Day 1
Accommodation
Dorsett City Hotel - London, UK
Room Type: Superior Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time: 2 PM
Check-out time: 12 PM
Included Unique Activities
Black Cab Meet & Greet Transfer - Heathrow Airport to City
London, UK
Begin your tour with a meet and greet by your black cab driver (also a licensed Tour Guide). Upon meeting your driver, they will transfer you to your central London accommodation/train station via traditional London Black Taxi. Due to traffic and unforeseen circumstances that can delay journeys to and from the airport, all transfer services are at a fixed-price to avoid costs spinning out of control.
Must-See Sites
Regent's Park, London Zoo and Primrose Hill, London
Regent's Park (officially The Regent's Park) is one of the Royal Parks of London. It lies within north-west London, partly in the City of Westminster and partly in the London Borough of Camden. It contains Regent's University London and the London Zoo.
The park has an outer ring road called the Outer Circle (4.45 km) and an inner ring road called the Inner Circle (1 km), which surrounds the most carefully tended section of the park, Queen Mary's Gardens. Apart from two link roads between these two, the park is reserved for pedestrians. The south, east and most of the west side of the park are lined with elegant white stucco terraces of houses designed by John Nash. Running through the northern end of the park is Regent's Canal, which connects the Grand Union Canal to the former London docks.
The 166 hectares (410 acres) park is mainly open parkland that enjoys a wide range of facilities and amenities including gardens, a lake with a heronry, waterfowl and a boating area, sports pitches, and children's playgrounds. The northern side of the park is the home of London Zoo and the headquarters of the Zoological Society of London. There are several public gardens with flowers and specimen plants, including Queen Mary's Gardens in the Inner Circle, in which the Open Air Theatre is located; the formal Italian Gardens and adjacent informal English Gardens in the south-east corner of the park; and the gardens of St John's Lodge. Winfield House, the official residence of the U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom, stands in private grounds in the western section of the park. Nearby is the domed London Central Mosque, better known as Regent's Park mosque, a highly visible landmark.
Located to the south of the Inner Circle is Regent's University London, home of the European Business School London, Regent's American College London (RACL) and Webster Graduate School among others.
On the northern side of Regent's Park is Primrose Hill, which with a height of 256 feet (78 m) gives has a clear view of central London to the south-east, as well as Belsize Park and Hampstead to the north. Primrose Hill is also the name given to the surrounding district.
British Museum, London
The British Museum is a museum dedicated to human history, art, and culture, located in the Bloomsbury area of London. Its permanent collection, numbering some 8 million works, is among the largest and most comprehensive in existence and originates from all continents, illustrating and documenting the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present.
The British Museum was established in 1753, largely based on the collections of the physician and scientist Sir Hans Sloane. The museum first opened to the public on 15 January 1759 in Montagu House in Bloomsbury, on the site of the current museum building. Its expansion over the following two and a half centuries was largely a result of an expanding British colonial footprint and has resulted in the creation of several branch institutions, the first being the British Museum (Natural History) in South Kensington in 1881. Some objects in the collection, most notably the Elgin Marbles from the Parthenon, are the objects of controversy and of calls for restitution to their countries of origin.
Until 1997, when the British Library (previously centred on the Round Reading Room) moved to a new site, the British Museum housed both a national museum of antiquities and a national library in the same building. The museum is a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and as with all other national museums in the United Kingdom it charges no admission fee, except for loan exhibitions.
Oxford Street, London
On The Map: Oxford Street runs for approx. 1.5 miles from Marble Arch (at the north east corner of Hyde Park), through Oxford Circus to St Giles Circus
Nearest Tube Stops: Marble Arch, Bond Street & Oxford Circus, all served by the Central Line.
Oxford Street is a major road in the West End of London, and is Europe's busiest shopping street, boasting more than 300 shops. Oxford Street follows the route of an ancient Roman road, (the Via Trinobantina), which linked Hampshire with Colchester and became one of the major routes in and out of London City. In the late 18th century, much of the surroundng area was purchased and developed by the Earl of Oxford. It initially became popular with entertainers, including bear-baiters, and for entertainment houses, such as The Pantheon. During the 19th century, the area became known for its shops, a trend that has continued apace ever since. It is the biggest shopping street within Inner London, and forms part of a larger shopping district with Regent Street, Bond Street and a number of other smaller nearby streets. The street is home to a number of major department stores and numerous flagship stores, as well as hundreds of smaller shops. Of particular note is Hamley's on Regent Street. Opened in 1760, Hamley's is the oldest, largest and most famous toy shop in the world.
Arrive at
Arrive at London Heathrow Airport, UK
Arrive at London Heathrow Airport.
Overnight Location
London, UK
On The Map: London is located in the southwest of England. The city's fantastic transport system, including the Tube (subway), red buses and black taxis, insure you can get around the city quickly and easily.
