Castle
Sights in London
★★★The ancient Thameside castle at the heart of London, where London began, ravens roam, and Yoeman Warders guard the Crown Jewels
★☆☆The royal palace so nice Henry VIII honeymooned here twice—and then three times, and four, and five...
Sights in England
Lodgings in England
★★☆Stay in a real castle and live happily ever after (temporarily) as King and Queen of the castle
Castle Tours35m | from £10.00
Enjoy Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace in one day by taking this shuttle between the two attractions!
Travel independently by train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central or London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside for your morning visit (we suggest departing at around 8:45am to get the most of your day; journey to Windsor at own expense). Either station is only a short walk to the Castle entrance.
After your morning visit, take the lunchtime Shuttle to Hampton Court Palace which will deliver you to the main entrance.Leaving Windsor Castle (visit at own expense), the medieval castle favored by reining monarchs since the 11th century you will take the short and direct Shuttle ride to Hampton Court Palace. Your journey follows the River Thames where passengers will see several notable sites.
Soon after leaving Windsor you will be driven through Runnymede where the Magna Carta was signed by King John in 1215. This riverside meadow is recognized as one of the most important events in English history as it marked the road to individual freedom, parliamentary democracy and to the supremacy of law. Today the Magna Carta is commemorated by a monument donated by the American Bar Association. Alongside the Magna Carta monument stands the John F Kennedy memorial opened by the Queen in 1965.
Approaching Hampton Court Palace you pass several Victorian reservoirs constructed to supply water to London and its surrounding suburbs, as well as passing the riverside home of David Garrick an 18th Century actor, playwright and theatrical producer. You also observe the Temple which he constructed to commemorate the genius of William Shakespeare. Finally you pass the former home of Sir Christopher Wren, the architect who is famously associated with the design of St. Paul's Cathedral in London.
The Shuttle arrives immediately outside the main entrance to Hampton Court Palace approximately 30 minutes after leaving Windsor Castle. Visit to Hampton Court Palace at own expense.
Hampton Court Palace has much to offer visitors; discover the magnificence of Henry VIII's favorite royal residence. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the bustling Base Court and marvel at the breath-taking grandeur of Henry's State Rooms. Tickle your taste buds in the vast Tudor kitchens, stroll through over 60 acres of enchanting gardens, lose yourself in the famous maze and appreciate the beauty of one of the greatest palaces on earth.
East Molesey which is just a short walk over Hampton Court bridge on your way to the railway station which has an abundance of shops, restaurants and pubs which visitors may wish to visit before returning to their final destination later in the day at their own pace. Return to London by train from Hampton Court Station which is only a short walk across the bridge.
5h | from £71.00
Explore the Royal History at Windsor Castle in a private comfortable air-conditioned vehicle at your pace in the afternoon from any Central London accommodation to Windsor Castle.You will be collected from your Central London Accommodation, where your driver will meet you. You will be taken in a private vehicle to Windsor Castle. We will be provided with your fast track tickets which allows you to "beat the crowds" to save you the time. Please note that the audio guides are available in different languages. At Windsor Castle, you can explore The States Apartments, Queen Mary's Doll House, St Georges Chapel, Castle shops, The Royal Collection etc. If you managed to explore the Castle in less than 2 hours, you are welcome to have a stroll around Windsor town. Once you finished your driver will meet you at agreed previously meeting point and take you back to your Central London accommodation.
The prices are based on 1 to 3 adults traveling in a Sedan, 4 to 5 adults traveling in a Minivan, 6 to 8 adults traveling in a Van.
When making a booking, you will need to provide your Central London accommodation Address/ Hotel and your preferred pickup time Between 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
(no rating)11h | from £75.00
Visit the three most attractive sites in the South East of the country including Leeds castle and its gardens, the medieval town of Canterbury including entrance to its cathedral and the stunning landmark - the White Cliffs of Dover.
Depart London and start the journey towards the country of Kent - the garden of England. The first destination for the day will be Canterbury, you will receive a guided tour of the town centre, later you have free time to enjoy.
Depart Canterbury and head towards Leeds Castle which includes entrance to the building and ground. The castle has been a Norman stronghold and a private residence for six of England's queens. It has been reformed throughout the years by several of its residents and now houses and incredibly array of furniture and pieces of art. Enjoy its gardens after you have finished with the castle including a lake - home to many bird species.
Continue to the last destination of your tour- Dover, where you can will enjoy the magnificent landscapes of the cliffs. After Dover the journey back to London will begin. Your drop-off point will be Kings Cross Station at approximately 7:30pm.
Lunch available at all places (not included)
(no rating)10h | from £560.00
Take in famous British sites of interest including Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and the White Cliffs of Dover on this private 10-hour tour from London. Travel into the English countryside and visit top sites of interest including Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral (own expense). Head to the coast and explore the harbours and bays around the White Cliffs of Dover. Then, visit pretty villages such as Deal, Kingsdown, and medieval Sandwich, and gain insight into centuries of British history. Tour includes private guide and round-trip travel from London. Please note the Leeds Castle & Canterbury Cathedral fees are not included in the price, kindly contact the local provider after booking to confirm the visits to the attractions.Following a morning pickup at your centrally located London hotel at 08.00, hop aboard your private vehicle and take the 1.5-hour journey to Leeds Castle. Widely considered among England’s finest fortresses, Leeds Castle boasts a history dating back to the 12th century.
Leeds Castle
A unique opportunity to have a private guided tour of Leeds Castle before it opens to the general public. On arrival, take a 1-hour tour of the castle (own expense) which we can arrange for you and gain insight into centuries of royal history. Learn of famous names who once called the residence home and admire the stunning architecture for which the castle is known. Leeds Castle has been a Norman stronghold, the private property of six of England’s medieval queens, a palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon, a Jacobean country house, a Georgian mansion, an elegant early 20th century retreat for the influential and famous and in the 21st century, it has become one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain. Admission and tour cost: £18.25 per person + £50.00 guide fee payable on the day to Leeds castle.
Canterbury Cathedral
After your visit to Leeds Castle you'll take a 45 minute drive to Canterbury where you'll have time to explore and have some lunch. Whilst small, Canterbury is truly a beautiful city and well worth a visit. Always busy and full of energy but with a village feel. Canterbury Cathedral is truly breathtaking with its medieval history dating back to 597AD. The Cathedral offers a private guided tour (own expense) which we can arrange for you. The Cathedral tour lasts about 90 minutes and costs £10.50 per person + £50 guide fee payable to Canterbury Cathedral on the day.
White Cliffs of Dover Tour
From Canterbury you head to Dover to start the tour on Dover's seafront looking up at the White Cliffs and Dover Castle. Driving around the castle to the South Foreland (the White Cliffs) where you can look down at the port and across to France. A short drive along the White Cliffs past the South Foreland Lighthouse and through the pretty village of St Margarets at Cliffe to its secret Bay. From here you will head for the beautiful village of Kingsdown and its beach where it's believed the Romans first invaded Britain more than 2000 years ago! Then onto the award winning seaside town of Deal via Walmer Castle the home of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Discover Deals history of Smuggling before visiting the Medieval town of Sandwich. As you are a private group the day can be flexible to meet your needs (no waiting for other people). Once you're ready to head to London sit back and your driver will take you to your hotel.
10h | from £132.00
See top filming locations from the award-winning ‘Downton Abbey’ television series on a full-day tour from London! After touring Oxford, enjoy a walking tour around Bampton Village, the setting used for filming outdoor scenes in the show. Then, head to Highclere Castle in Hampshire, home of the real Downton Abbey, for a tour. Offering a real insight into Edwardian England, the tour gives you all the insider gossip about popular characters from the much-loved period drama as well as stories of the real family who have owned the castle since its 17th-century heyday. This tour has limited availability and sells out fast, so book now to avoid disappointment!Meet your expert guide in London and set off by coach to the historic city of Oxford, approximately a 1.5-hour drive away. As you travel, your guide will keep you entertained with stories about this must-visit city, home to the world-famous Oxford University.
The colleges that make up Oxford University represent the city’s architectural highlights, and you’ll explore these during a comprehensive walking tour. Wander through ornate chapels, lavish libraries and spacious halls.
Before leaving the city, you’ll have free time to discover its endearing charms independently. Perhaps visit one of its famous ‘Old English’ inns for lunch (own expense) or maybe explore Oxford’s wealth of interesting streets and independent shops.
In the early afternoon, hop back on board your luxury coach and head to the pretty village of Bampton in Oxfordshire, the setting for the exterior village scenes in the TV show 'Downton Abbey'. See Matthew Crawley's mother's house as well as the hospital from the second series. Learn about how the current villagers' homes are transformed into the Post Office and the pub for the TV show, and explore the Bampton Archive and local exhibitions to learn about the village history.
After visiting Bamtpon, head south to Highclere Castle in Hampshire. Famous as the filming location for the hit TV series Downton Abbey, the stately castle dates to the Victorian era and is set in the middle of 1,000 acres (405 hectares) of stunning parkland.
With your guide, tour this incredible castle and see rooms frequented by the likes of Lady Mary, Cousin Matthew, Lord Grantham and other characters in the popular Edwardian drama. Venture through the magnificent main hall, library and sitting rooms, and learn about the real-life family — the Carnarvons — who lived in the castle since the 17th century.
After your walking tour of Highclere Castle, enjoy some free time to explore the beautiful grounds or relax with a hot drink and cake in the castle's tea rooms (own expense). Your full-day tour finishes back in London, where you’ll arrive in the early evening.
7h 30m | from £95.00
Visit two of England's most royal attractions on this day trip combining Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace. You'll be one of the first to enter Windsor Castle and discover centuries of royal history, before heading to Buckingham Palace, where you will be able to explore the rooms of this working palace at your leisure, soaking in the fine paintings, porcelain and furniture.After an early start, you'll visit Windsor Castle, where more than 900 years of royal history await. Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, is today one of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. Walk through the magnificent grounds and explore the State Apartments. If you're lucky you may catch the official Changing of the Guard or soak up the splendor of St. George's Chapel. After your visit to Windsor, you'll take a drive through Runnymede, where King John signed the Magna Carta.
Next, immerse yourself in the lavishly furnished rooms from the Royal Collection at Buckingham Palace! The palace hosts many official events and receptions held by the Queen, so areas are exclusively opened for limited time only during the summer so book early!
Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of Britain's sovereigns since 1837, and today it is the Queen's official residence. Take the audio tour and learn about the royal history. Your visit is independent and will conclude here so you can explore at leisure.
Diamonds: A Jubilee Celebration
This spectacular exhibition shows the many ways in which diamonds have been used by British monarchs over the last 200 years. It includes a number of The Queen’s personal jewels - those inherited by Her Majesty or acquired during her reign. The exhibition reveals how many of these extraordinary stones have undergone a number of transformations, having been re-cut or incorporated into new settings during their fascinating history.
12h 30m | from £105.00
Explore the beautiful scenery of the English countryside on this full-day tour of Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, Lacock and Bath. Head to Windsor Castle, home of the British Royal Family, and explore St George's Chapel and the State Apartments. Continue onward to the 5,000-year-old prehistoric site of Stonehenge with a guide, and ponder over its use in centuries past. Visit the charming English village of Lacock for a traditional pub lunch, and finally, enjoy a coach tour of Georgian city of Bath as well as a short walking tour.Start with a pickup in central London, and travel out of the city to visit majestic Windsor Castle. Be one of the first visitors of the day, and beat the crowds as you explore the elegant State Apartments and St George’s Chapel with your guide. The castle is one of the Queen’s weekend retreats, and is the perfect place to experience some 900 years of pageantry at your own pace.
Continue onward to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Stonehenge, one of the most famous prehistoric monuments in the world. Stonehenge is thought to date back nearly 5,000 years, and very little is known of its origins. Was it a place of pagan sun worship? Could it have been an ancient burial ground? Decide for yourself as you explore the site.
Your next stop is the pretty village of Lacock, one of the most picturesque settings in the country. Lacock dates back to Saxon times, and has been used more recently as the setting for movies and television dramas such as Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and the adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Take the weight off your feet and sit down for lunch at the George, a traditional English pub built in the 14th century. On rare occasions, when the George is closed, a carefully selected alternative pub may be visited for lunch instead.
Continue to your final stop in the charming Georgian city of Bath, once home to the famous British author Jane Austen. Start the visit with a coach tour of the city, and see top Bath attractions such as Pulteney Bridge and the Royal Crescent as well as the honey-colored Georgian architecture for which the city is famed. After getting your bearings, set off on a short stroll with your guide and scout out the Roman Baths and beautiful Bath Abbey. Walk around the city’s cobbled streets, shop for souvenirs and take time to pose for photos in front of the beautiful buildings.
Please note: on busy days, this tour may operate in reverse order and visit Bath first.
11h | from £95.00
See some of England's famous towns and castles on this full-day trip from London. Visiting Oxford, you'll enjoy a city walking tour and see the elegant university colleges. Take a private tour of Shakespeare’s Schoolroom in Stratford-upon-Avon, and explore medieval Warwick Castle with its waxwork displays from Madame Tussauds.After a pickup from Victoria Coach Station, travel by coach to Stratford-upon-Avon to visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare: one of the greatest writers in the English language. Take a private tour of Shakespeare's Schoolroom before it opens to the public, and enjoy a school lesson included with your tour. Then, enjoy some free time to explore the market town that’s home to the theaters of the famous Royal Shakespeare Company. A river winds its way through the town past Holy Trinity church, where Shakespeare is buried. There are half-wooden buildings which date back to Shakespeare's time, including the cottage of Anne Hathaway, who he married in 1582. After exploring, enjoy lunch in one of the town’s many cafes or restaurants (own expense).
Continue from Stratford-upon-Avon to Warwick, home to Warwick Castle. With a history dating back over 1,000 years, the castle will take you to an era of banquets, battles and royal splendor. After entering, your guide will leave you to explore independently. Listen to an introduction to the historical site from Warwick Castle’s history team, and then explore the site at leisure. See the waxwork displays from Madame Tussauds that are showcased at the castle, and see and hear of the Earl of Warwick's preparations for battle. Then, perhaps take a look at the ghostly dungeons where prisoners were tortured.
Then travel to Oxford, a city that boasts one of the world's greatest and oldest universities as well as some of the finest architecture in Europe. See it all on a walking tour, and learn all about the colleges themselves, with their ivy-clad stone walls that protect the beautiful chapels, halls and libraries.
Then, simply meet your guide back on board your coach to travel back to central London.
11h | from £95.00
Spend a day touring the highlights of Kent on this day trip from London. Enjoy an exclusive private viewing of beautiful Leeds Castle, visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canterbury Cathedral, see the White Cliffs of Dover, and then explore the historic London borough of Greenwich, all while enjoying informative commentary from an expert guide. End with a relaxing sunset cruise along the Thames River.Board a coach at the Victoria Coach Station and relax on the 1-hour drive south to Leeds Castle. Built in 1119 as a Norman stronghold, Leeds Castle is beautifully situated on an island in a lake.
Enjoy a private viewing of this famous castle before it opens to the public. Learn how the property has changed hands and transformed over the years, from a 13th-century royal palace for King Edward I to the residence of Henry VII’s first wife, Catherine of Aragon, in the 16th century all the way up to the last private owner, American heiress Lady Baillie, who is credited for the castle’s remarkable preservation and redecoration.
Following a guide, explore the galleries, bedrooms, chapel, banquet hall and courtyards. Then take time to explore the surrounding gardens, walk around the lake and find your way through the famous maze.
Re-board the coach for a coastal drive to the White Cliffs of Dover, a chalky cliff face that lines part of the English Channel. As you’ll learn, these cliffs are symbolic throughout Britain, as they were the entry point for past war invasions and formed the first sight of England for travelers coming from Continental Europe.
Drive up and over the cliffs to Canterbury. Here you’ll visit Canterbury Cathedral, one of the most important Christian churches in the world and today a UNESCO World Heritage site. Immortalized by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales, this striking Gothic church is nearly 1,700 years old!
