rocky ground. The routes on the plains are over gently undulating ground, whilst in the Monfragüe National Park there are a number of steep ascents. Our accommodation in the national park is perfectly positioned but of a much simpler standard than the hotel in Cáceres. Please also note that the return journey to Madrid Airport takes around 4 hours by coach including one stop. Participants should feel comfortable with these conditions and possess a good level of overall fitness.

Cost of £2995 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, seven breakfasts, five lunches (some packed), six dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £345 .TOUR CODE: EXTR26

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“Great learning curve for us as we had no previous knowledge of Extramadura. Wonderful birds” “Such a lovely leader and full of knowledge on everything. He was so kind and interested in everyone. We had a very congenial group thanks in part to Kevin” “As always, Kevin did an excellent job” – ACE customers on a previous natural history tour to Extremadura led by Kevin Hand

ITINERARY

Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer and some elements may be subject to change; in particular, the Tour Director reserves the right to amend the programme due to wildlife movements and weather conditions. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0825 on British Airways, arriving Madrid 1155. Transfer to Cáceres for three nights at Hotel NH Collection Cáceres Palacio de Oquendo. Welcome and introduction. Day 2 Morning walks in the llanos (plains) and steppe landscape around Cáceres (great bustards, Montagu’s harriers, calandra larks) with visit to roller nesting area. Afternoon in

Cáceres (World Heritage site with huge colonies of swifts, storks and lesser kestrels): historical walking tour. Day 3 Walks along the Via de la Plata (the Silver Way), an ancient pilgrimage path linking southern Spain to Santiago de Compostela (bee-eaters, hoopoes, orioles, booted eagles and red-rumped swallows). Free evening. Day 4 Depart for Los Barruecos (huge granite boulders, nesting white storks) and Museo Vostell Malpartida (modern art museum housed in an 18th century water mill). Continue to hotel Hospederia Parque Nacional de Monfragüe, located within the Monfragüe National Park, for four nights. Day 5 Morning: walks in the llanos de Belen and around Trujillo. Afternoon: guided walking tour in Trujillo. Day 6 Whole day in Parque Nacional de Monfragüe (birds of prey such as golden and Spanish imperial eagles, owls, black storks and griffon, Egyptian and black vultures). Walk through rare Mediterranean woodland to Monfragüe Castle and Peña Falcón Rock (vulture and raptor nesting areas). Day 7 Explore the dehesa in the Monfragüe National Park and learn about its ecology of cork oak woods and famous black Iberian pigs. Day 8 Transfer to Madrid for 1805 flight, arriving Heathrow 1925. Please note the coach journey today will take approximately 4 hours including a stop.

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Iberian Ibex in the Siera de Gredos

FRANCE

Music & Art in Provence March 27 – April 2, 2026

Explore Cézanne’s studio and follow the ‘Route Cézanne’ to the Sainte-Victoire mountain Enjoy two exclusive lecture-recitals given by our Tour Director in the beautiful surroundings of the Villa Tiphéret and Château de Lourmarin

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The sunlit landscape of Provence has been a great source of inspiration for many musicians, artists and writers over the centuries, including Paul Cézanne, Émile Zola, Darius Milhaud, Pablo Picasso, Albert Camus and Marcel Pagnol. Today, the region provides the perfect backdrop for Aix-en-Provence’s Easter music festival which will form the musical heart of our tour, alongside two private recitals and a host of complementary artistic, literary and cultural visits. The festival attracts worldwide attention with its programme of performances by international orchestras, soloists and chamber ensembles and is particularly known for showcasing a diverse and often surprising repertoire. We will enjoy a festival concert each evening of our stay in Aix. Complementing the festival concerts, our tour will include two private lecturerecitals given by our Tour Director and award-winning pianist, Emilie Capulet, in the beautiful surroundings of the Villa Tiphéret at the foot of the Sainte Victoire Mountain and the 15th century Château de Lourmarin. These recitals will feature French piano music including works by Chopin, Debussy, Mel Bonis, Ravel and the 20th century French-Corsican composer, Henri Tomasi. Daytime excursions will take us to the picturesque village of Lourmarin, famed for its olive groves and fruit trees, where the French philosopher and writer Albert Camus lived for the last two years of his life. Art visits include Château La Coste 48

The Festival de Pâques

for a tour of their contemporary art installations, the stunning 20th century collection of Jean Planque at the Musée Granet, a former priory of the Knights of Malta, and the Caumont Centre d’Art, a beautifully restored 18th century period townhouse. We will also journey along the ‘Route Cézanne’ and explore the artist’s studio and home, both due to reopen after renovation work. We will stay throughout at a four-star hotel in the centre of Aix-en-Provence. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Please note that many of our visits in Aix will be made on foot. Participants should be comfortable spending between one and two hours on their feet, sometimes over uneven terrain, and standing at visits. A significant amount of walking is also involved during our visits along the Route Cézanne and to Château La Coste. Please consult ACE’s fitness requirements in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

ITINERARY

The itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be adjusted nearer the time. The performance schedule will be confirmed once this has been released by the Festival de Pâques towards the end of 2025, and at this stage the itinerary will be reviewed to ensure the best possible experience for travellers. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 1100 on British Airways, arriving Marseille 1400. Transfer hotel for six nights. Welcome and introduction. Evening festival concert (subject to scheduling). Day 2 Morning introductory talk and visit to the 17th century Salons d’Olivary in the Quartier Mazarin followed by tour of Aix including Caumont Centre d’Art. Free afternoon followed by evening lecture and festival performance. Day 3 Morning: visit to Villa Tiphéret for private lecture-recital with the Tour Director: ‘The French Connexion’ – including works by Debussy, Ravel and Mel Bonis. Afternoon excursion to the Sainte Victoire Mountain via the Route Cézanne. Evening festival performance.

EMILIE CAPULET

Take in classical performances by world-class musicians at the Festival de Pâques

Tour Director Emilie Capulet, MA, MMus, PhD is an awardwinning concert pianist and musicologist who studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. She performs worldwide, is broadcast widely, and has recorded several CDs, including the first recording of the complete piano music of the French-Corsican composer Henri Tomasi in a criticallyacclaimed album. A Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, Emilie is the BMus (Hons) Programme Leader at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance as well as the recipient of a prestigious Leverhulme Research Fellowship, and is a Visiting Fellow at Keble College, University of Oxford. Day 4 Luberon village: 16th century Renaissance chateau followed by private lecture-recital with the Tour Director: ‘The Piano Music of Henri Tomasi’ and discussion of Albert Camus, who inspired Tomasi and lived in Lourmarin. Afternoon: Chateau La Coste (award-winning organic winery and vineyard) including art by Tadao Ando, Bob Dylan, Tracey Emin, Yoko Ono, Oscar Niemeyer, Ai Weiwei. Evening festival performance. Day 5 Morning lecture and visit to Musée Paul Arbaud (19th century mansion with art collection) followed by free time to enjoy the market in Aix. Afternoon: Musée Granet (guided tour) and Planque Collection (modern art including Monet, Renoir, Dubuffet and Picasso). Evening festival performance. Day 6 Morning visit to Cézanne’s studio and home (newly reopened) followed by free afternoon. Pre-concert lecture followed by evening festival performance. Day 7 Depart Marseille 1455, arriving Heathrow 1555.

Further details, including the tour cost and hotel, will be released in summer 2025, with the musical programme confirmed in the autumn. Please contact the ACE office or visit our website to register your interest. TOUR CODE: MUAP26

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BELGIUM

Art Treasures of Belgium: The Flemish Masters April 21–26, 2026 Discover the works and worlds of the Flemish masters across Belgium Visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp to see its magnificent holdings of painting, sculpture and drawing spanning seven centuries

In Ghent, the extensive collections of the Museum of Fine Arts focus on Flemish art, and the Cathedral of St Bavo contains the restored panels of van Eyck’s Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece. Meanwhile in Bruges, the Groeningemuseum is host to an enviable collection of van Eyck and van der Weyden, as well as Hieronymus Bosch’s Last Judgement. The Memling Museum is located in one of Europe’s oldest medieval hospitals, and Michelangelo’s marble Madonna and Child can be seen in the Gothic Church of Our Lady. This tour will be led by art historian, writer, experienced tour leader and Arts Society accredited lecturer Marie-Anne Mancio, MPhil, DPhil. Marie-Anne originally trained as an artist before gaining her DPhil at the University of Sussex in art and critical theory. She has written and presented courses for Tate and Dulwich Picture Gallery.

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The Virgin, Saint John and the Three Maries from the Christ Nailed to the Cross triptych, Gerard David, 1480-85

Our tour continues in Antwerp with a visit to the exquisite baroque tower decorated by Rubens at St Charles Borromeo church, and an exploration of the Snijders & Rockox Huis, two neighbouring 17th century townhouses dedicated to 16th and 17th century Flemish masterpieces. Antwerp’s Royal Museum of Fine Arts has recently undergone a major renovation project and features works by van Eyck, Brueghel the Elder, van Dyck, Hals, Rodin and Magritte amongst others. Our tour concludes with a visit to the Musée des Beaux Arts in Brussels, containing 15th to 18th century Flemish and Belgian paintings. The first three nights of the tour will be spent in the centre of Ghent at the fourstar NH Gent Belfort, an NH Collection property located opposite the town hall. We will then continue to Antwerp for two nights at the four-star Hilton Antwerp Old Town, in the heart of the historical city centre. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking between visits, including over cobbled, uneven and occasionally slippery streets, which may be busy with bicycles. A good level of fitness is required. Participants must be prepared for navigating steps, which can be steep and/or winding, and for spending up to 90 minutes at a time standing in galleries, where there are not always opportunities to sit down. Some museums do not have lifts, and light levels can be kept low. Participants should be comfortable handling their luggage on and off Eurostar trains. Please consult ACE’s fitness requirements in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

ITINERARY

The itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. We cannot guarantee the availability of all artworks mentioned. Day 1 Depart London St Pancras 1901 on Eurostar, arriving Brussels 1205. Continue by coach to Ghent for three nights at NH Gent Belfort. Afternoon: Stads Museum. Evening welcome and introduction. Day 2 Walking tour of Ghent and visits to Cathedral of St Bavo and Museum of Fine Arts. Evening lecture: Van Eyck & his Contemporaries in Bruges. Day 3 Whole day excursion to Bruges for Groeningemuseum, Church of Our Lady, Hospital of St John (Memling Museum) and optional independent visit to Gruuthusemuseum (recently refurbished). Evening lecture: Rubens, Antwerp & the Flemish Baroque. Free evening. Day 4 Transfer to Antwerp for two nights at Hilton Antwerp Old Town. Visits to St Charles Borromeo Church, Snijders & Rockox Huis and Plantin-Moretus Museum. Day 5 Visits to Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady and KMSKA (Royal Museum of Fine Arts). Day 6 Transfer to Brussels for Musée des Beaux Arts. Depart Brussels 1656, arriving London St Pancras 1757.

Cost of £2575 includes: return travel, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, five breakfasts, one light lunch, four dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £395. TOUR CODE: ATBG26

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With the development of oil painting in the 15th century onwards, Belgium played an essential role in the evolution of western painting. Its ‘golden age’ began with brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck, before being continued by Hans Memling in Bruges, Rogier van der Weyden in Brussels and Hugo van der Goes in Ghent. Flemish Mannerist architects spread Renaissance ideas throughout northern Europe, and in Van Dyck and Rubens we have two formidable Baroque artists.

KMSKA / PUBLIC DOMAIN

Enjoy a day in Bruges, exploring the Groeningemuseum and Memling Museum

GERMANY

Art Treasures of Berlin April 8–12, 2026

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SERGIY GALYONKIN / CC BY-SA 2.0 VIA FLICKR

Charlottenburg Palace interior

Discover an abundance of art from early Germanic artefacts to the expressive woodcuts of Käthe Kollwitz

will end at the Futurium, a trailblazing museum that connects culture, nature, science and technology within innovative installations.

two guided visits focusing on Northern Europe and Germany and Southern Europe and Italy will allow us to explore a number of key works in depth.

View the extensive and magnificent collection of European paintings housed at the Gemäldegalerie

We will indulge in the famous collections of the Gemäldegalerie, renowned for its extensive holdings of European painting from the 13th to 18th centuries. Here,

We will also tour Charlottenburg Palace, discovering its prestigious assemblage of 18th century French paintings and sculptures in the New Wing, followed

The fountain of youth, Lucas Cranach (the Elder), 1546 PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA BERLIN STATE MUSEUMS, GEMÃ¤LDEGALERIE / VOLKER-H. SCHNEIDER

Experience ornate Rococo and Neoclassical interiors at Charlottenburg Palace and Sanssouci Palace In Berlin we will encounter a broad array of art within magnificent galleries, and experience its brilliant architecture, where historic landmarks are nestled amongst sleek and modern facades. Beginning at Berlin’s Museum Island, we will discover remarkable works of sculpture at the Bode Museum, as well as archeological collections and early Germanic artefacts at the Neues Museum. Our afternoon walking tour of historic and contemporary Berlin 50

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GERMANY

PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA PIXABAY

Sanssouci Palace

On our final evening, we will have a celebratory dinner at the Käfer rooftop restaurant in the Reichstag Building. Its elegant interiors are situated beside the building’s iconic dome, providing a special atmosphere for us to enjoy fine food and the diverse architecture of Germany’s historic governmental hub. We will be based at the comfortable three-star Martas Hotel Albrechtshof in Berlin, chosen for its convenient location to museums and galleries, making it ideal for group visits and independent exploration.

by a visit to the Käthe Kollwitz museum in the Theatre Wing. A figurehead of German Expressionism, Käthe Kollwitz’s graphic works depict working-class citizens, women and children, gravitating toward the harrowing realities of war.

Tête d’enfant endormi, Käthe Kollwitz, 1892

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PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Further visits will be made to the collections of the Jewish Museum, reflecting on the Jewish past and present in Germany, followed by an exploration of the displays at the Berlinsche Galerie,

Cultural Break This tour is part of our new Cultural Break series, specially designed for the more independent traveller. These tours benefit from the same high level of cultural content as our standard tours with time also given to independent exploration. As they tend to be based in city centres, these tours typically make more use of public transport as an easier and quicker way of accessing sites. The Tour Director and Tour Manager will also be on hand throughout to introduce travellers to some of the lesser known sites and recommend local places to wine and dine. This tour utilises half-day visits that will look at Berlin’s modern art and architecture in-depth, providing travellers with a wealth of knowledge that will enhance independent exploration later in the day.

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Please note that this tour will require a good level of fitness and stamina, as it involves a significant amount of walking during architectural and garden tours, as well as at museum visits, where there are not always opportunities to sit down. Participants should meet ACE’s fitness criteria as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

ITINERARY

We cannot guarantee the availability of all artwork/artists mentioned as works can be removed at short notice for restoration purposes or loaned to other institutions. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 1320 on British Airways, arriving Berlin Brandenburg Airport 1615. Transfer to Martas Hotel Albrechtshof for four nights stay. Welcome and introduction. Day 2 Morning: Museum Island for visits to Bode Museum and Neues Museum. Afternoon: optional contemporary and historic walking tour. Free evening. Day 3 Gemäldegalerie session one (German and Northern European art) and session two (Italian and Southern European art). Afternoon: optional viewing and discussion of the Holocaust Memorial. Free evening. Day 4 Morning: Charlottenburg Palace’s Old Wing and New Wing (18th century French painting and sculpture) and the Käthe Kollwitz Museum in the Theatre Wing. Free afternoon followed by dinner at the Käfer restaurant (Reichstag building). Day 5 Morning: visits to the Jewish Museum and Berlinsche Galerie. Transfer to Berlin Brandenburg Airport for 1840 flight, arriving Heathrow 1935. Cost of £2295 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, four breakfasts, two dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £265. TOUR CODE: ATBL26

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which is composed of modern art made in Berlin.

This tour will be led by Tom Abbott, BA, MA, an independent art and architectural historian associated with the Foundation of Prussian Palaces and Gardens. A resident of Berlin for over thirty years, he is a proficient lecturer and tour leader, with extensive experience directing cultural and art tours in Germany, France, Italy and Poland.

P O RT U G A L

Wildlife & Walking in the Alentejo & Algarve April 9–16, 2026 Burgau Coast

E U RO P E

Discover the wildlife and landscapes of the Alentejo and Algarve, resplendent with spring flowers and a wealth of birdlife Explore flower-strewn cliff tops, mountain peaks and coastal estuaries, and consider questions of conservation

“A fascinating tour. Harriet and Peter were incredibly well-informed and enthusiastic about their subjects, as well as being great fun as tour leaders. I felt that I learned a great deal. I was impressed by the way that they put specialist subjects in context and the emphasis on conservation”

Look out for the rich variety of plant and bird species, including cistus, mirror orchids, azurewinged magpies and great bustards

“The two leaders were absolutely excellent. They worked well together, were responsive to the group and answered all questions and queries with good humour”

“Kestrels swoop around the town rooftops, eagles pass overhead, and at dawn nightingales sing from the banks of the Guadiana river” – Tour Director Peter Exley

– ACE customers on the 2023 Alentejo & the Algarve: Landscapes & Wildlife tour led by Harriet Allen and Peter Exley

This tour takes in the unspoilt landscapes of Portugal’s Alentejo and Algarve regions, with their rich assortment of wildflowers and diverse birdlife, including hoopoes and storks, as well as the possibility of migrating birds. Extensive golden beaches, coupled with the dramatic cliffs of Sagres and Cape St Vincent, dominate the coast, while further inland at Serra de Monchique, we will take in stunning views and discover contrasting vegetation to that of the coast. 52

The Castro Verde Special Protection Area protects the traditional working landscape of the Alentejo’s treeless plains, dominated by dry cereal fields and fallow land used as pasture for cattle. This is an open, steppe-like landscape, which provides the right habitat for year-round populations of great and little bustards, which we hope to see. Further highlights will include the Salgados Lagoon, one of the most important freshwater wetlands in the Algarve, and the charming walled town of Mértola itself. One of our mornings

will take us along the nearby Guadiana River, which commands beautiful views over the town and its vibrant backdrop. We will stay at the four-star Hotel Belavista da Luz, a comfortable modern hotel in the western Algarve, before moving to the historical centre of Mértola where the group will be divided between the three-star Hotel Museu and the nearby three-star Hotel Beira Rio. This tour will be led by Harriet Allen, MA, MSc, PhD, a geographer, and Peter Exley, BSc, an ecologist, ornithologist and conservationist. Harriet is a Fellow and Director of Studies at Girton College, Cambridge, and has been leading field excursions for over 30 years, with extensive experience of flora and birds in many parts of the world including Portugal. Peter has worked for the RSPB and also held posts with BirdLife International and the Albatross Task Force in South Africa. He has led many ACE tours, including in Portugal.

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P O RT U G A L

Director Harriet Allen writes: “Away from the coast, much of the Algarve and Alentejo remains a traditional and rural Mediterranean landscape. My passion is in explaining how these landscapes, and their flora and fauna, have developed through the interplay of geology, evolution, climate and natural history.” FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour will involve a number of walks, the longest of which will be approximately 7 miles, including several stops and the option to return early by taxi if wished. While the paths are generally of good quality, participants should be comfortable negotiating rugged terrain as well as uneven pavements, cobbles, unmade paths, loose gravel and some ascents, so it is necessary to possess a good overall level of fitness and mobility. We will make one longer journey (between Burgau and Mértola) of several hours with stops en route. We recommend participants check our minimum fitness criteria in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0925 on British Airways, arriving Faro 1220. Afternoon stop at the Ludo Trail (part of Ria Formosa coastal wetlands, opportunity to see spoonbills, waders, ospreys, white storks and Sardinian warblers – visit subject to final flight times). Continue to Hotel Belavista da Luz for four nights. Welcome and introduction. Day 2 Whole day excursion to Sagres Peninsula, including Sagres Fortress (location of Henry the Navigator’s 15th century School of Navigation, where we will explore both history and natural history) and region around Cape St Vincent lighthouse (the most south-westerly point in Europe, remarkable flora of limestone plateau – lighthouse exterior only). Day 3 Whole day excursion inland to Serra de Monchique (the highest part of the Algarve, with stunning views, heathers and tree heath). Day 4 Nature walk near Burgau (gentle walk of approx 6-7 miles with regular breaks) with introduction to the coastal flowers of the region (possible irises and orchids) as well as birds and reptiles.

