7-Night Best of Southern England Tour

Day 2

Accommodation

Heart of the City Beautiful Hotel - London, Greater London

Check in policies:

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

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.

Suggested Sightseeing

Westminster Abbey, Greater 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.

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.

Day 3

Accommodation

The Queensberry Hotel - 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!

Suggested Sightseeing

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

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

The Queensberry Hotel - 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 Body in a Suitcase Escape Game at House of Frankenstein

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 an intimate screening room showing the first ever Frankenstein film from 1910.

Your museum tickets also include The Body In A Suitcase immersive game where you have 45 minutes to solve the gruesome mystery of who lies within and why...

Suggested Sightseeing

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.

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!

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.

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..

Day 5

Accommodation

Luxury Hotel - Stratford-Upon-Avon, West Midlands Region

Check in policies:

Check-in from 3pm, check out by 11am

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.

Hidcote Manor Gardens, West Midlands Region

On The Map: Hidcote Manor Gardens are located near the town of Chipping Campden in the Cotswolds Region of southwest England.

Hidcote is a famous Arts and Crafts Garden, created by the talented American horticulturist, Major Lawrence Johnston in 1905. The Gardens consist of a series of colourful and intricately designed outdoor ‘rooms’. One room is occupied only by a circular raised pool. Others have a character deriving from their inspired planting. Explore the maze of narrow paved pathways, where you'll uncover surprised at every turn, discovering secret gardens, magnificent vistas and plants that burst with colour. Many of the plants found growing in the garden were collected from Johnston’s many plant hunting trips to far-flung and exotic places. Hidcote is the perfect place to relax and unwind in beautiful, tranquil surroundings, while observing nature at its finest. The National Trust operates a Garden Centre and delightful cafe across the road from the gardens, though the latter can tend to be busy.

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.

Overnight Location

Stratford-Upon-Avon, West Midlands Region

On The Map: Stratford-upon-Avon is located in the Western Midlands of England, just 40 miles south of Birmingham, and 100 miles northwest of London.

Stratford-upon-Avon is set in the beautiful Warwickshire countryside, on the banks of the river Avon. Stratford boasts an 800 year history - the original Charter of the Town was granted in 1196. While an important market town, Stratford is best known for its very close association with William Shakespeare, and is a major tourist destination. Often regarded as the world's greatest playwright, Shakespeare was born and grew-up in Stratford. Many of the original buildings from Shakespeare's era are intact and in excellent condition, thanks to the ongoing preservtion work of the Shakespeare Organisation. Several houses synonymous with Shakespeare are open to the public, including his birthplace & Hall's Croft, the home of his daughter. The recently remodelled Royal Shakespeare Theatre is located on the banks of the River Avon and is one of Britain's most important cultural venues. Stratford's Town Centre contains many fine old buildings on lovely wide streets, and boasts a great variety of shops, bars & restaurants.

Day 6

Accommodation

Luxury Hotel - Stratford-Upon-Avon, West Midlands Region

Check in policies:

Check-in from 3pm, check out by 11am

Included Unique Activities

Shakespeare - The Full Story Admission

Make a day of it and discover the fascinating stories of Shakespeare the boy, husband, family man and businessman across his family homes. Take the time to explore Shakespeare's childhood world, right where it all began at Shakespeare’s Birthplace, where you can enjoy live theatre and rare artifacts. Savour the rural beauty of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, the place where Shakespeare's wife grew up and lived for many years. Here you can explore the gardens and the 500-year-old dwelling where William and Anne's romance blossomed. Be inspired at Shakespeare’s New Place, the site that was Shakespeare's family home for 19 years. Uncover the fascinating story of the house that isn't there, where you can see the largest surviving part of his estate. While “Shakespeare's story” is sure to be the highlight of the trip for any Shakespeare fan, it is sure to excite even those who are unfamiliar with his work with rich English history. 

Suggested Sightseeing

Anne Hathaway's Cottage, West Midlands Region

Visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the family home of Anne Hathaway, William Shakespeare’s wife-to-be. It is here that Anne was born and raised and where the young Shakespeare would have visited her during the early part of their relationship. Built more than 500 years ago and extended over the years, much of the original survives. See original furniture including the Hathaway bed and uncover five centuries of stories of the family who lived here for 13 generations. Wander through acres of beautiful cottage gardens and orchards, and explore the sculpture trail inspired by Shakespeare’s plays. 

Warwick Castle, West Midlands Region

On The Map: Warwick Castle is located in the own of Warwick, just 9 miles northeast of Stratford-Upon-Avon. Warwick Castle's origins can be traced to 914 A.D., but was really put on the map by William the Conqueror's structure, built in 1068. The castle was rebuilt in stone in the 13th century, and during the Hundred Years War (1337 - 1453), the castle underwent major refortification, resulting in what is now one of the finest existing examples of 14th century military architecture. Through the centuries, the castle was at the epicentre of many notable historical events, and has extensive tales to tell. Since its acquistion by the Tussauds Group in 1978, the castle has been transformed into somehting akin to Medieval Disneyland! Visitors can experience a wide array of activities and interesting diversions, including the impressive towers and ramparts, stunningly restored interior chambers, the Time Tower, Castle Dungeons, and the world's largest functioning trebuchet. The castle offers many shows and performances, such as the very highly recommended Pirds of Prey display, and Bowman Show. Entrance to the castle is not cheap, but discounted admission is regularly available if puchased in advance on the castle's website.

