5-Night London & Beyond Tour

Day 2

Accommodation

4-Star Classic Luxury Hotel - London, Greater London

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00noon.

Included Unique Activities

Premier Classic London Tour in an Iconic Black Cab

The Premier Classic London Experience is the perfect way to discover the marvellous city of London for first-time visitors and for those that have a short time in the city. 

On your private driving tour, you will: 

Enjoy hotel pick-up from any central London hotel;
Discover the best 6 and most popular attractions that are the essence of the city;
Get a taste of the real London with a “cabbie”, a professional driver-guide who knows the city inside out,
Visit notable sites and landmarks while your local guide shares interesting stories and history at each locale;
Stop at several quintessential London must-sees, including Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park, Royal Albert Hall, St Paul’s Cathedral, and St James's Palace;
Catch the ‘Changing the Guard’ ceremony for tours starting at 10 am or earlier;
Hop back in for an easy drive to Westminster Abbey and the Palace of Westminster;
Drive alongside the Thames River to the Tower of London, where true stories seem more like fiction than fact!
Enjoy drop-off in any central London location of your hotel.

During the Premier Classic London Tour, your knowledgeable guide will warmly greet you at your central London hotel or chosen location. Throughout the 4-hour tour, you will have the opportunity to discover the history behind at least 6 popular London landmarks, all while comfortably riding in an iconic black cab.

This tour has been designed for those who want to take their time to fully appreciate the rich and fascinating stories that surround these iconic attractions, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Your guide will ensure that you have plenty of chances to snap memorable photos and can even recommend the best spots for dining, shopping, or any other of your interests for the rest of your trip. At the end of the tour, you'll have the option to be dropped off at your hotel or any other central location of your choice.

NOTE: this tour doesn't include entry to any attractions or tickets.

Must-See Sites

London, Greater London

On The Map: London is in Southeastern England, next to the River Thames and 50 miles from its estuary on the North Sea. Its main highway, the M25, surrounds the city at a radius of 20 miles from London’s center. Kent, Surrey, and Berkshire are south of the River Thames, while Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and Essex are north. Greater London is 607 square miles with a population of 8,200,000. The city is 211 miles south of York and 77 miles from Dover.

The capital of the United Kingdom, London is one of the world’s great cities. It is almost 2,000 years old and its cultural diversity, combined with its history, makes it a dream to visit. London grew from a walled settlement founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC. Across the bridge, on the south bank, Southwark became known for its monasteries, hospitals, fairs, inns, and the theaters of Elizabethan London, including Shakespeare’s Globe Theater. Westminster, on the south bend of the Thames, grew around an abbey followed by a palace, government buildings, parks, and fashionable neighborhoods.

Buckingham Palace, Greater London

On The Map: Buckingham Palace is located in the heart of London - north of the River Thames and just southeast of Hyde Park: Closest Tube Stops: Victoria, Green Park and Hyde Park Corner

Famed Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of Britain's Sovereigns since 1837. Although in use for the many official events and receptions held by The Queen, the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are open to visitors. The Palace has 775 rooms, including 19 State Rooms, 52 Royal and Guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms. Buckingham Palace is furnished and decorated with priceless works of art that form part of the Royal Collection, one of the major art collections in the world today. George IV's original palace lacked a large room in which to entertain. Queen Victoria rectified that shortcoming by adding a Ballroom 1853-5 which was, at the time of its construction, the largest room in London. Today, it is used by The Queen for State banquets and other formal occasions such as the annual Diplomatic Reception attended by 1,500 guests.

Day 3

Accommodation

Hotel Indigo Bath - Bath, Southwest Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Included Unique Activities

The Roman Baths Admission

Step back in time with a visit to the historic Roman Baths. Known as one of the finest historic sites in Northern Europe, the Roman Baths sit at the heart of the City of Bath World Heritage Site and consist of preserved remains of one of the greatest religious spas of the ancient world. While the city’s natural thermal springs still rise in the site and keep the natural hot water flowing, visitors are not allowed to bathe in the baths. Instead, visitors are invited to join a guided tour or have a tour curated for them. 

