St Endellion Summer Festival & the Cornish Countryside
St Endellion Summer Festival & the Cornish Countryside
29 JULY–7 AUGUST 2027 (10 DAYS) | SIX CONCERTS AT THE ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL, GUIDED TOURS, GOURMET FOOD & AN EXPLORATION OF THE BEAUTIFUL CORNISH COUNTRYSIDE
Experience the magic of North Cornwall on an unforgettable musical journey combining exceptional performances with the timeless beauty of the Cornish landscape. At the heart of the experience is the celebrated St Endellion Summer Music Festival, where musicians come together for opera, orchestral, choral and chamber concerts in the atmospheric surroundings of the historic St Endellion Church.
Between performances, discover the extraordinary landscapes of the North Cornwall coast, with its rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, picturesque fishing villages and rolling countryside. With elegant accommodation, beautiful scenery, exceptional dining and outstanding music at its centre, this is a quintessentially luxurious Cornwall experience.
LOYALTY CLUB PRICE: AUD$11,352.50
Single supplement: AUD$2,595
Deposit payment 1: Deposit AUD$2,500 per person (due at time of booking)
Deposit payment 2: Deposit AUD$2,500 per person (due on 29 March 2027)
Final payment due: 24 May 2027
tour leader
Overview
Overview
Premium tickets to six concerts at the St Endellion Summer Festival, held at the beautiful Collegiate Church of St Endellion.
Tour leadership and exclusive private talks by Michael Downes about each of the performances we attend.
A visit to the National Trust property of Tyntesfield on our journey from London to Cornwall.
A private ferry trip across the Camel Estuary, followed by a guided walking tour of Padstow.
A guided tour of the Eden Project, one of Cornwall’s most extraordinary attractions.
A private guided tour of Pencarrow House, home to the Molesworth-St Aubyn family for almost 500 years, followed by a traditional Cornish Cream Tea.
A guided tour of Tintagel Castle, an important stronghold of Cornish rulers from the 5th to 7th centuries.
A day trip to picturesque St Ives with a guided tour of the Barbara Hepworth Museum.
A guided tour of the National Trust property of Lanhydrock, one of Cornwall’s finest country houses.
A day trip to the beautiful fishing village of Port Isaac, with lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking the water.
Nine nights staying at the stylish and newly-renovated St Enodoc Hotel, overlooking the Camel Estuary in Rock.
A welcome dinner and other delicious meals as listed in the itinerary, at restaurants carefully selected by Hayllar Music Tours, including Rick Stein's famous Seafood Restaurant in Padstow.
Return coach travel from London Paddington Station to Cornwall at the start and end of the tour.
Travel in a small group (maximum 20 people) giving you the opportunity to get to know your fellow guests and to enjoy one-on-one time with your expert Tour Leader.
Michael Downes is a conductor, writer and lecturer on music with particular interests in opera and music of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. In 2008, following two years as Director of Music at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge, he was appointed to the same position at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, where he leads a busy and varied music programme for students, staff and the local community and directs many of the University ensembles.
Michael’s new book, Story of the Century: Wagner and the Creation of the Ring, was published to great acclaim in the UK in 2024 by Faber and in the US in 2025 by Pegasus; an Italian translation is forthcoming. It was named as one of the five best music books of the year in the UK’s Presto Music Awards and described by Gramophone magazine as ’the best introduction to The Ring out there’. Michael’s previous publications include books written both with and about British composer Jonathan Harvey, and a collaboration with Nike Wagner, great-granddaughter of Richard, on the English version of her book about her family’s history, The Wagners: Dramas of a Musical Dynasty. He is currently working on a new biography of Elgar for Oxford University Press.
Michael particularly enjoys writing and speaking about music and opera to audiences beyond the academy. He regularly contributes articles on musical topics of current interest to publications including the Guardian, and writes programme notes for organisations including Wigmore Hall, the Aldeburgh Festival and Scottish Opera. He has lectured on opera for the Royal Opera House, Glyndebourne, and most of the UK’s other leading opera companies, and leads online courses for the New York-based Roundtable by the 92nd Street Y. Michael was awarded an OBE in the King’s 2025 Birthday Honours List for services to music and education.