After a guided tour of the cathedral, enjoy free time to explore the old town and have lunch at one of the many cafés or restaurants (own expense).
Continue your journey to the London borough of Greenwich, notable for its maritime history and as the birthplace of many English rulers from the House of Tudor. Take a walking tour to learn about Greenwich’s history, architecture, palaces and parks.
Arriving back in central London in the evening, hop on a boat and savor the views on a relaxing sunset cruise along the Thames River. Have your camera ready as you pass top London attractions including Tower Bridge and the Tower of London against the sparkling city skyline.
Arrive at Embankment Pier to conclude your trip.
Special Offer - Book November 17 and travel by March 31 and save 10% off our previously offered price! - Book Now!
5h 30m | from £71.00
Follow the footsteps of British royalty with a tour of Windsor Castle, just over an hour’s drive from London. Your half-day trip gives you an inside look at the many areas of Windsor Castle, home to Queen Elizabeth II, including St George’s Chapel and the sumptuous State Apartments. Finish back in London with a quintessential English lunch at the Tea Clipper in Knightsbridge.After pickup from a central London meeting point, you’ll be off to Windsor Castle, where more than 900 years of royal history awaits! From William the Conqueror all the way through to the current Queen, successive monarchs have lived here and left their mark on what is now one of the largest continuously occupied castles in the world. Tour Windsor Castle independently, taking time to see St George’s Chapel and the formal State Apartments in all their lavish glory.
Windsor itself is a pretty town full of traditional shops and historic pubs. It was in one of these pubs that Shakespeare was said to have written his play The Merry Widows of Windsor.
After spending your morning in Windsor, enjoy your journey back through the English countryside on a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. Your tour ends in Knightsbridge (central London), at the cozy Tea Clipper pub, situated right next to the famous department store Harrods, where you can enjoy a traditional fish and chips lunch.
Please note: Lunch may be taken at alternative venues in Central London
35m | from £10.00
Travel from Hampton Court Palace to Windsor Castle with ease and take in two top UK attractions in one day with this 1-way shared 35-minute shuttle service in London. The service runs seven days a week except December 24th, 25th, and 26th — when both Hampton Court Palace and Windsor Castle are closed.Following your Hampton Court Palace visit, hop aboard your shuttle service at 12:15pm or 1:45pm, and relax on your 35-minute journey along the Thames River to Windsor Castle.
Along the way, pass Victorian reservoirs constructed to supply water to London and see the riverside home of 18th-century actor, playwright, and theatrical producer David Garrick. As you approach Windsor, drive through Runnymede — where the Magna Carta was signed by King John in 1215.
Arrive into the center of Windsor, then head onward independently to visit Windsor Castle (own expense) — the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, and one of the official residences of the Queen.
10h | from £700.00
Your expert guide will take you to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and the City of Bath. You will enjoy free 4G WIFI to use all day inside the vehicle. You will be provided with free drinks and snacks to enjoy inside the vehicle. You will even get to stop at a secret place along the way to ensure you really do get that WOW factor! Your guide will know all the best places to stop and get that perfect photo and will even take them for you to make sure all of your group is in the photo together.The tour will start at 8.45am with collection from your accommodation. Your guide will tell you all about the history and legends of each site visited, they will entertain you as you drive around the country with stories and legends of UK history, life and culture.
You will visit Windsor Castle first, normally taking 2-hours. Please note the only place that your guide wont join you is inside Windsor Castle but don't worry your guide will tell you what you need to do and be waiting for you when you come out of the exit. The guide will also give you a fully guided walk around the Royal Town of Windsor again showing many of its famous buildings and landmarks and waterways. Then onto the prefect lunch stop normally with one hour to eat (own expense).
Then visit the wonderful Stonehenge and spend one and half hours at the site. The guide will fully walk you around the full site of Stonehenge including the visitor centre and the stone circle itself as well as the secret stop which is close by
With the final stop being the City of Bath which should take around two hours.The guide will then also fully walk you around the great City of Bath showing many of its amazing buildings and landmarks and waterways. Then of course travel back to London taking around two hours depending on the local traffic.
11h | from £102.00
Discover Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath on this day trip from London. Leave the city behind you and travel by air-conditioned coach to Windsor Castle, home of the British Royal Family for the last 900 years. Visit St George's Chapel and the State Apartments with your tour guide before traveling out to Salisbury, where the ancient rock formations of Stonehenge await. Continue on to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath, visit the Roman Baths and enjoy a panoramic tour with your guide before returning to London.Depart from London and travel out of the city in your air-conditioned coach toward the majestic Windsor Castle. Home of the British Royal Family for 900 years, Windsor is the world's largest and oldest occupied castle and widely considered one of England’s finest. Explore the lavishly-decorated State Apartments and St George's Chapel with your guide and hear of the castle’s fascinating history and heritage.
Continue on through the rolling green Wiltshire landscape to Stonehenge, a collection of stones dragged to this lonely plain near Salisbury 5,000 years ago. This ancient stone circle is still a place of strong spiritual significance, and continues to capture the imagination of the many visitors it welcomes each year. Why the stones were placed here and what purpose they served remains a mystery though, so wander around the site at your leisure and decide for yourself why these age-old rocks have found themselves here. Take a look around the visitors’ center and learn the history of this ancient, mysterious site.
Next, hop back in your coach and continue onward to Bath, famous for its elegant Georgian architecture and widely considered one of England’s prettiest cities. Follow your guide on a panoramic tour of Bath and be enchanted by the town's beautiful streets and alleyways, capturing the sites on camera as you go. You'll see Bath Abbey and the much-photographed Pulteney Bridge, modeled on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. During the tour, visit the city’s famous Roman Baths — the best preserved Roman spa from the ancient world.
At the end of your time in Bath, travel back to London’s Victoria Coach Station where your day trip concludes.
10h | from £90.00
Escape the hustle-bustle of London for a day and travel to the English countryside for a tour of Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and Dover. Enjoy a private viewing of beautiful Leeds Castle before the doors open to the public, get an exclusive tour inside UNESCO World Heritage–listed Canterbury Cathedral, and admire the symbolic White Cliffs of Dover. Listen to your guide's expert commentary throughout the day through your personal headphones.Board a coach in central London in the morning, pop in your state-of-the-art Vox headphones and relax on the drive out of the busy city and into the scenic English countryside. Enjoy clear, crisp commentary about the sights from your guide, piping straight into your personal earbuds, adjusting the volume to your preferences. On the way, you’ll drive through Greenwich, home of the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian, where the world’s time is set.
Arrive at Leeds Castle before the crowds arrive for a tour of the 12th-century castle and grounds. Leeds Castle is picture-perfect, set in a shimmering lake and surrounded by idyllic greenery that spans 500 acres (202 hectares). Inside, admire a superb collection of medieval furniture and tapestries and Impressionist art, and learn how the castle has traded hands over the centuries. Stop by the bird aviary and try your hand at the castle's popular maze formed by towering hedges.
Next, head to Canterbury Cathedral, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage–listed Gothic church built in the 11th century. Canterbury Cathedral is considered the birthplace of English Christianity, so it comes with some fascinating history. With your Vox headphones, your guide has the unique privilege of leading your large group into the quiet cathedral for a tour of the treasures that lie inside.
Re-board the coach for a drive through the Kent countryside, known as the Garden of England, with its quaint villages and pretty landscapes. Reach the coast to admire the White Cliffs of Dover — towering chalk-white cliffs overlooking the historic English Channel. Look up to see England's largest castle, Dover Castle, looming on the hilltop.
After a day full of sightseeing, arrive back in London in the evening.
10h | from £90.00
Visit Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon and medieval Warwick Castle on this action-packed, full-day trip from London. From the comfort of a first-class, luxury coach, make your way out of the capital to three of England’s most-visited places. Enjoy a walking tour of Oxford, home to one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Pass through the idyllic Cotswolds, a region officially designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Visit Stratford-upon-Avon, the charming birthplace of William Shakespeare. Then, travel back to the Middle Ages with a trip to magnificent Warwick Castle.Start your day meeting your professional guide at the prearranged meeting point in Victoria Coach Station to begin your tour. Hop aboard your first-class, luxury coach and relax as you travel northwest, away from the hustle and bustle of England’s capital.
Your first stop of the tour is Oxford. Known as the ‘City of Dreaming Spires,’ Oxford is home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world. On arrival, step out of your coach and enjoy a walking tour of the city center with your guide.
Plug into your state-of-the-art headset and listen to your guide talking clearly as you pass by the elegant, timeworn buildings and courtyard that have inspired generation of scholars, including Bill Clinton and his daughter Chelsea, Hugh Grant and Kate Beckinsale. See the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College, where Harry Potter scenes were filmed and where Albert Einstein studied.
Next, enjoy a brief stop for refreshments (own expense) before hopping back inside your coach and traveling through the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, an area steeped in gentle English beauty, history and heritage. Look out the window to admire the thatched-roof cottages and charming inns. On arrival in Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of the famous playwright William Shakespeare, visit Shakespeare's Tudor-era home, with its typical parlor, bedrooms, kitchen and buttery. After, enjoy some free time for lunch (own expense) at one of the many charming eateries.
Then it's a short journey to medieval Warwick Castle, whose magnificent towers and ramparts remain mostly intact. Travel back through 1,000 years of history as you cross the footbridge to a bygone world of banquets, battles and ceremony. Climb the winding staircase to the Princess Tower, or, if you're feeling brave, visit the spine-chilling dungeons where prisoners were tortured. You might wish to take a stroll through the castle's lovingly tended gardens, where archery, falconry and jousting take place in the summer months.
Your day trip then concludes back at Victoria Coach Station in the evening.
16h | from £175.00
See the best of the Scottish capital on this independent day trip from London to Edinburgh. Travel by train through England’s countryside and jump aboard your hop-on hop-off city tour in Edinburgh. Wander along the Royal Mile — a UNESCO World Heritage site — and marvel at the Scottish Crown Jewels inside Edinburgh Castle. Gaze up at the Scott Monument and visit the Scotch Whisky Heritage Center. With your rail travel, hop-on hop-off bus tour and entry to Edinburgh Castle all included, you’re free to explore Edinburgh at your leisure.Depart central London in the early morning and head north by train on your 4.5-hour journey to Edinburgh. Travel through England’s open countryside, skirt the canals and waterways of the Midlands and pass old mill towns built during the Industrial Revolution. Upgrade to first class train tickets if you wish, for wider seats, complimentary snacks, free Wi-Fi and quieter coaches.
On arrival in Edinburgh, head to the bus stop for the city’s open-top sightseeing service — it’s located right by the station and is easy to spot! Jump aboard for a bird's-eye view of Scotland’s majestic capital and enjoy the freedom to hop on and off as you please. Frequent departures throughout the day mean you have total flexibility to plan your day.
Perhaps alight at Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and stroll along the city’s famous Royal Mile, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The charming Royal Mile runs right through the Old Town, with cobbled alleyways leading down the hillside to the city center. St Giles’ Cathedral and the National Museum of Scotland are close by.
Cross the courtyard at the top of the Royal Mile and head through the grand entrance of Edinburgh Castle. There has been a castle on this site since the 12th century, and over the years it has been used as royal residence, prison and army garrison. Gaze out over the city from your vantage point on the castle ramparts, before heading inside to discover the dazzling Honours of Scotland, the country’s crown jewels. Wander through the Royal apartments where Mary, Queen of Scots gave birth to the boy who was to become King of Scotland.
You might decide to visit the Scotch Whisky Heritage Center to learn about the nation’s favourite tipple, or head down the hill to gaze up at the famous Scott Monument, decorated with 64 characters from Walter Scott's novels.
Jump back aboard the hop-on hop-off bus service to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where state ceremonies and official entertaining take place when the Queen is in Scotland, or stroll along Princes Street checking out the tartan, whisky and shortbread that have made Scotland famous.
Enjoy complete freedom to explore Edinburgh at your own pace, then travel back to London by train where your tour will come to an end.
Please note: This tour is unescorted.
9h 30m | from £58.00
Experience three of England’s trophy sights on this full-day trip to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Oxford from London. Travel by air-conditioned coach to Windsor to gaze at magnificent Windsor Castle and, if you wish, buy an entrance ticket from your guide to tour its awesome interior. Then, head for Stonehenge to marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage site, again choosing to explore independently or to buy an entrance ticket for an in-depth, audio-guided tour. Last but not least, admire the honey-stoned gems of beautiful Oxford on an included walking tour. Upgrade to include entrance fees, or enjoy the flexibility of deciding on the day which attractions you'd like to visit.Leave London on your air-conditioned coach and travel west to Windsor, the home of Windsor Castle, an official residence of Queen Elizabeth II. Extending over 13 acres (five hectares), this imposing castle houses lavish State Apartments, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House and magnificent St George’s Chapel, the burial place of King Henry VIII.
On arrival, show your pre-booked ticket or pay your entrance fee (depending on the option selected), and head inside to view the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel and other highlights, all brought to life by audio guide commentary. The display of British pageantry that is the Changing of the Guard takes place in the Castle precincts on an almost daily basis, so you may catch this colorful morning ceremony if your tour takes place on one of the days it occurs and if you have purchased an entrance ticket to the Castle.
Alternatively, use your time to explore the town of Windsor and stroll around its quaint streets. You may also see the New or Old Guard of soldiers marching to the Castle if your tour coincides with a Changing of the Guard ceremony. Usually accompanied by a military band, the Guards march through central Windsor in their bright red tunics and bearskin helmets, making an impressive sight.
After around two hours in Windsor, head for Stonehenge. This UNESCO-listed stone circle rears dramatically from Salisbury Plain and is cloaked in mystery. Perhaps purchase an entrance ticket from your guide and take an audio-guided tour that delves into the stones’ spiritual importance and their associations with figures such as King Arthur and Merlin. Or view Stonehenge independently from outside and ponder its mysteries yourself as you take photos of this incredible prehistoric monument.
Later, continue to Oxford. Home to Britain’s oldest university, the colleges of this honey-stoned town inspired scholars such as Lewis Carroll and J R R Tolkien. Take an included walking tour to admire Christchurch College, the Bodleian Library and Sheldonian Theatre as you listen to your guide’s crystal-clear commentary on your Vox headphones.
Afterward, return to London where your tour ends with a drop-off at Victoria coach station.
10h 30m | from £58.00
Travel to Warwick Castle, Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford and The Cotswolds. Our custom day trip guarantees unbeatable low prices, deluxe coaches, experienced guides and the flexibility to add walking tours or entrance tickets along the way. Explore each site independently or upgrade to include entrance fees, or enjoy the flexibility of deciding on the day which attractions you'd like to visit.Pop in your state-of-the-art Vox headphones as your tour starts and listen to your guide talking clearly about each site.
Warwick Castle
This morning's first stop is medieval Warwick Castle. Over 1,000 years old, marvel at its amazing towers. For those that dare, there's a visit to the dungeons where prisoners were tortured. Alternatively, stroll the castle's tended gardens. At Warwick choose to either:
- Enjoy a free guided walking tour of Warwick's town center where you can view well preserved famous old buildings.
- Tour the inside of Warwick Castle and learn more about the banquets, battles and ceremonies that took place here (cost Adult £25.80, Child £19.80, Seniors/Students £21.60).
Stratford-upon-Avon
Past the Warwickshire hills, you'll travel to William Shakespeare's birthplace; Stratford-upon-Avon. Here, you'll have the option to:
- Explore Stratford-upon-Avon, a market town located on the edge of the Forest of Arden and home to the world's greatest playwright.
- Visit William Shakespeare's Tudor-style half timbered home, carefully furnished to recreate the interiors of his childhood (cost Adult £15.90, Child £9.50, Seniors/Students £14.90).
Oxford
The colleges in Oxford date back to the 13th century and among its famous students were Bill Clinton and C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien and Lewis Carroll.
- Explore the cobbled streets of Oxford and see Bodleian Library and the picture-perfect college courtyards, for which Oxford is famous.