After you explore the site, head to the Pump Room Restaurant or the Roman Baths Kitchen to enjoy a meal or some afternoon tea!

Must-See Sites

Bath, Southwest Region

On The Map: Bath is located in the southwest of England, 115 miles west of London, and just 13 miles east of Bristol.

The City of Bath is truly unique. It was founded by the Romans, after their conquest of Britain in AD 43. Between the 1st and 4th centuries, the Romans constructed a temple dedicated to the divinity, Sulis, as well as several hot baths. The natural source of the baths yields over 1,200,000 litres of water daily, at a temperature of more than 46 °C / 115 °F. Today, you can walk in the ancient footsteps of Romans, on the original stone pavements around the steaming pool. After the fall of the Roman city, medieval Bath became a major wool-producing centre, and the city commanded considerable religious influence from 1091 to 1206. During the 18th century, three ambitious local entrepreneurs set out to make Bath one of the most beautiful cities in Europe - they succeeded! The most famous legacy of their work is the Royal Crescent, comprising of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape. In total Bath boasts approximately 5,000 listed buildings, and on top of its impressive Roman heritage, is also England's most celebrated Georgian city. Such is its unique nature, the entire City of Bath was granted World Heritage status by UNESCO.

Roman Baths, Bath, Southwest Region

The 2,000 year-old Roman Baths complex is undoubtedly one of the finest historic sites in Northern Europe. The Baths are located below modern street level, and were not discovered and explored until the late nineteenth century. The site was opened as a visitor attraction in 1897. In 2011 the Roman Baths completed a £5.5 million redevelopment to bring the best of modern interpretation to the site, transform its accessibility and preserve it for the next 100 years. The Baths have four main areas: The Sacred Spring, The Roman Temple, The Roman Bath House and Finds from Roman Bath. The Sacred Spring is at the very heart of the site. Naturally hot (46°C) water rises here every day, as it has done for thousands of years. In Roman times, this natural phenomenon was beyond human understanding, and was believed to be the work of the ancient gods. A Great Temple was therefore built next to the Spring dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva, a deity with healing powers. The Great Bath itself is lined with 45 sheets of lead. It once stood in an enormous barrel-vaulted hall that rose to a height of 130 feet. For many Roman visitors this would have been the largest building they had ever entered..

Enroute Sightseeing

Stonehenge, Southwest Region

On The Map: Stonehenge is located in Wiltshire, in the southwest of England - 90 miles west of London and 33 miles southeast of the Roman City of Bath.

Stonehenge is without doubt one of the most famous sites in the world. The iconic remains of the ring of standing stones are instantly recognizable and draw almost 1 million visitors every year. Archaeologists believe that the first phase of construction at Stonehenge began around 3100 BC, at which time a large earthwork or 'Henge', comprising an earthbank and ditch, was built. The second phase of construction began around 2150 BC, when some 82 bluestones, weighing up to 4 tons, were transported 240 miles from southwest Wales! Around 2000 BC, the third phase saw the arrival of the massive Sarsen stones, weighing up to 50 tons. The stones were most likely transported from 25 miles away, and great mystery and intrigue continues to surround just how this mammoth task was achieved. The stones could only have been moved using sledges and ropes, and archaeologists guesstimate it would have taken 600 men to pull just one stone. The final construction phase took place around 1500 BC when the bluestones were rearranged in the horseshoe and circle that we see today. There are many theories as to the purpose of Stonehenge - ancient burial site, astronomical calendar, healing site, or sacred hunting ground? Perhaps when you visit, you can decipher the great mystery!