Perched above the beautiful Camel Estuary in Rock, North Cornwall, the St Enodoc Hotel is a stylish coastal retreat combining relaxed luxury with the warmth and hospitality of The Ainsworth Collection. Many of its thoughtfully designed rooms and suites enjoy sweeping views across the estuary and gardens, creating a peaceful base from which to experience this spectacular corner of Cornwall. Dining is central to the experience, with the Estuary Grill celebrating Cornwall’s finest meat and seafood, while the Flour Garden offers relaxed Neapolitan-style pizzas in the landscaped gardens. With beaches and coastal paths on the doorstep, and Padstow just a short ferry ride away, St Enodoc is ideally placed for exploring the North Cornwall coast.
Our standard tour cost includes a Garden View Super King room.
Upgrade options are available as follows:
Upgrade to an Estuary View Super King room for AUD$1,385 for the full duration of your stay (subject to availability).
Wake up to beautiful views across the Camel Estuary from these peaceful, light-filled rooms, with a super king bed and comfortable bathroom with bath and overhead shower.
Upgrade to an Estuary View Superior room for AUD$2,330 for the full duration of your stay (subject to availablity).
Beautifully positioned with views across the Camel Estuary, these spacious rooms offer a little extra room to settle in and unwind. Each has a super king bed and a comfortable bathroom, with either a walk-in shower or bath with overhead shower.
Select your upgrade option when booking below, or contact us on 02 9669 9181 / +61 2 9669 9181.
Single supplement: AUD$2,595
Itinerary
Itinerary
1ST OF 9 NIGHTS AT ST ENODOC HOTEL
LONDON TO CORNWALL (D):
We meet in the morning at 10:00am at London Paddington Station, and travel by private coach from London to Cornwall.
To break our journey, we stop at the halfway mark at the beautiful National Trust property of Tyntesfield, for a relaxed stroll around the grounds and a bite to eat at one of the estate’s cafés.
The magnificent Gothic Revival house of Tyntesfield was transformed by the Gibbs family in the 19th century. It is filled with richly decorated interiors, remarkable craftsmanship and an extraordinary collection of art and furnishings. Surrounding the house are 540 acres of beautiful parkland, woodland and gardens, including formal terraces, a historic Rose Garden, Orangery and productive Kitchen Garden. A visit offers a fascinating glimpse into Victorian country-house life, while the tranquil estate provides wonderful opportunities to explore the Somerset countryside.
Following our relaxed visit to Tyntesfield, we continue our journey from Somerset, into Devon, and then on to Cornwall.
We arrive and check in to our beautiful home for the next nine nights - St Enodoc Hotel. Perched above the beautiful Camel Estuary in Rock, North Cornwall, the St Enodoc Hotel is a stylish coastal retreat combining relaxed luxury with the warmth and hospitality of The Ainsworth Collection. The property recently underwent a major, multi-million-pound renovation led by celebrity chef Paul Ainsworth and his wife Emma, after they purchased the property in January 2025.
We begin our Cornish stay with a welcome drinks reception, overlooking the hotel’s gardens and the Camel Estuary below, before settling in for a delicious welcome dinner. Our distinguished Tour Leader, Michael Downes OBE then welcomes us and introduces us to the tour.
2ND OF 9 NIGHTS AT ST ENODOC HOTEL
DAY TRIP TO PADSTOW, LUNCH & ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL (B, L):
This morning, we stroll down to the village of Rock from our hotel, where we pick up our private ferry transfer to take us across the Camel Estuary to the historic harbour town of Padstow. On arrival, a local guide will meet us to take us on a fascinating walking tour of the town.
The town of Padstow is linked to St Petroc, who established a monastery here in the 6th century, making Padstow an important early Christian centre. By the Middle Ages, its sheltered harbour had developed into a thriving trading port, with links to Ireland, Brittany and South Wales. Fishing, shipbuilding and maritime trade later became central to the town’s prosperity, with several shipyards operating during the nineteenth century. The arrival of the railway in 1899 ushered in a new era, helping to establish Padstow as a popular holiday destination. Today, its medieval street pattern, historic harbour, ancient church and traditional fishing heritage remain central to its character, offering a fascinating glimpse into Cornwall’s rich maritime past.