ITINERARY

Please note that while we will endeavour to deliver the below itinerary, some elements may be subject to change and/or confirmation. We cannot guarantee the presence of all wildlife mentioned, and some visits may be weather dependent. The details of our visit to the Vale Gonçalinho Environmental Education Centre will depend on their conservation activities nearer the time.

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Eurasian Hoopoe

Day 5 Transfer to Mértola via Salgados Lagoon (one of the most important freshwater wetlands in the Algarve) and Eco-cork Factory. Three nights at Hotel Museu or Hotel Beira Rio, Mértola. Day 6 Morning: Vale Gonçalinho Environmental Education Centre and Reserve (preserving the traditional working landscape of the Alentejo’s treeless plains, birds including great & little bustard, roller, kestrel, quail, crested & calandra lark). Afternoon: free time to explore walled town of Mértola independently (museums, citadel and medieval castle). Day 7 Morning: Sao João dos Caldeireiros (new lynx observation facility, beautiful views with chance to see white storks and Spanish sparrows – visit subject to confirmation) followed by Guadiana Valley walk (excellent views back towards Mértola, gentle walk of approx 5 miles with breaks). Afternoon: walking tour of the Mina de São Domingos (abandoned copper and pyrites mine). Day 8 Depart Faro 1320, arriving Heathrow 1605.

Cost of £2895 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, seven breakfasts, five lunches (mostly packed), seven dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £325. TOUR CODE: ALAL26

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Castle of Mértola

I TA LY

Art Treasures of Tuscany and Umbria: Masterpieces of the Renaissance April 10–17, 2026 Explore picturesque medieval towns in the provinces of Tuscany and Umbria

Basilica of Santa Chiara

Experience Piero della Francesca’s The Madonna del Parto in Monerchi, as well his masterpiece, the Legend of the True Cross, in Arezzo Cathedral Discover the unique churches of the region, from the vibrancy inside the Basilica of San Francesco to the stunning facade of the Duomo di Orvieto

E U RO P E

Amidst the peaks and valleys of the Apennine mountains, the regions of Tuscany and Umbria house an abundance of towns with ornate architecture and exquisite art. Each day we will venture to a new destination to discover new sites, beginning in Citta de Castello, a bustling town with traditional charm, providing the perfect hub for the first part of the tour. Journeying to Arezzo, we will discover a range of fine art, including the colourfully stylised crucifix by Giovanni Cimabue at San Domenico Church. Among these highlights is Piero della Francesca’s fresco Legend of the True Cross, widely regarded as a masterpiece of the early Renaissance, which we will view at Arezzo Cathedral. We will encounter further works by Piero della Francesca in Monterchi, where his Madonna del Parto fresco is embraced within a serene and meditative atmosphere at the eponymously named museum. Urbino’s historic centre is a magnificent example of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites in Italy. Once a hub for remarkable cultural blossoming in the 15th century, owing to the patronage of Federico de Montefeltro, the town’s legacy can be traced through art history – for example, Titian’s seminal painting Venus of Urbino. Urbino was the birthplace of Raphael, and a visit to Casa Natale di Raffaello will offer insights 54

This tour will be led by Andrew Spira, MA, who studied at the Courtauld Institute of Art and City University, London. For several years he was a specialist in Byzantine and Russian icons at the Temple Gallery, London, before working as a curator at the V&A Museum. Andrew was subsequently Programme Director at Christie’s Education, and has been leading tours to cultural sites in Russia, Armenia, Georgia and all across Europe for over 20 years. into Raphael’s early life and career. We will also explore the exquisite art at the Oratory of San Giovanni Battista, containing 15th century frescoes, and at the monumental Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, with its harmonious layout and prestigious art collection, commended as the epitome of the Renaissance. A day spent in Gubbio will provide a window into its rich history, with a visit to the Palazzo dei Consoli, a

medieval palace turned art gallery. This institution is not only a shining achievement of architectural regeneration and preservation, but affords important insights into the life of the Umbrian people from prehistory to the 20th century. We will also explore the balanced courtyard and elegant interiors complete with 13th century art at the Palazzo Ducale di Gubbio. Architecture provides a focal point in Assisi, where we will visit the Basilica of San Francesco, an early example of Italian Gothic architecture and a milestone in Italian art. Within the basilica lie 28 frescoes attributed to Giotto; distinctly naturalist with the illusion of depth, his innovative style led to the development of a renaissance logic, and the vibrancy of pigments here makes for a truly wondrous experience. Further architectural splendours will be seen at the Duomo di Orvieto, its synthesis of Gothic and Romanesque motifs projecting a uniquely stunning facade that culminates in gold mosaics depicting The Life of the Virgin. For our final visit, we will travel to the Santa

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Basilica di San Francesco, Arezzo

For the first three nights we will stay in the Sangallo Palace Hotel, a smart establishment that is situated within walking distance of Perugia’s historical town centre. The following four nights will be spent at the Hotel Tiferno in Citta del Castello. Blending the original framework of a monastery with a modern convenience and an air of tranquility, this four-star boutique hotel provides an excellent place to stay.

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour requires a high level of fitness, as most days involve visits to hilltop towns, which are steep and have many cobbled and uneven streets and paving. It is usually necessary for the coach to park in designated coach parks at the bottom of these towns, and although some have lifts/ escalators to assist in reaching the top, once in these towns, participants will be required to navigate hilly and steep streets. Please consult ACE’s minimum fitness requirements in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

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Day 3 Whole day excursion to Assisi for visits to Basilica San Chiara and Basilica San Francesco. Free evening.

ITINERARY

Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. We cannot guarantee the availability of all artworks mentioned. Historical sites in Italy, such as churches, can sometimes close at short notice for restoration.

Day 4 Morning in in Todi for Santa Maria della Consolazione, followed by afternoon in Orvieto for the Duomo di Orvieto. Transfer to Citta di Castello for four nights at Hotel Tiferno. Day 5 Whole day excursion to Arezzo for visits to Basilica di San Francesco, Santa Maria della Pieve, Arezzo Cathedral and Chiesa di San Domenico.

Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0810 on British Airways, arriving Florence 1130. Transfer to Sangallo Palace hotel in Perugia for three nights’ stay. Welcome and orientation walk.

Day 6 Excursion to Monterchi for visits to Civic Museum Madonna del Parto and Museo della Bilance. Free evening.

Day 2 Whole day excursion to Gubbio to explore Palazzo dei Consoli and Palazzo Ducale di Gubbio.

Day 7 Whole day excursion to Urbino for visits to Casa Natale di Raffaello, Oratory of San Giovanni Battista and Palazzo Ducale di Urbino.

Duomo di Orvieto

Day 8 Transfer to Rome for 1515 flight, arriving Heathrow 1655.

PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA PIXABAY

Maria della Consolazione in Todi. This 16th century pilgrimage church exemplifies the Byzantine inflections of the region, diversifying our encounters with sacred architecture.

Cost of £2865 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, seven breakfasts, one packed lunch, five dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £265. TOUR CODE: ATTU26

E U RO P E

I TA LY

TURKEY

Lycian Cruise

Explore ancient cities containing fascinating classical remains on a voyage around the coast of southwest Turkey Visit the impressive ruins of Xanthos, capital of ancient Lycia Journey inland to discover the beautifully located town of Pinara with tombs cut into the rock face Along the southwest coast of Turkey lie some of the most breathtaking cities of the ancient Greek and Roman world. The landscape, marked by soaring limestone cliffs and rugged mountains, echoes the grandeur of classical times and bears witness to untold wealth brought by the armies of Alexander, Roman emperors and Byzantine merchants. To truly experience the historic cities of Lycia and southeastern Caria, we will take to the sea, exploring a scenic coastline dotted with small bays inaccessible to large cruise ships but perfectly suited to traditional Turkish two-masted vessels known as gulets. 56

In 2026 we are offering a longer and shorter version of this tour. Both departures begin with a cruise to Gemiler, where the remains of a oncethriving monastic community evoke images of the majesty of high Byzantium. At Kas and Pinara, stunning Hellenistic ruins await us, and at Myra, the 3rd century seat of St Nicholas, we will encounter a multitude of exquisite tombs carved into the imposing rock face.

The clear waters of the eastern Mediterranean hold historical treasures, with submerged remnants like classical Aperlae and Byzantine Tesane offering fascinating glimpses into the past. Meanwhile, Xanthos, the ancient capital of Lycia, reveals its rich history through its Roman theatre and Byzantine citadel, showcasing a blend of Hellenistic and Lycian cultures.

Lycian Queen interior

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©BLUECRUISE

E U RO P E

Bodrum Castle

SERHIO MAGPIE / CC BY 4.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

April 11–25, 2026 | September 5–12, 2026

TURKEY Day 7 Travel inland to ancient Pinara in the Esençay Valley and Tlos. Two nights in the bay of Fethiye. Day 8 Ancient site of Telmessos, including the magnificent tomb of Amyntas. Day 9 Morning sail to Agalimani: walk through pine forest to the remains of ancient Lydae. Overnight at Agalimani. Day 10 Morning cruise followed by transfer to small boat for visit to the site of ancient Caunos. Overnight near Caunos. Day 11 Cruise along peninsula to Loryma: Hellenistic fort. Overnight in Loryma. Day 12 Cruise to Knidos: temple of Apollo Karneios, temple of Aphrodite Euploia, Doric portico, early Byzantine churches, harbour theatre. Overnight in ancient harbour of Knidos.

Both departures will be led by Gillian Hovell, BA (Hons), an ancient historian and archaeologist with expertise spanning the Neolithic to Roman Britain and the Greek and Roman Mediterranean. Gillian actively digs at major sites in the UK and Europe, from Orkney to Pompeii, and regularly delivers talks for the Arts Society and at museums including the British Museum and the Ashmolean. An award-winning writer, she has given several TV, radio and podcast interviews and also runs online courses in archaeology, ancient history and Latin as ‘The Muddy Archaeologist’.

Our Vessels The first cruise will be on board the MS Lycian Queen, which launched in 2015, and the second upon the MS Larin Su, launched in 2007 and fully refitted and refurbished in 2020. These deluxe vessels are traditional, two-masted, motorised wooden Turkish gulets, of the type typically seen along the country’s coastline. Both are equipped with 8 ensuite cabins, making them the ideal size for accessing the ports and bays of the Lycian coast, and amenities include a saloon, sun deck, Wi-Fi and air conditioning.

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FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Both cruises require a good level of fitness and mobility, in line with the fitness requirements in ACE’s Booking Terms & Conditions. Many archaeological sites involve short but steep ascents, often on broken paths or uneven ground, with the longest taking about 30 minutes. All ascents are optional and the degree of difficulty will be advised at each site. Participants should be prepared for traversing slippery surfaces, and be comfortable climbing in and out of a small dinghy via a stepladder, as well as walking with both hands free while disembarking and embarking the boat.

ITINERARIES

The itineraries represent guides to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change. Opening times can change at short notice, so some visits may be adjusted nearer the time. Our itineraries are fluid and weather conditions can affect the order and nature of visits, so participants should be prepared to be flexible. TOUR 1 Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0725 on British Airways, arriving Dalaman 1330. Transfer to MS Lycian Queen for 14 nights. Overnight at Fethiye. Day 2 Morning cruise to the island of Gemiler: ruined churches, vaulted processional way, large ecclesiastical complex. Overnight at Gemiler. Day 3 Cruise westwards to the picturesque village of Kas: well-preserved Hellenistic theatre, tombs. Overnight at Kas. Day 4 Sail via Uluburun along the coast and into the bay of Kekova to the small Turkish village of Kaleköy: dramatic citadel with Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman remains, haunting Lycian necropolis. Overnight at Gokkaya Liman. Day 5 Sail to Myra. Overnight in Kekova area. Day 6 Cruise along mountainous shores of the Lycian coast to the tiny harbour of Kalkan then by minibus to Letoon and Xanthos. Overnight at Kalkan.

Day 14 Sail to Bodrum and visit the remains of the Mausoleum, built by the wife of King Mausolus in around 350 BCE. Visit to St Peter’s Castle including the underwater archaeology museum. Overnight in Bay of Bodrum. Day 15 Depart Bodrum 1425, arriving Heathrow 1650. TOUR 2 Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0725 on British Airways, arriving Dalaman 1330. Transfer to MS Larin Su for seven nights. Overnight at Fethiye. Day 2 Morning cruise to the island of Gemiler: ruined churches, vaulted processional way, large ecclesiastical complex. Overnight at Gemiler. Day 3 Cruise westwards to the picturesque village of Kas: well-preserved Hellenistic theatre, tombs. Overnight at Kas. Day 4 Cruise via Uluburun along the coast and into the bay of Kekova to the small Turkish village of Kaleköy: dramatic citadel with Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman remains, haunting Lycian necropolis. Overnight at Gokkaya Liman. Day 5 area.

Cruise to Myra. Overnight in Kekova

Day 6 Cruise along the mountainous shores of Lycian coast to the tiny harbour of Kalkan then by minibus to Letoon and Xanthos. Overnight at Kalkan. Day 7 Travel inland to ancient Pinara in the Esençay Valley and Tlos. Overnight at Fethiye. Day 8 Depart Dalaman 1425, arriving Heathrow 1650. Cost of April tour: £4995 Cost of September tour: £3595 Cost includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded cabin, full board (except lunch on Day 8 of Tour 1) with water, tea & coffee, shore excursions & admissions, crew gratuities & all taxes. Not included: visa, travel insurance, master cabins (Tour 1) & cabin for single use supplements (both tours) on request. TOUR CODE: LYC126 / LYC226

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Lycian Queen

©BLUECRUISE

Day 13 Cruise to Bay of Bodrum. Overnight in Bay of Bodrum.

POLAND

Towns & Palaces of Poland April 13–23, 2026 Wilanów Palace

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Journey from Kraków to Warsaw, taking in Lublin and Zamość en route, as we discover a wealth of fascinating churches, palaces and art collections Experience stunning Gothic, Baroque and Rococo architecture, including the Nieborów Palace and the Renaissance townscapes of Zamość Explore fine collections of Polish and European art, including Kraków’s Cloth Hall Museum and Warsaw’s Wilanów Palace and Park Our journey begins in Kraków, the erstwhile capital of Poland, which remains the spiritual home of the Polish nation. Miraculously spared from the devastation of the Second World War, the city contains a multitude of architectural delights, from the 15th century university to Wawel Cathedral, the final sanctuary of Stanislaus, the patron saint of Poland. Our walking itineraries will embrace some of Poland’s most compelling art and architecture, from the extensive collections of the National Museum to Łazienki, the ‘Palace on the Water’. In Lublin, we will explore the old town with its hilltop castle and streets incorporating fragments of Gothic walls, Renaissance 58

“Alex was very knowledgeable, very conscientious and related well with everyone in the group” “Alex put his heart and soul into everything he did – his commentaries, notes and enthusiasm” – ACE customers on recent tours led by Alex Koller

gables and Baroque towers. The city is also home to an unusual Dominican church, in a late Gothic style overlaid with a Renaissance exterior and Baroque/ Rococo interior. Our survey of the towns and palaces of Poland ends in Warsaw, where the medieval core and the castle of the Vasa kings have been handsomely restored, while the Royal Way, leading from the This tour will be led by Alex Koller, PhD, expert in art history and architecture. Alex has lived and studied in Vienna, Salzburg and Cambridge. An accomplished linguist, he has been leading tours since 1998 and his experience ranges from Eastern Europe and Russia to Japan and the Himalayas.

Royal Palace in the old town to the Versailles-like Wilanów Palace, ranks as one of Europe’s grandest boulevards. We will stay at a variety of hotels in Kraków, Krasiczyn, Zamość, Lublin and Warsaw. A particular highlight will be our first three nights at Kraków’s five-star Francuski Hotel, perfectly positioned in the historical centre. One of the oldest dedicated hotels in the city (opened in 1912), the building is full of art deco charm, heritage and elegance. Subsequent hotels are of a three or fourstar standard and all are comfortable, warm and welcoming, in addition to being conveniently situated for our explorations. Please note that facilities at some hotels may be of a simpler overall standard. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Participants should meet ACE’s usual fitness criteria, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions, and have a good overall level of fitness, mobility and stamina. We have designed a comprehensive and adventurous itinerary to make the most of our time in Poland and take in a wealth of sites. Participants should therefore be prepared for spending time on their feet during city-based walking tours (where the ground may be uneven or cobbled) and standing at visits. Some visits have steps and stairs to navigate, and there is some uphill walking at Przemyśl. We will make use of the tram system in Kraków, an efficient way of getting around. Please also note that this tour involves five separate hotel stays, three of which are single nights in succession, and there is no lift at the Krasiczyn Castle Hotel.

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POLAND

Day 3 Further visits in Kraków: Czartoryski Museum (Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine), former Jewish district of Kazimierz (Old Synagogue, Izaak Synagogue, fine churches of Corpus Christi and St Catherine), Wawel Castle (art collections, tombs of kings and national heroes), Cathedral of Wawel Hill. Free evening.

ITINERARY

Please note the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change, confirmation or reordering nearer the time, or time permitting on the day. Historical sites and churches can sometimes close at short notice for restoration work or services, so some visits may be exterior only.

Day 4 Visits to Łańcut Castle and Krasiczyn Castle (late Renaissance sgraffito decoration, chapel). Overnight at Krasiczyn Castle Hotel.

Day 1 Flight from London to Kraków. Transfer for three nights at Hotel H15 Francuski, Kraków.

At the seashore, Anna Bilińska-Bohdanowicz, 1886

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PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Day 2 Visits in Kraków: early Baroque Jesuit Church of SS Peter & Paul, Old Town Square, Dominican and Franciscan churches, medieval fortifications, Gothic Basilica of St Mary (Veit Stoss altarpiece), Cloth Hall Museum (fine collection of 19th century Polish paintings), 15th century Jagiellonian University and St Anne’s University Church.

Tour Director Alex Koller writes: “On this tour we combine some well-known highlights like the architectural monuments of Kraków or the picturesque beauty of Kazimierz Dolny with sites that are off the beaten track: not many people would expect Byzantinestyle paintings (Lublin) or a perfect Renaissance town (Zamość) in eastern Poland. The great country houses of Kozłówka and Łańcut provide an excellent opportunity to visualise the life of the great noble families of Poland. Lastly, there is the experience of Warsaw, a city that has sunk and risen in the most dramatic fashion in the Second World War and preserved a surprising number of cultural monuments of the highest order.”

Day 5 Transfer via Kruhel Wielki (Church of the Ascension), Przemyśl (old town and churches) and Leszno (wooden Church of St Basil the Great) to Zamość for visit to Rotunda monument and overnight at Hotel Zamojski. Day 6 Morning in Zamość: Renaissance townscapes, 17th century Synagogue, 17th century Town Hall, Collegiate Church and Zamość Museum. Continue to Lublin: Old Town with hilltop castle (tower and chapel), Cathedral and Dominican, Bernardine and Carmelite churches. Overnight at Wieniawski Hotel, Lublin. Day 7 Transfer to Warsaw via Kazimierz Dolny (historical town on the Vistula River) and Kozłówka (Zamoyski Palace). Four nights at Polonia Palace Hotel, Warsaw. Day 8 Visits in Warsaw: Old Town, Royal Way, Royal Castle, National Museum and Ghetto Memorial and Museum. Day 9 Excursion to Nieborów (Baroque Palace, national art collection, Arkadia romantic park), Lowicz (Cathedral) and Brochów fortified church. Free evening. Day 10 Visits to Wilanów Palace and Park (residence of King Jan III Sobieski with fine art collection) and Łazienki Palace on the Isle and Park. Some free time in Warsaw. Day 11 Return flight from Warsaw to London.

