Ace Cultural Tours Brochure

ACE Cultural Tours is the UK's oldest and most experienced cultural tour operator, founded in 1958 by Philip Brooke Barnes as The Association for Cultural Exchange and based in Babraham, Cambridge. For over six decades, ACE has been bringing together expert tour directors and curious travellers to explore the art, architecture, archaeology, history, music and natural history of destinations across more than 50 countries worldwide.

Expert-Led Small Group Tours

Every ACE departure is led by a specialist Tour Director who has been personally involved in planning the itinerary they lead. Groups are kept small to encourage discussion and ensure privileged access, with tours covering themes as diverse as South Korean & Japanese kingdoms, Bach festivals in Leipzig, the Roman ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and the Renaissance villas and gardens of Lazio. No prior specialist knowledge is required to enjoy any programme.

A Remarkable Range of Destinations & Themes

With around 200 annual departures and over 120 tours featured in recent brochures, ACE programmes span the UK, Europe and destinations further afield. Subject areas include fine art, classical architecture, ancient archaeology, music appreciation, regional culture and natural history. The organisation is owned by the ACE Foundation, an educational charity that supports local educational projects and scholarships in the countries visited.

The Cultural Experience Beyond Sightseeing

ACE considers cuisine an integral part of every cultural journey, booking carefully researched local restaurants so that groups can unwind and reflect on the day's visits together. Highlights such as private concerts, exclusive site access and privileged after-hours visits are woven into itineraries as standard. Single travellers are particularly well catered for, with the social structure of every tour ensuring there is always company at the dinner table.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was ACE Cultural Tours founded?

ACE Cultural Tours was founded in 1958 by Philip Brooke Barnes under the name The Association for Cultural Exchange. This makes it the UK's oldest cultural tour operator, with more than 65 years of experience in specialist travel.

Do I need specialist knowledge to join an ACE tour?

No prior knowledge is needed to enjoy any ACE programme. Tour Directors are chosen for their ability to bring subjects to life through accessible talks and on-site guidance, welcoming both first-time visitors and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

What types of destinations and themes do ACE tours cover?

ACE tours cover art, architecture, archaeology, history, music, regional culture and natural history across more than 50 countries. Destinations range from the ruins of ancient Rome and the temples of Japan to European music festivals and the country gardens of Lazio.

Who owns and operates ACE Cultural Tours?

ACE Cultural Tours is owned by the ACE Foundation, an educational charity based in Babraham, Cambridge. The Foundation uses its travel programmes to support local educational projects and scholarships in the countries ACE visits.

Are ACE tours suitable for solo travellers?

Yes. ACE actively looks after single travellers, structuring tours so there is always someone to share meals, coffee and conversation with throughout the trip. The small group format naturally encourages a sociable and supportive atmosphere.

How many tours does ACE run each year?

ACE typically offers around 200 annual departures covering more than 120 distinct itineraries. Tours are planned well in advance and are led by the same specialist director who helped design each programme.

Note: this brochure is from our archive. The specific 2017 programme dates and prices shown in the original brochure are no longer current. For the latest ACE Cultural Tours departures, please visit the ACE Cultural Tours website directly.