I visited England last summer and used a tour company called "Gentle Journeys" ...just a note to say that they were absolutely wonderful - and indeed, gentle. With them visited Pashley Manor, Sissinghurst, Barnsley and others. The have tours to Hidcote, Great Dixter, etc. They are also sponsoring a trip via the "chunnel" to Paris and the gardens at Versailles, etc. Check them out; they have a website and are available thru an 800#. Very accomodating and just delightful! I can't say enough.