Avebury, Southwest Region

On The Map: Avebury is located in the southwest of England, 80 miles west of London, and 25 miles north of Stonehenge

Avebury may not be quite as well known as Stonehenge, its prestigious neighbor 25 miles to the south, but it is world-famous nonetheless! Avebury is the world's largest prehistoric stone circle, partially encompassing the pretty village of Avebury. Millionaire archaeologist Alexander Keiller excavated the site in the 1930s, and the on-site museum bears his name. Arranged in two parts, the Alexander Keiller Museum is divided into The Stables - displaying archaeological treasures from across the World Heritage Site, and The Barn - a 17th-century Threshing Barn, with interactive displays and children's activities that reveal the story of this ancient landscape. The Avesbury Stone Circle dates from approx. 2600 BC. Its original purpose is shrouded in mystery, but most likely it was used in ancient rituals and ceremonies. The site still has much spiritual meaning today, and is of great religious importance to contemporary Pagans. Nearby Silbury Hill, which is the largest man-made mound in pre-industrial Europe, still dominates the surrounding landscape.

Salisbury, Southwest Region

On The Map: Salisbury is located in Southern England, 25 miles northwest of Southampton, and 88 miles southwest of London.

Known as the 'City in the Countryside', Salisbury retains much of its historic past & charm with timbered buildings, and an Early English Gothic Cathedral. The sight of the Cathedral rising from the surrounding green fields (pictured) is one to behold, and is often described as one of Britain's great views. Within the Chapter House at Salisbury Cathedral, you’ll find the best preserved of the four original Magna Carta manuscripts dating from 1215. 2015 marks the 800th anniversary of the signing of this momentous document, and many celebrations are taking place throughout the year. The Magna Carta was undoubtedly a landmark legal document. It is even cited as influencing the formation of the American Constitution in 1789, and is still held in high regard by legal scholars today. Salisbury is a thriving market, boasts a buzzing arts scene, delightful museums and some of England’s finest historic houses.

Overnight Location

Bath, Southwest Region

On The Map: Bath is located in the southwest of England, 115 miles west of London, and just 13 miles east of Bristol.

The City of Bath is truly unique. It was founded by the Romans, after their conquest of Britain in AD 43. Between the 1st and 4th centuries, the Romans constructed a temple dedicated to the divinity, Sulis, as well as several hot baths. The natural source of the baths yields over 1,200,000 litres of water daily, at a temperature of more than 46 °C / 115 °F. Today, you can walk in the ancient footsteps of Romans, on the original stone pavements around the steaming pool. After the fall of the Roman city, medieval Bath became a major wool-producing centre, and the city commanded considerable religious influence from 1091 to 1206. During the 18th century, three ambitious local entrepreneurs set out to make Bath one of the most beautiful cities in Europe - they succeeded! The most famous legacy of their work is the Royal Crescent, comprising of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape. In total Bath boasts approximately 5,000 listed buildings, and on top of its impressive Roman heritage, is also England's most celebrated Georgian city. Such is its unique nature, the entire City of Bath was granted World Heritage status by UNESCO.

Day 4

Accommodation

Hotel Indigo Bath - Bath, Southwest Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Included Unique Activities

Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein Multi-Sensory Museum

Very few know that In 1816, Mary Shelley wrote much of the world’s first science fiction novel, Frankenstein, while living in Bath. 

Extending over four atmospheric floors, Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein is an award winning, multi-sensory visitor museum where visitors will be immersed in Shelley’s unconventional tragic life and the lasting legacy of her infamous creation. Bursting with unusual artefacts, ominous soundtracks, bespoke smells and special effects, we also present an 8ft animatronic breathing creature, authentically reproduced for the first time exactly as Mary Shelley described.

The House also features two rooms dedicated to popular culture, an intimate screening room showing the first ever Frankenstein film from 1910, a Frankenstein-themed Escape Room, The Body In A Suitcase immersive game and, for the braver visitor, a thrilling horror walkthrough experience in the basement.

Note: Escape Room and The Body in a Suitcase Game tickets are not included in price. 

Must-See Sites

Bath, Southwest Region

On The Map: Bath is located in the southwest of England, 115 miles west of London, and just 13 miles east of Bristol.

