Private Houses and Gardens of Bermuda
December 3–8, 2013
This custom-designed tour is available only to National Trust members, and it features a dynamic, insightful look at the unique historical commitment to great architecture that defines Bermuda. Spend plenty of time in and outside museums, seeing Bermuda from a more personal level. Stroll through the old streets of Hamilton and St. George, and enjoy informative talks by Bermuda Trust personnel. By visiting a variety of historic towns and private homes, this program will allow you a special insider’s view of Bermuda.
Bermuda holds a special interest for National Trust members because of the work of the Bermuda National Trust. Since it was established in 1969, the Bermuda Trust has acquired more than 60 historic properties and open-space areas in Bermuda, and is a formidable force in the preservation of this fragile island. Our hosts from the Bermuda National Trust's Cultural Tourism Office look forward to sharing their island with us.
Having acquired a multitude of historic properties in Bermuda, the Bermuda National Trust, the National Trust’s sister organization, has become a formidable force in preserving this fragile island, characterized by graceful Georgian houses of whitewashed coral limestone, manicured gardens, and sparkling turquoise waters.
Bermuda has a unique blend of British formality and island nonchalance has resulted in a great architectural heritage that is often overlooked by casual visitors. Discover Bermuda in all its cultural glory with VIP tours of historic monuments, special openings of grand, private historic homes, and exclusive invitations into breathtaking hidden gardens. Taking place during the Bermuda National Trust’s festive “Christmas Walkabout,” uncover Bermuda at its best, while enjoying some of the island’s most interesting people and finest restaurants.
Study Leader Information
John Meffert, historian, consultant on Heritage Conservation, and former Director of National Trust's Southern Office
Tour Itinerary
December 3 - Arrive at the Bermuda airport and transfer independently to the hotel; enjoy an introductory talk on Bermuda; welcome dinner
December 3 -Horseshoe Bay & St. George; Carter House, one of the oldest buildings on St David’s Island and home to the St David’s Island Historical Society Museum; walking tour Of St. George, led by a Bermuda Trust representative; witness a reenactment of the ducking ceremony; lunch at a waterside seafood restaurant; visit the Bermuda National Trust Museum housed in the Globe sunset cruise and reception
December 5 -Waterville, the headquarters of the Bermuda National Trust; Verdmont; Enjoy a guided stroll through Hamilton, including a tour of the Bermuda Historical Society Museum at “Par-la-Ville”
December 6 - Set out for Camden, and explore the 36-acre Bermuda Botanical Gardens; Enjoy a curator-led tour of the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art; Continue to another private home with magnificent gardens, and be treated to lunch hosted by the owner; take in the festive celebrations of the Bermuda Trust’s annual Christmas Walkabout
December 7 - Heydon Trust; Fort Scaur; the Royal Naval Dockyard for a special walking tour led by the Bermuda Trust; Visit the National Museum of Bermuda that is housed within a large fortress called The Keep; Enjoy a private visit to the Commissioner’s House, the largest restoration project ever undertaken in Bermuda; stop at Horseshoe Bay; a magnificent private home will treat our group to a reception hosted by the owners; farewell dinner
December 8 -independent flights home
Reservations
To reserve by credit card, please call 888-484-8785; to reserve online, please fill out our reservation form. View our terms and conditions.
Questions?
Please email National Trust Tours for questions about this program. Be sure to include your mailing address if you are requesting a paper copy of the brochure for this program.
