Private tour in Cambridge Deborah M

Anglesey Abbey, National Trust House and Gardens, near Cambridge

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Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
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Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Deborah M.

5.0

Guide rating

19

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1 hrs

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I am an art and architectural historian, an art educator originally from London. I have worked in other European countries for many years in the past and after a few years back in England working at the National Gallery and other Museums in the capital, I moved to live and work in the University city of Cambridge lecturing at the University museums, researching and delivering a great variety of courses to locals and visitors alike. Art is my passion that continues to feed my own learning, which I love to share with like minded people. I aim to entertain and educate but above all communicate my own sense of wonder and joy in the world around us. The redemptive power of creativity has never been more vital and desirable in our lives than it is today ! Cambridge is a highly stimulating, vibrant city, historically a shrine to intellect with its colleges but also its scientific and business innovation that has a world wide reputation. The roll call of alumni who have redefined the world and shaped all of our lives through their achievements, the highest number in the country, make it a privilege to be part of this city. Its location by the river Cam with its boating and the many green open spaces are much used and loved, offering relaxation in a more rural environment that provides a necessary balance to the academic and stimulating urban centre. I am most definitely a people person who is keen to motivate, challenge and engage, sharing my knowledge and experience with others. I have organised many short and extended trips around England and abroad for adult students to visit sights of artistic and historical interest over the last 25 years. I enjoy my role as a tour guide to the local historic buildings and the cultural venues in the city. I have a B. A. in the History of Art with French, an M. A. in Material culture & the built environment, a P. G. C. E. in Art education in Art & Design & T. E. F. L. I am not a licensed guide, but have acquired extensive experience and knowledge over the years, in particular training town and museum guides as well as school teachers who can spread the expertise more widely to others. I have published articles and books and am always writing the next chapter! So, time is precious. The clock is endlessly ticking. Even more so, when you are planning a trip away – so much to do, to pack, to arrange. Too many things to think about! So, why not leave the local visits to an expert ? Booking a private tour to fit into your own personal schedule is a no-brainer. My tours will give you the benefit of my many years of knowledge and experience and as someone who understands the locality, I can take you to the heart of Cambridge, making the most of your limited time in the city. You already know the unique value of the authentic experience. You have arrived at Cambridge, your destination, but now the journey can truly begin, so let me reveal to you what makes this city worth visiting ! Hopefully you will depart enriched by the experience and excited to share your special memories back home. Let’s connect the present with the past, delving into the history of people’s creativity through the medium of art, architecture and much more ! Art is not what you see but what you make others see. It is a beacon of hope in this ever unsettling world we live in !

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Deborah M.

Overview of your Cambridge tour

Anglesey Abbey, just like the fictional Downton Abbey (aka Highclere castle) was not actually an abbey, but began its life as a 12th century priory in the hamlet of Angerhale in the Fens, hence the name Anglesey. Discover its long history, featuring a real life American heiress, Cara Rogers by the 20th century, whose name may have inspired Cora, Lady Grantham in the TV/Films of Downton Abbey. It was her legacy, inherited from her father, Vice President of Standard Oil, reputed to be one of the wealthiest men in the U.S. and rubbing shoulders with the Rockefellers and British Royalty, that would bankroll the grand creation of her son, Huttleston Broughton. A stone's throw from Cambridge, this is an experience that offers so much to lovers of history, gardens and art alike. Hear the full story, unlocking the connections back to the U.S., Lord Fairhaven's American upbringing and how he followed his vision, creating a haven in the Fens, a much loved part of our Cambridgeshire heritage today

Your Cambridge tour itinerary

Introduction to Anglesey Abbey and why it was chosen, re- inventing it as a luxurious home and gardens, fit for a Lord. Visit to the the principal gardens, appointed statuary, seasonal flower gardens. The restored and picturesque working mill by the river Lode is a delight of the village's past, where you can purchase flour and bread. The house has parts dating back to its occupancy as a priory as well as the living quarters of the family and art showpieces. Lord Fairhaven was a great collector, amassing an eclectic mix of artefacts and paintings, including clocks and fine tapestries. You will also see collected and commissioned works by artists of East Anglia, including Gainsborough, Constable and horse painter and close friend, Alfred Munnings There is plenty to enjoy, especially the servants quarters, a veritable time capsule !

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Walking

Arrive by car, taxi or bus from central Cambridge ( No. 11 leaves at 50 minutes to the hour every hour from drummer street bus station, 5 minutes from the market square, arriving in Lode at aproximately 20 minutes past the hour.

What's included
Private Guide
What's not included
Tickets: Travellers who are members of the overseas organisations like Royal Oak or Australia N.T. can get free entry to this property. £17 if not. There is also a touring pass that can be purchased if you are visiting more than one site. You can visit 300 sites in Britain for free with the pass or the reciprocal arrangement from your country.
Private Transportation
Public Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
Other: There is a restaurant/cafe, shop and garden centre and toilets at reception and near the housentre
Meeting location

Cambridge, England, United Kingdom

Anglesey Abbey is located on the main B1102 road, 7 miles east of Cambridge, just before the village of Lode. Meet at the entrance to the reception building, just inside the grounds, and car park near the road and bus stop

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
History
Art And Culture
Architecture
Off The Beaten Path
Tour reference number
1378735
Languages
English
French
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Wheelchair Accessible
Kid Friendly

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Cambridge best suited for?

This private tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, garden lovers, and art aficionados. It's also ideal for those interested in the connections between American and British heritage, as well as fans of Downton Abbey who want to explore a real-life counterpart. With Deborah M. as your guide, you'll gain deeper insights into the fascinating history of Anglesey Abbey.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Cambridge be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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