The City of Bath is truly unique. It was founded by the Romans, after their conquest of Britain in AD 43. Between the 1st and 4th centuries, the Romans constructed a temple dedicated to the divinity, Sulis, as well as several hot baths. The natural source of the baths yields over 1,200,000 litres of water daily, at a temperature of more than 46 °C / 115 °F. Today, you can walk in the ancient footsteps of Romans, on the original stone pavements around the steaming pool. After the fall of the Roman city, medieval Bath became a major wool-producing centre, and the city commanded considerable religious influence from 1091 to 1206. During the 18th century, three ambitious local entrepreneurs set out to make Bath one of the most beautiful cities in Europe - they succeeded! The most famous legacy of their work is the Royal Crescent, comprising of 30 houses laid out in a crescent shape. In total Bath boasts approximately 5,000 listed buildings, and on top of its impressive Roman heritage, is also England's most celebrated Georgian city. Such is its unique nature, the entire City of Bath was granted World Heritage status by UNESCO.

Pulteney Bridge, Southwest Region

Pulteney Bridge, along with the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, is widely recognized as one of the world's most beautiful bridges. Like the Ponte Vecchio, Pulteney is one of a very few historic bridges in the world to have shops constructed upon it. Pulteney Bridge crosses the River Avon in the heart of Bath. The bridge was constructed in Palladian style by Robert Adam at the behest of William Pulteney, and was completed in 1774. Pulteney's goal was to connect central Bath to the east bank of the River Avon, in the pursuit of commercial fortune. In subsequent years, the bridge was expanded to include more shops, and at the end of the 18th century was largely rebuilt as a consequence of flood damage. Shops line both sides of the bridge, and in spite of plans to pedestrianize the famous listed structure, it is currently still used by buses and taxis. You'll get the best view of Pulteney Bridge from Parade Gardens Park by the Crescent Weir.

The Royal Crescent, Bath, Southwest Region

Located in the City of Bath, the Royal Crescent is a row of 30 terraced houses, laid out in a unique crescent shape. Designed by the architect John Wood the Younger, the Crescent was constructed between 1767 and 1774. It is a Grade I listed building, and undoubtedly one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture to be found anywhere in the United Kingdom. The 114 columns of Wood's creation are 30 inches in diameter, and reach a height of 47 feet. The Georgian stone façade has changed little since 1774. Interestingly, original townhouse purchasers bought only a length of the exterior façade. They then employed their own architects to construct the house behind the façade! As a result, when viewed from behind, the Crescent is not at all uniform, with varying roof heights, shapes and structures. This architecture style, known as 'Queen Anne fronts and Mary-Anne backs', is prevalent throughout Bath. Many notable and famous people have called the Crescent home over the last 240 years, and some are commemorated on plaques attached to the relevant buildings. Of the Crescent's original 30 units, only a few are still full-size townhouses. Most have been sub-divided into apartments of various sizes, while No. 1 is the Royal Crescent Museum and the central Numbers 15 & 16 comprise the Royal Crescent Hotel.

Bath Abbey, Southwest Region

A stay in Bath will not be complete without visiting magnificent Bath Abbey. The current structure is the third to occupy this site since 757 AD. The first church was destroyed by Norman conquerers, who replaced it with a massive Norman Cathedral in the late 11th century. Subsequent to Henry VIII's Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539, an already deteriorating Abbey fell into further disrepair. It was not until 1616  that the current Abbey was repaired and maintained. Sir George Gilbert Scott completely transformed the interior of the Abbey between 1864 & 1874, adding the spectacular stone fan vault ceiling - one of the Abbey's most impressive features. Another notable feature is the 'Ladder of Angels' on the Abbey's west exterior, supposedly inspired by a dream of Bishop King circa 1500. Edgar, the very first King of all England, was crowned at the Abbey in 973, setting the precedent for all subsequent Kings and Queens, including the current Elizabeth II. Entrance to the Abbey is free, though a discretionary donation is encouraged. For a few extra pounds, you can take a Tower Tour, which involves climbing a relatively tricky 212 step spiral staircase. En route to the glorious city views at the top, you'll visit the Ringing Chamber and Bell Chamber, stand atop the Abbey’s famous vaulted ceiling, and even sit behind the clock face!