Cost of £4295 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, ten breakfasts, eight dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £625. TOUR CODE: TOPO26

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Lublin

P O RT U G A L

Douro River Cruise on the Royal Barge May 8–15, 2026

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Mateus Palace

Sail aboard the Spirit of Chartwell, formerly the Royal Barge, as it cruises along the ‘River of Gold’ Encounter incredible architecture, from the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios’s grand staircase in Lamego to the Baroque facade of the Plaza Mayor in Salamanca Visit the medieval town of Figuera de Castello Roderigo and Pinhão for a window into the region’s history and cultural identity The Douro Valley is a magnificent destination that offers rich insights into history and culture alongside stunning landscapes to enjoy. We will cruise the Douro River through Portugal and Spain, encountering a variety of towns and dedicating time to their unique attractions. Sailing on board the Spirit of Chartwell will give us the chance to relax and soak up the majestic scenery of rolling hills and winding vineyards, and at times, we will stop off at quintas to indulge in the region’s famous port and table wines. 60

“I may never travel again without my own personal art historian, Marie-Anne was excellent” “Very knowledgeable with a gift for imparting that knowledge to the group and individuals” – ACE customers on previous tours led by Marie-Anne Mancio

This tour has been specially updated for 2026 and will utilise our Tour Director Marie-Anne Mancio’s expertise in art history to illuminate the rich cultural legacy of the Douro Valley. Marie-Anne will explore the significance of the region for several artists and writers during a series of lectures; she writes “I am excited to share this journey through the stunning Douro wine region, part of the bigger story of Portugal’s cultural phenomena – such as writers Luis de Camões and Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen; artist Paula Rego; Amália Rodrigues, the ‘Queen of Fado’ – and introduce travellers to Spain’s Salamanca, a city renowned for its architecture.” Examples of Salamanca’s architectural excellence include the elegant Baroque

facade of Plaza Mayor and the peculiar Casa de las Conchas, a Gothic building adorned with over 300 stone shells. Elsewhere, architecture offers us an insight into Portugal’s medieval history, such as the rugged castle remains and churches in the small town of Figuera de Castello Roderigo. Art is interwoven throughout our visits to local towns, in cathedrals and galleries; whilst an unlikely gem awaits us in Pinhão train station, where a 24-panel series composed of rich azure tiles tells the story of winemaking from harvest to export, reflecting the distinct identity of the Douro Valley. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour requires a good level of fitness and mobility, and participants must meet ACE’s usual fitness criteria. The sundeck and all of the cabins on the boat (aside from the Royal Suite) are accessed by a narrow flight of stairs. The stairs to the cabins are slightly spiralled with a handrail on one side. The decks, steps and handrails can be slippery if wet. There is a safe and secure gangplank for embarking/disembarking which can feel slightly wobbly, but help is available. Several of our visits involve walking over cobbles and steep inclines. Participants should possess a good level of stamina. Please note that certain visits on this cruise are remote.

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The Spirit of Chartwell Used by Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012, the Spirit of Chartwell is the flagship vessel on the Douro River. This royal river barge, now based in Portugal, offers a spacious and sumptuous design with the finest interior furnishings. The vessel is fully equipped with a restaurant, piano bar, observation deck and 14 comfortable outside-facing cabins, each with private facilities. Professional and highly attentive crew members provide unequalled service during this tranquil passage through the Douro River Valley.

& the Region River of Gold followed by traditional Portuguese Fado and folk music (subject to confirmation). Overnight Régua.

Casa de las Conchas (Gothic building dating from 1493), Salamanca University, New Cathedral (16th–18th century). Overnight Barca d’Alva.

Day 3 Visit to Mateus Palace (beautiful gardens, chapel and winery). Cruise to the riverside town of Pinhão for a walking tour. The History of Portugal 1: Naissance and Renaissance.

Day 6 Morning cruise to Lamego (Cathedral and Sanctuary). Lecture: The History of Portugal 3: Salazar Vomiting the Homeland. Overnight Porto Antigo.

Day 1 Depart London Gatwick 1200 on TAP Portugal, arriving Porto 1425. Coach tour of Oporto (including visit to the cathedral and cloisters). Embark Spirit of Chartwell for seven nights. Overnight Oporto.

Day 4 Sail past rolling hills and terraced vineyards to Barca d’Alva (on the Spanish border). Afternoon excursion to the medieval Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo (castle and churches). Lecture: The History of Portugal 2: Bury the Dead and Heal the Living. Overnight Barca d’Alva.

Day 7 Morning cruise down river to Oporto (UNESCO World Heritage site): private visit to the historical Factory House of the British Association and tour and tasting at Taylor’s Port Lodge. Overnight Oporto.

Day 2 Cruise up the river to Quinta de Roeda (tour and tasting at winery). Lecture: Douro River

Day 5 Whole day excursion to Salamanca (UNESCO World Heritage site): Plaza Mayor,

ITINERARY

Please note that this itinerary is a guideline and some elements are subject to change, in particular following 2025 departures. On rare occasions, changing water levels may affect our schedule, and in these cases we will do our best to adapt arrangements to deliver the visits as planned. Please visit the ACE website or contact the office for more information.

Day 8 Disembark Spirit of Chartwell. Some free time in Oporto and Vila Nova de Gaia with optional visit to Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis. Depart Porto 1755, arriving Gatwick 2010.

The Spirit of Chartwell on the Douro River

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©DOURO AZUL

This tour will be led by Marie-Anne Mancio, MPhil, DPhil, an art historian, writer, experienced tour leader and Arts Society accredited lecturer. Marie-Anne originally trained as an artist before gaining a DPhil at the University of Sussex in art and critical theory. She has written and presented courses for Tate and Dulwich Picture Gallery, writes reviews, catalogue essays and historical fiction, and is a frequent visitor to Italy.

Cost of £4495 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded cabin, full board with unlimited tea & coffee (whilst on board), wine, beer, soft drinks served with meals, shore excursions & admissions, all gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, supplement for the Royal Suite £495 per person, cabin for single use supplement on request. TOUR CODE: DRRC26

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The Spirit of Chartwell interior

@DOURO AZUL

P O RT U G A L

I TA LY

Ancient Sicily May 12–22, 2026 with Gillian Hovell | October 6–16, 2026 with Jamie Sewell Become immersed in the richly diverse history of Sicily, which has been occupied since the Bronze Age

Palermo Cathedral

Explore Sicily’s seafaring past with visits to the beautiful Phoenician island of Mozia Engage with a wealth of cultural delights at Syracuse including the archaeological park with its Roman amphitheatre, Greek theatre and forbidding quarries

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As the largest island in the Mediterranean and a strategic crossroad, Sicily’s narrative is marked by trade and invasion. From the Phoenician invasion in the Bronze Age to the unification of Italy in the modern era, Sicilian history has been intricately interwoven by a myriad of civilisations and cultures, resulting in a richly diverse culture and people. Beginning in Palermo, which became Sicily’s capital after the Norman conquest, we will marvel at the magnificent Arabo-Norman designs of Palermo Cathedral and the UNESCOlisted Norman-Byzantine Cathedral of Monreale, built by William II. The Palatine Chapel within the Palazzo dei The May departure will be led by Gillian Hovell, BA (Hons). Gillian is a specialist in the ancient world and archaeology, known professionally as ‘The Muddy Archaeologist’. She has excavated at internationally important sites from the Neolithic through to Roman times. The October departure will be led by Jamie Sewell, PhD. Jamie has many years’ experience supervising excavations across Europe, including in Italy, and has authored a book and many articles on the archaeology of towns in Hellenistic Italy and the broader Mediterranean. 62

“His relaxed approach to a complex subject excited our imagination and made each tour thoroughly enjoyable. We would be very happy to join another of his tours” “Jamie was so knowledgeable, approachable and enthusiastic. One could not hope for a better Director” “Jamie bought the ancient world alive for me and ignited an interest” – ACE customer on the 2024 Ancient Sicily tour with Jamie Sewell

Normanni is particularly breathtaking, renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, which rival the golden masterpieces found in Monreale’s cathedral. Journeying through the area of Magna Graecia, we will explore an abundance of significant archaeological sites that will illuminate Sicily’s ancient past – from its early history at Segesta, to signs of Greek and Roman occupation at Syracuse, Selinunte and Naxos. New For 2026 New for our 2026 departures, our enhanced Ancient Sicily tours will take you on a deeper dive into the island’s Phoenician and seafaring history with visits to Marsala and Mozia, offering a fuller understanding of Sicily’s place in the Mediterranean world.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus at Agrigento was amongst the largest in the entire Greek world, presenting an astonishing display of wealth and power, while the Roman Villa del Casale at Piazza Armerina contains some of the finest mosaics in existence, with remarkable depictions of mythological figures and ancient life. Syracuse, “the greatest Greek city and the most beautiful of them all” in the opinion of Cicero, conceals the Doric columns of the ancient Temple of Athena behind the Baroque façade of the cathedral. Its archeological park presents one of Sicily’s largest collections of antiquities, charting the city’s expansion from prehistory. Surrounded by a shallow lagoon with shores lined with salt flats and windmills, Mozia held a coveted strategic position, becoming a chief Carthaginian stronghold and one of their most important commercial cities in Sicily. Founded by the Phoenicians in 800 “Gillian was excellent, friendly and helpful and the evening talks were really good in terms of placing the visits in context” “Enthusiastic, interested and interesting” “Gillian brought the ancient people to life by giving them personalities” – ACE customer on 2024 tours with Gillian Hovell

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I TA LY ITINERARY

Selinunte

Please note that the below itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. Some historical sites can close at short notice or for restoration works so some visits may concentrate on exterior architecture. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 0725 on British Airways, arriving Palermo 1120. Afternoon walking tour and introductory talk. Three nights at Hotel Plaza Opera, Palermo. Day 2 Morning: Monreale for visit to cathedral with its glorious Norman mosaics. Afternoon: Palermo Cathedral followed by a private early evening visit to Palazzo dei Normanni (Palatine Chapel) – subject to confirmation. Day 3 Archaeological site of Solunto and Regional Archaeological Museum. Day 4 Morning: Segesta (including temple and theatre). Afternoon: island of Mozia (ancient Phoenician settlement and beautiful natural landscape). Overnight stay at Viacolvento, Marsala.

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We will stay in four comfortable hotels throughout the tour, chosen for their beautiful and convenient locations as we journey around Sicily. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour requires a good level of fitness, mobility and stamina as it involves a significant amount of walking and standing at archaeological sites, for up to three hours at a time. Please note that many sites are exposed and have steep, rough, uneven or loosely pebbled ground, or require walking through low-lying vegetation. In Palermo, some pavements are made from marble and can therefore be slippery even when dry. The tour involves coach journeys of up to three hours’ duration (with a stop en route). This tour also includes a short journey by boat (approximately 15 mins) over shallow lagoon waters. Please consult ACE’s fitness criteria in our Booking Terms & Conditions prior to booking.

ZDE / CC BY-SA 4.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Black figure lekythos depicting roosters and winged Nikai, Gela Painter, 510-500 BC. Archaeological Museum of Syracuse

marble statue of a chariot race victor, as well as the Villa of Mosaics and the Kothon – a Phoenician port.

Overnight Accommodation at London Heathrow Airport Owing to the early flight departure on Day 1 of our tour, we are able to offer an additional overnight stay (room only) at a London Heathrow Airport hotel on the night of May 11 & October 5 for those who wish, at no extra cost. Please let our Sales team know if you would like us to arrange this for you when you make your booking. Please note that owing to flight availability, this tour departs from London Heathrow Airport and returns to London Gatwick Airport.

Day 5 Morning: Museo Archeologico Baglio Anselmi (Roman house & mosaics with remarkable Punic ship). Afternoon: Selinunte archaeological park. Transfer to Hotel Costazurra Museum & Spa, San Leone for two nights. Day 6 Visits in Agrigento: Temple Ridge, Archaeological Museum and adjoining excavation areas. Evening lecture: Piazza Armerina. Day 7 Transfer to Piazza Armerina for Villa del Casale (famous for its remarkable mosaic floors depicting hunting scenes, mythological characters and sporting events) and Morgantina archaeological site. Continue to Hotel Palazzo Cavelieri Siracusa, Syracuse for four nights. Day 8 Morning: visit to Temple of Apollo followed by excursion to Noto (fine example of Sicilian Baroque architecture). Afternoon: Villa del Tellaro (4th century with fine mosaics) followed by free time. Evening: Sicilian puppet show (recognised by UNESCO as part of World Intangible Cultural Heritage). Day 9 Morning lecture followed by visits in Syracuse: Catacomb of San Giovanni, Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum and Archaeological Park. Late afternoon walking tour of Ortygia including sacred spring of Arethusa and Piazza Duomo (Temple of Athena) followed by free evening. Day 10 Whole day excursion to ancient Naxos (early Greek colony) and Taormina (GrecoRoman theatre with superb coastal views). Day 11 Depart Catania 1255, arriving Gatwick 1500. Cost of £4995 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, ten breakfasts, two lunches, eight dinners with wine, water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £565. TOUR CODE: ANS126 / ANS226

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BCE, it likely began as a commercial station and trading drop within the Mediterranean, before flourishing into a busy port city by 650 BCE, with maritime trade expanding across the central and western Mediterranean. During our time on the island we shall also be able to view the Moyta Charioteer – housed in the Giuseppe Whitaker museum – a rare 5th century BCE Greek

ICELAND

Iceland: Forces of Nature June 2–12, 2026 Uncover Iceland’s awe-inspiring landscape, wildlife and cultural heritage on this fully comprehensive tour with geographer Harriet Allen Make an excursion by boat to the Westman Islands, and visit the otherworldly Jökulsárlón lagoon, where luminous blue icebergs drift across the lake Explore the famous ‘Golden Circle’ including Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir Geothermal Area and Thingvellir, where Iceland’s early settlers established their open-air assembly

Nootka Lupine

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Rising out of the North Atlantic, just south of the Arctic Circle, Iceland is a volcanic island alive with hot springs, geysers, boiling mud-pots and stupendous waterfalls. Renowned for the variety of its stunning landscapes formed from 30 million years of active volcanism and 3 million years of glaciations, Iceland in summer also offers opportunities to see a great variety of fauna and flora. Our tour explores far and wide, uncovering the country’s staggering beauty, its singular geology and incredible wildlife.

yellow from thyme, mountain avens, Nootka lupine and angelica.

Growing on lava fields and glacial moraine of different ages, there is an abundance of flowering plants which are at their best in the summer months. The greys and blacks of the rocks are decorated with purple, white, mauve and

Further sites will include the spectacular Vatnajökull National Park; the falls of Dettifoss (with the greatest volume of any waterfall in Europe); the lunar landscapes of the Krafla volcanic eruptions; and the otherworldly Jökulsárlón lagoon, where luminous blue icebergs drift across the lake.

This tour will be led by Harriet Allen, MA, MSc, PhD, a geographer and Fellow and Director of Studies at Girton College, Cambridge. Harriet has been leading field excursions for over 30 years, and has extensive experience of flora and birds in Iceland, Norway, Canada, Portugal and the northern islands of Scotland. She has led many tours for ACE and looks forward to returning to Iceland with another ACE group. 64

This tour will provide opportunities to learn more about the ecology of these and other plants and animals, on visits to places such as the Krossanesborgir reserve and Myvatn, an area of active volcanism which is home to a rich variety of landscapes and wildlife. We hope to catch glimpses of species such as puffins, whales, fulmars and guillemots on a dedicated boat trip.

Our tour will also feature a whole day excursion by boat to the Westman Islands, a stunningly beautiful archipelago where puffins flock during the summer months and which is also home to the fascinating Eldheimar Museum. An excursion to the mountain ridge landscape of Thórsmörk by 4x4 will be another unforgettable highlight.

periods of the Little Ice Age. Iceland’s early settlers established their open-air assembly, one of the oldest parliaments in the world, at Thingvellir. Thingvellir is the site of the crest of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and is one of the few places in the world where the separation of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates can be observed. Famously known as part of the ‘Golden Circle’, we also hope to make explorations to Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir Geothermal Area – with frequently erupting geyser Strokkur. We will stay in a series of comfortable hotels across Iceland. While some of these may be of a simpler standard, with more basic facilities, they have been chosen for their welcoming atmosphere and convenient location, well situated for our daytime visits. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Iceland has a relatively young history of settlement, dating from the 9th century CE. In that time Icelanders have experienced extreme environments, including volcanic eruptions and the cold

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ICELAND

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Participants joining this tour should have a very good level of fitness, stamina and mobility, and be comfortable navigating uneven, rocky and sometimes slippery terrain. Some walks will include steeper sections, although these are relatively short distances, and participants may benefit from using poles, for example when crossing streams. For ACE’s general fitness requirements, please consult our Booking Terms & Conditions. Please note that our hotels have been chosen primarily for their location, allowing us to include the spectacular visits outlined in the itinerary. While comfortable and welcoming, the standard of accommodation will sometimes be of a more basic standard. The majority of our dinners will take place in the hotels, while lunches will usually be packed and will take place at the most convenient moment during the day’s visits.

ITINERARY

Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change, confirmation or reordering nearer the time. Certain visits are dependent on local weather conditions. We cannot guarantee the presence of all the wildlife mentioned. Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 1305 via Reykjavík on Icelandair, arriving Akureyri 1900. Two nights at Kjarnalundur Hotel, Akureyri. Day 2 Visits to the turf-gabled farmhouse at Laufás followed by the Krossanesborgir reserve (introduction to moorland plants, birds and geology) and time to explore Akureryi. Day 3 Morning: Húsavík for a boat trip (possible views of whales and puffins). Afternoon: Godafoss Waterfall, followed by a visit to Myvatn (area of active volcanism with rich variety of landscapes and wetland birdlife). Two nights at Sel-Hotel, Myvatn. Day 4 Morning: Lake Myvatn, including a visit to the lunar landscapes of the Krafla volcanic

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“An amazing country and excellent Tour Director who was full of enthusiasm and energy. The whole trip was one joy after another” – ACE customer on a previous tour to Iceland led by Harriet Allen

eruptions (geothermal area of Námafjall Hverir). Afternoon: Dimmuborgir lava field (dramatic forest of black lava pillars). Please note, if the weather is inclement, the group may visit the Sigurgeir’s Bird Museum instead. Day 5 Myvatn Nature Baths (optional swim or walk in the area – subject to confirmation), Dettifoss (greatest volume of any waterfall in Europe) and Krafla Geothermal Power Station. Overnight at Hotel Lake, Egilsstaðir. Day 6 Eastfjords fishing village of Djúpivogur followed by the Búlandsnes bird reserve. Overnight at hotel close to Höfn. Day 7 Vatnajökull National Park, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Vík (remote coastal village), Seljalandsfoss (waterfall) and Skógafoss (time permitting). Three nights in Selfoss at Hotel Selfoss. Day 8 The Golden Circle: Geysir Geothermal Area (frequently erupting geyser Strokkur), Gullfoss (waterfall), Thingvellir (historical parliament site) and crest of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Day 9 By 4x4s for a whole day excursion to the mountain ridge landscape of Thórsmörk. Day 10 Whole day excursion to the Westman Islands, including visit to the Eldheimar Museum. Continue to Reykjavík for overnight at FH Reykjavík. Day 11 Free time in Reykjavík. Depart Reykjavík 1610, arriving Heathrow 2020.

Tour Director Harriet Allen writes: “Although the weather in Iceland can be variable and unpredictable – in fact it’s like that all year – June is the height of summer for nature; wild flowers colour the landscape and hopefully there are good encounters with birds, such as puffins, whimbrel, godwits and, fingers crossed, red-necked phalaropes and divers. Two of the highlights of this tour are the trip to Thórsmork in the Highlands, where we need a special coach to ford the glacial rivers, and the trip to the Vestmannaeyjar (the Westman Islands). The Eldheimar Museum in Heimaey Town sensitively chronicles the eruption of 1973 which brought the islands to international attention. Wherever we are, we are sure to see spectacular landscapes created by fire and/or ice.”