London is the capital of England, and globally-renowned as one of the world's great cities. London is very diverse - more than 230 languages are spoken, and you'll encounter a great variety of cultures and communities throughout the city. London's history is measured in thousands, not hundreds of years, and the city boasts four World Heritage Sites: The Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey, The Tower of London, Maritime Greenwich and The Royal Botanic Gardens. Beyond these, there is an unending list of interesting attractions and places to explore. You can visit the Queen's official residence at Buckingham Palace and tour the Houses of Parliament, historic home of the UK government. Many of the most famous attractions are free to visit, like the Tate Modern Art Gallery, the National Gallery and the Victoria and Albert Museums. Famous City Landmarks abound, such as Leicester Square, Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus. London is often cited as Europe's best shopping destination. Oxford Street is the central shopping hub, but quirky markets all over the city, such as in Camden Town are well worth a visit. The River Thames runs through the heart of London, and a river cruise is a great, alternate way to see the city.
Day 2
Accommodation
Dorsett City Hotel - London, UK
Room Type: Superior Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time: 2 PM
Check-out time: 12 PM
Included Unique Activities
Black Cab - 3 Hour London Highlights Tour
London, UK
Spend three hours touring London and visiting its most iconic landmarks from the backseat of a traditional London Black Cab. You will be picked up and returned to your central London accommodation. Your qualified tour guide/driver will take you on a panoramic tour of the city, with a minimum of 6 stops along the way including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Tower of London (just to name a few).
You will have the opportunity to discover the real London and some of its hidden secrets, all from your knowledgeable cabbie! Taking one of the black cabs, instead of a touring bus, ensures that you will have more time to ask questions and will be able to experience the city in a more intimate setting. There will be plenty of opportunities during your tour to stop and take pictures as well as time to stop at a local coffee shop for an energizing cup of joe!
Must-See Sites
Buckingham Palace, 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.
Tower Bridge, London
On The Map: Tower Bridge crossed the River Thames just east of London Bridge and in close proximity to the Tower of London
Nearest Tube Stop: Tower Hill - served by the Circle and District Lines
Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge over the River Thames and in close proximity to the Tower of London, from which it takes its name. Officially opened on June 30, 1894 by The Prince of Wales (future King Edward VII), Tower Bridge has become an iconic symbol of London. The bridge is 800 feet in length with the two towers each reaching 213 feet high, built upon submerged concrete piers. The 200 foot central span is split into two equal 'bastules', which can be raised to an angle of 86 degrees to allow river traffic to pass. The Bridge's present colour scheme dates from 1977, when it was painted red, white and blue for Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee. The high level walkway of the Bridge was closed in 1910, as it had become a favorite hang-out spot for local prostitutes and pick-pockets. In 1982, the walkway was reopened, and now welcomes visitors. The exhibition uses films, photos and interactive displays to explain why and how Tower Bridge was built. Visitors can access the original steam engines that once powered the bridge bascules, housed in a building close to the south end of the bridge.
The Tower of London, London
On The Map: The Tower of London is located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London.
Nearest Tube Stop: Tower Hill - served by the Northern and Jubilee Lines
The Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was founded towards the end of 1066 as part of the Norman Conquest of England. The castle was initially used as a royal residence, but is more famous for its prison use between 1100 and 1952. The Tower has always played a prominent role in English history, when control of the Tower was crucial to establish control of the country. Nowadays the Tower is home to the famed Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom, which while still in regular royal use, are otherwise on display for visitors to admire. The Yeoman Warders ('Beefeaters') are another major attraction. Guided Warder tours are available, and guards will regale you with tales of intrigue, imprisonment, execution and torture! Legend says that the Kingdom and the Tower will fall if the six resident ravens ever leave the fortress. There are seven ravens at the Tower today (the required six plus one spare!), and their lodgings are to be found next to the Wakefield Tower. These magnificent birds, eat 170 grams of raw meat a day, respond only to the Raven Master and should not be approached too closely by anyone else, as they may bite!
Westminster Abbey, London
On The Map: Westminster Abbey is located in the very heart of Central London, adjacent to Big Ben.
Nearest Tube Stop: Westminster - served by the Circle, District & Jubilee Lines, is located just 0.2 miles north of Westminster Abbey.
Westminster Abbey is one of the world’s great churches, with a history stretching back over a thousand years. Paying a visit is truly an essential part of any trip to London. Kings & Queens, Poets & Heroes - all are represented at the Abbey - and it has many fascinating tales to tell. Westminster has long been the traditional venue for the coronation of English Monarchs, as well as their final resting place. The current, wonderful 700-year-old building is literally brimming with amazing artifacts and stunning craftsmanship. Of particular note is The Lady Chapel, begun in 1503, and constructed at the expense of Henry VII. It is regarded as the last great masterpiece of English medieval architecture, and in 1545 was heralded as "the wonder of the entire world". The outstanding feature of the chapel is the spectacular fan-vaulted roof with carved pendants. The spectacular Waterford Crystal chandeliers in The Nave were a gift from the Guinness family, in honor of the Abbey's 900th anniversary in 1965. In front of the High Altar is another of the Abbey's treasures - a marble pavement dating from 1268. The method of its decoration is known as Cosmati work, after the Italian family who developed the technique. Audio guides are available in 12 languages, and the highly-popular Verger-led tour is also an option on-site. Westminster Abbey is usually open to visitors from Monday to Saturday throughout the year.