The Cotswolds
Admire the English countryside with its rolling hills. Thatched roof cottages and crooked houses of the Cotswold's are steeped in both history and heritage.
Entrance fees are not included, but can be purchased from your guide on tour.
10h 30m | from £58.00
Travel to Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral and White Cliffs of Dover. Our custom day trip guarantees unbeatable low prices, deluxe coaches, experienced guides and the flexibility to add walking tours or entrance tickets along the way. Upgrade to include entrance fees, or enjoy the flexibility of deciding on the day which attractions you'd like to visit.Pop in your state-of-the-art Vox headphones as your tour starts and listen to your guide talking clearly about each site.
Leeds Castle
Set within 500 acres of parkland, Leeds Castle is renowned for housing a superb collection of medieval tapestries and furnishings. During your visit choose to:
- Embark on a self-paced walk around the castle's fairytale surrounds. Set across two islands and surrounded by a tranquil lake, Leeds Castle stands picture-perfect and an inspiration to countless artists
- Beat the crowds and take an early morning tour within the castle walls. Guides will be on hand to point out key points of interest including the aviary of rare birds, the vineyard and the intriguing maze (cost Adult £24.50, Child £16.50, Senior/Student £21.50).
Canterbury Cathedral
Travel through Kent County to Canterbury, the birthplace of English Christianity and home to the Canterbury Cathedral. A stop for lunch is scheduled, after you opt to either:
- Loose yourself down a maze of cobbled streets on a guided walking tour through the medieval city of Canterbury
- Venture inside the magnificent Cathedral for a closer look at its Gothic-inspired architecture and learn why it is the most important church in the Anglican faith (cost Adult £12.00, Child £8.00, Senior/Student £10.50).
Purchase entrance to the Castle and Cathedral at the same time and save (Cost: Adult £ 32.00, Child £ 25.00, Seniors £ 31.00)
White Cliffs of Dover
Before returning back to London by coach transfer, witness the spectacular White Cliffs of Dover, standing 400 feet above sea level. Sprawled on top of the cliffs, you'll find 800 year old Dover Castle towering over the town below.
Upgrade to include entrance fees, or enjoy the flexibility of deciding on the day which attractions you'd like to visit.
10h | from £125.00
Enjoy exclusive access to the inner stone circle at Stonehenge on this day tour from London, and choose from a morning or afternoon departure. Most visitors to Stonehenge are not allowed to enter the inner circle — they have to simply admire the site from the outside — so this is a truly special tour. Combine this experience with visits to the historic town of Oxford and Windsor Castle — home to the Queen of England. All entrance fees are included.Stonehenge
Enjoy an unforgettable start or end to your day in London with an exclusive trip to Stonehenge – that most mysterious of ancient sites. Choose from two tour times to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What makes this tour so incredible is the access you’ll receive to Stonehenge’s inner stone circle, which is normally restricted to visitors. This day tour ensures a unique viewing up close to the magnificent monument. Your guide will give you a full brief on the many mysteries that surround Stonehenge as you take in the atmospheric landscape.
This day trip from London also includes visits to Oxford and Windsor Castle.
Oxford
Soak up the local culture on a walking tour around the historic town of Oxford, and see the Oxford Colleges, where notable figures like Bill Clinton, J.R.R. Tolkien, and C.S. Lewis received an education. Also check out the Old Bodleian library, a working research library that dates back to the year 1602.
Windsor Castle
Your day tour will continue to Windsor Castle, home of the Queen of England. This majestic castle is the scene of 900 years of British history, and generations of the British Royal Family have conducted their business here. See the formal State Apartments in all their lavish glory, as well as St George’s chapel — home to the Order of the Royal Garter, made up of 25 knights of the British Empire.
10h | from £95.00
Visit the royal castle in Windsor, unearth Neolithic secrets at Stonehenge and explore the timeworn city of Oxford all in one day. With a professional guide, set off from central London by coach to visit three of England’s most famous sights outside of the capital. Make use of your included entrance tickets to enjoy audio tours of Windsor Castle and the UNESCO–listed Stonehenge. Then finish your day trip with a walking tour of Oxford’s honey-stoned university buildings.Start your day trip at Victoria Coach Station to meet your guide and board the coach to Windsor Castle.
When you pull up outside the castle, an official residence of Queen Elizabeth II, head inside with your included ticket and audio guide to explore highlights like the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel. Depending on timing, you might also be able to watch the guards, dressed in cherry red tunics and bearskins, performing the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony.
After roughly two hours, continue to Stonehenge, the mysterious, UNESCO World Heritage-listed stone circle set on the Salisbury Plain. During the audio tour, hear the theories behind the creation of this prehistoric site, as well as its association with Merlin and King Arthur.
Next, head for the honey-hued city of Oxford, home to Britain’s oldest and perhaps most prestigious university. Plug into your provided headset and follow in the footsteps of luminaries like J.R.R. Tolkien with a guided tour of the university’s famous buildings, including Christchurch College and the Bodleian Library.
When the time comes, journey back to London by coach, where your day trip ends at Victoria Coach Station.
6h 30m | from £35.00
Travel with ease from central London to the town of Windsor, home to Her Majesty the Queen. Sit back for a relaxing, air-conditioned coach ride to the historical town, which you’re then free to explore as you like. Upgrade your ticket to include entry to Windsor Castle — including a self-guided audio tour.
Head to Victoria Coach Station in central London, where you'll board a climate-controlled coach destined for Windsor. Once onboard, sit back and enjoy the views as you ride to the historical market town.
On arrival in Windsor, you'll have roughly four hours to explore. Take in the local sights at your leisure, or upgrade your ticket beforehand to include an entrance ticket to Windsor Castle, the Official Residence of Her Majesty The Queen.
Embark on a self-guided audio tour of the castle and its property, taking in the State Apartments, the 14th-century St. Georges Chapel, and several other architectural highlights.
When it’s time to go, return to your pre-designated location and board your bus for the return trip to London.
9h | from £1174.00
Take a walking tour of Oxford and drive through the Cotswolds. Explore Shakespeare’s birthplace and enjoy some time to explore Stratford-Upon-Avon. Have an extended visit of Warwick Castle and savor a traditional lunch (own expense).Oxford is famous for being home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world – countless bright young things have wandered the town’s cobbled streets over the years! During your guided walking tour you will see the stunning Bodleian Library and furtively discover unspoilt narrow alleyways, ancient squares and towering spires.
Enjoy views of the breathtaking countryside, sleepy villages, and bustling market towns as you drive through the charming scenery of one of England's most beautiful regions- The Cotswolds.
A unique market town, Stratford–upon–Avon is the famous home of William Shakespeare, arguably the world's greatest writer. Visit the picturesque half–timber house where the legendary bard was born, and gain fascinating insights into his childhood.
Be part of Britain’s greatest medieval experience! Deep in the heart of Warwick Castle, the Great Hall is a hive of activity! Immerse yourself in battle preparations and feel the weight of a medieval sword. Become a soldier – try on a battle helmet for size! Visit the spectacular State Rooms and feast your eyes on Victorian party preparations.
(no rating)10h | from £65.00
Escape the hustle and bustle of London and explore the highlights of South West England. Step back in time with your guide as you wander historic Canterbury. With your small group (no larger than 16 people), you'll see parts of the famous cathedral dating back to the 6th century. Over lunchtime you can enjoy stunning views from the White Cliffs of Dover or enjoy one of other attractions Dover has to offer. Your day concludes at the enchanting Leeds Castle; perched on two islands in a lake.
This is the perfect day away from London to Canterbury, Dover and Leeds Castle. Your incredible driver-guides will make history come alive through the day whilst on our luxury mini-bus and as you tour Canterbury by foot on an optional complimentary walking tour!
The day begins as you leave London and journey towards Canterbury, home of Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. Enjoy your guide's storytelling as you make your way to the world-famous cathedral city. The cathedral dates back to 597AD, and you can’t help but be taken back in time in this city steeped in history, with Roman and Norman ruins and streets dotted with pretty timber-framed 16th and 17th-century houses.
The route continues to the closest point to France on mainland Britain, Dover. Here you can walk along the iconic White Cliffs. With spectacular coastal views, this is a must-do to truly experience the incredible English landscape.
The final stop is Leeds Castle and Gardens, where you’ll be able to step straight off the bus and start exploring! A castle has stood on this breathtaking spot, built upon two islands in a lake, since 1119. Your guide will share the castle's incredible history, it has notably been a Norman stronghold, the private property of six of England’s medieval queens and a palace used by Henry VIII. Now it is one of the most visited properties in Britain.
This incredible day tour offers the perfect mix of history and scenery for a day away from London, and you'll arrive back around 6:30pm.
7h | from £120.00
Explore the Grantham Family home, Highclere Castle in this 7-hour guided tour on a luxury coach, before having lunch in Downton Village and continuing to Bampton. Admission tickets are included. Following a pick up from a meeting point in central London by the beautiful Thames, and taken on an entertainment filled trip through stunning Oxfordshire. The maximum tour group size is 23.Begin your Abbey adventure in London and take a luxury coach to the beautiful and quaint Oxfordshire Cotswolds, to see key filming sites of Downton Abbey.
You'll of course be visiting the Grantham Family home, Highclere Castle. You'll have ample time to venture around the grounds and the castle too and enjoy free time for those that wish to experience the Egyptology exhibit too:
- Pick up at 9am by the thames in a luxury 24 seater coach
- Short trip to Highclere castle, with quizzes as you go, and Downton Abbey Bloopers on the coach TV
- Explore the grounds and castle of Highclere at 10:30am
- 12:30pm pick up from Highclere castles and short trip to Bampton
- 1:15pm tour through Bampton village, the home of "Downton Village"
- 1:45pm lunch at a stunning old world British pub, hot meal included in the price
- 2:15pm you're given time to explore the village and get some great photo opportunities
- 3:45pm Pick up from Bampton village for a further quiz and games on the coach
- 5:30pm arrive back at Victoria Embankment.
(no rating)8h | from £133.00
Discover ‘Downton Abbey’ filming sites on a tour by an iconic form of London transport: a black cab. As a private guide drives, learn about the lives of the fictional Crawley family from the hit TV series, and hear about Britain’s present-day aristocracy, too. The must-do tour is available with a choice of three itineraries, each inspired by the program. Visit the Downton village of Bampton; check out Downton Place, aka Greys Court; or tour Highclere Castle, the home of 'Downton Abbey.' The black cabs seat a maximum of five people.
Start your day with a pickup from your London hotel, and travel west out of the city by traditional London black cab. Your private guide for the day is your driver, so chat away as you travel and hear fun facts about the hit Downton Abbey TV series.
After roughly an hour on the road, arrive in rural Oxfordshire. What happens next depends on the option you have booked. Read on for the sample itineraries. Lunch and entrance fees are at your own expense, and all tours finish with a hotel drop-off.
Downton Village Tour:Start with a tour of Bampton, the leafy Oxfordshire dwelling that starred as Downton village. Discover familiar sites such as Downton hospital, the village pub, the local church and even the home of suave Matthew Crawley. Continue through the heart of the Cotswolds to see more of the quintessential villages that typify the area, and enjoy lunch at the pub where Lady Sybil elopes with her chauffeur Branson in the second series. Feeling sated, visit the building that was turned into the pub where John Bates worked when he left the Downton estate.
Downton Place and London Tour:In the third series, the Crawley family downsized to their second home of Downton Place; although in real life, this stately Tudor mansion is better known as Greys Court. On a tour, admire the building’s fine architecture and stylish vintage decor, and learn about the Downton scenes that were filmed at the site. Enjoy a light lunch at Greys Court, and then visit the nearby house that was used by the Dowager Countess. Tour the house, meet the resident pigs in the garden, and finish with afternoon tea: sandwiches plus scones with clotted cream and preserves (own expense).
Return to London in the late afternoon for a tour of the capital to see how the “landed gentry” — or, the English elite — still live today. The drive-by tour takes the theme of Upstairs, Downstairs, another popular British period drama that illustrates the different lives of those who can afford luxuries and those who can’t.
Highclere Castle, Downton Village and London Tour:Take a Downton Abbey tour of Highclere Castle, the setting of the abbey itself, and hear about Lord Grantham who manages the estate in the TV series. See the upstairs area of the abbey where the aristocratic Crawley family spent their time, before a trip downstairs to learn about the lives of servants who once served wealthy families such as the Crawleys. Your Highclere Castle tour finishes with a stroll around the gardens.
Take a break for lunch in the grounds, or perhaps visit an old English inn, nearby. Then, travel to Bampton for a tour of Downton village. In the late afternoon, return to London for the drive-by Upstairs, Downstairs tour. Both afternoon tours are as described above.
8h | from £650.00
Discover Highclere Castle, Downton village and the haunts of the modern-day elite on this private ‘Downton Abbey’ filming locations tour from London. Traveling comfortably in an iconic black cab, visit sites featured in the hit British TV drama with your very own guide. Explore the state rooms and grounds of Highclere Castle, the real-life Downton Abbey, and travel to the Cotswold village of Bampton, the setting of Downton village. End the day with a driving tour of London’s most exclusive spots, where the landed gentry of today can be found.
Start your day with a hotel pickup by black cab, and meet your professional driver who doubles up as your personal guide. Then, sink into one of the cab’s comfortable seats, and listen to tales and trivia about the popular Downton Abbey TV series and life in post-Edwardian England as you travel out of London.
Stop first at Highclere Castle, arguably the most famous Downton filming location. Pose for photos by the country estate’s distinctive Jacobethan façade and then head inside. After paying your entrance fee, wander around the lavish state rooms with your guide and hear insider gossip about characters such as the Dowager Countess of Grantham and Lady Mary.
After touring the house, head outside to explore the grounds. Stroll through Monk’s Garden, the Wood of Goodwill and the Secret Garden, and ask your guide any questions you have about Highclere Castle and the 1,000-year-old estate’s role as the Grantham’s family home.
Next, return to your cab and travel to the Cotswolds, a region characterized by postcard-perfect parishes comprised of thatched cottages, honey-hued mansions and historical churches. Stop in Bampton, the setting of Downton village, and see sights like Downton hospital, the Crawley family home and St Mary’s Church. Then, visit a 300-year-old pub for traditional ‘pub grub’ (hearty British food) such as fish and chips or sausages and mash (own expense).
When the time comes, begin the return journey to London. Before your tour concludes with a hotel drop-off, enjoy a drive around the city to see the establishments visited by the landed gentry of today.
11h | from £90.00
A fun-filled, fully guided coach tour, see the best that England has to offer, all in one day. Traveling on a luxury air-conditioned coach, drive through the picturesque Cotswolds before visiting the actual birthplace of William Shakespeare and exploring the historical market town of Stratford-Upon-Avon. Enjoy historical grandeur with entry to Warwick Castle, an incredibly interactive medieval experience. Finish with a guided tour of the beautiful city of Oxford and a visit to the fairytale Brasenose College.Walking tour of Oxford, follow the footsteps of Oxford's most revered students, from C.S. Lewis to Bill Clinton, as you wander the fairytale cobbled lanes and courtyards of this legendary University City. See the breathtaking ‘dreaming spires', the unspoilt narrow alleys, the Bodleian Library and the ancient squares of this beautiful town.
Entry to Brasenose College. Named after its bronze door knocker. The lawyer, Sir Richard Sutton and William Smyth, Bishop of Lincoln founded Brasenose College in 1509. It boasts fairytale architecture and a rolling green lawn. Past students include David Cameron, current Prime Minister and the writer William Golding.
The Cotswolds, experience breathtaking countryside views of sleepy market towns and villages during a gentle drive through one of England's most picturesque regions.
Shakespeare’s Birthplace at Stratford–Upon–Avon. Stratford–upon–Avon was the home of the world's most famous and revered writer, William Shakespeare. Visit the quaint half–timbered house where the Bard was born and get fascinating insights into his childhood.
Lunch packs will be included.
Warwick Castle, visit the excellent medieval hive that is Warwick Castle. Enter the Great Hall and immerse yourself in battle preparations. Feel the weight of a medieval sword, become a soldier, try a battle helmet on for size and visit the State Rooms to feast your eyes on Victorian party preparations.