Royal Shakespeare Theatre, West Midlands Region

The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is a 1,040 seat 'thrust stage' theatre, which pays homage to all-things Shakespeare, and is located in the great man's birthplace, Stratford-Upon-Avon. The original Shakespeare Memorial Theatre opened its doors in 1879. Destroyed by fire in 1926, construction of the current theatre was completed in 1932. The thrust stage design guarantees an intimate experience. The stage is open on three sides at audience level, and after a 2010 renovation, no theatre-goer is more than 50 feet away from the actors, regardless of seat type reserved. If staying in Stratford, attending a play at the theatre is highly recommended, and given the very high quality of production and acting, is most definitely an evening to be savored. If your schedule does not afford time to attend a performance, a variety of theatre tours are available throughout the day. Visitors can tour the private and public theatre spaces, learn of the theatre's history, and discover behind the scenes secrets to high-end productions. You can also book a trip to the 109 foot-high viewing platform of the Theatre Tower, for wonderful views over Stratford-Upon-Avon.

Overnight Location

Stratford-Upon-Avon, West Midlands Region

On The Map: Stratford-upon-Avon is located in the Western Midlands of England, just 40 miles south of Birmingham, and 100 miles northwest of London.

Stratford-upon-Avon is set in the beautiful Warwickshire countryside, on the banks of the river Avon. Stratford boasts an 800 year history - the original Charter of the Town was granted in 1196. While an important market town, Stratford is best known for its very close association with William Shakespeare, and is a major tourist destination. Often regarded as the world's greatest playwright, Shakespeare was born and grew-up in Stratford. Many of the original buildings from Shakespeare's era are intact and in excellent condition, thanks to the ongoing preservtion work of the Shakespeare Organisation. Several houses synonymous with Shakespeare are open to the public, including his birthplace & Hall's Croft, the home of his daughter. The recently remodelled Royal Shakespeare Theatre is located on the banks of the River Avon and is one of Britain's most important cultural venues. Stratford's Town Centre contains many fine old buildings on lovely wide streets, and boasts a great variety of shops, bars & restaurants.

Day 7

Accommodation

4-Star Riverside Hotel - Windsor, South East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11:00am.
Parking is very limited and tricky in Royal Windsor. At the hotel, we have some parking options for you, but remember, it’s very limited so, if you wish to be guaranteed a parking space, then you must reserve one in advance! Please prebook/prepay for your parking here - https://sirchristopherwren.co.uk/book-parking/
If you haven’t had the opportunity of pre-booking a parking space, we suggest trying some of the other local car parks including Windsor & Eton Riverside Train Station, which is a five-minute walk away, but is often full during the day Monday to Saturday. Other nearby car parks include Romney Lock, Alma Road, River Street, or King Edward VII. 

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! 

Enroute Sightseeing

Pitt Rivers Museum, West Midlands Region

The Pitt Rivers Museum is located adjacent to the Oxford University Museum of Natural History (MNH). Access to Pitt Rivers is gained via MNH, and like its neighbor, admission is free. The museum displays archaeological and ethnographic objects from all parts of the world. It was founded in 1884 when General Pitt Rivers, donated his collection of more than 18,000 objects to the University. There are now over half a million objects housed at the museum! Notable permanent displays at the Museum include a magnificent Tahitian mourner's costume, collected during Captain Cook's Second Voyage in 1773-74, Hawaiian feather cloaks in brilliant shades of red and yellow, and a fine group of early masks worn by actors in Japanese Noh dramas. The museum brims with sculpture from all over the world - in wood, pottery, metal and stone. Boats on display range from full-sized sailing craft to model canoes. The museum also boasts magical amulets and charms, jewellery and body decoration, tools, weapons, musical instruments and even shrunken heads! Unusually, displays at the museum are arranged according to type: Musical instruments, weapons, masks, textiles, jewellery, and tools are all displayed in groups to show how the same problems were solved at different times by different cultures. The cases appear to be very crowded, and indeed they are, as a very large percentage of the collection is on view.

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!

Oxford University, South East Region

Although it has no official foundation date, Oxford University has been a bastion of education since 1096. It is the second oldest university in the world, after the University of Bologna in Italy, which dates from 1088. The University grew quickly in the 12th century. In 1209, violence erupted between students and local residents, resulting in some academics fleeing to Cambridge, where the University of Cambridge was subsequently formed. The two ancient universities are often collectively referred to as Oxbridge. Oxford University's structure is somewhat confusing. The university is a federation, comprising over forty self-governing colleges and halls, spread throughout the city. The Science Area, most closely resembles a traditional college campus. Iconic university buildings include the Sheldonian Theatre (pictured), The Examination Schools (where examinations and some lectures take place), and Christ Church Cathedral uniquely serves as both a college chapel and as a cathedral. Lots of different buildings and areas for visitors to explore, while strolling the picturesque streets of Oxford! Oxford boasts countless famous graduates, and more than 58 Nobel Peace Prize recipients. Sir Walter Raleigh, Lewis Carroll, Oscar Wilde, Edwin Hubble, J.R.R. Tolkien, Margaret Thatcher and Stephen Hawking all spent time within Oxford's hallowed walls.

Oxford Museum of Natural History, South East Region

Construction of the building that houses the Oxford University Museum of Natural History began in 1855. Prior to this, the University's considerable collection of anatomical and natural history specimens had been scattered throughout the City of Oxford. Immediately upon its opening in 1860, the Museum made headlines as the venue for a watershed debate about Human Evolution. The Museum is also noted as the site of the world's first wireless telegraph transmission in 1894. Today, Museum collections are divided into three main, and wonderfully informative sections: Earth Collections, Palaoentological Collections and Life Collections. Themes explored in-depth at the museum include Evolution, Primates, the History of Life, Vertebrates, Invertebrates and Rocks & Minerals. The museum boasts an ever popular selection of touchable items, as well as a meteorite and several large fossils. The museum is open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm, and admission is free. The adjacent and equally wonderful Pitt Rivers Museum is accessed through the Natural History Museum, and also offers free admission.

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 8

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.