Cost of £8795 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, ten breakfasts (one boxed on day 10), nine lunches (mainly packed), ten dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not Included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £1295. TOUR CODE: ICEL26

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Námafjall Hverir Geothermal Area

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Rhône River Cruise: Ancient Treasures & Musical Legacies June 19–26, 2026 Explore the beautiful stretch of river between Lyon and Arles

Arles

Chart the history of the region from prehistoric cave art to Roman ruins and monastic splendour Learn about the wine and music of the region through talks, tastings and evening recitals

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From the ancient theatres of Lyon to the evocative remains at Cluny, this stretch of river has witnessed a myriad of historical transitions. Traversing the waterway aboard our private vessel, we will enjoy a multi-layered perspective on the region, taking in Roman ruins and museums alongside sprawling vineyards, delicious local produce and a beautiful and ancient landscape. We will be accompanied throughout by archaeologists Eireann Marshall and Jamie Sewell, pianist Emilie Capulet, mezzo-soprano Sandra Porter and viola player John Rogers. In addition, wine guide Leonie Loudon will join the cruise as a Tour Manager alongside our other experienced personnel. Together This tour will be led by Emilie Capulet, MA, MMus, PhD, Eireann Marshall, PhD, and Jamie Sewell, PhD. Emilie is an awardwinning Franco-British concert pianist, lecturer and musicologist. Currently a Visiting Fellow at Keble College, Oxford, she performs worldwide and has recorded Beethoven, Chopin and Tomasi to critical acclaim. Eireann was raised in Columbia University, as well as the Universities of Birmingham and Exeter, Eireann is a Research Associate and Associate 66

they will help us to uncover the socioeconomic importance of the river across time, charting the societal transition from Gallic tribes through Roman Gaul to Medieval Christianity. They will also explore the impact of the region on artists and musicians, as well as local food and drink, particularly its famous wines. Daytime highlights will include the abbey remains and recreations at Cluny, the excellent archaeological museum in St-Romain-en-Gal. Moving south, we will explore the archaeology of Arles, including its vast Lecturer with the Open University who has led many tours throughout Europe and North Africa. She was chosen as the Top History & Culture Guide for Wanderlust magazine’s 2019 World Guide Awards. Jamie has many years’ experience supervising excavations in Britain, Germany, Romania and Italy, including Pompeii and Sicily. He has lectured at Durham University, Humboldt University in Berlin, and has more than a decade’s worth of experience working as a historical guide. Additional Tour Personnel We are delighted that ACE Tour Manager Leonie Loudon will be joining the cruise alongside several other experienced ACE Tour Managers. Leonie hails from

Flavian amphitheatre and the nearby Pont du Gard. We will then enter the semi-mystical Camargue, where land, lake and lagoon merge into the Mediterranean. As the light turns gold towards the evening, we will pay a visit to the Manade Laurent – one of the area’s oldest working bull ranches, where family members ride atop the region’s ancient and beautiful Camargue horses – including an atmospheric dinner hosted by the family. Returning north, we will stop at Viviers for an excursion to Grotte Chauvet 2 in the Ardèche. An outstanding replica Edinburgh and has worked as a Tour Manager and wine guide for over 15 years. We are also pleased to welcome two additional musicians. Mezzo-soprano Sandra Porter studied at the Royal College of Music and with Dame Felicity Palmer, and has performed operatic roles throughout the UK. Viola player John Rogers earned scholarships to the Royal College of Music and University of Michigan. He currently directs the London College Strings and teaches at Junior Guildhall, after working with the Philharmonia, BBC orchestras, the City of Birmingham Orchestra with Simon Rattle and over 20 years with English Touring Opera.

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FRANCE Ancient Theatre of Fourvière, Lyon

Music on Board Our cruise will include a varied programme ranging from popular classics to new discoveries and unusual repertoire. Our on-board musicians will focus on the world of the salons and French opera and operetta, as well as chamber music and works for solo piano. Particular highlights will include Duparc’s L’Invitation au Voyage, a lecture recital dedicated to Henri Tomasi, Franck’s dramatic violin and piano sonata in A major, and songs and chamber music by Massenet, Bizet, Gounod, Berlioz, Fauré, Offenbach, Poulenc and Rossini. Day 3 Lyon Roman theatre, archaeology museum and St-Romain-en-Gal (archaeology). Evening cruise towards Tain l’Hermitage. Dinner at Paul Bocuse’s Abbaye de Collonges

Alongside illuminating arhcaeological and historical lectures, French music will come to life across a series of sparkling evening recitals. Delicious regional food is provided at lunch and dinner, and we invite participants to enjoy the special atmosphere of the region from the top deck – whether sipping an afternoon coffee or a glass of wine at sunset.

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Please note that the below itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation. Due to the changing conditions associated with waterways, the precise timings and order of visits may change nearer to the time.

Our Vessel Our vessel is the MS Camargue, which has been completely refurbished to five-anchor standard (similar to a good four-star hotel standard), with interiors matching the plants and wildlife of the beautiful Camargue region. The MS Camargue includes a lounge / bar area, restaurant, two decks and a sun deck. At 110 metres long, the ship has a total of 52 cabins.

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Day 2 Cluny Morning visit to the Abbaye de Cluny. Transfer to Lyon via the Roche de Solutré and embark MS Camargue for six nights. Evening: welcome reception and recital: ‘L’Invitation au Voyage’ – works by Duparc, Loeffler, Fauré, Massenet and Bizet.

MS Camargue interior

Day 1 Depart London Heathrow 1335 on British Airways, arriving Lyon 1625. Overnight at NH Lyon Airport Hotel. Welcome and introduction.

Cost of £3995 includes: return airfare, accommodation based on sharing a main deck twin cabin, full board cruise with unlimited wine, beer, soft drinks, tea & coffee, hotel accommodation for one night including dinner with wine, water & coffee, shore excursions & admissions, all gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, rail travel option, hotel twin/double & main deck twin cabin for single use supplement £775. Upper deck supplements available upon request. TOUR CODE: RHRC26

Day 5 Avignon Short guided walking tour of Avignon followed by Pont du Gard. Evening visit to the Camargue for Manade Laurent (working ranch with Camargue horses and bulls) including dinner. Overnight Arles. Day 6 Arles Archaeological walking tour and Musée Départemental Arles Antique (outstanding Roman sculptures and barge). Afternoon cruise towards Lyon. Evening talk and recital: ‘Visionary violin sonatas’ – including works by Franck and Debussy. Overnight Viviers. Day 7 Viviers Morning: Grotte Chauvet 2, Ardèche (largest cave replica in the world). Afternoon cruise to Lyon. Farewell reception and gala dinner, followed by celebratory recital works by Offenbach, Saint-Saëns, Satie, Gounod and Poulenc. Overnight Lyon. Day 8 Lyon Disembark MS Camargue. Morning walking tour in Old Lyon, including opportunity to visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Depart Lyon 1740, arriving Heathrow 1825.

Rail Option For participants wishing to travel to and from the cruise by rail, ACE is offering an option to travel on Eurostar and TGV from London St Pancras to Lyon Exupéry on June 19, returning from Lyon Exupéry at the end of the cruise. Please note that spaces are limited and depending on timings, those travelling by rail may not be able to do all the advertised visits on the final day. To reserve your place, and to enquire about options for first-class upgrades, please contact the ACE office.

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FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Please note that this is one of ACE’s larger cultural cruises and there will be a maximum of 70 participants on board, who will split into smaller groups for the majority of the visits. While this tour is not expected to be particularly strenuous, participants should meet ACE’s usual fitness requirements, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions. In particular, travellers should be comfortable joining walking tours in the centres of Lyon, Avignon and Arles, and navigating steps and cobbled or uneven terrain.

of the famous UNESCO-listed Grotte Chauvet, Chauvet 2 is also home to the Aurignacian Gallery, which will transport us back to humanity’s earliest days in Europe.

Day 4 Tain l’Hermitage Morning talk followed by visit to Michel Chapoutier’s wine estate (vineyard tour and wine tasting). Afternoon cruise towards Avignon. Archaeological talk followed by recital: ‘Pauline Viardot’s Musical Salon’ – works by Chopin, Gounod, Viardot, Berlioz, Fauré and Rossini. Overnight Avignon.

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Wagner’s Ring Cycle: 150th Anniversary Tour Spring 2026

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Siegfried awakens Brunhild by Ebenezer Cobham Brewer, 1892

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Celebrate all four Ring operas in the 150th year since the cycle’s first complete performance Explore the significance and meaning of the text, music and history of its composition in the company of a Wagnerian expert Enjoy a series of complementary excursions, artistic and musical visits, and guest talks “We can expect to see performances that reflect on the environmental, economic, technological and gender-political concerns of today, while also exploring afresh the transcendent beauty of Wagner’s music” – Tour Director and Wagner expert Michael Downes 2026 will mark 150 years since the first full performance of Wagner’s monumental Ring Cycle, which occupied him for over 26 years and involved the extensive development of the work’s text and music, resulting in one of the most iconic operatic masterpieces in the world. The first complete performance, which took place in 1876, opened the inaugural Bayreuth Festival and set the stage for a myriad of subsequent performances that have influenced everything from classical music to film, cartoons and popular music. 68

“The cultural content of the tour was excellent. The talks and informal discussions were of a very high calibre and added to our enjoyment of the operas. While intellectually stimulating, the presentations and discussions were also warm, friendly and enjoyable… We were very impressed with ACE from start to finish” “Outstanding programme with wonderful contributions from expert specialists” – ACE customers on a previous Ring Cycle tour

To mark this event, opera houses around the world will open their doors to all four operatic works, which together tell of an epic struggle between gods, heroes and mythological beings over the eponymous, all-powerful magic ring. Supported by richly textured orchestration and performed by a range of excellent soloists, each opera will lead us deeper into the worlds conjured by the mythology of Germany and Scandinavia, expressed through Wagner’s famous score. We are planning to release at least one Ring Cycle departure in 2026. While the final dates, Tour Director(s) and venues are still to be confirmed, the tour is due to feature all four performances

Wagner expert and ACE Tour Director Michael Downes writes: “Richard Wagner’s Ring of the Nibelung is one of those rare works of art that is simultaneously enmeshed in the circumstances of its original creation, and responsive to the preoccupations of every era in which it is produced. The centenary of the Ring in 1976 generated some ground-breaking reinterpretations, notably Patrice Chéreau and Pierre Boulez’s Jahrhundertring for Bayreuth, and the new productions around the world being prepared for the 150th anniversary in 2026 promise to do the same. We can expect to see performances that reflect on the environmental, economic, technological and gender-political concerns of today, while also exploring afresh the transcendent beauty of Wagner’s music. Experiencing Wagner’s Ring in the 150th anniversary of its creation will be an unmissable opportunity. across several days, interspersed with illuminating lectures, guest talks and complementary historical and artistic visits. Owing to the duration of the performances, our daytimes will be gently paced while retaining a high quality of cultural content. We are already experiencing a high level of interest in this tour and so would encourage travellers to register their interest as soon as possible to receive further details as soon as they are available.

Further details, including the tour cost, Tour Director(s), location and itinerary, will be released in summer 2025. Please contact the ACE office or visit our website to register your interest. TOUR CODE: WRNG26

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Wild & Ancient Somerset: Winter Tour February 11–14, 2026 Join ecologist Peter Exley on this winter wildlife tour, looking out for Somerset’s growing flock of cranes, recently reintroduced after a 400year absence

Glastonbury Tor

Explore Somerset’s unique landscape at one of the RSPB’s oldest and largest nature reserves, West Sedgemoor “The Somerset Levels are one of our greatest historic and cultural landscapes” – Tour Director Peter Exley The Somerset Levels have had a colourful history: ‘the land of the summer people’ was once home to a Bronze Age population, and it was here, in the house of a swineherd, that King Alfred is said to have sought refuge from Danish invaders. Wildlife is now returning to England’s largest wetland in dramatic numbers – from the vast murmuration of roosting starlings to the growing flock of cranes recently reintroduced after a 400-year absence. As well as observing the region’s wildlife, our tour will investigate key historical sites such as Athelney, Alfred Wild & Ancient This tour is part of ACE’s ‘Wild & Ancient’ series, unique products designed to showcase the many interwoven aspects of the landscapes we visit. These tours usually focus on natural history, interpreting the landscapes, their ecology and their conservation. As part of this wider exploration, they also shed light on an array of fascinating historical sites, from the Bronze Age Nuraghi of Sardinia to the Neolithic monuments of Orkney. On some tours, the archaeological and historical content is provided by an additional Tour Director or local guide. Please read the advertised itinerary carefully and if you would like further information about a specific tour, contact the ACE office.

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This tour will be led by Peter Exley, BSc, an ornithologist and conservationist who worked for the RSPB for over 27 years, including projects reintroducing cranes to Somerset, saving seabirds on Lundy and the Isles of Scilly, as well as with BirdLife International in South Korea and the Albatross Task Force in South Africa. the Great’s refuge from the Danes, Glastonbury Abbey, England’s oldest abbey, and Glastonbury Tor, long associated with King Arthur. The Avalon Marshes host one of the country’s most exciting wildlife projects: over 3000 hectares of wetland habitats have been created from former peat workings, giving refuge to bitterns, marsh harriers and waterbirds. Greylake, once a series of carrot fields, has been transformed into a wetland reserve teeming with wildlife, while West Sedgemoor is home to up to 100,000 ducks and waders during the winter. Our base will be the charming four-star Swan Hotel in Wells, a 14th century coaching inn which enjoys comfortable, classically decorated rooms. It is ideally located in the heart of the city, a short distance from the beautiful cathedral. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Walks are taken at a gentle pace along mostly level tracks and paths, which can be uneven, grassy and muddy in places. These vary from half a mile to

just under two miles on the final day, with some stops and occasional seats along the way. The optional climb up Glastonbury Tor is around 250 feet on a narrow paved path with steps. Halflight at dusk can make paths more hazardous, so care should be taken. Please note there is no lift at the hotel, and rooms are accessed by one or more staircases. Participants should meet our usual fitness requirements as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

ITINERARY

Please note that the below itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer. Itinerary alterations during the tour are likely due to changeable local weather conditions, and we cannot guarantee the presence of all wildlife mentioned. Day 1 Tour assembles 1430 at The Swan Hotel, Wells, for three nights. Visit to Wells Cathedral followed by welcome and introductory talk. Day 2 RSPB Ham Wall Nature Reserve: wetland and reed beds (bitterns, bearded tits, egrets, harriers). Afternoon: Glastonbury Abbey, Glastonbury Tor (optional), Museum of Rural Life. Day 3 RSPB West Sedgemoor (winter wildfowl roost, birds of prey) and look for the crane flock. Afternoon: Willows & Wetlands Visitor Centre, Isle of Athelney, RSPB Greylake Reserve (swans, snipe, peregrines). Evening: visit to the Avalon Marshes at dusk (starling roost, birds of prey). Day 4 Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve: pools, reed beds, wet woodlands (including site of Sweet Track Neolithic causeway) for winter wildlife. Tour disperses 1230 at hotel. Cost of £1295 includes: accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, three breakfasts, one lunch, three dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £125. TOUR CODE: WASO26

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Visit key historical sites including Wells Cathedral and Glastonbury Abbey, and seek bitterns and marsh harriers in the Avalon Marshes

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Cardiff: A Cultural Capital

Cardiff Castle

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Discover the magnificent castles of the region, from the grandeur of Cardiff Castle to the stunning guise of Caerphilly Castle Walk through living history at St Fagans National Museum of History, encountering early modern cottages and farmhouses Explore the Cardiff Bay area with a tour of The Senedd Welsh Parliament building and Norwegian Church Arts Centre A thriving city with historical appeal, Cardiff offers an abundance of landmarks and monuments to explore Welsh heritage. Our tour will unravel the past through visits to a variety of sites, from iconic castles to churches and unique museums. Castles in this region attest to the tumultuous history between Wales and England during the medieval period, and we will spend time exploring three major sites, their magnificent architecture, art and fascinating pasts. Cardiff Castle was originally established as a 3rd century CE Roman fort before later developing into a Norman Motte and Bailey structure, and currently presents lavish Gothic revival interiors and gardens. 70

Castell Coch, nestled in the ancient woodlands of Fforest Fawr, known as the ‘red castle’, evokes a fairytale scene with its enchanting spire and sumptuous interiors. We will also encounter the grand vision of Caerphilly Castle, its stone edifice surrounded by a ring of shallow lakes originating from 1216, which claims the title of oldest surviving concentric castle in the world. Museum visits will enhance our insights into the history and culture of Wales,

This tour will be led by Suzanne Fagance Cooper, MA, PhD, a curator and historian whose specialisms include 19th and 20th century British and French art. An Arts Society accredited lecturer, she was a curator and Research Fellow at the V&A Museum for 12 years and has collaborated with many of Britain’s regional museum collections. She is the author of To See Clearly: Why Ruskin Matters (2019) and How We Might Live: At Home with Jane and William Morris (2022), and curated the 2019 exhibition Turner, Ruskin & the Storm Cloud at York Art Gallery.

“Suzanne was incredibly professional, interesting and clearly knew her subject inside out!” “I have just booked another tour with her for 2025!” – ACE customers on previous tours in 2024 led by Suzanne Fagance Cooper

including a tour of the collection at the National Museum Cardiff. St Fagan’s National Museum of History, meanwhile, offers a unique way to experience Welsh heritage by recreating aspects of communities from across the country over time. Set within 100 acres of parkland, this open-air museum includes 17th century cottages and farmhouses with native breeds of livestock and regular demonstrations, the medieval church of St Teilo with pre-Reformation interiors – a splendid Workmen’s Institute – and the recreation of Llys Llywelyn Royal Court of the Princes of Gwynedd, used during the 13th century. Further visits at Cardiff Bay will invigorate our understanding of the city as a cultural capital, including a guided tour of The Senedd Welsh Parliament building, which offers interesting temporary exhibitions and the unusual

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March 2–6, 2026

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landmark of the Norwegian Church Arts Centre, constructed in 1868 for Nordic seamen who came to Cardiff during the industrial revolution. We will also consider Cardiff’s connection to the wider legacy of art in the UK at Llandaff Cathedral, which houses Christ in Majesty by Jacob Epstein, one of the inspirations for Anthony Gormley’s Angel of the North.

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A good level of fitness and mobility is required for this tour, and participants should be prepared for a moderate amount of walking and standing during visits (for up to an hour at a time), particularly at St Fagans National Museum of History as buildings are spread out over the complex. Please note that the ferry to Penarth is subject to confirmation, and care must be taken getting on and off the boat. For ACE’s minimum fitness requirements, please see our Booking Terms & Conditions.

Day 1 Tour assembles 1330 at Hilton Cardiff Hotel for four nights. 1400 orientation walk, including Museum of Cardiff. Evening lecture: An Introduction to the Arts in the National Museum Cardiff.

We will stay throughout at the Hilton Cardiff, a modern and comfortable hotel, chosen for its ideal proximity to visits and Cardiff Central Station.

ITINERARY

Please note that the below itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time, depending on local factors and the renovation of historical sites.

Day 3 Morning: Cardiff Bay for The Senedd (Welsh Parliament Building) and Norwegian Church Arts Centre. Afternoon: ferry to Penarth (Cardiff’s seaside resort where Guglielmo Marconi lived and sent his first ever radio message) and Llandaff Cathedral (housing Christ in Majesty by Jacob Epstein, one of the inspirations for Anthony Gormley’s Angel of the North)

Day 2 Morning: National Museum of Wales. Afternoon: Church of St John the Baptist (dating back to the 12th century) and Cardiff Castle (origins as 3rd century Roman fort and Norman Motte and Bailey structure; its lavish Gothic revival style with beautiful landscaped grounds designed by Capability Brown in the 1860s).