Sally Lunn's Historic Eating House & Museum, Bath, Southwest Region

On The Map: Located in the heart of Bath city centre, at 4 N Parade Passage, Bath BA1 1NX, United Kingdom.

Sally Lunn’s is much more than a world famous tea and eating house in the centre of the wonderful city of Bath England. The historic building is one of the oldest houses in Bath. The kitchen museum shows the actual kitchen used by the legendary young Huguenot baker Sally Lunn in Georgian Bath to create the first Bath Bunn – an authentic regional speciality now known the world over.

Sally Lunn’s is open for Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, pre-theatre dinner and dinner. Menus offer historic refreshment based on the original Sally Lunn bun – still baked to a secret recipe – and rich in local cuisine and authentic historic dishes. They are a truly authentic English eating house serving regional English food.

The All Day Menu is served from 10am-6pm – no reservations required and never a very long wait as we have tables on three floors. We are busiest between 12.30 and 2.30 and suggest 10am is a great time to visit. Should you like to dine for dinner (between 6pm-9pm), reservations are highly recommended. 

Day 5

Accommodation

4-Star Stylish Hotel - Windsor, South East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is from 3:00pm to 6:00pm on your day of arrival. Please call if you wish to arrive outside of these hours. Check-out time is before 11:00am.

Included Unique Activities

Windsor Castle Admission

Enjoy entrance to the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world - Windsor Castle. Explore the castle’s grounds and be sure to check out its highlights including: The State Apartments (the grand sequence of rooms forming the centerpiece of the Castle), The Semi-State Rooms (the private apartments created for George IV), The Grand Reception Room, St. George’s Chapel (where Prince Harry and Ms Meghan Markle were married), and the Changing of the Guard. No matter how you spend your time at Windsor Castle, it will surely take your breath away! 

Must-See Sites

Windsor, South East Region

On The Map: Windsor is located 25 miles directly west of the heart of London, along the M4 Motorway.

The town of Windsor is best known for the impressive Windsor Castle (pictured). The castle has a long history - well documented from the 11th century. Through subsequent centuries the castle drew a regular royal presence to the town, which in turn insured the prosperity of Windsor, as repeated investment in the castle drew merchants, smiths and craftsmen of all descriptions to the area. The castle is currently an official residence of the King, and is the largest inhabited castle in the entire world. Windsor boasts a wealth of good shopping options - of particular note is the Windsor Royal Shopping Centre located in the Central Train Station. Windsor is also home to the largest Legoland in the world, and the only one in Britain. World-famous Ascot Racecourse is located in Windsor, and beautiful Savill Garden is also well worth a visit.

Enroute Sightseeing

Chipping Campden, West Midlands Region

On The Map: Chipping Campden is located in the Cotswolds Region of Central England, just 35 miles directly south of Birmingham.

Chipping Campden is centrally located in the North Cotswolds - an idyllic town in an idyllic location. 'Chipping' comes from Old English meaning Market Place, and indeed the town was a rich wool-trading center in the Middle Ages. Campden is one of the prettiest towns in the Cotswolds, with a particularly elegant High Street. Buildings date from the 14th to 17th centuries, most constructed from locally sourced, honey-colored limestone, known as Cotswold Stone. The centerpiece of Campden's wonderful architecture is the arch-adorned Market Hall, constructed in 1627. Other attractions include St James 'Wool' Church, which boasts one of the oldest altar tapestries in England, and a beautiful 120 foot tower. The Court Barn near the church is now a museum celebrating the rich Arts and Crafts tradition of the area. There are two famous and historic gardens nearby - Hidcote Manor Garden and Kiftsgate. In 1970, Campden's High Street (and much of the town), was officially designated a conversation area to preserve this ancient city for generations to come.

Bourton-on-the-Water, West Midlands Region

On The Map: Bourton-on-the-Water is located in the north of the Cotswolds Region of southwest England.

