England skipper Dylan Hartley: The only beer I had on that tour was out of the Cook Cup following Third Test

I NEVER dreamt we would be Six Nations Grand Slam Champs AND history-boys with a whitewash series win against Australia way back in January.

It's an incredible feeling and even now, it still hasn't quite sunk in what we have achieved under Eddie Jones and his brilliant coaching staff.

Dylan Hartley enjoys a hard-earned beer after leading England's whitewash

There is no doubt that this is the greatest England team and playing environment I have ever been part of - but this is just the start.

There is so much potential and we have plenty more to achieve.

After that final whistle went in it was special to celebrate with our fans who had been superb all throughout the tour from Brisbane to Melbourne and onto the final game in Sydney.

We had a nice chilled out night with the whole squad after the game in Sydney. It was then business as usual the next day as we had a debrief and a recovery session.

My only celebratory drink was the one I had out of the Cook Cup. And unlike the Six Nations trophy, I didn't wake up alongside this one as I was too frightened of smashing it! I'll remember that moment for ever, though.

It was also pretty sweet to join the Wallabies in their changing room after the games having spent three weeks locking horns with them in some epic battles.

I always find it hard sleeping after night matches as I tend to spend most of my time during the day saving energy, taking naps and just preparing to empty the tank as soon as the whistle goes.

You're always sore and tired - but with the adrenalin pumping it's always hard to get a decent night's kip afterwards.

I was also frustrated that we wanted to put that perfect game together and didn't manage it.

The Aussies came out and dominated at times and personally I know I can be a lot better than I was for the final Test at the Allianz Stadium.

I also know I'm not alone in thinking that that, which shows you just how much drive and determination this team has. I think that's a good trait to have - we're constantly pushing each other to get even better.

There were four points in it and we will reflect on it over the summer and put our mistakes right when we meet up again in a few months time.

I also can't ignore the contribution of my Sydney room-mate - Owen Farrell.

Faz's 66 points Down Under were huge for us. I normally room with him at Pennyhill Park and I know just how much time, effort and dedication he puts into his whole game - not just his kicking.

He makes it look so easy at times, but I can tell you, its definitely not. As captain, I know what his range is with that golden boot of his and whenever there's a chance to go for the sticks he is always confident.

I've never heard him go: "I'll give it a shot." It's always: "Yes, I want it."

I'm chuffed to bits for him - he's had such a great year along with his Saracens teammates who also bagged the Premiership and European titles.

Now it's time to rest up, enjoy the precious time off and come back in just four-weeks time ready to rip into the Prem season.