Cardiff Waterfront

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RICHARD SZWEJKOWSKI / CC BY-SA 2.0 VIA FLICKR

Day 4 Morning: St Fagans National Museum of History (open-air museum with historical recreations of Wales). Afternoon: Caerphilly Castle (a stone edifice surrounded by a series of moats and watery islands). Day 5 Morning: Castell Coch (the ‘red castle’ originally built in the 13th century, appears today in a Gothic revival style designed by William Bruges encasing sumptuous interiors). Tour disperses approx 1200 at Cardiff Central Station, followed by the hotel. Cost of £1575 includes: accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, four breakfasts, one lunch (packed), four dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £245 TOUR CODE: CARD26

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St Fagan’s National Museum of History

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Art Treasures of Liverpool

Discover rich art collections in and around Liverpool, from the holdings of the Walker Art Gallery to Sir Antony Gormley’s coastal sculptures Explore the outstanding collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings and decorative arts at the Lady Lever Art Gallery Visit Knowsley Hall, historical seat of the Earls of Derby

visit the Lady Lever Art Gallery in Port Sunlight, which was originally a gift from the first Viscount Leverhulme in 1922 to his soap factory employees. This museum contains a magnificent abundance of Pre-Raphaelite paintings, as well as a collection of 18th century English furniture and decorative Wedgwood. The striking installation of 100 cast-iron figures standing across Crosby beach will introduce modern and contemporary art to the tour, as well as a visit to Tate Liverpool, currently situated in the RIBA

North Centre beside the Albert Dock. The historical waterfront opened in 1846, once a treasure house of precious cargoes from all over the world, and today is a hub featuring a number of museums. By contrast, our visit to the Tudor manor house Speke Hall – from its decorative half-timbered facade, to its elaborate interior including eighteenth century portraiture and gothic revival furniture – offers a window onto the city’s tumultuous history over the past 400 years.

Throughout the centuries, Liverpool has benefitted from substantial artistic patronage, and in recent years has undergone a cultural renaissance, basking in its success as European Capital of Culture. This tour explores the city’s history and rich holdings of art with visits to a number of important sites and collections in and around Liverpool. The Walker Art Gallery, known as the National Gallery of the North, opened in 1877 and contains a magnificent collection of Old Master and PreRaphaelite works, which we will explore in depth on a guided visit. We will also 72

Knowsley Hall

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Another Place, Antony Gormley, Crosby Beach

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April 13–16, 2026

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We will stay at the four-star Crowne Plaza Liverpool City Centre, perfectly located beside the iconic Liver building on the city’s waterfront. This tour will be led by Christopher Bourne, BA, who is an expert in 19th and 20th century art and architecture, and has been leading art and architectural history tours in the UK and Belgium for over 20 years. He read History and French at the University of Manchester, and then lived and worked in Brussels for 15 years and developed specialist knowledge of William Morris and the Pre-Raphaelites, the Arts & Crafts Movement, Art Nouveau and Art Deco.

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FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This is not a demanding tour, but participants must be comfortable with a moderate amount of walking, as well as periods of standing in galleries and navigating steps. For information on ACE’s minimum fitness requirements, please consult our Booking Terms & Conditions.

ITINERARY

Please note that the below itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. Sometimes sites close for refurbishment works, and we cannot guarantee the availability of all artworks listed. Day 1 Tour assembles 1345 at Crowne Plaza Liverpool City Centre Hotel for three nights. Afternoon: Liverpool Cathedral and Metropolitan Cathedral. Welcome and introduction followed by evening guest lecture: Liverpool – City of Delights. Day 2 Morning: Knowsley Hall and Ullet Road Unitarian Church. Afternoon: Royal Albert Dock and Tate Liverpool. Evening lecture: The PreRaphaelite Brotherhood. Day 3 Morning: Port Sunlight Village and Lady Lever Art Gallery. Afternoon: Speke Hall. Evening lecture: The Pre-Raphaelites & Liverpool. Day 4 Morning: Crosby Beach for Sir Antony Gormley’s Another Place, followed by Walker Art Gallery. Tour disperses approx 1230 after the final visit, with the option to return to the hotel.

An Angel Playing a Flageolet, Edward Burne-Jones, 1878

Cost of £1395 includes: accommodation based on sharing a standard twin or double bedded room, three breakfasts, three dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, standard double room for single use supplement £125. Waterfront rooms available at a supplement and on request. TOUR CODE: LVPL26

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A highlight of the tour is a visit to one of Merseyside’s hidden treasures: the stately home of Knowsley Hall. A historical seat of the Earls of Derby, the house is not frequently open to the public, and boasts ornate Jacobean, Baroque and Victorian interiors.

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Royal Albert dock

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Cornwall Calling: The Artists of Newlyn and St Ives April 13–18, 2026

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Discover the works of the Newlyn School artists, who were enchanted by Cornwall in the late 19th century Visit the seaside gallery of Tate St Ives and Barbara Hepworth’s atmospheric home and studio Discover the magnificent environment of Cornwall, from maritime views at Trelissick estate to the thriving greenery at the Lost Gardens of Heligan

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The shores of Cornwall, its dramatic maritime panoramas which generate a unique clarity and contrast of light, have long captivated artists as a source of inspiration. Our tour provides a dedicated insight into this shimmering facet of British art history, with a key focus on the production of art in the Cornish fishing towns of Newlyn and St Ives. The painters of the Newlyn School participated in painting en plein air; while in the 20th century, St Ives became a focus for leading avant-garde artists such as Ben Nicholson, Naum Gabo and Barbara Hepworth. In Truro, a predominantly Georgian town, we will visit the newly refurbished Royal Cornwall Museum, home to paintings by artists from both the Newlyn School and the Lamorna Group. Perched above the River Fal, leading to the sea, the neoclassical columned house at Trelissick offers spectacular views. We will continue by boat to Falmouth Art This tour will be led by Sarah Burles, MA, who studied History of Art at Cambridge University before going on to a career in museum and gallery education, including at the Fitzwilliam Museum. Sarah has worked on the St Ives artists and their links to Kettle’s Yard, and has taught a short course on ‘The Art of Cornwall’. 74

Falmouth Natives by Charles Napier Hemy, 1886

“I have travelled with Sarah before and am always impressed with the way she gradually disseminates her knowledge in an engaging way”

the streets. This tour includes a boat trip, and if the tide is low then accessing the boat from the quay can involve a walk over approximately 25 stone steps with limited handrails. Care must be taken getting on and off the boat. For ACE’s fitness requirements, please see our Booking Terms & Conditions.

– ACE customer on Cornwall Calling 2024 led by Sarah Burles

ITINERARY

Gallery, described as having “one of the leading art collections of Cornwall and the South West”.

The itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time, depending on local factors. We cannot guarantee the availability of all artworks mentioned.

Reopened in 2017 after a £20 million transformation, Tate St Ives was the Art Fund’s Museum of the Year in 2018. The gallery hosts a rich collection of modern art in a dramatic seafront setting, including pottery and stoneware by Bernard Leach and marine paintings by Alfred Wallis. A short walk away is Trewyn Studio, Barbara Hepworth’s home and studio from 1949 to 1975.

Day 1 Five nights at the Penventon Park Hotel, Redruth. Tour assembles 1900 at the hotel for welcome and introduction.

Our tour also includes visits to Newlyn Art Gallery; the Penlee House Gallery and Museum in Penzance; and the church at St Hilary with its series of unique paintings created by the Lamorna Group.

Day 4 Excursion to Newlyn for Newlyn Art Gallery followed by Penzance for Penlee House Gallery and Museum, and St Hilary’s Church. Evening lecture: St Ives & Modernism.

We will stay throughout at the comfortable four-star Penventon Park Hotel in Redruth, occupying an elegant Georgian mansion house in private parkland. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A good level of fitness and mobility is required for this tour, which involves a moderate amount of walking and standing (for up to an hour at a time). Some terrain can be steep, especially at the Lost Gardens of Heligan and in Newlyn and St Ives where it is cobbled and occasionally slippery underfoot. In Truro, there are wide conduits in

Day 2 Morning lecture: The Newlyn School followed by visits in Truro: neo-Gothic cathedral and Royal Cornwall Museum. Afternoon: Lost Gardens of Heligan. Day 3 Morning lecture: The Forbes School of Art & Lamorna followed by Trelissick Gardens. By ferry (weather permitting) to Falmouth for Falmouth Art Gallery.

Day 5 Whole day excursion to St Ives for Bernard Leach Pottery, Tate St Ives, Barbara Hepworth Museum and Porthmeor Studios (subject to confirmation). Day 6 Tour disperses after breakfast at the hotel. Cost of £1995 includes: accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, five breakfasts, five dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £125. TOUR CODE: CORN26

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Wild & Ancient Cornwall April 24–30, 2026 Explore a myriad of Neolithic, Iron Age and Roman sites Journey through the enchanting Cornish landscape from rugged coastlines to wild moorlands Discover Cornish culture through visits to historic churches and local farms

Our exploration of Cornwall will be deeply intertwined with its distinctive natural environment. At Cape Cornwall, the UK’s western edge, we will keep an eye out for seabirds like the Manx shearwater and chough, and the vibrant dwarf gorse. Down to the UK’s southern most point, the Lizard peninsula showcases Britain’s only mainland examples of ophiolite, alongside serpentine, gabbro rocks, and the rare Cornish heather, within its unusual geology and ecology. We will also take in more modern sites including King Doniert’s Stone, the iconic 20th-century Earth Station, and the historic RAF Dry Tree, where WAAF women played a crucial role in WWII radar operations. Our itinerary moreover features a visit to a working Cornish organic farm, owned by the same family since the 1960s. Throughout our time in Cornwall we will stay at the three-star The Beach Club, Penzance. Located on the promenade and close to the town centre, this characterful hotel offers beautiful views and

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Lanyon Quoit

This tour will be led by conservationist and environmental consultant Kevin Hand, MSc, MCIEEM. A longstanding Tour Director, Kevin has been President and Vice President of the Cambridge Natural History Society and currently chairs the Newmarket Chalk Streams Trust, as well as acting as a Biodiversity Surveyor for the RSPB. comfortable amenities. Some bedrooms are located in an annexe and upper floor bedrooms are by stair access only. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Participants should have a very good level of fitness, stamina and mobility, and be comfortable navigating uneven, rocky and sometimes slippery terrain. Some walks will include steeper sections, although these are relatively short distances, and participants may benefit from using poles, for example when crossing streams. Some bedrooms are located in an annexe and upper floor bedrooms are by stair access only. Participants should meet ACE’s usual fitness criteria, as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions, and be prepared for walks of up to 3 miles without opportunities to sit down.

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Day 1 Check in for six nights at The Beach Club, Penzance 1830, welcome and introduction. Day 2 Morning: Chysauster Romano-British village. Afternoon: Lanyon Quoit. Continue for a walk through the moors to Men-an-tol with views of the tin mine steam pump chimneys of Ding Dong Mine. Evening talk. Day 3 Morning: walk along the ancient pilgrimage route from Chapel Carn Brea to Carn Euny via sacred wells. Afternoon: St Justin-Penwith followed by walk to Carn Gloose, Ballowall burial chamber and Cape Cornwall. Evening talk. Day 4 Morning: Merry Maidens stone circle, Tregiffian burial chamber and Boscawen-Un stone circle. Afternoon: St Buryans Parish church. Free time with optional visits in Penzance. Evening talk. Day 5 Whole day exploration of Lizard peninsula including Goonhilly Downs and Roskilly Farm. Continue for a coastal walk to the southern most point of the UK for views of coastal vegetation and wildlife – Lizard Point. Evening talk. Day 6 Whole day exploration of Bodmin Moor: ancient stone walled track to the Hurlers, The Cheesewring and Stowes Pound. Continue for visits to Trethevy Quoit and King Doniert’s Stone. Day 7 Tour disperses after breakfast.

Cost of £2295 includes: accommodation based on sharing a sea view twin or double bedded room, six breakfasts, one packed lunch, six dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not Included: travel insurance, small double annexe room for single use supplement £195, cosy double room for single use supplement £265. TOUR CODE: WACO26

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Our tour begins with a captivating journey back in time to Chysauster Ancient Village, a well-preserved Romano-British settlement. This remarkable site is home to the UK’s oldest village street believed to have been inhabited from approximately 100 BCE. Also included is a visit to Carn Euny, an Iron Age and Roman settlement renowned for its exceptionally preserved fogou. At Tregiffian Burial Chamber, we will explore a rare type of passage grave known as an “entrance grave”, found only in this region and the Isles of Scilly.

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Churches of Herefordshire & Shropshire April 20–24, 2026

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St Laurence, Ludlow

From a base in historical Ludlow, explore some of these counties’ finest churches with medievalist Imogen Corrigan View examples of the famous Herefordshire School of Architecture, including 12th century fonts at St Mary Magdalene in Eardisley and St Michael & All Angels in Castle Frome Visit the Church of St John the Evangelist in Shobdon, with its rare Rococo Gothic style interior “The Herefordshire School is characterised by sometimes bizarre images and shapes. There might be elongated, entangled mystical animals reminiscent of Scandinavian and Celtic art or military figures mingling with dragons” – Tour Director Imogen Corrigan On the border with Wales, Herefordshire and Shropshire are known for their 76

idyllic countryside, dotted with a wealth of churches offering fascinating art, architecture and history. We begin in the medieval market town of Ludlow with a visit to St Laurence’s Church with its hexagonal porch. The building houses the remains of a rare ‘Ten Commandments’ window, dating from the 15th century, and a 16th century Baldacchino (altar hood) decorated with pomegranates. St Mary Magdalene in Eardisley contains a fine Norman font by the Herefordshire School of Architecture; while the church at Leominster, founded around 660 CE by Lindisfarne missionary St Edfrith, has undergone many changes across the centuries, including a restoration by the preeminent church architect George Gilbert Scott. Shobdon Church has been described as “a complete masterpiece” by Simon Jenkins. Its delightful interior is a rare example of church design in the

Walpolean ‘Strawberry Hill Gothic’ style, blending the Rococo and Gothic, and the decoration and furnishings remain remarkably well preserved today. The church’s original Romanesque interior arches were removed and repurposed as an outdoor folly in 1756. On a day excursion to Shrewsbury, we will explore the Abbey, originally founded in 1083 by Sir Roger de Montgomery as a Benedictine Monastery, as well as St Mary’s Church, dating from Saxon times with additions from the 12th century onwards. Cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust, St Mary’s features exquisite stained glass and one of the tallest spires in England, whilst the oak-carved ceiling features “a profusion of animals, birds and angels”. The Church of St Chad, built in the round at the end of the 18th century, nods towards Shropshire’s role in the Industrial Revolution with busts of the ironmaster William Hazledine and master builder and stonemason John

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The Norman font at St Mary Magdalene

– ACE customer on a previous churches tours led by Imogen Corrigan

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Simpson, both of whom were involved in the church’s construction. St Chad’s was also the site of Charles Darwin’s baptism in 1809. No tour to the region would be complete without a visit to Hereford Cathedral, built in the Gothic style from the 11th century and home to the medieval Mappa Mundi. The Church of St Mary & St David in Kilpeck, meanwhile, was This tour will be led by Imogen Corrigan, BA, MPhil, FRHistS, FRSA, a proficient lecturer on medieval history and particularly church art and architecture, accredited with the Arts Society. Following nearly 20 years in the British Army, from which she retired in the rank of Major, Imogen studied AngloSaxon and Medieval History at the University of Kent before gaining an MPhil from the University of Birmingham. Her book Stone on Stone: The Men Who Built the Cathedrals was published in 2019.

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described by Pevsner as “one of the most perfect Norman churches in England” and contains fine carvings in local red sandstone as well as a remarkable corbel tray. Our base will be the delightful Feathers Hotel & Restaurant, occupying a Grade I listed property in the heart of the medieval market town of Ludlow. Behind its Tudor half-timbered façade, the hotel enjoys recently refurbished rooms, as well as an AA Rosette award-winning restaurant. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour requires a good level of fitness and mobility, and participants should meet ACE’s usual fitness criteria as outlined in our Booking Terms & Conditions. Due to narrow lanes, the coach is not usually able to drop off the group directly outside the churches, so some walking will be involved to access them, including over tracks and up and down grassy slopes. Furthermore, the ground can be uneven underfoot. In particular, the walk to Shobdon Arches is uphill and can be muddy; at Moccas it is necessary to climb a grassy bank to access the church; and Shrewsbury is hilly. Participants should also be prepared for navigating steps (sometimes steep or without handrails) as well as dimly lit areas. Please also be aware that not all of the churches have facilities.

Day 1 Tour assembles 1330 at the Feathers Hotel & Restaurant, Ludlow, for four nights. Welcome and introductory lecture followed by afternoon visit to St Laurence’s Church (hexagonal porch, stained glass, misericord carvings) and some free time to explore historical Ludlow. Day 2 Excursion to Shrewsbury for visits to St Chad’s Church (unusual round late 18th century church), St Mary’s Church (stained glass, interesting memorials) and Shrewsbury Abbey (memorial of Roger de Montgomery, second in command at Hastings), followed by Battlefield for St Mary Magdalene Church (built to commemorate Battle of Shrewsbury – visit subject to confirmation). Day 3 Morning: St John the Evangelist Church, Shobdon (Rococo Georgian church) and Arches followed by St Mary Magdalene Church, Eardisley (famous 12th century font by the Herefordshire School). Afternoon: Church of St Michael & All Angels, Moccas (12th century church with rounded apse) and St George’s Church, Brinsop (Herefordshire School details – visit subject to confirmation). Day 4 Morning: St Peter’s Church, Rowlstone (12th century chancel arch) and Church of St Mary & St David, Kilpeck (intricate carvings and remarkable corbel tray). Afternoon: Hereford Cathedral (11th century) and St Michael & All Angels’ Church, Castle Frome (extraordinary 12th century font by the Herefordshire School). Day 5 Visits to St Peter’s Church, Diddlebury and Leominster Priory Church of St Peter & St Paul. Tour disperses approx 1430 at Ludlow Station followed by the hotel. We recommend organising onward trains departing after 1445.

Cost of £1695 includes: accommodation based on sharing a twin or double bedded room, four breakfasts, four dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, double room for single use supplement £295. TOUR CODE: CHSH26

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PHILIP PANKHURST / CC BY-SA 2.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. If it is necessary to substitute a particular church due to access reasons, we will endeavour to replace it with another of equal historical interest.

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Great Bardfield & Beyond: Mid-Century Art & Design in East Anglia May 5–9, 2026 Discover the Great Bardfield artists and the environments in which they lived and worked

Two Women Sitting in a Garden (Brick House, Great Bardfield), Eric Ravilious, 1932

Enjoy a special visit to the Fry Art Gallery in Saffron Walden, home of the North West Essex Collection of Great Bardfield works

This tour adopts Cambridge as a base for exploring the sites, collections and private houses associated with the Great Bardfield artists, their contacts, and the

parallel movements of their time. Within Cambridge we will visit the Prints and Drawings Room at the Fitzwilliam Museum to view archival items by the likes of Edward Calvert, Samuel Palmer, Paul Nash, and others whose output interlinks with work by the Great Bardfield artists.

A highlight of our tour will be a visit to Saffron Walden’s Fry Art Gallery, which has done more than any other institution to showcase this network of artists, to explore their displays and view unique scrapbooks by Ravilious and Bawden. We will also enjoy a walking tour of Great Bardfield in the company of artist Chloë

Town Hall Yard, Edward Bawden, 1956

This tour will be led by Alan Powers, PhD. Alan studied at the University of Cambridge and is one of the UK’s leading architectural historians. A former Chairman of the 20th Century Society, he has published widely on all aspects of 20th century architecture and design. He was Professor at the University of Greenwich School, and has lectured at New York University in London. His publications include Modern: The Modern Movement in Britain and Bauhaus Goes West. 78

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From 1930 to the early 1970s, the Essex village of Great Bardfield was home to a number of artists whose output has received growing recognition in recent years – most notably Eric Ravilious and Edward Bawden. Their work spanned painting, illustration and design, and they used traditional imagery and techniques with a modern inflection. In recent years, the details of their lives and connections have come close to displacing the Bloomsbury Group as a subject of curiosity.