Estimated arrival time back in London is around 7pm.
11h | from £92.00
A fun-filled day of British history, scenery and aquatic adventure, take this luxury coach trip to Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover and Greenwich. Begin with a private guided tour of Leeds Castle, once home to Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon, before visiting the city of Canterbury where you’ll see the oldest cathedral in England. Afterwards, head to the coastline to the famous White Cliffs of Dover before traveling back to London’s Greenwich, a place filled with maritime history. Finish with a sightseeing boat ride on the River Thames.Leeds Castle sits deep in the heart of the magnificent Kent countryside amid 500 acres of landscaped parkland. The early arrival promises an almost private visit to the Castle, where Henry VIII retreated to escape the plague that raged in London during his reign. As the ultimate Tudor treat, upon arrival at Leeds Castle you will be greeted by an expert guide. Learn about the history of this magical castle and sample a glass of mead as Henry VIII would have had! (During the summer, Mead is unavailable on Saturdays).
Visit Canterbury Cathedral, the home to 104 Archbishops since Augustine, Canterbury is a magnificent medieval city with a wealth of history. Discover the spot where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in 1170. Learn the intriguing history behind this masterpiece of medieval architecture and appreciate the spectacular stained glass windows, many of which have survived from the 12th and 13th centuries.
Lunch packs will be included.
The White Cliffs of Dover, admire the famous White Cliffs of Dover, with a photo opportunity on the stunning stretch of coastline that faces continental Europe. You'll also get the chance to see Dover Castle, an impressive medieval fortress rising over the English Channel.
Greenwich, set right beside the River Thames, Greenwich is bustling with fine maritime landmarks. See the Royal Observatory and world–famous Cutty Sark, a fascinating 19th–century ship as well as the Old Royal Naval College designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
River Thames boat ride, get a fresh perspective on the city sights with a boat ride on the River Thames from Greenwich to Embankment Pier. Pass Tower Bridge and stunning St. Paul’s Cathedral along the route. Estimated arrival time to Embankment Pier, is around 6.30pm where the tour finishes.
11h | from £104.00
Thousands of years of British history is waiting to be discovered on this 11-hour tour from London to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and the city of Bath, three of the top attractions outside the city. At Windsor Castle, the queen's weekend residence, you can explore the State Apartments before continuing to the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge. Finish up with a visit to the Roman Baths. Lunch is included.After pickup from central London by coach, your day tour begins at Windsor Castle. Queen Elizabeth II is said to spend many of her weekends here, a royal home for more than 900 years.
With your entry, you can walk through the State Apartments to see lavish decor and valuable artworks, such as paintings by Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci. Step inside St George’s Chapel, located on the sprawling grounds, where notorious King Henry VIII and his favorite wife, Jane Seymour, are buried, as are Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
Next, head to the ancient site of Stonehenge, a towering enigma that has stood on Salisbury Plain for more than 5,000 years. See the UNESCO World Heritage site from every angle as you walk around it.
Then continue to the city of Bath, another World Heritage site, known for its Georgian architecture and Roman Baths. You can explore the cobbled streets and check out sights such as the 15th-century Bath Abbey and the Pulteney Bridge. Then head to the Roman Baths, a bathing complex in the center of the city that was used by Romans who wanted to relax in the steaming water, which originated from hot springs. Learn about the lives of the Romans as you walk through the site, exploring the four sections: the Sacred Spring, Roman Temple, Roman Bath House, and artifacts from the baths.
Your day trip ends with return to London for drop-off in Kensington or Victoria.
5h | from £47.00
Explore Windsor Castle independently on a day trip from London, and hear its incredible history from an audio guide! While walking around at your own pace, visit rooms like the State Apartments and see Queen Mary’s Dolls House. Learn about King Henry VIII, who once lived in the castle, and see his final resting place inside St George’s Chapel before returning to London.Board your luxury coach in Victoria, central London, and travel west out of the capital to Windsor – a well-heeled little town that’s best known as the home of Windsor Castle – the official residence of the Queen. Blanketing an area of 13 acres (5 hectares), the castle grounds cover an impressive list of sights to see, like St George’s Chapel, Queen Mary’s Doll House and the plush State Apartments.
Head inside with your entrance ticket and explore at your own pace, learning about the castle’s history that steeped into its stones. Pick up an audio guide, and listen to entertaining commentary as you amble around; learn about Sir Edwin Lutyets, the British architect who created Queen Mary’s Dolls House for the young monarch in the early 1920s, and hear about the different monarchs who furnished the impressive State Apartments according to their tastes.
Admire priceless work of art by the likes of Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt, and explore St George’s Chapel to discover the final resting place of various monarchs including King Henry VIII – one of the more flamboyant characters that have lived in the castle.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily, so you can try to catch it while exploring the town. Usually accompanied by a military band, soldiers march up the high street to Windsor Castle in colorful red tunics and bearskin hats, representing the pomp and ceremony (some say eccentricity of the British Royal Family.
Meet your guide at the pre-arranged time and travel back to London in the comfort of your luxury coach. Your day trip finishes in the neighborhood of Kensington, central London, in the early evening.
10h | from £159.00
Explore Highclere Castle, the Cotswolds village of Bampton and other sites made famous by the hit British TV series 'Downton Abbey' on this full-day tour from London. With an expert guide, travel to Oxfordshire where much of the show was filmed. Visit Cogges Manor Farm and Bampton, the setting of Downton village. Get up close to the Grantham Arms pub and the church where Lady Mary and Matthew Crawley were wed. Then, tour the state rooms and gardens at Highclere Castle, the grand country estate otherwise known as the Grantham family home.Make your own way to Great Portland Street in central London to meet your expert guide. Then, hop inside your comfortable, air-conditioned coach and relax on the journey to Oxfordshire. As you travel, listen to your guide share entertaining tales and trivia about the British period drama TV series, Downton Abbey.
Filmed mostly in and around Oxfordshire, the hit show follows the lives, dramas and scandals of the fictional Crawley family and their servants in the days before, during and after World War I. Hear insider gossip about characters such as Lady Edith and Dowager Countess of Grantham, and uncover little-known facts about the filming locations visited on your tour.
Your first stop is at Cogges Manor Farm. Sip on a hot drink (own expense) in its rustic cafe before discovering a few of the farm’s shooting locations.
Next, head to the Cotswold village of Bampton, a quintessentially English village that featured as Downton village. On a walking tour, see the church where Lady Mary married Matthew Crawley, and the house that was once used as the Crawley family home. Then, stroll along the main street, passing sights such as the fictional Grantham Arms pub.
Continue on to Highclere Castle, one of the most famous Downton filming locations. With your guide leading the way, explore the grand estate that surrounds the castle including Monk’s Garden, White Border, Secret Garden and the Wood of Goodwill, and learn about Highclere Castle’s role as the Grantham family home.
After free time for lunch or a snack in the on-site tea rooms (own expense), make your way into the castle to explore its lavish state rooms with your guide. Follow in the footsteps of the likes of Lady Sybil and Tom Branson as you wander through the dining, smoking and music rooms, and learn all about the Carnarvons, the real-life family who have owned Highclere Castle since the late 17th century.
See other impressive filming sites, such as the Red Stairs, saloon, gallery and bedrooms, then return to your coach and relax on the journey back to London.
Your day trip then concludes with a drop-off at the original start point.
11h | from £189.00
Visit Highclere Castle, the Cotswolds village of Bampton and other sites on a full-day 'Downton Abbey' tour from London! After traveling to Oxfordshire with an expert guide, knowledgeable about the hit British TV series, visit a farm near the village of Cogges, and then continue to Bampton — the setting of Downton village. See the church and the popular Grantham Arms pub, and then spend the afternoon at Highclere Castle aka the Grantham family home. Tour the state rooms and gardens and learn all about the real-life Carnarvon family who own the estate.
Numbers are limited to 18 on this small-group tour, ensuring personalized attention from a guide.Leave London’s Marble Arch by air-conditioned minivan, and travel west to the rolling limestone hills of Oxfordshire. On the journey, your guide will keep you entertained with tales and trivia about the Downton Abbey TV series that has a fan base spread all over the world.
Filmed mostly in and around Oxfordshire, the British period drama of Downton Abbey documents the dramas and scandals of the fictional Crawley family and their servants in the days leading up to and after the First World War. Hear insider gossip about characters such as Lady Mary, and discover little-known facts about the shooting locations included on your tour. Stop at a farm nestled in the hills near Cogges and enjoy a hot drink (own expense) in the farm’s rustic cafe before discovering a few of the farm’s filming locations.
Continue to Bampton in the Cotswolds, a quintessentially English village that was used extensively as Downton village throughout the entire series. On a walking tour, see the village church — the site of Lady Mary’s wedding to Matthew Crawley — and the house that was once used as the Crawley family home. Stroll along the main street, seeing shops used for filming as well as sights such as the fictional Grantham Arms pub.
Travel onward to continue to Highclere Castle, one of the best-known Downton filming locations, to explore with your guide. Walk around the lavish estate that surrounds the castle, comprising Monk’s Garden, White Border, Secret Garden and the Wood of Goodwill, and hear all about Highclere Castle’s role as the Grantham family home.
Enjoy free time for lunch or a snack in the onsite tea rooms that serves food from the castle’s kitchens, and then step inside Highclere Castle to explore each of its state rooms. See the dining, music and smoking rooms that the likes of Lady Sybil graced with their presence, and learn all about the real-life family who have owned Highclere Castle since the late 17th century: the Carnarvons.
After exploring further areas of the impressive filming site such as the Red Stairs, saloon, gallery and bedrooms, return to your minivan with your guide. Relax on the journey back to London, and then finish your day trip with a drop-off at the Victoria Train Station.
12h | from £139.00
Discover the oh-so-English delights of Kent on this exciting tour from London, and visit Canterbury, the White Cliffs of Dover and Leeds Castle in one day! With transport by luxury coach included, your tour combines the beautiful scenery of Kent’s countryside with top historical sites. Explore Canterbury Cathedral with your guide (own expense), stop for photos by the White Cliffs of Dover and tour Leeds Castle – often described as the loveliest castle in the world!
Numbers are limited to 16 on this small-group tour, ensuring you'll see these top Kent site with personalized attention from your guide.Set off from Marble Arch in central London by luxury coach, and head southeast into Kent, the county affectionately known as the Garden of England for its quintessential English countryside.
First stop is Canterbury Cathedral -- one of England’s oldest Christian buildings and much-cherished monuments. After entering at your own expense, head inside for a tour and absorb the atmosphere of this beautiful cathedral, where history seems to leap from every corner. Admire its intricate stained-glass windows, see the burial place of King Henry IV and learn of the cathedral’s darker history as the site where the Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in the 12th century.
After enjoying some time at leisure to look around the town and have lunch, hop back on board your coach and travel the short distance to the south coast to see the White Cliffs of Dover. Stop to stretch your legs outside magnificent Dover Castle and get your first glimpse of England’s famous white chalk cliffs! On a photo stop here, your guide will tell tales of invasions – some successful, some not – while you marvel at the country’s natural moat.
Head back inland, passing though some of Kent’s finest leafy lanes, towards Leeds Castle, where you’ll spend the rest of your afternoon. Tour the pristine 12th-century castle with your guide, seeing highlights like the Banqueting Hall and Library, and try not to lose your way on a walk through the garden’s maze! Look inside the ground’s quirky Dog’s Collar Museum to see an eccentric collection of dog collars showcasing 17th-century canine couture, and then board your coach for your journey back to London.
6h | from £72.00
Leave your London hotel or Heathrow Airport and travel to Dover Port for your cruise departure, stopping to visit Dover Castle on the way! This magnificent medieval castle -- perched just above the iconic White Cliffs of Dover -- is only a short distance from the port, making it an ideal stop before your cruise. Explore the castle independently, seeing highlights like the Great Tower, Secret Wartime Tunnels and more!Leave your central London hotel or Heathrow Airport by luxury coach and relax on the journey south, passing through London’s busy urban streets and into the tranquil Kent countryside – an area known as the Garden of England. While traveling, your host will talk to you about your destination -- beautiful Dover Castle! Built in the 12th century, the castle was known as the ‘lock and key to England’ due to its strategic location, wedged in the countryside between the capital and the coast.
After traveling for roughly two hours, arrive at Dover Castle and spend roughly about two hours exploring this incredible site independently (own expense). Highlights include the opulently furnished Great Tower, where members of King Henry VII’s royal court would meet, and the Secret Wartime Tunnels that were used in wars dating back to Napoleonic times. Perhaps soak up Dover Castle’s medieval grandeur on a walk around its immaculately kept gardens, or simply relax at the on-site café before returning to your coach.
Having explored Dover Castle independently, continue to Dover Port. Your host will drop you off outside the Dover cruise terminal in time for your cruise.
Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely arrival to Dover Port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. See our terms and conditions for full details.
8h | from £97.00
Make the most of your journey to London after your cruise ends at the port of Dover. This convenient post-cruise transfer to your central London or Heathrow hotel by executive coach is an ideal way to explore two of England’s must-see destinations. The trip includes a 2-hour stop in historic Canterbury and a 3-hour guided tour at the amazing Leeds Castle!After you are greeted upon arrival at the Dover cruise port by your friendly guide, relax aboard an executive coach. You’ll drive above the famous White Cliffs and head into the county of Kent, an agricultural area that feeds London from its orchards, hop fields and vineyards. Enjoy the lovely views as you make the short, 45-minute journey to Canterbury, the seat of English Christianity since 597 AD.
See Canterbury with your guide, listening to stories about the history of the town and cathedral. You’ll hear medieval tales from Canterbury writers, Geoffrey Chaucer and Christopher Marlowe, as well as stories of the Reformation and the Blitz. Then, enjoy some free time exploring the town on your own and visiting Canterbury Cathedral if you wish (own expense)
After two hours in Canterbury, travel over the Weald of Kent – a high ridge – and head down to Leeds Castle, famously referred to as 'the loveliest castle in the world.’ Founded in the 9th century, it is best known as a palace for numerous queens of England. Along the way, hear fascinating commentary from your guide about the monarchs and the fate that befell them!
Spend three hours at the beautiful castle, set on two islands on a lake, and explore its remarkable interior as well as the grounds and gardens with your guide. Admire rooms such as the library and banquet hall, and be amazed by the one-of-a-kind museum of ornate dog collars! Outdoors, walk through the complicated maze and enjoy the grotto and water features. If you wish, dine on a leisurely lunch in one of the cafés or restaurants overlooking the grounds (own expense).
Then, board the coach and travel about an hour to London, heading into the city via Greenwich and the River Thames. Your guide will point out the Royal Naval College, the Queen's House, the historic Cutty Sark – a clipper ship – and the Royal Observatory as you cross the dateline and move officially from east to west.
Finally, pass over Tower Bridge into central London before drop-off at your chosen hotel, or stay aboard the coach for drop-off at Heathrow hotels.
Worry-free Shore Excursion:If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.
9h | from £138.00
Capital of the United Kingdom, home to the royal family, a cosmopolitan city at the crossroads of history, London has much to offer to both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors. But seeing the best of what this bustling 13-million person metropolis has to offer doesn’t have to usurp your entire vacation. This tour is a quick-yet-comprehensive strolling tour of the township’s top sites, followed by a jaunt to the quaint English countryside to see where the most famous Londoners - the Royal Family - escape to!
Begin your day at the famed and somewhat infamous Tower - former prison and execution site of three Queens of England. This early morning visit means you will be among the first to enter the Jewel House and view the spectacular crown jewels, which have been held here and locked up for safekeeping every night for the last 600 years. These are the official regalia and vestments used by the Sovereign of the United Kingdom during the coronation ceremony and other noble appearances. This priceless collection includes magnificent orbs, swords, rings, and of course, crowns and sceptres. During your visit you will also be able to see the famous white tower, where it is said that the ‘Princes in the Tower’ were held and supposedly murdered by their Uncle Richard III to usurp the throne from their father, King Edward IV.
