Welcome to London – a city where centuries of history strike harmony with contemporary flair. Upon arrival in this kaleidoscopic metropolis, make your own way to your accommodation and settle in with time at leisure this evening.
Arrival & Transfers:
Please book your flights to arrive at Heathrow Airport (LHR), London Gatwick Airport (LGW) or London Luton Airport (LTN) at any time today. Airport transfers are not included for your tour. The hotel is located approximately a 30-minute drive from Heathrow Airport (LHR), a one-hour drive from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) or a 45-minute drive from London Luton Airport (LTN). Check-in on Day 1 is at 3pm.
Today your adventure kicks off with a tour of London Town. Witness pageantry at Buckingham Palace at 11am sharp this morning during the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Enjoy some free time for lunch around Tower Hill, then dive into history behind the whitewashed walls of the Tower of London, a fortress steeped in political intrigue and tales of regal imprisonment. Admire the newly displayed Crown Jewels (following the coronation of King Charles III) and take time to explore the grounds independently, following your guided introduction.
Later, take to the water of the River Thames for a scenic cruise. Marvel at world-renowned landmarks and absorb fascinating insights through live guided commentary as you glide past Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and other iconic monuments. Once you’re back ashore at Westminster Pier, you’re free to continue independently exploring London’s wonders – The London Eye, South Bank and Parliament Square are all nearby.
Make your own way back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest when you’re ready.
Please note:
- On days when there is no Changing of the Guard ceremony held, travellers will attend the Horse Guards Parade instead.
Bid farewell to bustling London as you set off west, into the landscapes of ancient England. Your first stop? The iconic Stonehenge – one of the most intriguing man-made wonders in the world. Take your time unearthing the mysterious monoliths, explore the visitor centre and dissect the most up-to-date theories on how it came to be – there’s plenty to experience, and you’ll have abundant time for discovery.
Nearby, visit the medieval town of Salisbury and set off for a walking tour around the exterior of Salisbury Cathedral, boasting the country’s tallest spire at 123 metres high. Home to the best-preserved copy of the 800-year-old Magna Carta, this intricate structure has earned a special place in British history.
Take some time at leisure to wander the quaint streets before journeying onward to the city of Bath, renowned for its stunning 18th century architecture. After checking into your hotel in the city centre, the evening is yours to enjoy. Choose to stop at one of Bath’s intimate bistros, or simply rest at your comfortable accommodation.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours
This morning, join a guided walking tour of this enchanting heritage city. A picturesque corner of Somerset County, Bath was named for its well-preserved Roman geothermal baths, built upon natural hot springs reaching temperatures of up to 46 degrees Celsius. Step inside early this morning to beat the crowds, pausing to admire the gilt bronze head of the Goddess Minerva – a pivotal archaeological find that in 1727 led to the discovery of the city’s Roman Baths.
Follow your guide to recognisable sites like Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon, the historic Sydney Gardens (last remaining of the country’s 18th century pleasure gardens) and the Holburne Museum, known for its appearance in ‘Bridgerton’.
The rest of the afternoon is yours to wander freely, soaking up the serene atmosphere.
Leave Bath behind as you set out this morning for the medieval village of Lacock – the setting of many a beloved film and TV production. Join a guided walking tour to the 14th-century Tithe Barn, an 18th-century village lock-up.
This afternoon, travel east once more to enjoy free time in the Royal Borough of Windsor. Along the quaint cobbled streets are an array of storied cafes and teahouses serving high teas and moreish scones with clotted cream. Later, rejoin your group by the statue of Queen Victoria for a visit to magnificent Windsor Castle.
The longest occupied in Europe, Windsor Castle has been home to 40 monarchs since it was founded in the 11th century. Here, you’ll have the chance to catch the glimmer of the gold collection, view an original Van Dyck painting, study the intricate details of miniature lives in the extensive models of Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House and visit the 500-year-old Saint George’s Chapel, where countless royal weddings have taken place.
You’ll have a full three hours to explore the grounds, then it’s time to board your coach and travel back to busy London for one more night at your central hotel.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours
After one last big English breakfast, it’s time to checkout of your London lodgings and bid farewell to your fellow travellers as your tour concludes.
Departure & Transfers:
Checkout on your final day is at 11am. Please book your flights to depart from Heathrow Airport (LHR), London Gatwick Airport (LGW) or London Luton Airport (LTN) at any time today. Airport transfers are not included for your tour. The hotel is located approximately a 30-minute drive from Heathrow Airport (LHR), a one-hour drive from London Gatwick Airport (LGW), or a 45-minute drive from London Luton Airport (LTN).