Featured Short Music & History events

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History Symposia

The Ancient Greeks used the word symposium to describe a drinking party after a banquet, but over time the meaning has evolved to evoke a more civilised occasion, when curious people gather to discuss a subject of mutual interest. We think the term perfectly encapsulates our intensive mini breaks, which combine the bonhomie implied by the first definition with the serious intent of the second.

Taking place over three days (an afternoon, full day and morning), with two nights in a comfortable hotel, our symposia bring together specialists to deliver a series of 10-12 illustrated, 40-minute talks, plus Q&A. Over the last decade, themes have included ‘Scotland History and Identity’, ‘The Age of Victoria’, ‘Tudor Encounters’, ‘Ancient Greece: People and Polis’; ‘The Romans in Britain’ and ‘Anglo Saxons: the Origins of England’. In relaxed circumstances between lecture sessions, conveniently residing under the same roof, we meet each other over drinks and dinner – often joined by the experts.

These events are neither didactic courses nor academic conferences. Prior knowledge is not essential; curiosity is key. As leading scholars share their latest ideas and thinking, the aim is to stimulate, entertain and enlighten.

Chamber music

For our annual series of chamber music events, we engage some of the finest ensembles in the UK and Europe. Within an overarching theme, the music is carefully chosen and programmed to provide an illuminating sequence. Talks with a musicologist – or by the musicians themselves – are incorporated. Tickets to individual concerts (without accommodation and meals) are also available to book.

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" We visited 10 cathedrals around the English countryside in 9 days. The lecturers did an excellent job of comparing and contrasting the buildings. There were lots of extra goodies such as organ recitals, and the lodging and food selections were excellent. " The Cathedrals of England - Ely, Lincoln, Durham, York, Coventry, Gloucester, Bristol, Wells, Salisbury, Winchester
" Impressively comprehensive, offering a cornucopia of delights even to a Londoner. " The London Backstreet Walk - Hyde Park to the Tower
" My almost sole reason for booking this holiday was to hear Jonas Kaufmann, the stunning in every sense of the word tenor, sing in "Die Meistersinger"in Munich and the added bonus was three other operas including a chance to see "Turandot"on Lake Constance at Bregenz. Two cities, one a city of great history and art and architecture, four operas and associated lectures by a gifted and interesting musicologist, Dr David Vickers. It was a superbly ... " - Hyde Park to the Tower
" An experience of the music of Bach and some of his contemporaries in the places where Bach lived and worked. Inspired concerts by world recognised specialists in authentic concert environments. The experience definitely felt that you touched the Divine as was the intent of Bach's music. An experience that was savoured to every last minute. " - Hyde Park to the Tower
" It was a perfect combination of walking and art. " Footpaths of Umbria - Walks, art and wine between Arezzo and Assisi

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