Big Ben, London
On The Map: Big Ben is located in the very heart of Central London, adjacent to the British Houses of Parliament.
Nearest Tube Stop: Westminster - served by the Circle, District & Jubilee Lines, is located right beside Big Ben.
When the Palace of Westminster was destroyed by fire in October 1934, it was decided that the new neo-gothic style Palace should include an imposing and impressive clock tower. Thus, one of England's most famous & instantly recognizable landmarks came to be. Interestingly, although the name Big Ben is commonly used to describe the tower, it was initially given to the Great Bell within the tower. The tower itself, which lies to the north of the Houses of Parliament, is officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, and was completed in 1859. The Great Clock started on May 31, with the Great Bell's peals being heard for the first very time on July 11. It is the second largest four-faced chiming clock in the world,after that of Minneapolis City Hall, and is famed for it's unerring time-keeping accuracy. The hands of the clock are 9 and 14 feet in length, and the Great Bell (Big Ben!) weighs-in at 13 tons. Although it is possible to tour the Houses of Parliament, the Elizabeth Tower is closed to visitors. But with no lift, and 334 steps to the top, this may not be such a bad thing!
Overnight Location
London, UK
On The Map: London is located in the southwest of England. The city's fantastic transport system, including the Tube (subway), red buses and black taxis, insure you can get around the city quickly and easily.
London is the capital of England, and globally-renowned as one of the world's great cities. London is very diverse - more than 230 languages are spoken, and you'll encounter a great variety of cultures and communities throughout the city. London's history is measured in thousands, not hundreds of years, and the city boasts four World Heritage Sites: The Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey, The Tower of London, Maritime Greenwich and The Royal Botanic Gardens. Beyond these, there is an unending list of interesting attractions and places to explore. You can visit the Queen's official residence at Buckingham Palace and tour the Houses of Parliament, historic home of the UK government. Many of the most famous attractions are free to visit, like the Tate Modern Art Gallery, the National Gallery and the Victoria and Albert Museums. Famous City Landmarks abound, such as Leicester Square, Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus. London is often cited as Europe's best shopping destination. Oxford Street is the central shopping hub, but quirky markets all over the city, such as in Camden Town are well worth a visit. The River Thames runs through the heart of London, and a river cruise is a great, alternate way to see the city.
Day 3
Accommodation
Brindley's Guesthouse - Bath, Southwest Region
Room Type: Classic Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is between 2:00pm & 7:00pm on your day of arrival.
Complimentary visitors parking permits for on-street parking around the hotel will be provided to you on your arrival.
Included Unique Activities
The Roman Baths Admission
Bath, Southwest Region
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.
Enroute Sightseeing
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.
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.
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!
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
Brindley's Guesthouse - Bath, Southwest Region
Room Type: Classic Double
Check in policies:
Check-in time is between 2:00pm & 7:00pm on your day of arrival.
Complimentary visitors parking permits for on-street parking around the hotel will be provided to you on your arrival.
Included Unique Activities
Bath Food Tour
Bath, Southwest Region
Discover why the UK has slowly become one of the most exciting food cultures in the world on this 3-hour food tour of Bath. This guided tour delivers 7 food and drink tastings (each with their own unique flavor), highlights of Bath’s history, food customs, and the low down on local eateries and shopping hot spots. You will also have the special opportunity to encounter two types of Bath “food hero”: the legendary food specialties that have left their mark on the city. This walking food tour is sure to excite the foodie in everyone!
Tour Includes:
- A friendly, locally-based, & knowledgable tour guide
- A variety of 7 different food and drink tastings (savoury & sweet), the total of which represents a light meal
- 1 curb-side tasting, and 6 interior or seated tastings
- Highlights of Bath’s legendary history plus British food & drink history & customs
- Low down on local food, drink & shopping hot spots
- A comprehensive handout with dining, drinking & shopping suggestions
Must-See Sites
The Royal Crescent, 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!
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.
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..
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 5
Accommodation
Macdonald Windsor Hotel - Windsor, South East Region
Room Type: Double
Check in policies:
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM please call if you wish to arrive outside of these hours.
Checkout time is before 11:00 AM
Included Unique Activities
Windsor Castle Admission
Windsor, South East Region
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!
Enroute Sightseeing
Oxford, West Midlands 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!
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.
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.
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.
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 Queen, 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, UK
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.
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