Following our relaxed stroll around Padstow, we settle in for lunch at a Padstow institution. Rick Stein’s flagship Seafood Restaurant has been at the heart of Padstow’s culinary scene since 1975. Overlooking the harbour, it celebrates the finest Cornish fish and shellfish, simply cooked and beautifully presented. Classic dishes, an exceptional wine list and relaxed hospitality make this an essential dining experience on the Cornish coast.
Following our group lunch, we return on the ferry from Padstow to Rock, where some time is allowed for a little rest and relaxation.
This evening, we enjoy the first of our pre-performance talks with Tour Leader Michael Downes. We then make the short journey to the beautiful St Endellion Church for our first performance as part of this year’s St Endellion Summer Festival.
Founded in 1958 by priest and music-lover Roger Gaunt, the St Endellion Music Festival began with friends performing concerts while helping restore the village rectory. It gradually grew into a renowned festival, with Richard Hickox adding the Easter Festival in 1974. Today, it remains celebrated for exceptional music and intimate community spirit.
ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE 1
St Endellion Church
3RD OF 9 NIGHTS AT ST ENODOC HOTEL
EDEN PROJECT & ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL (B, L):
This morning we set out for a guided tour of the Eden Project, one of Cornwall’s most extraordinary attractions. Transformed from a former china clay pit into a spectacular global garden, the Eden Project’s iconic Biomes house enormous Rainforest and Mediterranean environments, filled with exotic plants, dramatic landscapes and fascinating displays. Our guided tour this morning will focus on the Rainforest Biomes.
Beyond the Biomes, free time will then be included to explore beautiful outdoor gardens, contemporary art and inspiring exhibitions celebrating the natural world. Opened in 2001, Eden has become a symbol of environmental regeneration and sustainable living, offering a remarkable experience that combines horticulture, architecture, education and creativity.
After our visit to the Eden Project, we return to our hotel.
In the early evening, we gather once more for an information pre-concert talk from our Tour Leader, before making our way once again to St Endellion Church.
‘St Endellion! St Endellion! The name is like a ring of bells. I travelled late one summer evening to Cornwall in a motor car. The road was growing familiar, Delabole, with its slate quarry past, then Pendoggett. Gateways in the high fern stuffed hedges showed sudden glimpses of the sea. Port Isaac Bay with its sweep of shadowy cliffs stretched all along to Tintagel. The wrinkled Atlantic Ocean had the evening light upon it. The stone and granite manor house of Tresungers with its tower and battlements was tucked away out of the wind on the slope of a valley and there, on the top of the hill was the old church of St Endellion.’ So wrote Sir John Betjeman about his approach to this magical church.
ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE 2
St Endellion Church
4TH OF 9 NIGHTS AT ST ENODOC HOTEL
SUNDAY ROAST & FREE EVENING FOR SUMMER COASTAL WALKS (B, L):
This morning is free for a relaxed start to the day and a leisurely breakfast.
We then set out through the Cornish countryside to one of the region’s finest pubs, for a delicious Sunday Roast together.
Following our return to the hotel, guests might like to embark upon a coastal walk. Our hotel sits on the South West Coastal Path, which can be taken from Rock to the beautiful bay of Polzeath, via the beautiful Daymer Bay. The route from Rock to Polzeath is 5.4km one way, with a very well marked, undulating track. If you do make it to Polzealth, be sure to enjoy a pint of local Doom Bar Bitter at Surfside, as you watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t forget about the walk home though.
The evening is free.
5TH OF 9 NIGHTS AT ST ENODOC HOTEL
PENCARROW HOUSE, CORNISH CREAM TEA & ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL (B, L):
This morning, we set out for Pencarrow House, a magnificent Georgian country estate nestled in the beautiful Cornish countryside near Bodmin. Home to the Molesworth-St Aubyn family for almost 500 years, this elegant Palladian mansion is surrounded by 50 acres of enchanting gardens, woodland, parkland and a lake. Together we explore the richly decorated interiors on a private guided tour, followed by a traditional Cornish Cream Tea in one of the property’s enchanting rooms.
Following our guided tour, time is allowed to explore the Grade II listed gardens, including a spectacular Victorian rock garden, Italian Garden and ancient woodland. With its fascinating history, architectural splendour and tranquil setting, Pencarrow House offers a wonderful glimpse into the heritage and grandeur of Cornwall’s great country estates.