Then it’s time to step aboard a relaxing river shuttle as the tour heads up the Thames. Enjoy the sights as your guide points out major landmarks as you coast by. Arrive at the embankment and follow your guide on a short stroll to see the changing of the guards. This world-famous ceremony takes place either at Buckingham Palace or at Horse Guards Parade, depending on the day. Your guide will make sure you are in a prime position to enjoy the best views at this crowded event. End your tour at Buckingham Palace and see the famous balcony where the royal family appears during major events.
After your free time - Meet your guide at a central London station and with your pre-booked tickets handed to you, you can leisurely board your train to the quaint village of Windsor. On arrival at Windsor, feeling relaxed and refreshed, you will be eager to explore this authentically English town with your enthusiastic guide.
More tales of the luminaries of British life await as your guide show you Eton, home of the most famous school in England, Eton College. This charming town was the playground of some of the most recognisable figures in British history as young boarders at Eton – Prime Ministers, writers George Orwell and Ian Fleming, and of course, Princes William and Harry. Your guide will educate you on what life is like for these schoolboys.
Having seen the town, it’s now time to visit the home of their grandmother – Windsor Castle. This is the longest occupied palace in Europe, having housed all British monarchs since Henry I, and is favoured by Queen Elizabeth II as her weekend retreat. A treasure trove of royal history, the splendour of this palace will reveal itself to you as you are expertly steered through its rooms by your audio guide. Admire the intricate Gothic architecture of St. George’s Chapel, final resting place of monarchs including King Henry VIII. At the turn of every palatial corridor, another royal jewel lays waiting to be unearthed by you.
4h | from £80.00
Spend 4 hours walking in the footsteps of royalty on this fully-escorted half-day trip from London. Explore Windsor castle and discover the magnificence of Her Majesty's home at your own pace, complete with ornate State Rooms, historic St. George's Chapel, and delicate Doll's House of Queen Mary all included in your comprehensive visit. Ensure personal service with a small-group tour of 15 people or fewer. Learn about the Windsor Castle with your audio guide and avoid ticket hassles with included round-trip train tickets.
Meet your guide at a central London station at 1:30pm and board the train to the quaint village of Windsor with pre-booked tickets. Relax as the scenic English countryside drifts by and you listen to your guide's entertaining introduction to Windsor and its proud royal history. On arrival at Windsor, you will explore this authentically English town with your enthusiastic guide. Meander through cobbled lanes bordered by black and white Tudor edifices and peek through traditional blown-glass windows as your guide offers fascinating insight into life alongside the British Royal Family. They are not the only beloved English figures to have an association with this picturesque town, however – Shakespeare walked these very streets and used them as the setting for his play The Merry Wives of Windsor.
More tales of the luminaries of British life await as your guide show you Eton, home of the most famous school in England, Eton College. This charming town was the playground of some of the most recognizable figures in British history as young boarders at Eton – Prime Ministers, writers George Orwell and Ian Fleming, and of course, Princes William and Harry. Your guide will educate you on what life is like for these schoolboys, as well as enlightening you about some of their more eccentric traditions still in use today.
Having seen the town where the young princes lived, it’s now time to visit the home of their grandmother – Windsor Castle. This is the longest occupied palace in Europe, having housed all British monarchs since Henry I, and is favored by Queen Elizabeth II as her weekend retreat. A treasure trove of royal history, the splendor of this palace will reveal itself to you as you are expertly steered through its rooms by your audio guide. Explore the ornate State Apartments where visiting dignitaries are hosted among artworks by Rembrandt and Rubens. Delight in Queen Mary’s Doll's House, a perfect miniature of an aristocratic home lavishly furnished with the finest of tiny handmade artifacts. Admire the intricate Gothic architecture of St. George’s Chapel, final resting place of monarchs including King Henry VIII. At the turn of every palatial corridor, another royal jewel lays waiting to be unearthed by you. During your tour of Windsor Castle, you will be accompanied by an audio guide to ensure that you don't miss a detail.
Your tour will conclude after your visit to Windsor Castle around 5:45pm and you will be free to revisit places of interest or explore even further before returning to London at your leisure using your flexible train tickets.
4h | from £225.00
Enjoy a private, customised tour of Windsor Castle, both inside and out. You’ll visit St. George's Chapel with your guide and see the famous Red Coats on guard. Take a walk around Windsor Old Town and the park and enjoy drinks and a snack.You’ll be met at your hotel or other agreed meeting point and enjoy a drive by private car to Windsor, a location that has been linked to British monarchy for more than 900 years. It is also the weekend home of the Queen, who very much enjoys spending time at Windsor Castle.
On this half-day tour you’ll visit the sumptuously decorated castle and hear about its history. The royal residence houses more fine art, gold, and furnishings than is imaginable. Inside the walls you’ll also find the chapel where a number of kings and queens have been buried.
You’ll take a walk around the castle walls, see the soldiers on guard, and maybe even a royal if you’re lucky!
Following the Castle visit, you’ll take a walk around Windsor Old Town, visit the famous park, and see the Crooked House, perhaps stopping for tea, or maybe a beer at a 500-year-old pub.
The tour is leisurely paced and unhurried and included entrance tickets to Windsor Castle and Official Audio Guide for the Castle interior.
(no rating)1 day | from £250.00
Explore the imposing medieval castle at Warwick on a full-day private tour from London, and wander among the ramparts, towers, and gardens. Explore the battlements, and see the dreadful dungeons. Learn more about England’s royal history.Discover one of England’s most impressive Norman castles on a full-day private tour of Warwick. Looming over the picturesque county town in the Heart of England, Warwick Castle is still occupied today, but there are plenty of areas accessible for public adventures.
Your driver will pick you up from Watford Junction Train Station in North London (or in central London subject to a surcharge), then drive towards the Castle, situated on a bend of the River Avon.
Upon arrival, marvel at how well preserved the castle is. Originally built of motte-and-bailey, the stone castle that replaced the original was constructed from stone. Admire this fine example of 14th-century military architecture as you climb the towers, explore the battlements, and see the dungeons.
Learn about the important role it played in English history, seek out the resident birds of prey, and catch a medieval re-enactment if you’re lucky.
(no rating)1 day | from £42.00
This half day tour travels to the historic town of Windsor and includes entrance to Windsor Castle, the Official Residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, plenty of free time to explore and luxury coach travel.After our central London pickups we will begin our journey to Windsor. Upon arrival you will be given access to Windsor Castle (entrance included) where you will have plenty of time to learn all about the history of this great site. The original castle was built in the 11th century after the Norman invasion by William the Conqueror and has since been used by monarchs making it the longest-occupied palace in Europe. Today the castle is the Official Residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.
The remainder of the morning/early afternoon can be spent exploring the town of Windsor. You may want to continue with the Royal theme and visit St George's Chapel which is the place of worship at Windsor Castle or perhaps pick up some delicious fudge at The Fudge Kitchen which is a shop full of quirky fudge charm. You can even watch it being made!
We will then begin our journey back to central London (your driver/guide will give you a time and pickup point to meet at). We should arrive back in central London at around 1:30pm.
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More tours
Castles links- Landmarktrust.org.uk - This organization helps oversee and preserve over 190 historic buildings—from castles to mansions to cottages—across Britain. Since there are few enough Lords of the Manor these days to pay for their upkeep and keep them lived-in (old homes deteriorate rapidly when vacant), the Landmark Trust has hit upon the perfect solution: preserve the buildings (and help fund the organization!) by renting them out.
- Celticcastles.com - Castles in England (14), Scotland (39), Wales (1), and Ireland (19) (plus 8 in France)
- Castleandpalacehotels.com - Not the most complete, but by far the most user-friendly site, maintained by professional travel writer and guidebook author Pamela Barrus (always gotta give props to my colleagues). All castles—9 in England, 4 in Scotland, 2 in Wales—are hand-selected. The interface is quick and intuitive: Click on a country, click on a region, then click on a castle (or palatial hotel) to get a concise but info-packed single page on the property, complete with photographs, prices, direct contact info, brochure-like descriptions of the castle and its history, and a few choice words and tips on the hotel from Pamela herself. Other nice touches: basic intel on how castle hotels work in each country, useful phrases in each language for booking a room, information on holding weddings, etc. She also just has a good eye for castles. I've written about them myself—for guidebooks and magazine articles—so I know what's out there and can tell you that Pamela tends to pick some of the best.
- Castlesontheweb.com - Bukoos links on the "Accommodations" page. Could do with some organization though: some are booking engines, some direct links, some hotel reservations services... still, most seem to at least hook you up with bona fide fortresses. Happy hunting.
- Relaischateaux.com - One of the granddaddies of refined luxury, an association with extremely high standards (and price tags) with more than two-dozen properties in the U.K. Not all are castles, despite the name, but even the manor houses, palaces, mansions, historic villas, and regular hotels are of the utmost in comfort, quality, charm, history, and are usually really, really expensive.
- Historic-uk.com
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Travel independently by train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central or London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside for your morning visit (we suggest departing at around 8:45am to get the most of your day; journey to Windsor at own expense). Either station is only a short walk to the Castle entrance.
After your morning visit, take the lunchtime Shuttle to Hampton Court Palace which will deliver you to the main entrance.
Leaving Windsor Castle (visit at own expense), the medieval castle favored by reining monarchs since the 11th century you will take the short and direct Shuttle ride to Hampton Court Palace. Your journey follows the River Thames where passengers will see several notable sites.
Soon after leaving Windsor you will be driven through Runnymede where the Magna Carta was signed by King John in 1215. This riverside meadow is recognized as one of the most important events in English history as it marked the road to individual freedom, parliamentary democracy and to the supremacy of law. Today the Magna Carta is commemorated by a monument donated by the American Bar Association. Alongside the Magna Carta monument stands the John F Kennedy memorial opened by the Queen in 1965.
Approaching Hampton Court Palace you pass several Victorian reservoirs constructed to supply water to London and its surrounding suburbs, as well as passing the riverside home of David Garrick an 18th Century actor, playwright and theatrical producer. You also observe the Temple which he constructed to commemorate the genius of William Shakespeare. Finally you pass the former home of Sir Christopher Wren, the architect who is famously associated with the design of St. Paul's Cathedral in London.
The Shuttle arrives immediately outside the main entrance to Hampton Court Palace approximately 30 minutes after leaving Windsor Castle. Visit to Hampton Court Palace at own expense.
Hampton Court Palace has much to offer visitors; discover the magnificence of Henry VIII's favorite royal residence. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the bustling Base Court and marvel at the breath-taking grandeur of Henry's State Rooms. Tickle your taste buds in the vast Tudor kitchens, stroll through over 60 acres of enchanting gardens, lose yourself in the famous maze and appreciate the beauty of one of the greatest palaces on earth.
East Molesey which is just a short walk over Hampton Court bridge on your way to the railway station which has an abundance of shops, restaurants and pubs which visitors may wish to visit before returning to their final destination later in the day at their own pace. Return to London by train from Hampton Court Station which is only a short walk across the bridge.
You will be collected from your Central London Accommodation, where your driver will meet you. You will be taken in a private vehicle to Windsor Castle. We will be provided with your fast track tickets which allows you to "beat the crowds" to save you the time. Please note that the audio guides are available in different languages. At Windsor Castle, you can explore The States Apartments, Queen Mary's Doll House, St Georges Chapel, Castle shops, The Royal Collection etc. If you managed to explore the Castle in less than 2 hours, you are welcome to have a stroll around Windsor town. Once you finished your driver will meet you at agreed previously meeting point and take you back to your Central London accommodation.
The prices are based on 1 to 3 adults traveling in a Sedan, 4 to 5 adults traveling in a Minivan, 6 to 8 adults traveling in a Van.
When making a booking, you will need to provide your Central London accommodation Address/ Hotel and your preferred pickup time Between 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Visit the three most attractive sites in the South East of the country including Leeds castle and its gardens, the medieval town of Canterbury including entrance to its cathedral and the stunning landmark - the White Cliffs of Dover.
Depart London and start the journey towards the country of Kent - the garden of England. The first destination for the day will be Canterbury, you will receive a guided tour of the town centre, later you have free time to enjoy.
Depart Canterbury and head towards Leeds Castle which includes entrance to the building and ground. The castle has been a Norman stronghold and a private residence for six of England's queens. It has been reformed throughout the years by several of its residents and now houses and incredibly array of furniture and pieces of art. Enjoy its gardens after you have finished with the castle including a lake - home to many bird species.
Continue to the last destination of your tour- Dover, where you can will enjoy the magnificent landscapes of the cliffs. After Dover the journey back to London will begin. Your drop-off point will be Kings Cross Station at approximately 7:30pm.
Lunch available at all places (not included)
Following a morning pickup at your centrally located London hotel at 08.00, hop aboard your private vehicle and take the 1.5-hour journey to Leeds Castle. Widely considered among England’s finest fortresses, Leeds Castle boasts a history dating back to the 12th century.
Leeds Castle
A unique opportunity to have a private guided tour of Leeds Castle before it opens to the general public. On arrival, take a 1-hour tour of the castle (own expense) which we can arrange for you and gain insight into centuries of royal history. Learn of famous names who once called the residence home and admire the stunning architecture for which the castle is known. Leeds Castle has been a Norman stronghold, the private property of six of England’s medieval queens, a palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon, a Jacobean country house, a Georgian mansion, an elegant early 20th century retreat for the influential and famous and in the 21st century, it has become one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain. Admission and tour cost: £18.25 per person + £50.00 guide fee payable on the day to Leeds castle.
Canterbury Cathedral
After your visit to Leeds Castle you'll take a 45 minute drive to Canterbury where you'll have time to explore and have some lunch. Whilst small, Canterbury is truly a beautiful city and well worth a visit. Always busy and full of energy but with a village feel. Canterbury Cathedral is truly breathtaking with its medieval history dating back to 597AD. The Cathedral offers a private guided tour (own expense) which we can arrange for you. The Cathedral tour lasts about 90 minutes and costs £10.50 per person + £50 guide fee payable to Canterbury Cathedral on the day.
White Cliffs of Dover Tour
From Canterbury you head to Dover to start the tour on Dover's seafront looking up at the White Cliffs and Dover Castle. Driving around the castle to the South Foreland (the White Cliffs) where you can look down at the port and across to France. A short drive along the White Cliffs past the South Foreland Lighthouse and through the pretty village of St Margarets at Cliffe to its secret Bay. From here you will head for the beautiful village of Kingsdown and its beach where it's believed the Romans first invaded Britain more than 2000 years ago! Then onto the award winning seaside town of Deal via Walmer Castle the home of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Discover Deals history of Smuggling before visiting the Medieval town of Sandwich. As you are a private group the day can be flexible to meet your needs (no waiting for other people). Once you're ready to head to London sit back and your driver will take you to your hotel.
Meet your expert guide in London and set off by coach to the historic city of Oxford, approximately a 1.5-hour drive away. As you travel, your guide will keep you entertained with stories about this must-visit city, home to the world-famous Oxford University.
The colleges that make up Oxford University represent the city’s architectural highlights, and you’ll explore these during a comprehensive walking tour. Wander through ornate chapels, lavish libraries and spacious halls.
Before leaving the city, you’ll have free time to discover its endearing charms independently. Perhaps visit one of its famous ‘Old English’ inns for lunch (own expense) or maybe explore Oxford’s wealth of interesting streets and independent shops.
In the early afternoon, hop back on board your luxury coach and head to the pretty village of Bampton in Oxfordshire, the setting for the exterior village scenes in the TV show 'Downton Abbey'. See Matthew Crawley's mother's house as well as the hospital from the second series. Learn about how the current villagers' homes are transformed into the Post Office and the pub for the TV show, and explore the Bampton Archive and local exhibitions to learn about the village history.
After visiting Bamtpon, head south to Highclere Castle in Hampshire. Famous as the filming location for the hit TV series Downton Abbey, the stately castle dates to the Victorian era and is set in the middle of 1,000 acres (405 hectares) of stunning parkland.