Gain an in-depth understanding of mid-century art and design during visits across East Anglia, from a base in the historical city of Cambridge

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Cheese, who grew up in the village and remembers visiting the studios of Bawden and printmaker Michael Rothenstein. An excursion to Braintree will offer an opportunity to visit the Town Hall, Braintree Museum and Howard Hall Masonic Centre, where we will enjoy a special guest lecture from Mary Schoeser, a leading authority in the field of textiles, in the building’s Art Deco surroundings. Mary is Honorary President of the UK Textile Society, and will bring a selection of textile samples to illustrate her lecture. Our tour continues with a visit to Silver End, the garden village built between the wars, partly in a Modern style, by the Crittal family who were supporters of the Great Bardfield movement. We also look forward to taking in the principal collection of Bawden’s graphic work at The Higgins Bedford. Hidden treasures across the county of Cambridgeshire include The Manor in the delightful village of Hemingford Grey, former home of Lucy Boston and the inspiration for her Green Knowe stories. The Grade I listed Impington

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“A very well constructed, informative and enjoyable experience” “Alan’s depth of knowledge and his enthusiasm for his subject are exemplary” “Very helpful and extremely knowledgeable. Clearly an expert with so much interesting information to impart. A very good Tour Director” – ACE customers on the 2024 Great Bardfield & Beyond tour led by Alan Powers

Village College, meanwhile, dates from the late 1930s, and is a building of great architectural importance. It was designed by Walter Gropius, founder of the Bauhaus School, and his partner Maxwell Fry; and is one of only five examples of Gropius’s work in the UK. We also hope to include a visit to the Centre for Children’s Book Studies at Anglia Ruskin University, for a special archival session with Professor Martin Salisbury, the Centre’s Director.

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour will involve a moderate amount of walking around Cambridge, Great Bardfield and Silver End, including over uneven, cobbled and potentially slippery ground. Cambridge can be busy with bicycles, so care must be taken. Participants should be prepared for navigating steep or uneven stairs, and hidden steps at some visits. At The Manor in Hemingford Grey, the top staircase does not have a bannister, but participants can opt out of this part of the tour if wished. Our tour has a full itinerary and some longer days to take in a wealth of visits, with coach journeys of up to 1.5 hours (without stops). A good level of fitness, mobility and stamina is required, and participants should meet ACE’s fitness criteria as per our Booking Terms & Conditions.

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Please note that the below itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change. Due to the special nature of the visits, some details may be confirmed nearer the time. Day 1 Tour assembles 1400 at the University Arms Hotel, Cambridge, for four nights. Afternoon visit to the Prints & Drawings Room at the Fitzwilliam Museum (works by Edward Calvert, Samuel Palmer, Paul Nash). Welcome and introductory talk. Day 2 Morning excursion to Silver End Village (nationally important village of 1920s ‘Modern Movement’ architecture) for walking tour and visit to Heritage Centre. Continue to Braintree for guest lecture from Mary Schoeser at Howard Hall Masonic Centre and visits to Braintree Museum and the Town Hall (murals). Free evening in Cambridge. Day 3 Morning excursion to Saffron Walden for a visit to Fry Art Gallery. Afternoon: walking tour of Great Bardfield (visiting Bawden Room and viewing sites related to the artists). Day 4 Morning visit to The Higgins Art Gallery & Museum, Bedford (focusing on Bawden). Afternoon: The Manor, Hemingford Grey (former home of Lucy Boston and inspiration for her Green Knowe stories) and Impington Village College (exterior). Day 5 Morning archival session at the Centre for Children’s Book Studies, Anglia Ruskin University (subject to confirmation). Tour disperses in Cambridge approx 1130. Cost of £2195 includes: accommodation based on sharing a classic twin or double bedded room, four breakfasts, one lunch, three dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, cosy double room for single use supplement £425 TOUR CODE: GRBB26

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Garden plate designed by Eric Ravilious for Wedgwood, after 1938

We will stay throughout at the fourstar University Arms Hotel, recently developed in an elegant style nodding to its Cambridge heritage, and conveniently located in the heart of the city.

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Wildlife & Walking on the Isles of Scilly May 12–19, 2026 Explore the botanical and ornithological highlights of the tranquil Isles of Scilly in the company of expert ecologists Visit the famous sub-tropical gardens of Tresco, home to a rich diversity of exotic plants Take in archaeological sites, wetland birdlife and maritimeinfluenced vegetation More peaceful and relaxed than mainland Britain, Scilly embraces five inhabited islands and dozens of rocky outcrops, rich in seabirds.

We will take in the islands’ late spring highlights, with a particular focus upon their flora, in the company of ecologists Peter Exley and Diana Ward. On coastal paths and nature trails, we will discover the exotic vegetation that makes these This tour will be led by Peter Exley, BSc, and Diana Ward, MSc, CBiol, MCIEEM. Peter is an ecologist and ornithologist who has worked for the RSPB, and held posts with BirdLife International and the Albatross Task Force in South Africa. Diana is an ecologist and wildlife specialist: her company, Ward Ecology Ltd, carried out ecological assessment work, and she has worked for many years on Sites of Special Scientific Interest and river restoration projects. 80

Gardens of Tresco

islands the subject of such great botanical interest. A particular highlight will be Bryher, the smallest community on the Isles of Scilly: the west and north coasts are wild and rugged with superb coastal vegetation and wind-pruned ‘waves’ of heather; the east, sheltered and mild, flourishes with exotic plantlife.

Mary’s, a delightful hotel occupying an elegant townhouse originally built for an Italian noble family. Dinners will be taken at the hotel, which prides itself on sourcing fresh local produce. Please note travel to and from St Mary’s is not included in the cost of this tour.

We will stay at the comfortable and welcoming St Mary’s Hall Hotel on St Scilly song thrush

©PETER EXLEY

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The archipelago’s location and singular maritime microclimate endow this Atlantic haven with great botanical and ornithological interest; with over 350 days of the year warm enough for plant growth, flora from the Canaries, South Africa, South America, Australia and New Zealand flourish across the islands, and migratory birds find a feeding refuge on the last outpost of south western Britain.

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FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: A very good level of overall fitness is required for this tour. Participants must be able to walk for a minimum of four miles over rough ground, and be comfortable with getting in and out of small boats. Most of the walking will be on level or slightly hilly terrain, although there will be occasional steep stretches. The majority of walks – which will be taken at a reasonable pace – will be on tracks, which may include rocky areas/ stretches interspersed with rocks, or sections interrupted by tree roots, rather than roads or paths. Participants should also be aware that the weather and climate can be unpredictable at times, and bring appropriate clothing (detailed guidance will be issued ahead of departure). Boat trips can be choppy; they are typically 20-30 minutes in duration but can be up to 2 hours long. Please consult our fitness requirements as detailed in our Booking Terms & Conditions for more information, and we strongly advise you to discuss the conditions on this tour with our Sales team ahead of booking.

Travel: Please note that travel to and from St Mary’s is not included in the cost of the tour. There are several options for travelling to the Isles of Scilly, including a daily ferry service (running in all but the worst weather), regular flights from three local airports and a helicopter service from Penzance (more weather resilient than planes). For more information, please speak to a member of our Sales & Reservations team.

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“Beautiful locations, expertly planned and managed tours each day, amazing hotel, rooms and food, leaders who knew almost everything and looked out the answers to the rest for us, and many good companions. My idea of heaven. A new boat took us to a new island every day and the walking was a joy… The hotel sourced great local food, served by nice, friendly people… this is possibly my best holiday ever” – ACE customers on the 2023 and 2024 Isles of Scilly tour with Peter Exley and Diana Ward

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Please note that the itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer, and some elements may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time. Our itinerary will be flexible to allow for tides, weather conditions and local reports of bird arrivals. Day 1 Check in for seven nights at St Mary’s Hall Hotel. 1715 welcome and introduction. Day 2 By ferry across St Mary’s Sound to St Agnes (superb maritime heath) and Gugh (spectacular coastline walks). Day 3 By charter boat to Eastern Isles (cobble bars linking small isles, undisturbed coastal and heath vegetation, seals, birds) with visit (sea conditions dependent) to island of St Helen’s: remains of St Elid’s hermitage (8th century chapel), 18th century Pest House.

Day 4 By charter boat to Western Rocks (seals, coastal birds) and Samson (largest of uninhabited isles with abandoned village) – sea and weather conditions permitting. Day 5 By ferry to Bryher: superb coastal vegetation (search for rare dwarf pansies) and heather moorland on Shipman Head Down with visits to prehistoric entrance graves and promontory fort. Day 6 St Mary’s: walk (wetland birdlife and coastal vegetation) to Bant’s Carn (Bronze Age burial chamber), Halangy Down (Iron Age settlement), Holy Vale, Higher Moors and Porth Hellick Down (Bronze Age grave and burial chamber). Return along coastal path over Salakee Down to Old Town and church. Day 7 Morning: excursion by ferry to Tresco Abbey Garden (sub-tropical gardens). Afternoon free in St Mary’s or optional walk on Castle Down, Tresco. Day 8 Tour disperses after breakfast at the hotel.

Cost of £3295 includes: accommodation based on sharing a Godolphin twin or double bedded room, seven breakfasts, seven dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: return travel, travel insurance, Godolphin double room for single use supplement £535. TOUR CODE: ISCY26

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©PETER EXLEY

St Agnes Gugh Bar

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Constable & Gainsborough in Suffolk: 250th Anniversary Tour July 13–16, 2026 | July 20–23, 2026

Become immersed in the Suffolk countryside, walking through the iconic scenes of Constable’s paintings that have changed little over two centuries

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Visit Gainsborough’s House in Sudbury, following an awardwinning major redevelopment to transform the site into a new National Centre for Gainsborough Join ACE as we celebrate 250 years of the landscapes and legacy of John Constable, one of Britain’s most illustrious painters, alongside the magnificent work of fellow artist Thomas Gainsborough. For this monumental anniversary, we are pleased to be visiting the specially curated exhibition at Christchurch Mansion entitled ‘Constable: Walking the landscape’ which will feature works on loan from the Tate, V&A, Royal Academy and the National Galleries of Scotland, many of which will be displayed in Suffolk for the first time. Exploring Suffolk’s picturesque countryside on foot will afford us a unique opportunity to study its influence on Constable, the paintings of his near contemporary Gainsborough, and the development of the British landscape tradition. “I fancy I see Gainsborough in every hedge and hollow tree,” said Constable of the Suffolk countryside. As we wander along the banks of the River Stour, where Constable spent his “careless boyhood”, we will discover that Flatford Mill, Dedham Lock and Willy Lott’s cottage – immortalised in The Hay Wain – have changed little over two centuries. We will stroll through the country lanes of East Bergholt, where the artist’s first studio was located, and view his Ascension in Dedham’s parish church. 82

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Celebrate 250 years of John Constable’s landscapes and legacy, including a visit to the special anniversary exhibition at Christchurch Mansion

The Hay Wain, John Constable, 1821

“I have never experienced as much content that I really learned from, and delivered with such enthusiasm and joy, as I experienced with Sarah” – ACE customer on a previous tour led by Sarah Burles

We will further immerse ourselves in Constable’s 250 year history with a coach tour of Stour Valley, encountering the Parish Church of Stratford St Mary, an edifice that he painted many times. St James’s Church will also feature, where we can see Constable’s altarpiece Christ blesses the bread and wine painted in 1809. The backdrop of this memorable anniversary will create a particularly poignant atmosphere when walking through the locations that inspired Constable and viewing his paintings in situ. Complementing the focus on Constable, our tour will also examine Gainsborough’s roots in his native Suffolk on a visit to the market town of Sudbury. Here, a major redevelopment and refurbishment has recently transformed the artist’s former house into a National Centre for Gainsborough, winning the prestigious RIBA East Building of the Year Award in 2024. The collection is also the largest gallery in Suffolk, presenting a dedicated insight into Gainsborough’s life and works that we will contextualise for ourselves when walking through the quaint village streets.

This tour will be led by Sarah Burles, MA who studied History of Art at Cambridge before gaining a Masters at University College London and going onto a career in museum and gallery education, including 12 years at the Fitzwilliam Museum. Sarah is an accredited lecturer for the Arts Society. We will stay at the four-star Hintlesham Hall Hotel, a comfortable and traditionally decorated hotel occupying a 16th century Grade I listed manor house, set in 175 acres of Suffolk countryside. The hall has historical links to Gainsborough: it was purchased in 1747 by Sir Richard Lloyd, one of the artist’s early patrons, making it a fitting base for our tour. FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: This tour will involve a significant amount of walking and standing, much of which is outdoors (including through a field in Dedham). There is uneven ground to navigate at times, for example in the churchyards and at Flatford Mill, which has a gentle incline over bark-covered steps with a handrail. There is no lift at the hotel or at Christchurch Mansion, so participants must feel comfortable ascending and descending stairs. Some sites can be dimly lit. A good level of fitness and mobility is necessary, and participants should meet ACE’s fitness requirements in our Booking Terms & Conditions. Full details, including the cost and itinerary, will be released later in 2025. To register your interest, please visit the ACE website or contact the office. TOUR CODE: CGS126/CGS226

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Children’s Literary Classics: Winnie-the-Pooh at 100 Summer 2026 Explore the idyllic Ashdown Forest and sites associated with A A Milne

A rich vein of natural inspiration runs through much of our best-loved children’s literature. We think of Mole and the Water Rat ‘messing about in boats’ along the Thames in Berkshire and of Frodo Baggins wandering through the Shire, a gentle landscape that bears a striking resemblance to the Warwickshire and Worcestershire countryside so familiar to Tolkien. These classics have been followed in more recent years by favourites such as Watership Down, set in North Hampshire; Colin Dann’s The Animals of Farthing Wood; and Brian Jacques’s Redwall. As the world celebrates the centenary of the publication of A A Milne’s beloved classic Winnie-the-Pooh in 2026, there could be no better year to rediscover the landscape that inspired its creator. Our tour will immerse travellers in the entrancing world of Christopher Robin and the animals who famously inhabit Hundred Acre Wood, alongside other important works of children’s fiction inspired by the natural environment. The real Christopher Robin lived at Cotchford Farm, an idyllic 16th century farmhouse in the beautiful village of Hartfield, seven miles south-west of Tunbridge Wells. His father, A A Milne, had bought the house in 1925 as a country retreat, and the family, though normally based in London, would spend weekends and holidays there. The farm lay on the edge of the Ashdown Forest, ‘an enchanted spot’, as Christopher Milne was later to write, ‘before ever Pooh came along to add to its magic’. The forest would become Hundred Acre Wood, home to Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore

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SHEILA SUND / CC BY 2.0 VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

View the manuscripts of Winnie-thePooh and The House at Pooh Corner in Trinity College’s Wren Library

Page 1 of Winnie The Pooh by A A Milne, 1926

and Tigger, and the site of Pooh Sticks Bridge, Galleon’s Lap, Roo’s Sandy Pit and the Heffalump Trap. Our time in Ashdown will incorporate both the history of the book’s creation – visiting the memorial dedicated to A A Milne and illustrator E A Shepard – and an exploration of the wildlife and landscape. We will also spend time in Royal Tunbridge Wells and enjoy the rather special browsing experience offered by the Pantiles, a colonnaded walkway full of Georgian charm, historical intrigue and tempting boutiques. As we progress through our tour, we will deepen our appreciation of complementary children’s classics. In particular, we will visit Bateman’s in the Sussex countryside, the 17th Century family home of Rudyard Kipling. It was in this house that Kipling wrote Puck of Pook’s Hill and Rewards and Fairies, which includes the poem If. The furniture and artefacts in the rooms remain much as

Further details, including the tour cost, Tour Director and itinerary, will be released in early summer 2025. Please contact the ACE office or visit our website to register your interest. TOUR CODE: POOH26

Kipling left them and reflect his strong association with India. The house is surrounded by a twelve-acre garden and includes a river, wildflower meadow, watermill, lily pond, orchard and formal rose garden. Philippa Pearce wrote the unforgettable Tom’s Midnight Garden at King’s Mill House in Great Shelford; while The Manor in Hemingford Grey – one of the oldest continuously inhabited houses in the UK – inspired Lucy Boston’s Green Knowe stories and is full of tranquil wonder. Cambridge is a fitting place to end our tour, as it was here that A A Milne studied mathematics at Trinity College. Before his death, Milne bequeathed his original manuscripts of Winnie-the-Pooh and The House at Pooh Corner to his alma mater, and they are now held in the architecturally stunning Wren Library at Trinity. Throughout, our Tour Director and others – from a wildlife expert to a speaker from the Centre for Children’s Book Studies at Anglia Ruskin – will help to illuminate the literary works themselves, the history of their composition and the importance of the role played by the natural world. We will also aim to incorporate any special events and exhibitions as they are announced. 83

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Visit Rudyard Kipling’s Bateman’s in Sussex and The Manor in Hemingford Grey, inspiration for Lucy Boston’s Green Knowe series

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Stained Glass in England: Style, Technique & Colour October 26–30, 2026

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Wadham College Chapel

From a base in Cambridge, explore some of the country’s finest stained glass across a range of privileged visits to churches, college chapels and cathedrals Enjoy excursions to Oxford, Norwich and Bury St Edmunds to view important stained glass from the medieval era onwards Gain insights into the processes and techniques involved in stained glass production at Ely’s Stained Glass Museum and Cathedral Stained glass might be described as a niche, yet highly significant, genre within the field of decorative painting. Despite its rarity, fragility and technical limitations, stained glass has received a great deal of attention from church visitors and scholars, and it is appreciated for a wealth of reasons, from its abstract qualities, the technical mastery involved in its creation, and its perceived spiritual values. Even the term ‘stained glass’ – as opposed to ‘painted glass’ – itself is complex, raising questions of design and technique. Fundamental questions revolving around the making of ‘picture windows’ will be 84

addressed during this tour, as we visit a selection of places boasting significant examples of the art form. Foremost among them is King’s College Chapel, Cambridge, one of the most magnificent examples of Renaissance glass, not only in England but anywhere in Europe. Oxford benefited from a period of active patronage during the 17th century ‘Beauty of Holiness’ movement, and also features important medieval works. The great west windows of the chapels of New College and Magdalen College rank among the most daring experiments in the genre in the post-medieval world. Survival is an issue that surfaces in the context of continental glass that was This tour will be led by art historian Alex Koller, PhD, an experienced ACE Tour Director who has studied in Vienna, Salzburg and Cambridge. Alex completed his PhD on the subject of stained glass at Magdalene College, Cambridge, where he also lectured and supervised.

taken to England during the iconoclasm of the French Revolution and its aftermath: examples will be studied at the cathedral in Bury St Edmunds and in Hingham, Norfolk. The 19th century revival of what are still widely regarded as the true principles of stained glass design can be appreciated in the contrast between one of the most complete medieval schemes of glazing at St Peter Mancroft in Norwich, and the Victorian windows of the Catholic cathedral in the same city. Later developments in stained glass design are evident at Jesus College in Cambridge. The Stained Glass Museum in Ely provides insights into the history and technique of the making of stained glass windows. The fact that this museum is housed in a building where the effects of post-Reformation iconoclasm, which accounted for the loss of so much of this fragile art, are still visible, is a particularly poignant reminder of the changing fortunes of the art form in England. This tour will be based in Cambridge at the four-star University Arms Hotel, a stylish setting with a rich history, serving as a hotel since 1830, and ideally situated in the centre of the city.