In the early evening, we gather once again for a pre-concert talk from Michael Downes, before setting off to St Endellion for our evening festival performance.
ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE 3
St Endellion Church
6TH OF 9 NIGHTS AT ST ENODOC HOTEL
TINTAGEL CASTLE, LUNCH & ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL (L):
Perched dramatically on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, Tintagel Castle is steeped in history, romance and legend. The site was an important stronghold of Cornish rulers from the 5th to 7th centuries before Richard, Earl of Cornwall, built a medieval castle here in the 1230s. Its enduring fame comes from its association with King Arthur, after Geoffrey of Monmouth named Tintagel as the place of his conception. Today, the atmospheric ruins, dramatic cliffs and sweeping Atlantic views make Tintagel one of Cornwall’s most evocative historic landmarks. Our guide will provide an introductory history of this fascinating landmark, before we are free to explore the rugged island independently.
After our visit, and to reward ourselves for the steep return walk back to the town of Tintagel, we enjoy a hearty pub lunch together.
We then return to our hotel, for a pre-concert talk, followed by an evening performance at St Endellion.
ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE 4
St Endellion Church
7TH OF 9 NIGHTS AT ST ENODOC HOTEL
DAY TRIP TO ST IVES, BARBARA HEPWORTH MUSEUM & LUNCH (L):
Today, we discover the enchanting seaside town of St Ives, celebrated for its golden beaches, picturesque harbour and remarkable artistic heritage. We begin our visit with a guided tour of the Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden, the former home and studio of one of Britain’s most important 20th-century sculptors. Hepworth lived and worked here from 1949 until her death in 1975, creating sculptures inspired by Cornwall’s landscape and light. Her studio, workshops and tranquil garden remain wonderfully preserved, offering an intimate insight into her life and work.
After our visit to the museum, time is allowed for an independent wander around this beautiful seaside town.
We then gather at one of the town’s top dining destinations for a delicious group lunch, before returning to our hotel for a free and restful evening.
8TH OF 9 NIGHTS AT ST ENODOC HOTEL
LANHYDROCK, CHAMPAGNE AFTERNOON TEA & ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL (L):
This morning, we depart for the National Trust property of Lanhydrock, one of Cornwall’s finest country houses. Set amid almost 1,000 acres of beautiful parkland and woodland, it was rebuilt in lavish Victorian style following a devastating fire in 1881. The house offers a fascinating glimpse into aristocratic family life, from elegant reception rooms to the servants’ quarters. The surrounding gardens are equally impressive, renowned for their magnificent magnolias, colourful borders and formal parterre.
Our guide will offer an introduction to Lanhydrock, before we are able to stroll independently around this beautiful property and its gardens.
Following our visit, we set off for the short drive to the charming Duchy of Cornwall Nursery. Here we enjoy a Champagne Afternoon Tea served in the estate’s beautiful Orangerie.
We then return to our hotel, for an early evening pre-concert talk, followed by our fifth performance at the St Endellion Summer Festival.
ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE 5
St Endellion Church
9TH OF 9 NIGHTS AT ST ENODOC HOTEL
DAY TRIP TO PORT ISAAC, LUNCH & ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL (L):
This morning, we journey to Port Isaac, a picturesque fishing village on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, with a history stretching back to the Middle Ages. First recorded as a fishing settlement in 1338, its sheltered harbour later became an important centre for fishing, grain and coastal trade. Time is allowed to explore its narrow winding streets, whitewashed cottages and historic harbour, where fishing boats still land crab and lobster, and to discover the village’s artistic and musical heritage, with its charming galleries and cafés. The village of Port Isaac was made famous internationally as the fictional Port Wenn in Doc Martin. Port Isaac retains an authentic Cornish character and timeless maritime charm.
After our stroll around the village, we gather for our delicious, Michelin-starred farewell lunch, at Port Isaac’s finest restaurant.
We then return to our hotel, for our final pre-performance talk, followed by the last concert at this year’s St Endellion Summer Festival.
ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE 6
St Endellion Church
CORNWALL TO LONDON:
This morning, following our final breakfast overlooking the Camel Estuary, we check out and depart for London.