Bourton-on-the-Water is regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England, and boasts a wonderfully picturesque High Street, flanked by long wide greens and the River Windrush. The village has a unique appeal, and is set apart from other Cotswold Villages by the several low, arched stone bridges traversing the river. The multitude of arched bridges have led to Bourton-on-the-Water being named the 'Venice of the Cotswolds'! The village offers quite a few interesting attractions. You don't have to be a car nut to enjoy the Cotswold Motoring Museum, which features all kinds of wheeled vehicles - from antique toys and push-bikes to vintage cars & memorabilia. The Dragonfly Maze will appeal to adults and kids alike, as you search for clues to complete the puzzle as quickly as possible. If you feel like stretching your legs, there is a beautiful 4 mile roundtrip walk from Bourton through the nearby vilages of Upper & Lower Slaughter. In spite of the name (derived from mud, not death!), these are exceptionally beautiful villages. Given that parking in both Upper & Lower Slaughter is limited, walking from Bourton is a good option.

Broadway, West Midlands Region

On The Map: The village of Broadway is located in the northwest of the beautiful Cotswolds District, approx. 2 hour northwest of London. Often referred to as the 'Jewel of the Cotswolds', Broadway lies beneath Fish Hill on the western Cotswold escarpment. At the heart of England, The Cotswolds is the largest of 40 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) in England and Wales, known and appreciated by visitors from all corners of the world. The main street of the town used to be the primary road from Worcester to London, and the town took its name from its broad nature! The pretty High Street is lined with horse chestnut trees, and includes a mixture of period houses and picturesque honey coloured Cotswold stone cottages. Broadway boasts some notable historical buildings. The Lygon Arms Hotel famously hosted Oliver Cromwell the night before the Battle of Worcester, while King Charles I had previously used the building to meet and rally his royalist supporters. The Broadway Tower (pictured) was constructed in 1798. A unique building, it occupies a wonderful position overlooking the beautiful surrounding Cotswold countryside. Broadway lies on the walking trail "The Cotswold Way", a National Trail completed by Authentic Ireland's own Con Jager, which runs over 100 miles from the market town of Chipping Campden to the City of Bath.

Oxford, South East Region

On The Map: Oxford is located in the southern midlands of England, just 60 miles northwest of London.

Known as 'The City of Dreaming Spires', Oxford traces its origins to the 10th century. The town was initially established as a river crossing for oxen, and was known as Oxenaforda, meaning 'Ford of the Oxen'. The city has attained global renown for the University of Oxford. Dating from the 12th century, it is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Oxford boasts fine examples of every architectural period since its founding - most replete in beautiful honey-colored stone. Aside from the magnificent college buildings, Radcliffe Camera, Carfax Tower, and Hertford Bridge, are some of Oxford's most famous landmarks. Hertford Bridge (pictured) is often referred to as the 'Bridge of Sighs', as a result of its similarity to the Venice bridge of the same name. Owing to its large student population, Oxford is a 'young' town, and strikes a perfect balance between ancient and modern. Visitors to the city can explore a great variety of historic buildings and museums, ramble quaint cobblestone streets and peaceful courtyards, visit the Covered Market and perhaps enjoy a picnic at Headington Hill Park. A wealth of shops, cafes, restaurants and bars insure that Shoppers and Foodies will be very much at home in Oxford!

Overnight Location

Windsor, South East Region

On The Map: Windsor is located 25 miles directly west of the heart of London, along the M4 Motorway.

The town of Windsor is best known for the impressive Windsor Castle (pictured). The castle has a long history - well documented from the 11th century. Through subsequent centuries the castle drew a regular royal presence to the town, which in turn insured the prosperity of Windsor, as repeated investment in the castle drew merchants, smiths and craftsmen of all descriptions to the area. The castle is currently an official residence of the King, and is the largest inhabited castle in the entire world. Windsor boasts a wealth of good shopping options - of particular note is the Windsor Royal Shopping Centre located in the Central Train Station. Windsor is also home to the largest Legoland in the world, and the only one in Britain. World-famous Ascot Racecourse is located in Windsor, and beautiful Savill Garden is also well worth a visit.

Day 6

Depart From

Depart from London Heathrow Airport, Greater London

Return to London Heathrow Airport three hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. This will allow ample time to check in for your flight home.