With your guide, tour this incredible castle and see rooms frequented by the likes of Lady Mary, Cousin Matthew, Lord Grantham and other characters in the popular Edwardian drama. Venture through the magnificent main hall, library and sitting rooms, and learn about the real-life family — the Carnarvons — who lived in the castle since the 17th century.
After your walking tour of Highclere Castle, enjoy some free time to explore the beautiful grounds or relax with a hot drink and cake in the castle's tea rooms (own expense). Your full-day tour finishes back in London, where you’ll arrive in the early evening.
After an early start, you'll visit Windsor Castle, where more than 900 years of royal history await. Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, is today one of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. Walk through the magnificent grounds and explore the State Apartments. If you're lucky you may catch the official Changing of the Guard or soak up the splendor of St. George's Chapel. After your visit to Windsor, you'll take a drive through Runnymede, where King John signed the Magna Carta.
Next, immerse yourself in the lavishly furnished rooms from the Royal Collection at Buckingham Palace! The palace hosts many official events and receptions held by the Queen, so areas are exclusively opened for limited time only during the summer so book early!
Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of Britain's sovereigns since 1837, and today it is the Queen's official residence. Take the audio tour and learn about the royal history. Your visit is independent and will conclude here so you can explore at leisure.
Diamonds: A Jubilee Celebration
This spectacular exhibition shows the many ways in which diamonds have been used by British monarchs over the last 200 years. It includes a number of The Queen’s personal jewels - those inherited by Her Majesty or acquired during her reign. The exhibition reveals how many of these extraordinary stones have undergone a number of transformations, having been re-cut or incorporated into new settings during their fascinating history.
Start with a pickup in central London, and travel out of the city to visit majestic Windsor Castle. Be one of the first visitors of the day, and beat the crowds as you explore the elegant State Apartments and St George’s Chapel with your guide. The castle is one of the Queen’s weekend retreats, and is the perfect place to experience some 900 years of pageantry at your own pace.
Continue onward to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Stonehenge, one of the most famous prehistoric monuments in the world. Stonehenge is thought to date back nearly 5,000 years, and very little is known of its origins. Was it a place of pagan sun worship? Could it have been an ancient burial ground? Decide for yourself as you explore the site.
Your next stop is the pretty village of Lacock, one of the most picturesque settings in the country. Lacock dates back to Saxon times, and has been used more recently as the setting for movies and television dramas such as Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and the adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Take the weight off your feet and sit down for lunch at the George, a traditional English pub built in the 14th century. On rare occasions, when the George is closed, a carefully selected alternative pub may be visited for lunch instead.
Continue to your final stop in the charming Georgian city of Bath, once home to the famous British author Jane Austen. Start the visit with a coach tour of the city, and see top Bath attractions such as Pulteney Bridge and the Royal Crescent as well as the honey-colored Georgian architecture for which the city is famed. After getting your bearings, set off on a short stroll with your guide and scout out the Roman Baths and beautiful Bath Abbey. Walk around the city’s cobbled streets, shop for souvenirs and take time to pose for photos in front of the beautiful buildings.
Please note: on busy days, this tour may operate in reverse order and visit Bath first.
After a pickup from Victoria Coach Station, travel by coach to Stratford-upon-Avon to visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare: one of the greatest writers in the English language. Take a private tour of Shakespeare's Schoolroom before it opens to the public, and enjoy a school lesson included with your tour. Then, enjoy some free time to explore the market town that’s home to the theaters of the famous Royal Shakespeare Company. A river winds its way through the town past Holy Trinity church, where Shakespeare is buried. There are half-wooden buildings which date back to Shakespeare's time, including the cottage of Anne Hathaway, who he married in 1582. After exploring, enjoy lunch in one of the town’s many cafes or restaurants (own expense).
Continue from Stratford-upon-Avon to Warwick, home to Warwick Castle. With a history dating back over 1,000 years, the castle will take you to an era of banquets, battles and royal splendor. After entering, your guide will leave you to explore independently. Listen to an introduction to the historical site from Warwick Castle’s history team, and then explore the site at leisure. See the waxwork displays from Madame Tussauds that are showcased at the castle, and see and hear of the Earl of Warwick's preparations for battle. Then, perhaps take a look at the ghostly dungeons where prisoners were tortured.
Then travel to Oxford, a city that boasts one of the world's greatest and oldest universities as well as some of the finest architecture in Europe. See it all on a walking tour, and learn all about the colleges themselves, with their ivy-clad stone walls that protect the beautiful chapels, halls and libraries.
Then, simply meet your guide back on board your coach to travel back to central London.
Board a coach at the Victoria Coach Station and relax on the 1-hour drive south to Leeds Castle. Built in 1119 as a Norman stronghold, Leeds Castle is beautifully situated on an island in a lake.
Enjoy a private viewing of this famous castle before it opens to the public. Learn how the property has changed hands and transformed over the years, from a 13th-century royal palace for King Edward I to the residence of Henry VII’s first wife, Catherine of Aragon, in the 16th century all the way up to the last private owner, American heiress Lady Baillie, who is credited for the castle’s remarkable preservation and redecoration.
Following a guide, explore the galleries, bedrooms, chapel, banquet hall and courtyards. Then take time to explore the surrounding gardens, walk around the lake and find your way through the famous maze.
Re-board the coach for a coastal drive to the White Cliffs of Dover, a chalky cliff face that lines part of the English Channel. As you’ll learn, these cliffs are symbolic throughout Britain, as they were the entry point for past war invasions and formed the first sight of England for travelers coming from Continental Europe.
Drive up and over the cliffs to Canterbury. Here you’ll visit Canterbury Cathedral, one of the most important Christian churches in the world and today a UNESCO World Heritage site. Immortalized by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales, this striking Gothic church is nearly 1,700 years old!
After a guided tour of the cathedral, enjoy free time to explore the old town and have lunch at one of the many cafés or restaurants (own expense).
Continue your journey to the London borough of Greenwich, notable for its maritime history and as the birthplace of many English rulers from the House of Tudor. Take a walking tour to learn about Greenwich’s history, architecture, palaces and parks.
Arriving back in central London in the evening, hop on a boat and savor the views on a relaxing sunset cruise along the Thames River. Have your camera ready as you pass top London attractions including Tower Bridge and the Tower of London against the sparkling city skyline.
Arrive at Embankment Pier to conclude your trip.
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After pickup from a central London meeting point, you’ll be off to Windsor Castle, where more than 900 years of royal history awaits! From William the Conqueror all the way through to the current Queen, successive monarchs have lived here and left their mark on what is now one of the largest continuously occupied castles in the world. Tour Windsor Castle independently, taking time to see St George’s Chapel and the formal State Apartments in all their lavish glory.
Windsor itself is a pretty town full of traditional shops and historic pubs. It was in one of these pubs that Shakespeare was said to have written his play The Merry Widows of Windsor.
After spending your morning in Windsor, enjoy your journey back through the English countryside on a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. Your tour ends in Knightsbridge (central London), at the cozy Tea Clipper pub, situated right next to the famous department store Harrods, where you can enjoy a traditional fish and chips lunch.
Please note: Lunch may be taken at alternative venues in Central London
Following your Hampton Court Palace visit, hop aboard your shuttle service at 12:15pm or 1:45pm, and relax on your 35-minute journey along the Thames River to Windsor Castle.
Along the way, pass Victorian reservoirs constructed to supply water to London and see the riverside home of 18th-century actor, playwright, and theatrical producer David Garrick. As you approach Windsor, drive through Runnymede — where the Magna Carta was signed by King John in 1215.
Arrive into the center of Windsor, then head onward independently to visit Windsor Castle (own expense) — the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, and one of the official residences of the Queen.
The tour will start at 8.45am with collection from your accommodation. Your guide will tell you all about the history and legends of each site visited, they will entertain you as you drive around the country with stories and legends of UK history, life and culture.
You will visit Windsor Castle first, normally taking 2-hours. Please note the only place that your guide wont join you is inside Windsor Castle but don't worry your guide will tell you what you need to do and be waiting for you when you come out of the exit. The guide will also give you a fully guided walk around the Royal Town of Windsor again showing many of its famous buildings and landmarks and waterways. Then onto the prefect lunch stop normally with one hour to eat (own expense).
Then visit the wonderful Stonehenge and spend one and half hours at the site. The guide will fully walk you around the full site of Stonehenge including the visitor centre and the stone circle itself as well as the secret stop which is close by
With the final stop being the City of Bath which should take around two hours.The guide will then also fully walk you around the great City of Bath showing many of its amazing buildings and landmarks and waterways. Then of course travel back to London taking around two hours depending on the local traffic.
Depart from London and travel out of the city in your air-conditioned coach toward the majestic Windsor Castle. Home of the British Royal Family for 900 years, Windsor is the world's largest and oldest occupied castle and widely considered one of England’s finest. Explore the lavishly-decorated State Apartments and St George's Chapel with your guide and hear of the castle’s fascinating history and heritage.
Continue on through the rolling green Wiltshire landscape to Stonehenge, a collection of stones dragged to this lonely plain near Salisbury 5,000 years ago. This ancient stone circle is still a place of strong spiritual significance, and continues to capture the imagination of the many visitors it welcomes each year. Why the stones were placed here and what purpose they served remains a mystery though, so wander around the site at your leisure and decide for yourself why these age-old rocks have found themselves here. Take a look around the visitors’ center and learn the history of this ancient, mysterious site.
Next, hop back in your coach and continue onward to Bath, famous for its elegant Georgian architecture and widely considered one of England’s prettiest cities. Follow your guide on a panoramic tour of Bath and be enchanted by the town's beautiful streets and alleyways, capturing the sites on camera as you go. You'll see Bath Abbey and the much-photographed Pulteney Bridge, modeled on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. During the tour, visit the city’s famous Roman Baths — the best preserved Roman spa from the ancient world.
At the end of your time in Bath, travel back to London’s Victoria Coach Station where your day trip concludes.
Board a coach in central London in the morning, pop in your state-of-the-art Vox headphones and relax on the drive out of the busy city and into the scenic English countryside. Enjoy clear, crisp commentary about the sights from your guide, piping straight into your personal earbuds, adjusting the volume to your preferences. On the way, you’ll drive through Greenwich, home of the Royal Observatory and the Prime Meridian, where the world’s time is set.
Arrive at Leeds Castle before the crowds arrive for a tour of the 12th-century castle and grounds. Leeds Castle is picture-perfect, set in a shimmering lake and surrounded by idyllic greenery that spans 500 acres (202 hectares). Inside, admire a superb collection of medieval furniture and tapestries and Impressionist art, and learn how the castle has traded hands over the centuries. Stop by the bird aviary and try your hand at the castle's popular maze formed by towering hedges.
Next, head to Canterbury Cathedral, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage–listed Gothic church built in the 11th century. Canterbury Cathedral is considered the birthplace of English Christianity, so it comes with some fascinating history. With your Vox headphones, your guide has the unique privilege of leading your large group into the quiet cathedral for a tour of the treasures that lie inside.
Re-board the coach for a drive through the Kent countryside, known as the Garden of England, with its quaint villages and pretty landscapes. Reach the coast to admire the White Cliffs of Dover — towering chalk-white cliffs overlooking the historic English Channel. Look up to see England's largest castle, Dover Castle, looming on the hilltop.
After a day full of sightseeing, arrive back in London in the evening.
Start your day meeting your professional guide at the prearranged meeting point in Victoria Coach Station to begin your tour. Hop aboard your first-class, luxury coach and relax as you travel northwest, away from the hustle and bustle of England’s capital.
Your first stop of the tour is Oxford. Known as the ‘City of Dreaming Spires,’ Oxford is home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world. On arrival, step out of your coach and enjoy a walking tour of the city center with your guide.
Plug into your state-of-the-art headset and listen to your guide talking clearly as you pass by the elegant, timeworn buildings and courtyard that have inspired generation of scholars, including Bill Clinton and his daughter Chelsea, Hugh Grant and Kate Beckinsale. See the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College, where Harry Potter scenes were filmed and where Albert Einstein studied.
Next, enjoy a brief stop for refreshments (own expense) before hopping back inside your coach and traveling through the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, an area steeped in gentle English beauty, history and heritage. Look out the window to admire the thatched-roof cottages and charming inns. On arrival in Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of the famous playwright William Shakespeare, visit Shakespeare's Tudor-era home, with its typical parlor, bedrooms, kitchen and buttery. After, enjoy some free time for lunch (own expense) at one of the many charming eateries.
Then it's a short journey to medieval Warwick Castle, whose magnificent towers and ramparts remain mostly intact. Travel back through 1,000 years of history as you cross the footbridge to a bygone world of banquets, battles and ceremony. Climb the winding staircase to the Princess Tower, or, if you're feeling brave, visit the spine-chilling dungeons where prisoners were tortured. You might wish to take a stroll through the castle's lovingly tended gardens, where archery, falconry and jousting take place in the summer months.
Your day trip then concludes back at Victoria Coach Station in the evening.
Depart central London in the early morning and head north by train on your 4.5-hour journey to Edinburgh. Travel through England’s open countryside, skirt the canals and waterways of the Midlands and pass old mill towns built during the Industrial Revolution. Upgrade to first class train tickets if you wish, for wider seats, complimentary snacks, free Wi-Fi and quieter coaches.
On arrival in Edinburgh, head to the bus stop for the city’s open-top sightseeing service — it’s located right by the station and is easy to spot! Jump aboard for a bird's-eye view of Scotland’s majestic capital and enjoy the freedom to hop on and off as you please. Frequent departures throughout the day mean you have total flexibility to plan your day.
Perhaps alight at Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and stroll along the city’s famous Royal Mile, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The charming Royal Mile runs right through the Old Town, with cobbled alleyways leading down the hillside to the city center. St Giles’ Cathedral and the National Museum of Scotland are close by.
Cross the courtyard at the top of the Royal Mile and head through the grand entrance of Edinburgh Castle. There has been a castle on this site since the 12th century, and over the years it has been used as royal residence, prison and army garrison. Gaze out over the city from your vantage point on the castle ramparts, before heading inside to discover the dazzling Honours of Scotland, the country’s crown jewels. Wander through the Royal apartments where Mary, Queen of Scots gave birth to the boy who was to become King of Scotland.
You might decide to visit the Scotch Whisky Heritage Center to learn about the nation’s favourite tipple, or head down the hill to gaze up at the famous Scott Monument, decorated with 64 characters from Walter Scott's novels.
Jump back aboard the hop-on hop-off bus service to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, where state ceremonies and official entertaining take place when the Queen is in Scotland, or stroll along Princes Street checking out the tartan, whisky and shortbread that have made Scotland famous.
Enjoy complete freedom to explore Edinburgh at your own pace, then travel back to London by train where your tour will come to an end.
Please note: This tour is unescorted.
Leave London on your air-conditioned coach and travel west to Windsor, the home of Windsor Castle, an official residence of Queen Elizabeth II. Extending over 13 acres (five hectares), this imposing castle houses lavish State Apartments, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House and magnificent St George’s Chapel, the burial place of King Henry VIII.
On arrival, show your pre-booked ticket or pay your entrance fee (depending on the option selected), and head inside to view the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel and other highlights, all brought to life by audio guide commentary. The display of British pageantry that is the Changing of the Guard takes place in the Castle precincts on an almost daily basis, so you may catch this colorful morning ceremony if your tour takes place on one of the days it occurs and if you have purchased an entrance ticket to the Castle.
Alternatively, use your time to explore the town of Windsor and stroll around its quaint streets. You may also see the New or Old Guard of soldiers marching to the Castle if your tour coincides with a Changing of the Guard ceremony. Usually accompanied by a military band, the Guards march through central Windsor in their bright red tunics and bearskin helmets, making an impressive sight.