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“Alex conveys his enthusiasm for his subject and his knowledge is encyclopaedic” “I cannot begin to say how amazing Alex was as our tour director, his knowledge brought the art to life” – ACE customers on previous tours led by Alex Koller

FITNESS / PRACTICALITIES: Please note that this tour requires good levels of fitness, mobility and stamina, as we have a full itinerary with a significant amount of coach travel to include a breadth of visits. There is a moderate amount of walking involved between visits and to access sites, including occasionally uphill and uneven surfaces, cobbled ground and steps, which can be slippery if wet. The pavements in Cambridge have wide conduits which can fill with leaves, so care should be taken. The Stained Glass Museum is located in the south triforium (an upper level) of Ely Cathedral, and access is by a stone spiral staircase of 40 steps. No lift is available, but participants can opt out of this visit and continue to explore the main cathedral if wished. Furthermore, please note that church and chapel interiors may be dimly lit, and some walking will be done in darkness. There are opportunities to sit down at most visits with the exception of the Stained Glass Museum. For more general guidance, please consult ACE’s fitness criteria in our Booking Terms & Conditions.

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King’s College Chapel

ITINERARY

Please note that the below itinerary represents a guide to what we hope to offer. Owing to the special nature of the visits, some may be subject to change or confirmation nearer the time, and certain visits may be time permitting on the day. Day 1 Tour assembles 1415 at the University Arms Hotel, Cambridge, for four nights. Afternoon visits in Cambridge: Peterhouse College Chapel and Great St Mary’s Church. Welcome and introductory lecture. Day 2 Whole day excursion to Oxford: Christ Church Cathedral, Magdalen College Chapel, Wadham College Chapel, New College and Merton College Chapel. Day 3 Morning excursion to Bury St Edmunds for St Edmundsbury Cathedral (subject to confirmation) followed by Church of Saints Peter & Paul, East Harling and St Andrew’s Church, Hingham. Afternoon: continue to Norwich for Catholic Cathedral of St John the Baptist and St Peter Mancroft.

Stained glass window depicting the Ark at sea, Ely Cathedral

Day 4 Morning visits in Cambridge: King’s College Chapel and Jesus College Chapel. Afternoon excursion to Ely for visits to the cathedral and Stained Glass Museum. Day 5 Morning visits in Cambridge: Wren Library at Trinity College and Robinson College Chapel. Tour disperses in Cambridge approx 1215.

Cost of £2175 includes: accommodation based on sharing a classic twin or double bedded room, four breakfasts, four dinners with water & coffee, excursions & admissions, gratuities & all taxes. Not included: travel insurance, cosy double room for single use supplement £395. TOUR CODE: STGL26

SCHEDULE

Wild & Ancient Hebrides 86

aceculturaltours.co.uk

SCHEDULE

Full 2026 Schedule We are pleased to share an overview of our planned departures for 2026. To register your interest in a tour not yet on sale, we warmly invite you to visit our website to complete the Register Interest form or contact the ACE office on 01223 841055. Please note that some tours and dates may be subject to change or confirmation, and we cannot guarantee that all the tours listed below will go ahead.

12–22

Ancient Sicily (First Departure)

18–25

Wildlife & Walking in Alentejo & Algarve

Art Treasures of the Cote d’Azur (Second Departure)

26–2/6

Wildlife & Walking in Romania

10–17

Art Treasures of Tuscany & Umbria: Masterpieces of the Renaissance

29–7/6

The Balkans: A Legacy of Empires

TBC

Mozart Festival in Salzburg

11–25

Lycian Cruise (Longer Version)

Ancient Macedonia: The Empire of Philip II and Alexander the Great

Winter at the Royal Shakespeare Company

13–16

Art Treasures of Liverpool

TBC

13–18

TBC

Wildlife & Walking in Dorset

February

Cornwall Calling: The Artists of Newlyn and St Ives

Wagner’s Ring Cycle: 150th Anniversary Tour

13–23

Towns & Palaces of Poland

TBC

Wild & Ancient Islay & Jura

11–14

Wild & Ancient Somerset: Winter Tour

14–21

Wild & Ancient Sardinia

15–28

17–23

Venice: The Triumph of Light & Colour

Bolivian Baroque: Music from the Missions Uzbekistan and Tajikistan: Traversing the Silk Road (First Departure)

January

April

18–24

Music & History of Malta

8–12

Art Treasures of Berlin

19–31

A Journey through Vietnam: History, Art & Culture

9–16

26–1/2

Pompeii with Herculaneum (First Departure)

27–2/2 TBC

June 2–12

Iceland: Forces of Nature

5–12

Wild & Ancient Hebrides

5–19

Kazakhstan: From the Silk Road to Sir Norman Foster

8–14

In the Footsteps of Le Corbusier: His Life & Legacy

23–28

Art Treasures of Madrid & Malaga

17–3/5

23–2/3

Art Treasures of Naples: From the Romans to the Baroque

20–24

24–1/3

Imperial Rome: The Might of the Emperors

Churches of Herefordshire & Shropshire

20–26

28–2/2

La Folle Journée de Nantes: 30th Anniversary Tour

Pompeii with Herculaneum (Second Departure)

12–18

Bach Festival in Leipzig

21–26

19–26

TBC

Bath Bachfest

Art Treasures of Belgium: The Flemish Masters

Rhône River Cruise: Ancient Treasures & Musical Legacies

24–30

Wild & Ancient Cornwall

24–30

TBC

Country Houses of Derbyshire

St Patrick’s Country: Archaeology & Legend in Down, Armagh and Antrim

TBC

Music & Opera in Berlin

29–3/7

Walking Norfolk’s Coastal Path

TBC

Radical East Anglia: A History of Rebellion & Dissent

30–4/7

Gardens of the Cotswolds

TBC

Aldeburgh Festival

TBC

Art & Opera in Riga

TBC

Bordeaux through the Ages: Historical & Cultural Riches

TBC

Children’s Literary Classics: Winnie-the-Pooh at 100

March 2–6

Cardiff: A Cultural Capital

2–6

Roman & Byzantine Ravenna (First Departure)

2–9

Art Treasures of the Cote d’Azur (First Departure)

9–14

Aquileia: City of Antiquity (First Departure)

9–23

South Korea: Pagodas, Palaces & Temples

18–25

Wildlife & Walking in Extremadura

19–23

Fenland Abbeys

23–2/4

Byzantine & Ottoman Türkiye

24–5/4

Algeria: Encounters Between Rome & North Africa

27–2/4

Music & Art in Provence

aceculturaltours.co.uk

May 5–9

Great Bardfield & Beyond: MidCentury Art & Design in East Anglia

5–10

Art Treasures of Vienna

5–19

Wonders of Georgia: Archaeology, Culture & Landscape

TBC

East Neuk Festival

TBC

Longborough Opera Festival

7–12

Art Nouveau in Belgium

TBC

The Shetland Islands

8–15

Douro River Cruise on the Royal Barge

TBC

Summer at the Royal Shakespeare Company

11–15

Romney Marsh Churches

11–16

Walking the Thames Path: William Morris & the Arts & Crafts Movement

11–19

Great Art Collections of New England

12–19

Wildlife & Walking on the Isles of Scilly

SCHEDULE

Vienna 1900

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SCHEDULE

July

September

2–9

Medieval Burgundy

1–7

Mackintosh’s Glasgow

7–14

Wild & Ancient Orkney

5–12

Lycian Cruise (Shorter Version)

13–16

Constable & Gainsborough in Suffolk: 250th Anniversary Tour (First Departure )

7–12

Art Treasures of Scotland: Art & Craft in Edinburgh & Dundee

13–19

Hadrian’s Wall: Extended Edition

15–22

Wildlife & Walking in Austria

20–23

Constable & Gainsborough in Suffolk: 250th Anniversary Tour (Second Departure)

20–24

Country Houses of Herefordshire & the Welsh Borders

20–26

Princely Courts of Central Germany

TBC

Aix-en-Provence Summer Festival

TBC

Alvar Aalto: His Life & Legacy

TBC

Buxton Opera Festival

TBC

Gloucester Three Choirs Festival

TBC

International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival: Pirates of Penzance 150th Anniversary

TBC

York Early Music Festival

August 4–7

Churches of Norfolk: An Appointment with Angels

5–8

Sussex Modernism: Artists & Writers on the Downs

7–12

Aquileia: City of Antiquity (Second Departure)

7–12

Isle of Wight

11–27

Uzbekistan and Tajikistan: Traversing the Silk Road (Second Departure)

14–21

Great Art Collections of New York: 250 Years of Independence

14–25

Serbian Monasteries

15–20

Bauhaus: German Modern Art & Design

21–25

Roman & Byzantine Ravenna (Second Departure)

21–26

Country Houses of North Norfolk

21–28

Art Treasures of the Cote d’Azur (Third Departure)

28–2/10 Art Treasures of Siena and San Gimignano 28–2/10 Country Houses of the North & South Downs

TBC

Country House Music Festival

TBC

Ethiopia

TBC

Hidden London: Exploring London’s Roman Past

TBC

Palladio’s Villas in the Veneto

TBC

Pre-conquest York: Creating England’s Second City

TBC

Verdi Festival in Parma

TBC

Wexford Opera Festival

November 1–10

Tunisia

2–6

Art Treasures of Bruges

4–9

Everyday Life in Ancient Rome

4–10

Hidden Athens

9–15

Art Treasures of Bologna & Parma: A Feast for the Soul & Senses

16–23

Art & Architecture of Puglia

17–23

Caravaggio in Italy

17–22

Vienna 1900

20–3/12 From Spain to Morocco: Roman Hispania and Mauretania 23–30

Art Treasures of Florence

29–6/10 Art Treasures of Moravia & Western Slovakia

29–8/12 Frida, Diego & Modernism in Mexico City

TBC

Arctic Norway and the Lofoten Islands: History & Landscape

TBC

Bath Mozartfest

TBC

Autumn at the Royal Shakespeare Company

TBC

Glyndebourne Autumn Tour

TBC

Music & Opera in Vienna

TBC

Oxford College Chapels & Organs

TBC

Secret Venice

TBC

The Coto Doñana & Seville

TBC

The Story of the Raj: From Calcutta to Delhi Wild Canaries

10–14

Country Houses of Yorkshire

10–14

Wild & Ancient Anglesey

TBC

In the Footsteps of Raphael

19–23

Roman Sussex

TBC

Lucerne Summer Festival

24–28

Northumbria in the First Millennium

TBC

Wildlife & Walking in Corsica

26–1/9

Sibelius Festival in Finland

TBC

Wildlife & Walking in the Dolomites

TBC

Art & Ceramics of the Industrial Revolution

TBC

Country Houses of East Dorset

October

TBC

Rossini in Pesaro

2–6

Luxembourg: Crossroads of Europe

Schubert in Schwarzenberg

Northern Greece

December

TBC

5–17 6–16

Ancient Sicily (Second Departure)

12–19

Art Treasures of Valencia

15–21

Al-Andalus: Córdoba & Granada

19–22

Connoisseur’s Cambridge

23–2/11

Athens, Delphi & the Peloponnese

26–30

Stained Glass in England: Style, Technique & Colour

14–21

Ancient Treasures of Naples: From Ischia to the Hidden City

TBC

Ancient Egypt & the Nile: From Cairo to Aswan

TBC

Rhine Advent Cruise

29–8/11 Ancient Cyprus 31–7/11

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Pompeii with Herculaneum (Third Departure)

O U R E X P E RT S

Our Experts View their full biographies and range of tours online at www.aceculturaltours.co.uk/tour-directors Tom Abbott Tom Abbott, BA (Carleton College, USA) MA (Technical University Berlin) is an independent art and architectural historian associated with the Foundation of Prussian Palaces and Gardens. A resident of Berlin for over thirty years, he is a proficient lecturer and tour leader, with extensive experience directing cultural and art tours in Europe, to destinations including Germany, France, Italy, and Poland, for groups including the Arts Society (formerly NADFAS), the Victorian Society, and various universities. Tom has also studied at the Louvre School of Art History in Paris. His expertise concerning art and architecture ranges from the medieval to the current, and is highlighted in his knowledge and fascination with the Baroque and Rococo, the Romantic Movement, garden history and the musical heritage of Germany, as well as all aspects of European modern and contemporary art, architecture and history. Harriet Allen Harriet Allen, PhD, is a geographer and a Fellow, Tutor and Director of Studies at Girton College, Cambridge. Harriet is Chair of the Biogeography Research Group of the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) and a Coordinating Editor for the journal Landscape Ecology.

Tom Abbott

Harriet Allen

Christopher Bourne Christopher Bourne, BA, is an expert in 19th and 20th century art and architecture, and has been leading art and architectural history tours in the UK and Belgium for over 20 years. He read History and French at the University of Manchester, and then lived and worked in Brussels for 15 years. He developed his early interest in 19th century art and architecture into specialist knowledge of William Morris and the Pre-Raphaelites, the Arts & Crafts Movement, Art Nouveau and Art Deco. Christopher is a member of the Victorian Society, the William Morris Society, the Twentieth Century Society and the British, French and Belgian Art Deco Societies. Chris Aslan Chris was born in Turkey and spent his childhood there and in Beirut before studying Media and Journalism at Leicester University. He then moved to Khiva, a desert oasis in Uzbekistan, to establish a UNESCO workshop reviving 15th century carpet designs and embroideries and became the largest non-government employer in town. Following this, he moved to the Pamirs in Tajikistan, training yak herders to comb their yaks for their cashmere-like down, before spending two years in Kyrgyzstan establishing a wood-carving workshop. After further studies and rowing in Oxford, Chris is now based in Cambridge, where he focuses on his writing, with fiction works, including Alabaster, Manacle, Mosaic, and his latest non-fiction book, Unravelling the Silk Road. He also lectures for the Art Society and leads tours to Central Asia whenever he can.

Christopher Bourne

Chris Aslan

Sarah Burles Sarah Burles, MA, studied History of Art at Cambridge and gained a Masters at University College London before going on to a career in museum and gallery education. This included 12 years at the Fitzwilliam Museum as well as work in other Cambridge museums. An accredited Arts Society lecturer, Sarah has a passion for making museums and their collections accessible. Emilie Capulet Emilie Capulet, MA, MMus, PhD, is an award-winning Franco-British concert pianist, lecturer and musicologist. She performs worldwide in international music festivals and concert halls in Europe, the USA, Canada, Latin America and Asia. Emilie has recorded several CDs including the first recording of the complete piano music of the French-Corsican composer Henri Tomasi (1901-1971), in a critically acclaimed double album on the Calliope label. She has been broadcast on BBC Radio 3, Radio Canada, France Musique, Radio Télévision Suisse and Bayern Klassik and has appeared on Sky News International as their classical music expert. Emilie studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and is the BMus (Hons) Programme Leader at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. She has published on many aspects of music history. She is currently the recipient of a prestigious Leverhulme Research Fellowship and is a Visiting Fellow at Keble College, University of Oxford, in 2025.

Sarah Burles

Emilie Capulet

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O U R E X P E RT S

Ian Colvin Ian Colvin has long experience in leading tours to Armenia, Georgia, Turkey and the southern Balkans. He trained as a historian and byzantinist at Oxford in the 1990s, specialising in late Antiquity and the Roman Eastern Frontier. He moved to the University of Cambridge in the 2000s to become a researcher with the Cambridge School Classics Project. In 2001 he established an archaeological excavation at Nokalakevi in Georgia in collaboration with the Georgian National Museum, which continues to train students and investigate sites in Western Georgia to this day. Among his current scholarly projects is the Rustaveli Foundation-funded History of Egrisi. Imogen Corrigan Imogen Corrigan, BA, MPhil, FRHistS, FRSA, spent nearly 20 years in the British Army and retired in the rank of Major before turning to a life-long interest in Anglo-Saxon and Medieval History, which she studied at the University of Kent. A proficient lecturer on medieval history and particularly church art and architecture, and accredited with the Arts Society, Imogen has also gained an MPhil from the University of Birmingham. Her book Stone on Stone: The Men Who Built the Cathedrals was published in 2019. In 2022 Imogen was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. Imogen is the Memorials and Monuments Specialist for the Diocesan Advisory Committee for Canterbury.

Ian Colvin

Imogen Corrigan

aceculturaltours.co.uk

Peter Exley Peter Exley, BSc, is an ecologist, ornithologist and conservationist who worked for the RSPB for over 27 years, where he led the communication and community elements of projects such as the reintroduction of cranes to Somerset and the restoration of seabirds on islands. Before that Peter was a Director at nhbs. com, a global leader in supplying ecology, wildlife and conservation literature. He has also held posts with BirdLife International in South Korea, and the Albatross Task Force in South Africa. Peter has a strong interest in and experience of working with communities in island and natural landscapes. He has particular experience of interpreting landscapes from the perspective of ecology, history and community, and is one of the authors of the Stonehenge World Heritage Site Interpretation Strategy. Peter has led and managed many ACE tours in the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Algarve, New England, Madeira, the Faroes and Shetland. Suzanne Fagence Cooper Suzanne Fagence Cooper, MA, PhD, is a curator and historian whose specialisms include 19th and 20th century British and French art. An Arts Society accredited lecturer, she was a curator and Research Fellow at the V&A Museum for 12 years and has collaborated with many of Britain’s regional museum collections. She is the author of To See Clearly: Why Ruskin Matters (2019) and How We Might Live: At Home with Jane and William Morris (2022), and curated the 2019 exhibition Turner, Ruskin & the Storm Cloud at York Art Gallery.

Peter Exley

Suzanne Fagence Cooper

Kevin Hand Kevin Hand, MSc, MCIEEM, is a conservationist and environmental consultant with a special interest in birds, mammals and ecotourism. Kevin led a Darwin Initiative project on the taiga forests in Siberia, a project on sustainable forest use in the Ecuadorean Amazon with the Yachana Foundation, and ran National Tree Week in the UK for 13 years as well as serving as President of the Cambridge Natural History Society. He currently also chairs the Newmarket Chalk Streams Trust, and recently took on the role of Reserve Biodiversity Surveyor for the RSPB. Gillian Hovell Gillian Hovell, BA (Hons), is a specialist in the ancient world and archaeology. Known professionally as ‘The Muddy Archaeologist’, she has excavated at internationally important sites from the Neolithic through to Roman times. Ex-BBC, Gillian specialises and delights in bringing ancient cultures vividly and engagingly to life for diverse audiences in publications, lectures and events and in the media, and she has extensive experience lecturing on tours and cruises around the ancient world. She lectures at York University and is an accredited Arts Society lecturer.

Kevin Hand

Gillian Hovell

O U R E X P E RT S

Nick Jackson Nick Jackson graduated from the Institute of Archaeology at University College London, and proceeded to a career as a field director excavating the ancient history of the Eastern Mediterranean in Turkey and the Near East. After a research post at the University of Cambridge, he began work as a guide lecturer in Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Israel and Oman, and has continued leading tours to the present day. Nick’s years spent exploring the Eastern Mediterranean provided a unique window into this important area’s past and present. His main research interest is the late 2nd millennium BCE and the proto-Neolithic period, but he has also developed a passion for early Christian places of worship and Byzantine pilgrimage sites. Following an excavation in 1993 in Bolivia for the University of Berkeley, California, Nick moved to Berlin to work at the Academy of Art, and has lived there ever since. When not guiding, Nick lectures on Holocaust Studies at Stanford in Berlin; consults and presents TV documentaries; is a book researcher and sometime journalist. Alex Koller Alex Koller, PhD, is an expert in art history and architecture. Born in Vienna, Alex has lived and studied in Vienna, Salzburg and Cambridge, gaining his PhD in the history of art from Magdalene College, Cambridge. Alex is an accomplished linguist and has travelled extensively throughout Europe and the Far East. Alex has worked with ACE for many years and has led tours all over the world, from Hungary and Austria to Bulgaria, Serbia, Vietnam, Korea and Japan.

