5-Night Vintage England

Day 2

Accommodation

Heart of the City Beautiful Hotel - London, Greater London

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 12:00 noon.

Included Unique Activities

Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Capture the heart of the city’s culture, landmarks and history on our London routemaster bus, whilst sipping on a lovely cup of tea and enjoying the exquisite tastes of England. High tea accompanied with an array of tasty sandwiches and delicious cakes and pastries. Your London bus driver will take you round Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, Hyde Park, The Royal Albert Hall, Marble Arch, Nelson’s Column, Downing Street and more. The Classic Afternoon Tea Bus London sightseeing tour lasts approximately 90 minutes (depending on traffic).

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.

Royal Albert Hall, Greater London

Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall on the northern edge of South Kensington, London, best known for holding the Proms concerts annually each summer since 1941. It has a capacity (depending on configuration of the event) of up to 5,272 seats. The Hall is a registered charity held in trust for the nation and receives no public or government funding.

Since its opening by Queen Victoria in 1871, the world's leading artists from several performance genres have appeared on its stage and it has become one of the UK's most treasured and distinctive buildings. Each year it hosts more than 350 events including classical concerts, rock and pop, ballet and opera, sports, award ceremonies, school and community events, charity performances and banquets. Visit https://www.royalalberthall.com/ for show schedules.

Trafalgar Square and Nelson's Column, Greater London

Trafalgar Square is a public space and tourist attraction in central London, built around the area formerly known as Charing Cross. It is situated in the City of Westminster. At its centre is Nelson's Column, which is guarded by four lion statues at its base. There are a number of commemorative statues and sculptures in the square, while one plinth, left empty since it was built in 1840, The Fourth Plinth, has been host to contemporary art since 1999. The square is also used for political demonstrations and community gatherings, such as the celebration of New Year's Eve. The name commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar, a British naval victory of the Napoleonic Wars over France and Spain which took place on 21 October 1805 off the coast of Cape Trafalgar, Spain. The original name was to have been "King William the Fourth's Square", but George Ledwell Taylor suggested the name "Trafalgar Square". In the 1820s George IV engaged the architect John Nash to redevelop the area. Nash cleared the square as part of his Charing Cross Improvement Scheme. The present architecture of the square is due to Sir Charles Barry and was completed in 1845. Trafalgar Square is owned by the Queen in Right of the Crown and managed by the Greater London Authority, while Westminster City Council owns the roads around the square, including the pedestrianised area of the North Terrace. It forms part of the Northbank business improvement district.

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.

Big Ben, Greater 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!

Day 3

Accommodation

Charming Hotel & Spa - Chipping Campden, West Midlands Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11:00am.

Included Unique Activities

Drive a British Classic Morris Minor Car

Whilst they may lack some modern motoring aids, there's something truly magical about driving a classic Morris Minor through the glorious British countryside. As you wind through the picturesque streets of England, passing red-brick buildings laced with picket fencing and surrounding cobblestones, you will be taken back an era when life moved at a more leisurely pace.

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.

Bampton, West Midlands Region

The ancient market town of Bampton lies in the south of the area, not far from the River Thames. Until about 1850 it stood in the center of a large area of common land, hence its name 'Bampton in the Bush'. Bampton may seem oddly familiar to some first time visitors – it was used for filming the outdoor scenes in the popular TV drama ‘Downton Abbey’: the old Grammar School Building which houses Bampton Community Archive, with its impressive collection of old photographs of Bampton and its people, served as the 'Downton' hospital and St Mary’s Church, whose spire provides one of the landmarks of the upper Thames Valley, also featured prominently.

Cogges Manor Farm, Witney, Southwest Region

Cogges is a unique historic farm, with a beautiful manor house, stunning walled garden and friendly animal residents, it’s a place for people of all ages to relax, learn and have fun. It is also a popular location for TV and the big screen, with shows from Countryfile to period dramas Downton Abbey and Arthur & George. Cogges was transformed into the set for 'Yew Tree Farm' Downton Abbey filming in 2014.

Overnight Location

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.

Day 4

Accommodation

Charming Hotel & Spa - Chipping Campden, West Midlands Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11:00am.

Must-See Sites

Lacock, Southwest Region

Lacock is a small village in Wiltshire County that is owned almost entirely by the National Trust. The village is a popular destination due to its unspoiled appearance and the Lacock Abbey (established in 1232). Wander the streets and imagine what it was like to live here in the 18th century (back when most of the surviving homes were built). There is tons to discover here - quaint stone cottages, the old workhouse, the medieval tithe barn, the old lock up and much more. The village is also a popular filming location, its most famous appearances being “Downton Abbey”, BBC’s “Pride and Prejudice” and “Cranford”, “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” and “Wolfman”. If you are lucky enough to visit at the end of May, be sure to check out the annual Scarecrow Festival! 

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.

Castle Combe, Southwest Region

Unlike its name suggests, Castle Combe is not actually a castle - it is a quintessentially English village. The village is made up of honey-colored Cotswold stone and has been featured regularly as a filming location - most recently in “The Wolf Man”, “Stardust” and Stephen Spielberg’s “War Horse”. One of the village’s main attractions is St Andrew’s Church which dates back to the 13th century and houses one of the oldest working clocks in the country. On the edge of the village, there is a driving circuit (the Castle Combe Circuit) where visitors have the opportunity to test out different vehicles or tackle the Rally course.

The Cotswolds, West Midlands Region

On The Map: The Cotswolds Region covers an area of 790 square miles in the 'upper' southwest region of England, approx. 80 miles west of London.

The Cotswolds area is one of England's favourite and most popular destinations. It is the largest of England's 38 designated 'Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty', and attracts 38 million visitors each year. Often described as 'quintessentially English', the area is famous for its hundreds of honey-colour, limestone villages, nestled among gentle hillsides, known as 'wolds'. Between the 13th and 15th centuries, native Cotswold sheep were famous throughout Europe for their high quality wool. Cotswold wool therefore commanded a high price, and generated significant wealth for the region. This in turn led to the building of fine houses and wonderful churches, known as 'Wool Churches'. Many of the beautiful limestone towns and villages have remained largely unchanged for up to 300 years. 'Drystone walls', skillfully constructed without cement, criss-cross the rolling landscape. Some are hundreds of years old, and although a protected historical feature, are still in daily farming use. The region is a walker's paradise, with thousands of miles of public footpath to explore, including the Cotswold Way National Trail.

Day 5

Accommodation

4-Star Riverside Hotel - Windsor, South East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time: 3:00pm

Check-out time: 11am

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! 

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.

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.