After around two hours in Windsor, head for Stonehenge. This UNESCO-listed stone circle rears dramatically from Salisbury Plain and is cloaked in mystery. Perhaps purchase an entrance ticket from your guide and take an audio-guided tour that delves into the stones’ spiritual importance and their associations with figures such as King Arthur and Merlin. Or view Stonehenge independently from outside and ponder its mysteries yourself as you take photos of this incredible prehistoric monument.
Later, continue to Oxford. Home to Britain’s oldest university, the colleges of this honey-stoned town inspired scholars such as Lewis Carroll and J R R Tolkien. Take an included walking tour to admire Christchurch College, the Bodleian Library and Sheldonian Theatre as you listen to your guide’s crystal-clear commentary on your Vox headphones.
Afterward, return to London where your tour ends with a drop-off at Victoria coach station.
Pop in your state-of-the-art Vox headphones as your tour starts and listen to your guide talking clearly about each site.
Warwick Castle
This morning's first stop is medieval Warwick Castle. Over 1,000 years old, marvel at its amazing towers. For those that dare, there's a visit to the dungeons where prisoners were tortured. Alternatively, stroll the castle's tended gardens. At Warwick choose to either:
- Enjoy a free guided walking tour of Warwick's town center where you can view well preserved famous old buildings.
- Tour the inside of Warwick Castle and learn more about the banquets, battles and ceremonies that took place here (cost Adult £25.80, Child £19.80, Seniors/Students £21.60).
Past the Warwickshire hills, you'll travel to William Shakespeare's birthplace; Stratford-upon-Avon. Here, you'll have the option to:
- Explore Stratford-upon-Avon, a market town located on the edge of the Forest of Arden and home to the world's greatest playwright.
- Visit William Shakespeare's Tudor-style half timbered home, carefully furnished to recreate the interiors of his childhood (cost Adult £15.90, Child £9.50, Seniors/Students £14.90).
The colleges in Oxford date back to the 13th century and among its famous students were Bill Clinton and C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien and Lewis Carroll.
- Explore the cobbled streets of Oxford and see Bodleian Library and the picture-perfect college courtyards, for which Oxford is famous.
Admire the English countryside with its rolling hills. Thatched roof cottages and crooked houses of the Cotswold's are steeped in both history and heritage.
Entrance fees are not included, but can be purchased from your guide on tour.
Pop in your state-of-the-art Vox headphones as your tour starts and listen to your guide talking clearly about each site.
Leeds Castle
Set within 500 acres of parkland, Leeds Castle is renowned for housing a superb collection of medieval tapestries and furnishings. During your visit choose to:
- Embark on a self-paced walk around the castle's fairytale surrounds. Set across two islands and surrounded by a tranquil lake, Leeds Castle stands picture-perfect and an inspiration to countless artists
- Beat the crowds and take an early morning tour within the castle walls. Guides will be on hand to point out key points of interest including the aviary of rare birds, the vineyard and the intriguing maze (cost Adult £24.50, Child £16.50, Senior/Student £21.50).
Travel through Kent County to Canterbury, the birthplace of English Christianity and home to the Canterbury Cathedral. A stop for lunch is scheduled, after you opt to either:
- Loose yourself down a maze of cobbled streets on a guided walking tour through the medieval city of Canterbury
- Venture inside the magnificent Cathedral for a closer look at its Gothic-inspired architecture and learn why it is the most important church in the Anglican faith (cost Adult £12.00, Child £8.00, Senior/Student £10.50).
White Cliffs of Dover
Before returning back to London by coach transfer, witness the spectacular White Cliffs of Dover, standing 400 feet above sea level. Sprawled on top of the cliffs, you'll find 800 year old Dover Castle towering over the town below.
Upgrade to include entrance fees, or enjoy the flexibility of deciding on the day which attractions you'd like to visit.
Stonehenge
Enjoy an unforgettable start or end to your day in London with an exclusive trip to Stonehenge – that most mysterious of ancient sites. Choose from two tour times to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What makes this tour so incredible is the access you’ll receive to Stonehenge’s inner stone circle, which is normally restricted to visitors. This day tour ensures a unique viewing up close to the magnificent monument. Your guide will give you a full brief on the many mysteries that surround Stonehenge as you take in the atmospheric landscape.
This day trip from London also includes visits to Oxford and Windsor Castle.
Oxford
Soak up the local culture on a walking tour around the historic town of Oxford, and see the Oxford Colleges, where notable figures like Bill Clinton, J.R.R. Tolkien, and C.S. Lewis received an education. Also check out the Old Bodleian library, a working research library that dates back to the year 1602.
Windsor Castle
Your day tour will continue to Windsor Castle, home of the Queen of England. This majestic castle is the scene of 900 years of British history, and generations of the British Royal Family have conducted their business here. See the formal State Apartments in all their lavish glory, as well as St George’s chapel — home to the Order of the Royal Garter, made up of 25 knights of the British Empire.
Start your day trip at Victoria Coach Station to meet your guide and board the coach to Windsor Castle.
When you pull up outside the castle, an official residence of Queen Elizabeth II, head inside with your included ticket and audio guide to explore highlights like the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel. Depending on timing, you might also be able to watch the guards, dressed in cherry red tunics and bearskins, performing the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony.
After roughly two hours, continue to Stonehenge, the mysterious, UNESCO World Heritage-listed stone circle set on the Salisbury Plain. During the audio tour, hear the theories behind the creation of this prehistoric site, as well as its association with Merlin and King Arthur.
Next, head for the honey-hued city of Oxford, home to Britain’s oldest and perhaps most prestigious university. Plug into your provided headset and follow in the footsteps of luminaries like J.R.R. Tolkien with a guided tour of the university’s famous buildings, including Christchurch College and the Bodleian Library.
When the time comes, journey back to London by coach, where your day trip ends at Victoria Coach Station.
Travel with ease from central London to the town of Windsor, home to Her Majesty the Queen. Sit back for a relaxing, air-conditioned coach ride to the historical town, which you’re then free to explore as you like. Upgrade your ticket to include entry to Windsor Castle — including a self-guided audio tour.
Head to Victoria Coach Station in central London, where you'll board a climate-controlled coach destined for Windsor. Once onboard, sit back and enjoy the views as you ride to the historical market town.
On arrival in Windsor, you'll have roughly four hours to explore. Take in the local sights at your leisure, or upgrade your ticket beforehand to include an entrance ticket to Windsor Castle, the Official Residence of Her Majesty The Queen.
Embark on a self-guided audio tour of the castle and its property, taking in the State Apartments, the 14th-century St. Georges Chapel, and several other architectural highlights.
When it’s time to go, return to your pre-designated location and board your bus for the return trip to London.
Oxford is famous for being home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world – countless bright young things have wandered the town’s cobbled streets over the years! During your guided walking tour you will see the stunning Bodleian Library and furtively discover unspoilt narrow alleyways, ancient squares and towering spires.
Enjoy views of the breathtaking countryside, sleepy villages, and bustling market towns as you drive through the charming scenery of one of England's most beautiful regions- The Cotswolds.
A unique market town, Stratford–upon–Avon is the famous home of William Shakespeare, arguably the world's greatest writer. Visit the picturesque half–timber house where the legendary bard was born, and gain fascinating insights into his childhood.
Be part of Britain’s greatest medieval experience! Deep in the heart of Warwick Castle, the Great Hall is a hive of activity! Immerse yourself in battle preparations and feel the weight of a medieval sword. Become a soldier – try on a battle helmet for size! Visit the spectacular State Rooms and feast your eyes on Victorian party preparations.
Escape the hustle and bustle of London and explore the highlights of South West England. Step back in time with your guide as you wander historic Canterbury. With your small group (no larger than 16 people), you'll see parts of the famous cathedral dating back to the 6th century. Over lunchtime you can enjoy stunning views from the White Cliffs of Dover or enjoy one of other attractions Dover has to offer. Your day concludes at the enchanting Leeds Castle; perched on two islands in a lake.
This is the perfect day away from London to Canterbury, Dover and Leeds Castle. Your incredible driver-guides will make history come alive through the day whilst on our luxury mini-bus and as you tour Canterbury by foot on an optional complimentary walking tour!
The day begins as you leave London and journey towards Canterbury, home of Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. Enjoy your guide's storytelling as you make your way to the world-famous cathedral city. The cathedral dates back to 597AD, and you can’t help but be taken back in time in this city steeped in history, with Roman and Norman ruins and streets dotted with pretty timber-framed 16th and 17th-century houses.
The route continues to the closest point to France on mainland Britain, Dover. Here you can walk along the iconic White Cliffs. With spectacular coastal views, this is a must-do to truly experience the incredible English landscape.
The final stop is Leeds Castle and Gardens, where you’ll be able to step straight off the bus and start exploring! A castle has stood on this breathtaking spot, built upon two islands in a lake, since 1119. Your guide will share the castle's incredible history, it has notably been a Norman stronghold, the private property of six of England’s medieval queens and a palace used by Henry VIII. Now it is one of the most visited properties in Britain.
This incredible day tour offers the perfect mix of history and scenery for a day away from London, and you'll arrive back around 6:30pm.
Begin your Abbey adventure in London and take a luxury coach to the beautiful and quaint Oxfordshire Cotswolds, to see key filming sites of Downton Abbey.
You'll of course be visiting the Grantham Family home, Highclere Castle. You'll have ample time to venture around the grounds and the castle too and enjoy free time for those that wish to experience the Egyptology exhibit too:
- Pick up at 9am by the thames in a luxury 24 seater coach
- Short trip to Highclere castle, with quizzes as you go, and Downton Abbey Bloopers on the coach TV
- Explore the grounds and castle of Highclere at 10:30am
- 12:30pm pick up from Highclere castles and short trip to Bampton
- 1:15pm tour through Bampton village, the home of "Downton Village"
- 1:45pm lunch at a stunning old world British pub, hot meal included in the price
- 2:15pm you're given time to explore the village and get some great photo opportunities
- 3:45pm Pick up from Bampton village for a further quiz and games on the coach
- 5:30pm arrive back at Victoria Embankment.
Walking tour of Oxford, follow the footsteps of Oxford's most revered students, from C.S. Lewis to Bill Clinton, as you wander the fairytale cobbled lanes and courtyards of this legendary University City. See the breathtaking ‘dreaming spires', the unspoilt narrow alleys, the Bodleian Library and the ancient squares of this beautiful town.
Entry to Brasenose College. Named after its bronze door knocker. The lawyer, Sir Richard Sutton and William Smyth, Bishop of Lincoln founded Brasenose College in 1509. It boasts fairytale architecture and a rolling green lawn. Past students include David Cameron, current Prime Minister and the writer William Golding.
The Cotswolds, experience breathtaking countryside views of sleepy market towns and villages during a gentle drive through one of England's most picturesque regions.
Shakespeare’s Birthplace at Stratford–Upon–Avon. Stratford–upon–Avon was the home of the world's most famous and revered writer, William Shakespeare. Visit the quaint half–timbered house where the Bard was born and get fascinating insights into his childhood.
Lunch packs will be included.
Warwick Castle, visit the excellent medieval hive that is Warwick Castle. Enter the Great Hall and immerse yourself in battle preparations. Feel the weight of a medieval sword, become a soldier, try a battle helmet on for size and visit the State Rooms to feast your eyes on Victorian party preparations.
Estimated arrival time back in London is around 7pm.
Leeds Castle sits deep in the heart of the magnificent Kent countryside amid 500 acres of landscaped parkland. The early arrival promises an almost private visit to the Castle, where Henry VIII retreated to escape the plague that raged in London during his reign. As the ultimate Tudor treat, upon arrival at Leeds Castle you will be greeted by an expert guide. Learn about the history of this magical castle and sample a glass of mead as Henry VIII would have had! (During the summer, Mead is unavailable on Saturdays).
Visit Canterbury Cathedral, the home to 104 Archbishops since Augustine, Canterbury is a magnificent medieval city with a wealth of history. Discover the spot where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in 1170. Learn the intriguing history behind this masterpiece of medieval architecture and appreciate the spectacular stained glass windows, many of which have survived from the 12th and 13th centuries.
Lunch packs will be included.
The White Cliffs of Dover, admire the famous White Cliffs of Dover, with a photo opportunity on the stunning stretch of coastline that faces continental Europe. You'll also get the chance to see Dover Castle, an impressive medieval fortress rising over the English Channel.
Greenwich, set right beside the River Thames, Greenwich is bustling with fine maritime landmarks. See the Royal Observatory and world–famous Cutty Sark, a fascinating 19th–century ship as well as the Old Royal Naval College designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
River Thames boat ride, get a fresh perspective on the city sights with a boat ride on the River Thames from Greenwich to Embankment Pier. Pass Tower Bridge and stunning St. Paul’s Cathedral along the route. Estimated arrival time to Embankment Pier, is around 6.30pm where the tour finishes.
After pickup from central London by coach, your day tour begins at Windsor Castle. Queen Elizabeth II is said to spend many of her weekends here, a royal home for more than 900 years.
With your entry, you can walk through the State Apartments to see lavish decor and valuable artworks, such as paintings by Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci. Step inside St George’s Chapel, located on the sprawling grounds, where notorious King Henry VIII and his favorite wife, Jane Seymour, are buried, as are Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
Next, head to the ancient site of Stonehenge, a towering enigma that has stood on Salisbury Plain for more than 5,000 years. See the UNESCO World Heritage site from every angle as you walk around it.
Then continue to the city of Bath, another World Heritage site, known for its Georgian architecture and Roman Baths. You can explore the cobbled streets and check out sights such as the 15th-century Bath Abbey and the Pulteney Bridge. Then head to the Roman Baths, a bathing complex in the center of the city that was used by Romans who wanted to relax in the steaming water, which originated from hot springs. Learn about the lives of the Romans as you walk through the site, exploring the four sections: the Sacred Spring, Roman Temple, Roman Bath House, and artifacts from the baths.
Your day trip ends with return to London for drop-off in Kensington or Victoria.
Board your luxury coach in Victoria, central London, and travel west out of the capital to Windsor – a well-heeled little town that’s best known as the home of Windsor Castle – the official residence of the Queen. Blanketing an area of 13 acres (5 hectares), the castle grounds cover an impressive list of sights to see, like St George’s Chapel, Queen Mary’s Doll House and the plush State Apartments.
Head inside with your entrance ticket and explore at your own pace, learning about the castle’s history that steeped into its stones. Pick up an audio guide, and listen to entertaining commentary as you amble around; learn about Sir Edwin Lutyets, the British architect who created Queen Mary’s Dolls House for the young monarch in the early 1920s, and hear about the different monarchs who furnished the impressive State Apartments according to their tastes.
Admire priceless work of art by the likes of Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt, and explore St George’s Chapel to discover the final resting place of various monarchs including King Henry VIII – one of the more flamboyant characters that have lived in the castle.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily, so you can try to catch it while exploring the town. Usually accompanied by a military band, soldiers march up the high street to Windsor Castle in colorful red tunics and bearskin hats, representing the pomp and ceremony (some say eccentricity of the British Royal Family.
Meet your guide at the pre-arranged time and travel back to London in the comfort of your luxury coach. Your day trip finishes in the neighborhood of Kensington, central London, in the early evening.
Make your own way to Great Portland Street in central London to meet your expert guide. Then, hop inside your comfortable, air-conditioned coach and relax on the journey to Oxfordshire. As you travel, listen to your guide share entertaining tales and trivia about the British period drama TV series, Downton Abbey.
Filmed mostly in and around Oxfordshire, the hit show follows the lives, dramas and scandals of the fictional Crawley family and their servants in the days before, during and after World War I. Hear insider gossip about characters such as Lady Edith and Dowager Countess of Grantham, and uncover little-known facts about the filming locations visited on your tour.
Your first stop is at Cogges Manor Farm. Sip on a hot drink (own expense) in its rustic cafe before discovering a few of the farm’s shooting locations.
Next, head to the Cotswold village of Bampton, a quintessentially English village that featured as Downton village. On a walking tour, see the church where Lady Mary married Matthew Crawley, and the house that was once used as the Crawley family home. Then, stroll along the main street, passing sights such as the fictional Grantham Arms pub.