Our journey will take around six hours, with a stop en route for a lunch and rest stop. We will arrive at London Paddington Station at around 4:00pm.
Please note: There may be some changes to the itinerary depending on the final confirmation of performances.
Inclusions
Inclusions
Single supplement: AUD$2,595
Deposit payment 1: Deposit AUD$2,500 per person (due at time of booking)
Deposit payment 2: Deposit AUD$2,500 per person (due on 29 March 2027)
Final payment due: 24 May 2027
Performances: Premium tickets to six concerts at the St Endellion Summer Festival.
Tour Leader and Talks: Tour Leadership and exclusive background talks by Michael Downes.
Tour Manager: An experienced Tour Manager to accompany the group throughout the tour.
Hotels: Nine nights' accommodation at the welcoming St Enodoc Hotel in a Garden View Super King room.
Upgrade to an Estuary View Super King room for AUD$1,385 for the full duration of your stay (subject to availability).
Wake up to beautiful views across the Camel Estuary from these peaceful, light-filled rooms, with a super king bed and comfortable bathroom with bath and overhead shower.
Upgrade to an Estuary View Superior room for AUD$2,330 for the full duration of your stay (subject to availablity).
Beautifully positioned with views across the Camel Estuary, these spacious rooms offer a little extra room to settle in and unwind. Each has a super king bed and a comfortable bathroom, with either a walk-in shower or bath with overhead shower.
Travel: Land travel by private air-conditioned coach.
Meals/Drinks: Breakfast each morning at the hotel. Six lunches/dinners with wine, water and tea/coffee, a welcome drinks reception on the first evening, and two Cornish Cream Teas.
Entry Fees and Guided Tours: Entrance fees for museums, art galleries etc. as stated in your itinerary. Expert local guides will be used at some sites.
Tips: Tips for drivers, local guides and meals included in your itinerary.
Information Pack: Comprehensive pre-tour information pack.
International/Domestic Travel: Hayllar Music Tours can provide you with a quote. Phone 02 9669 9181 / +61 2 9669 9181 (Australia / International) or email contact@hayllarmusictours.com
Airport Transfers: Transfers to/from airports and hotels at the beginning and end of tours. These can be arranged at an additional cost.
Special Taxes: Special taxes and airport levies that can only be paid in cash at the destination. We will endeavour to advise you of these charges (if any) before you depart.
Visas/Entry requirements: Costs associated with obtaining visas for countries visited on your tour. Please note that from January 2025, travellers entering the UK will be required to complete an ETA (electronic travel authorisation). For further information on ETA applications visit https://apply-for-an-eta.homeoffice.gov.uk/apply/electronic-travel-authorisation/how-to-apply
Travel Insurance: Please note that you are required to have comprehensive travel insurance to cover you for the duration of your tour. If you live in Australia, Hayllar Music Tours can organise your travel insurance for you. Please contact them at phone 02 9669 9181 / +61 2 9669 9181 (Australia / International) or email contact@hayllarmusictours.com
Meals: Lunches and dinners not nominated in your itinerary.
Personal Expenses: Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls and mini-bar.
Activities in Free Time: Costs associated with any activities suggested for you in your free time.
The tour will operate with 8 people. The maximum number on the tour will be 20 people.
For the benefit of the tour group, all members of the tour must have the ability to:
negotiate airports and railway stations without wheelchair assistance;
use a combined shower/bath (please note that we cannot guarantee walk-in shower facilities at all hotels);
undertake walking tours of two-three hours duration, including using stairs and walking on uneven ground;
stand for one to two hours in galleries and museums at a time without a break;
climb staircases of 100 or more steps;
negotiate stairs and bridges;
negotiate challenging historic sites, which are often uneven and unstable;
embark / disembark coaches, trains, boats and other methods of transportation without assistance;
handle your own luggage (where porterage services are unavailable).
Please note that booking terms and conditions apply. Click here for the booking terms and conditions.
Booking
Booking
DEPOSIT ONLY | AUD$2,500 PER PERSON
29 JULY–7 AUGUST 2027 (10 DAYS) | SIX CONCERTS AT THE ST ENDELLION SUMMER FESTIVAL, GUIDED TOURS, GOURMET FOOD & AN EXPLORATION OF THE BEAUTIFUL CORNISH COUNTRYSIDE