Nick Jackson

Alex Koller

Marie-Anne Mancio Marie-Anne Mancio, MPhil, DPhil, is an art historian, writer, experienced tour leader and Arts Society accredited lecturer. Marie-Anne originally trained as an artist before gaining a DPhil at the University of Sussex in art and critical theory. She has written and presented courses for Tate and Dulwich Picture Gallery; writes reviews, catalogue essays and historical fiction; and is a frequent visitor to Italy. She is currently writing a book about Caravaggio. Eireann Marshall Raised in the Veneto and educated in Barnard College, Columbia University, as well as the Universities of Birmingham and Exeter, Eireann Marshall, PhD, is a Research Associate and Associate Lecturer with the Open University. She has published a number of articles on Ancient North Africa and co-edited volumes on Death and Disease in the Ancient City, as well as Women’s Influence on Classical Civilisation. Bilingual in Italian, she has led many tours throughout Europe and North Africa over a prolonged period of time.

Niccolò Mugnai Niccolò Mugnai, BA, MA, PhD, AFHEA, is a classical archaeologist who specialises in the architecture, art, urbanism and material culture of the Greco-Roman world, with a particular focus on North Africa. He currently holds the post of Assistant Professor at the Institute of Classical Archaeology, University of Tübingen (Germany), having studied and worked in various Italian and British institutions, such as the University of Oxford and the University of Siena. He has led guided visits and been involved in archeological fieldwork at sites in Greece, Morocco, Tunisia and Libya. He has published extensively on the archaeology and architecture of ancient North Africa among other subjects

In 2019, Eireann Marshall was chosen as the Top History & Culture Guide for Wanderlust magazine’s World Guide Awards. Steve Mastin Steve Mastin, MA, PGCE, FHA, studied history and classics before working as a school teacher for 17 years. During this time he organised and led many trips abroad, and has also worked overseas training history teachers in Singapore, Australia and Kazakhstan. Steve is a regular speaker at history conferences.

Marie-Anne Mancio

Eireann Marshall

Steve Mastin

Niccolò Mugnai

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O U R E X P E RT S

Stephen Nelson Stephen Nelson, BA, MA, is an artist who divides his time between London and southern Italy. After completing degrees in Fine Art at the universities of Cardiff and Birmingham, he has since established his practice as a sculptor, working in a range of materials and media. Stephen’s work has been exhibited internationally in the UK, at galleries and museums including Camden Arts Centre, the Whitechapel Gallery, the Fine Arts Society and twice at the Royal Academy Summer Show. Stephen also curates exhibitions, which have included shows in Eritrea and Tanzania for the British Council and an exhibition about British art and the Italian arte povera movement, for the Estorick Collection. A personal venture of his is a nonprofit gallery established on the site of a bus shelter in the Pollino National Park in Basilicata, Italy, which regularly hosts site-specific work created by international artists. Stephen has led numerous art and cultural tours throughout Europe and further afield, and has acquired specialist knowledge of Italy and Mexico.

Jamie Sewell Jamie Sewell, PhD, has many years’ experience supervising excavations in Britain, Germany, Romania and Italy, including Pompeii and Sicily. He has authored a book and many articles on the archaeology of towns in Hellenistic Italy and in the broader Mediterranean. His ongoing research is focussed on how and why larger settlements in Italy transformed as a result of the Roman conquest of the peninsula. Jamie has lectured at Durham University, Humboldt University in Berlin, and has more than a decade’s worth of experience working as a historical guide.

Alan Powers Alan Powers, PhD, is one of the UK’s leading architectural historians, and has published widely on all aspects of 20th century architecture and design. Alan was Professor at the University of Greenwich School and currently lectures at New York University in London. His books include Bauhaus Goes West: Modern Art & Design in Britain & America.

Andrew Spira Andrew Spira, MA studied at the Courtauld Institute of Art and City University, London. For several years he was a specialist in Byzantine and Russian icons at the Temple Gallery, London, before working as a curator at the V&A Museum. Andrew was subsequently Programme Director at Christie’s Education, and has been leading tours to cultural sites in Russia, Armenia, Georgia and all across Europe for over 20 years. His recent publications include The Invention of the Self: Personal Identity in the Age of Art (Bloomsbury Academic, 2020), Simulated Selves: The Undoing of Personal Identity in the Modern World (Bloomsbury Academic, 2020) and Foreshadowed: Malevich’s Black Square and Its Precursors (Reaktion Books, 2022).

Stephen Nelson

Jamie Sewell

Alan Powers

aceculturaltours.co.uk

Diana Ward Diana Ward, MSc, CBiol, MCIEEM, is an ecologist and wildlife specialist. Her company, Ward Ecology Ltd, carries out ecological assessment work, and she has worked for many years on Sites of Special Scientific Interest and river restoration projects. She was Senior Editor of The Rivers & Wildlife Handbook.

Ashley Solomon Ashley Solomon, FRAM, FRCM, is Chair and Head of Historical Performance at the Royal College of Music and Director of Baroque ensemble Florilegium. As a result of his commitment to editing and performing music from the Mission Churches of Chiquitos and Moxos Indians in Bolivia, Ashley was the first European to be awarded the coveted Hans Roth Prize in 2008.

Ashley Solomon

Andrew Spira

Diana Ward

B O O K I N G P RO C E D U R E A N D C O N D I T I O N S

Booking Conditions IINTRODUCTION ACE Cultural Tours meets or exceeds all the requirements of the Package Travel Regulations 2018, full details of which can be found online at: www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/634/contents/ made In addition, flight-inclusive tours benefit from the financial protection afforded by our Air Travel Organiser’s License (ATOL 10204), whilst UK and other tours without flights are protected through the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT). We are also long-term members of the Association of Independent Tours Operators (AITO). For your own safety and financial security we do not recommend you book a holiday that does not benefit from the above protection. The Package Travel Regulations 2018 together with the following booking information and our promotional material form the basis of your contract with ACE Cultural Tours. We have tried to keep this as concise and simple as possible, so please read all the following paragraphs to make sure you understand and are happy with the terms of your booking. PAYMENT If you are booking 10 weeks or more before departure, the following deposits are payable at the time of booking: £300 per person for UK tours. £400 per person for all European tours. £550 per person for Worldwide tours. £500 per person for all cruises.* The balance must be received by us not less than 10 weeks prior to departure. This date will be shown on the confirmation invoice. We do send an email reminder but ask that you also make a note of the date in your diary. If you are booking less than 10 weeks before departure, full payment for all tours must be made at the time of booking. *In addition to the deposit at the time of booking all cruises require a further payment of £500 six months prior to sailing. NO SURCHARGES Tour prices are confirmed at the time of booking and thereafter will not be subject to any surcharge. We have forward purchase of currency and other precautions in order to guarantee your holiday is not affected by fluctuations in fuel or currency rates. In the event of extraordinary circumstances making the tour unviable we would offer you a full refund or credit note or an alternative tour.

CANCELLATION BY YOU You may cancel your booking at any time before departure. Notice of cancellation must be in writing and because we incur costs from the time we confirm your booking, the following charges will apply (for which we suggest you purchase appropriate insurance): Period before departure within which written notification of cancellation is received by us Cancellation charge

70 days or more

Deposit only

69-29 days

60% of total booking value

28-15 days

90% of total booking value

14 days or less

100% of total booking value

CANCELLATION BY YOU DUE TO COVID-19 OR OTHER ILLNESS Please note that if you are personally prevented from travelling as a result of COVID-19 our normal cancellation charges will apply. For this reason we highly recommend that you take out travel insurance at the time of booking that specifically includes cover in the event that you are personally unable to travel. In addition you should have insurance to cover additional accommodation/transport/repatriation costs incurred due to local/national quarantine requirements. CANCELLATION BY US We reserve the right to cancel your booking if there are insufficient bookings on your tour (this will depend on tour type and destination) or for other unforeseen operational reasons. In such an event, we will provide you with at least 70 days’ notice of cancellation and provide you with a full refund. Very occasionally, due to extraordinary circumstances in the immediate vicinity of the destination, it may be necessary to cancel the tour with less than 70 days’ notice, in which case we will likewise provide you with a full refund. Note that in either situation we cannot reimburse any incidental expenses you may have incurred (for example, train fares, additional accommodation or connecting flights). If you are buying your own flights, please liaise with the office before committing to significant expenditure. CHANGES BY US We do our utmost to ensure that all the arrangements and visits are as described. However, it is in the nature of travel that changes are sometimes inevitable, although most of these will be minor in nature. In the event that a particular visit is not possible, we will aim to replace it with another of equal interest. If we have to make more significant changes to the itinerary in advance of departure, we will provide you with a choice of a refund, credit note or an alternative itinerary.

ACCOMMODATION Accommodation in hotels is in twin/double bedded rooms, the majority of which have private bath/shower and toilet. On cruise ships, accommodation is in cabins with shower and toilet only. Single rooms: As a general rule, we aim to provide our solo travellers with double/twin rooms for sole use. However, this is not possible on all tour departures, and occasionally, despite a supplement being payable, only single rooms may be available, and such accommodation may not meet exactly the same standard as double/ twin accommodation or be located in the same area of the hotel. ACE Cultural Tours very much welcomes single travellers and we make no profit from single room supplements. The costs are simply down to the economics of running a hotel. Porterage is included on overseas tours where available. FLIGHTS & TICKETS Specific instructions relating to the departure and travel arrangements will be sent with your air and/or other travel tickets approximately two weeks before departure. It is essential that you check your tickets carefully immediately upon receipt to ensure you have the correct flight times. Occasionally carriers will make late changes to departure times but we will contact you as soon as possible if this occurs. We will always aim to provide you with the name of your likely airline and flight times when you make a booking. However, flight schedules are set by the airlines and outside our control. We therefore reserve the right to change the actual carrier and flight times for your tour. In accordance with the regulations, we are required to bring your attention to the Community List of air carriers subject to an operating ban within the UK & EU: https:// transport.ec.europa.eu/transport-themes/eu-airsafety-list_en HEALTH & SAFETY We operate a safety audit system and work hard with our suppliers to ensure the safety and comfort of our travellers. However, please note that some of the destinations to which we travel have lower requirements and standards than those of the UK. It is therefore essential that you follow any instructions and guidance provided by your tour manager or director. FITNESS The majority of ACE Cultural Tours are active in nature and, to make the most of our time in a destination and provide excellent value for money, they are busy with visits every day. As such, they require a certain minimum level of mobility, physical and mental fitness, and stamina. Our visits may involve navigating several steps, uneven ground, steep ascents and descents, and embarking and disembarking aircraft, coaches, trains, cruise vessels and even Zodiac dinghies. Plenty of walking, punctuated by lengthy periods of standing, is the norm, and some tours may involve long coach journeys. All customers must be fit and able enough to fully participate. Furthermore, every tour comprises a group of guests. We cannot allow the entire group to be

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B O O K I N G P RO C E D U R E A N D C O N D I T I O N S negatively impacted by one participant, either holding up the pace we reasonably need to maintain or disproportionately requiring the attention and support of the tour staff. We carefully consider the intensity, fitness and other requirements of each itinerary and describe them on the tour pages of our brochures and website. Please study these descriptions closely. When you call to book, we will reiterate those requirements and ask you to confirm that all group members are indeed fit enough and otherwise able to meet the criteria. It is your responsibility to answer fully and honestly. If it transpires that you are not able to keep pace with the tour and/or it reasonably appears you are negatively impacting (or are reasonably likely to negatively impact) the enjoyment of the rest of the group (including their ability to complete all scheduled visits), we may ask you to sit out certain days/visits, take a taxi at your own expense (if available in the location), or even, if we consider there is no other reasonable alternative, ask you to leave the tour and make your own way home. As a minimum, participants should be able to successfully complete the following selfassessment tests: • Walk for one hour at a reasonable pace and without needing to take a break to rest • Climb at least two flights of stairs at a reasonable pace • Stand unaided for at least 30 minutes • Stand up and sit down ten times in one minute • Carry or otherwise move your own luggage HEALTH PRECAUTIONS IN ADVANCE Whilst we will provide details of any compulsory health requirements applicable to British citizens for your tour, it is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of all recommended vaccinations and health precautions in good time before departure. Please check with a doctor or clinic not less than ten weeks prior to departure to ensure that you have met the necessary requirements and have the applicable information.The following website may also be helpful: travelhealthpro.org.uk For tours in the EU/EEA you should obtain an GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) prior to departure from https://services.nhsbsa.nhs. uk/cra/start. Please note that an GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. You must be in possession of all necessary travel and health documents before departure (and pay for any related costs). We regret that we cannot accept any liability if you incur fees or are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry all required documentation. MEDICAL CONDITIONS, OR REDUCED MOBILITY, OR DISABILITY We aim to provide authentic cultural experiences and to provide excellent value for money. As a result, the majority of itineraries are quite intensive and can be tiring. They may involve a significant amount of walking, uneven surfaces at outdoor sites or in historic buildings, long journeys, and uncomfortable climatic conditions which might exacerbate existing medical or mobility issues. Destinations include many countries with lower standards of health and safety than the UK and limited adaptations for people with reduced mobility. Some destinations do not (and cannot reasonably be expected to) provide emergency and/or health care to the

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standard that travellers with mobility and/or health conditions may require in the event of any form of incident or emergency. For the above reasons, our holidays may not be suitable for people with certain disabilities, medical conditions or significantly reduced mobility. If you suffer from any medical condition, disability or reduced mobility (including any which affect the booking process) or have any special requirements as a result, please tell us before making your booking so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangements and in order that we can assess the potential risks to your welfare and health and safety. If we feel that we cannot reasonably accommodate your needs, we reserve the right to decline your booking or, if full details are not given at the time of booking or the condition of disability develops after booking, cancel when we become aware of these details. When we refer to reduced mobility, this means any material reduction in mobility whether this is permanent or temporary and whether caused by age or by physical or mental disability or impairment or other cause of disability. If you have a medical condition, disability or restriction (from whatever cause) which develops or becomes worse after booking your tour and before travelling, please let us know as early as possible so that we can discuss the situation including any new requirements. In certain such circumstances, we reserve the right to cancel your booking if we reasonably feel unable to accommodate your requirements or limitations. DIETARY AND SPECIAL REQUESTS Please advise us at the time of booking of any food allergies or special dietary requirements you may have for medical or religious reasons and we will do our very best to assist. Please note, it is important that you distinguish between food allergies and other dietary requirements which have or are likely to have medical consequences if they are not met and food or dietary preferences. It is your responsibility to ensure that requirements which have (or are likely to have) medical consequences if not met are clearly communicated in writing as such. We are entitled to assume that failure to meet a request will not have medical consequences if the risk / likelihood of medical consequences is not made specifically clear in writing at the time the request is made. We may ask for independent verification of the medical consequences where we consider it appropriate to do so. We are happy to cater for vegetarians or pescatarians. It is not, however, possible to offer extensive choices at every meal to cater for food preferences or requirements as many of our menu selections are fixed. Inclusion of the dietary or special request on your booking confirmation or any other documentation is not a guarantee that the request will be met. Food / dietary related requirements which have a medical consequence if not met must be discussed and specifically agreed with us at the time of booking to ensure we fully understand and can meet these requirements. INSURANCE It is a requirement of booking with Ace that all participants have comprehensive travel insurance for overseas tours, including cover for medical expenses, infectious diseases including Covid,

quarantine, repatriation and personal liability, as well as cancelled, delayed and missed departure and loss or damage to personal possessions. Whilst accidental damage is a rare occurrence, your insurance should also cover any damage or loss caused by you and cover any resultant claims made against you or us. For overseas tours, you must give us details in writing of your insurance, preferably on your booking form but in any case no later than before the departure date of your tour. If you fail to do so, we reserve the right to cancel your booking. We strongly recommend insurance for our UK tours to cover cancellation for medical reasons. We recommend that insurance premiums are paid as soon as you receive your booking confirmation as cover (in particular cancellation cover) will not be effective until you have done so. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is suitable and adequate for your particular needs. We cannot accept responsibility for any services which do not form part of this contract, for example, any additional services or facilities that you agree directly with a local hotel or other supplier. Please make sure you have adequate insurance to cover such services and the acts of other third parties. CONSIDERATION FOR FELLOW TRAVELLERS One of the great pleasures of ACE tours is meeting other people with shared interests and making new friends. This has always depended on mutual consideration for your fellow travellers. We therefore reserve the right that in the unlikely event you cause danger, upset or distress to any third party, we are entitled, without prior notice, to terminate your tour without liability for any expenses or costs incurred as a result of the termination. PASSPORTS & VISAS Whilst we will provide guidance for each individual tour and help where we can, your specific passport, visa and other immigration requirements are your responsibility and you should confirm these with the relevant embassy or consulate. In particular, if you are not a British Citizen or hold a non-British passport, you must check the requirements for all countries to or through which you are intending to travel. Requirements may change and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure. For some tours and destinations we will require a copy of the picture page of your passport. ISSUES If you are unhappy with any element of your tour or the arrangements, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can attempt to resolve the issue. If you are on tour you should speak directly to your tour manager or tour director and not wait until you return home, when it may be impossible for us to help. In the unlikely event that we cannot agree on a satisfactory outcome between us, we will ask AITO’s Independent Dispute Settlement Service to find an amicable solution. Our contract with you is subject to English law (and no other) and the jurisdiction of the Courts of England and Wales only.

Quality Charter ATOL AIR TRAVEL ORGANISER’S LICENSE All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLcertificate. ABTOT ASSOCIATION OF BONDED TRAVEL ORGANISERS TRUST LIMITED The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under ABTOT Combined and The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for ACE Cultural Tours, ATOL number 10204, and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: • non-flight packages; • flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the EU, which are sold to customers outside of the EU; • flight inclusive packages, flight only and linked travel arrangements (LTAs) sold as a principal under ABTOT Combined. ABTOT cover provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled or repatriation if you are abroad. Please note that bookings made by customers outside the EEA are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with ACE Cultural Tours. In the unlikely event that you require assistance whilst abroad due to our financial failure, please call ABTOT’s 24/7 helpline on 01702 811397 and advise you are a customer of an ABTOT protected travel company. You can access The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/634/ contents/made

All the flights and flight inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected either by ABTOT or the ATOL scheme. When you pay for something protected by the ATOL scheme you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate AITO ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT TOUR OPERATORS ACE Cultural Tours is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. To contact the Association, visit www.aito.co.uk or call 020 8744 9280. AITO is the Association for independent and specialist holiday companies. Our member companies, usually owner- managed, strive to create overseas holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared concern for quality and personal service. The Association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating. EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, finance and quality which must be satisfied before new companies are admitted to membership. All members are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice which encourages high operational standards and conduct. FINANCIAL SECURITY An AITO member is required to arrange financial protection for all holidays and other arrangements (including accommodation only) booked by customers with the member under the AITO logo. This financial protection applies to customers who are resident in the UK at the time of booking and to most overseas customers who have booked directly with the member. In doing so, the member must comply with UK Government regulations. Members are required to submit details of their financial protection arrangements to AITO on a regular basis.

ACCURATE HOLIDAY DESCRIPTIONS All members do their utmost to ensure that all their brochures and other publications, print or electronic, clearly and accurately describe the holidays and services offered. PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AND CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENTS All members are committed to high standards of service and believe in regular and thorough training of employees. Members continually seek to review and improve their holidays. They listen to their customers and always welcome suggestions for improving standards. MONITORING STANDARDS AITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should receive a postholiday questionnaire from their tour operator, the results of which are scrutinised by the Association. In addition, customers can leave detailed feedback, accessible from the homepage of this website, or via a direct link supplied by their AITO tour operator, about their holiday. SUSTAINABLE TOURISM Our members acknowledge the importance of AITO’s Sustainable Tourism ethos, which recognises the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating. CUSTOMER RELATIONS All members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their customers may raise. In the unlikely event that a dispute between an AITO member and a customer cannot be settled amicably, either party can call on an arbitration service to bring the matter to a speedy and acceptable conclusion.

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ACE CULTURAL TOURS

ACE CULTURAL TOURS Stapleford Granary Bury Road Stapleford 01223 841055 CAMBRIDGE ace@aceculturaltours.co.uk CB22 5BP www.aceculturaltours.co.uk