Continue on to Highclere Castle, one of the most famous Downton filming locations. With your guide leading the way, explore the grand estate that surrounds the castle including Monk’s Garden, White Border, Secret Garden and the Wood of Goodwill, and learn about Highclere Castle’s role as the Grantham family home.
After free time for lunch or a snack in the on-site tea rooms (own expense), make your way into the castle to explore its lavish state rooms with your guide. Follow in the footsteps of the likes of Lady Sybil and Tom Branson as you wander through the dining, smoking and music rooms, and learn all about the Carnarvons, the real-life family who have owned Highclere Castle since the late 17th century.
See other impressive filming sites, such as the Red Stairs, saloon, gallery and bedrooms, then return to your coach and relax on the journey back to London.
Your day trip then concludes with a drop-off at the original start point.
Numbers are limited to 18 on this small-group tour, ensuring personalized attention from a guide.
Leave London’s Marble Arch by air-conditioned minivan, and travel west to the rolling limestone hills of Oxfordshire. On the journey, your guide will keep you entertained with tales and trivia about the Downton Abbey TV series that has a fan base spread all over the world.
Filmed mostly in and around Oxfordshire, the British period drama of Downton Abbey documents the dramas and scandals of the fictional Crawley family and their servants in the days leading up to and after the First World War. Hear insider gossip about characters such as Lady Mary, and discover little-known facts about the shooting locations included on your tour. Stop at a farm nestled in the hills near Cogges and enjoy a hot drink (own expense) in the farm’s rustic cafe before discovering a few of the farm’s filming locations.
Continue to Bampton in the Cotswolds, a quintessentially English village that was used extensively as Downton village throughout the entire series. On a walking tour, see the village church — the site of Lady Mary’s wedding to Matthew Crawley — and the house that was once used as the Crawley family home. Stroll along the main street, seeing shops used for filming as well as sights such as the fictional Grantham Arms pub.
Travel onward to continue to Highclere Castle, one of the best-known Downton filming locations, to explore with your guide. Walk around the lavish estate that surrounds the castle, comprising Monk’s Garden, White Border, Secret Garden and the Wood of Goodwill, and hear all about Highclere Castle’s role as the Grantham family home.
Enjoy free time for lunch or a snack in the onsite tea rooms that serves food from the castle’s kitchens, and then step inside Highclere Castle to explore each of its state rooms. See the dining, music and smoking rooms that the likes of Lady Sybil graced with their presence, and learn all about the real-life family who have owned Highclere Castle since the late 17th century: the Carnarvons.
After exploring further areas of the impressive filming site such as the Red Stairs, saloon, gallery and bedrooms, return to your minivan with your guide. Relax on the journey back to London, and then finish your day trip with a drop-off at the Victoria Train Station.
Numbers are limited to 16 on this small-group tour, ensuring you'll see these top Kent site with personalized attention from your guide.
Set off from Marble Arch in central London by luxury coach, and head southeast into Kent, the county affectionately known as the Garden of England for its quintessential English countryside.
First stop is Canterbury Cathedral -- one of England’s oldest Christian buildings and much-cherished monuments. After entering at your own expense, head inside for a tour and absorb the atmosphere of this beautiful cathedral, where history seems to leap from every corner. Admire its intricate stained-glass windows, see the burial place of King Henry IV and learn of the cathedral’s darker history as the site where the Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in the 12th century.
After enjoying some time at leisure to look around the town and have lunch, hop back on board your coach and travel the short distance to the south coast to see the White Cliffs of Dover. Stop to stretch your legs outside magnificent Dover Castle and get your first glimpse of England’s famous white chalk cliffs! On a photo stop here, your guide will tell tales of invasions – some successful, some not – while you marvel at the country’s natural moat.
Head back inland, passing though some of Kent’s finest leafy lanes, towards Leeds Castle, where you’ll spend the rest of your afternoon. Tour the pristine 12th-century castle with your guide, seeing highlights like the Banqueting Hall and Library, and try not to lose your way on a walk through the garden’s maze! Look inside the ground’s quirky Dog’s Collar Museum to see an eccentric collection of dog collars showcasing 17th-century canine couture, and then board your coach for your journey back to London.
Leave your central London hotel or Heathrow Airport by luxury coach and relax on the journey south, passing through London’s busy urban streets and into the tranquil Kent countryside – an area known as the Garden of England. While traveling, your host will talk to you about your destination -- beautiful Dover Castle! Built in the 12th century, the castle was known as the ‘lock and key to England’ due to its strategic location, wedged in the countryside between the capital and the coast.
After traveling for roughly two hours, arrive at Dover Castle and spend roughly about two hours exploring this incredible site independently (own expense). Highlights include the opulently furnished Great Tower, where members of King Henry VII’s royal court would meet, and the Secret Wartime Tunnels that were used in wars dating back to Napoleonic times. Perhaps soak up Dover Castle’s medieval grandeur on a walk around its immaculately kept gardens, or simply relax at the on-site café before returning to your coach.
Having explored Dover Castle independently, continue to Dover Port. Your host will drop you off outside the Dover cruise terminal in time for your cruise.
Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely arrival to Dover Port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. See our terms and conditions for full details.
After you are greeted upon arrival at the Dover cruise port by your friendly guide, relax aboard an executive coach. You’ll drive above the famous White Cliffs and head into the county of Kent, an agricultural area that feeds London from its orchards, hop fields and vineyards. Enjoy the lovely views as you make the short, 45-minute journey to Canterbury, the seat of English Christianity since 597 AD.
See Canterbury with your guide, listening to stories about the history of the town and cathedral. You’ll hear medieval tales from Canterbury writers, Geoffrey Chaucer and Christopher Marlowe, as well as stories of the Reformation and the Blitz. Then, enjoy some free time exploring the town on your own and visiting Canterbury Cathedral if you wish (own expense)
After two hours in Canterbury, travel over the Weald of Kent – a high ridge – and head down to Leeds Castle, famously referred to as 'the loveliest castle in the world.’ Founded in the 9th century, it is best known as a palace for numerous queens of England. Along the way, hear fascinating commentary from your guide about the monarchs and the fate that befell them!
Spend three hours at the beautiful castle, set on two islands on a lake, and explore its remarkable interior as well as the grounds and gardens with your guide. Admire rooms such as the library and banquet hall, and be amazed by the one-of-a-kind museum of ornate dog collars! Outdoors, walk through the complicated maze and enjoy the grotto and water features. If you wish, dine on a leisurely lunch in one of the cafés or restaurants overlooking the grounds (own expense).
Then, board the coach and travel about an hour to London, heading into the city via Greenwich and the River Thames. Your guide will point out the Royal Naval College, the Queen's House, the historic Cutty Sark – a clipper ship – and the Royal Observatory as you cross the dateline and move officially from east to west.
Finally, pass over Tower Bridge into central London before drop-off at your chosen hotel, or stay aboard the coach for drop-off at Heathrow hotels.
Worry-free Shore Excursion:If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.
Capital of the United Kingdom, home to the royal family, a cosmopolitan city at the crossroads of history, London has much to offer to both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors. But seeing the best of what this bustling 13-million person metropolis has to offer doesn’t have to usurp your entire vacation. This tour is a quick-yet-comprehensive strolling tour of the township’s top sites, followed by a jaunt to the quaint English countryside to see where the most famous Londoners - the Royal Family - escape to!
Begin your day at the famed and somewhat infamous Tower - former prison and execution site of three Queens of England. This early morning visit means you will be among the first to enter the Jewel House and view the spectacular crown jewels, which have been held here and locked up for safekeeping every night for the last 600 years. These are the official regalia and vestments used by the Sovereign of the United Kingdom during the coronation ceremony and other noble appearances. This priceless collection includes magnificent orbs, swords, rings, and of course, crowns and sceptres. During your visit you will also be able to see the famous white tower, where it is said that the ‘Princes in the Tower’ were held and supposedly murdered by their Uncle Richard III to usurp the throne from their father, King Edward IV.
Then it’s time to step aboard a relaxing river shuttle as the tour heads up the Thames. Enjoy the sights as your guide points out major landmarks as you coast by. Arrive at the embankment and follow your guide on a short stroll to see the changing of the guards. This world-famous ceremony takes place either at Buckingham Palace or at Horse Guards Parade, depending on the day. Your guide will make sure you are in a prime position to enjoy the best views at this crowded event. End your tour at Buckingham Palace and see the famous balcony where the royal family appears during major events.
After your free time - Meet your guide at a central London station and with your pre-booked tickets handed to you, you can leisurely board your train to the quaint village of Windsor. On arrival at Windsor, feeling relaxed and refreshed, you will be eager to explore this authentically English town with your enthusiastic guide.
More tales of the luminaries of British life await as your guide show you Eton, home of the most famous school in England, Eton College. This charming town was the playground of some of the most recognisable figures in British history as young boarders at Eton – Prime Ministers, writers George Orwell and Ian Fleming, and of course, Princes William and Harry. Your guide will educate you on what life is like for these schoolboys.
Having seen the town, it’s now time to visit the home of their grandmother – Windsor Castle. This is the longest occupied palace in Europe, having housed all British monarchs since Henry I, and is favoured by Queen Elizabeth II as her weekend retreat. A treasure trove of royal history, the splendour of this palace will reveal itself to you as you are expertly steered through its rooms by your audio guide. Admire the intricate Gothic architecture of St. George’s Chapel, final resting place of monarchs including King Henry VIII. At the turn of every palatial corridor, another royal jewel lays waiting to be unearthed by you.
Spend 4 hours walking in the footsteps of royalty on this fully-escorted half-day trip from London. Explore Windsor castle and discover the magnificence of Her Majesty's home at your own pace, complete with ornate State Rooms, historic St. George's Chapel, and delicate Doll's House of Queen Mary all included in your comprehensive visit. Ensure personal service with a small-group tour of 15 people or fewer. Learn about the Windsor Castle with your audio guide and avoid ticket hassles with included round-trip train tickets.
Meet your guide at a central London station at 1:30pm and board the train to the quaint village of Windsor with pre-booked tickets. Relax as the scenic English countryside drifts by and you listen to your guide's entertaining introduction to Windsor and its proud royal history. On arrival at Windsor, you will explore this authentically English town with your enthusiastic guide. Meander through cobbled lanes bordered by black and white Tudor edifices and peek through traditional blown-glass windows as your guide offers fascinating insight into life alongside the British Royal Family. They are not the only beloved English figures to have an association with this picturesque town, however – Shakespeare walked these very streets and used them as the setting for his play The Merry Wives of Windsor.
More tales of the luminaries of British life await as your guide show you Eton, home of the most famous school in England, Eton College. This charming town was the playground of some of the most recognizable figures in British history as young boarders at Eton – Prime Ministers, writers George Orwell and Ian Fleming, and of course, Princes William and Harry. Your guide will educate you on what life is like for these schoolboys, as well as enlightening you about some of their more eccentric traditions still in use today.
Having seen the town where the young princes lived, it’s now time to visit the home of their grandmother – Windsor Castle. This is the longest occupied palace in Europe, having housed all British monarchs since Henry I, and is favored by Queen Elizabeth II as her weekend retreat. A treasure trove of royal history, the splendor of this palace will reveal itself to you as you are expertly steered through its rooms by your audio guide. Explore the ornate State Apartments where visiting dignitaries are hosted among artworks by Rembrandt and Rubens. Delight in Queen Mary’s Doll's House, a perfect miniature of an aristocratic home lavishly furnished with the finest of tiny handmade artifacts. Admire the intricate Gothic architecture of St. George’s Chapel, final resting place of monarchs including King Henry VIII. At the turn of every palatial corridor, another royal jewel lays waiting to be unearthed by you. During your tour of Windsor Castle, you will be accompanied by an audio guide to ensure that you don't miss a detail.
Your tour will conclude after your visit to Windsor Castle around 5:45pm and you will be free to revisit places of interest or explore even further before returning to London at your leisure using your flexible train tickets.
You’ll be met at your hotel or other agreed meeting point and enjoy a drive by private car to Windsor, a location that has been linked to British monarchy for more than 900 years. It is also the weekend home of the Queen, who very much enjoys spending time at Windsor Castle.
On this half-day tour you’ll visit the sumptuously decorated castle and hear about its history. The royal residence houses more fine art, gold, and furnishings than is imaginable. Inside the walls you’ll also find the chapel where a number of kings and queens have been buried.
You’ll take a walk around the castle walls, see the soldiers on guard, and maybe even a royal if you’re lucky!
Following the Castle visit, you’ll take a walk around Windsor Old Town, visit the famous park, and see the Crooked House, perhaps stopping for tea, or maybe a beer at a 500-year-old pub.
The tour is leisurely paced and unhurried and included entrance tickets to Windsor Castle and Official Audio Guide for the Castle interior.
Discover one of England’s most impressive Norman castles on a full-day private tour of Warwick. Looming over the picturesque county town in the Heart of England, Warwick Castle is still occupied today, but there are plenty of areas accessible for public adventures.
Your driver will pick you up from Watford Junction Train Station in North London (or in central London subject to a surcharge), then drive towards the Castle, situated on a bend of the River Avon.
Upon arrival, marvel at how well preserved the castle is. Originally built of motte-and-bailey, the stone castle that replaced the original was constructed from stone. Admire this fine example of 14th-century military architecture as you climb the towers, explore the battlements, and see the dungeons.
Learn about the important role it played in English history, seek out the resident birds of prey, and catch a medieval re-enactment if you’re lucky.
After our central London pickups we will begin our journey to Windsor. Upon arrival you will be given access to Windsor Castle (entrance included) where you will have plenty of time to learn all about the history of this great site. The original castle was built in the 11th century after the Norman invasion by William the Conqueror and has since been used by monarchs making it the longest-occupied palace in Europe. Today the castle is the Official Residence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.
The remainder of the morning/early afternoon can be spent exploring the town of Windsor. You may want to continue with the Royal theme and visit St George's Chapel which is the place of worship at Windsor Castle or perhaps pick up some delicious fudge at The Fudge Kitchen which is a shop full of quirky fudge charm. You can even watch it being made!
We will then begin our journey back to central London (your driver/guide will give you a time and pickup point to meet at). We should arrive back in central London at around 1:30pm.
- Landmarktrust.org.uk - This organization helps oversee and preserve over 190 historic buildings—from castles to mansions to cottages—across Britain. Since there are few enough Lords of the Manor these days to pay for their upkeep and keep them lived-in (old homes deteriorate rapidly when vacant), the Landmark Trust has hit upon the perfect solution: preserve the buildings (and help fund the organization!) by renting them out.
- Celticcastles.com - Castles in England (14), Scotland (39), Wales (1), and Ireland (19) (plus 8 in France)
- Castleandpalacehotels.com - Not the most complete, but by far the most user-friendly site, maintained by professional travel writer and guidebook author Pamela Barrus (always gotta give props to my colleagues). All castles—9 in England, 4 in Scotland, 2 in Wales—are hand-selected. The interface is quick and intuitive: Click on a country, click on a region, then click on a castle (or palatial hotel) to get a concise but info-packed single page on the property, complete with photographs, prices, direct contact info, brochure-like descriptions of the castle and its history, and a few choice words and tips on the hotel from Pamela herself. Other nice touches: basic intel on how castle hotels work in each country, useful phrases in each language for booking a room, information on holding weddings, etc. She also just has a good eye for castles. I've written about them myself—for guidebooks and magazine articles—so I know what's out there and can tell you that Pamela tends to pick some of the best.
- Castlesontheweb.com - Bukoos links on the "Accommodations" page. Could do with some organization though: some are booking engines, some direct links, some hotel reservations services... still, most seem to at least hook you up with bona fide fortresses. Happy hunting.
- Relaischateaux.com - One of the granddaddies of refined luxury, an association with extremely high standards (and price tags) with more than two-dozen properties in the U.K. Not all are castles, despite the name, but even the manor houses, palaces, mansions, historic villas, and regular hotels are of the utmost in comfort, quality, charm, history, and are usually really, really expensive.
- Historic-uk.com