Discover the essence of England with our Quintessentially British itinerary, a journey through the country’s most iconic and picturesque regions. In London, embark on an iconic sightseeing tour featuring historical landmarks such as the Tower of London, the Crown Jewels, and views of Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye. Stroll through Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, and Downing Street, and admire the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace. Experience the enchanting English countryside by visiting charming villages and grand estates, exploring medieval castles and breathtaking landscapes. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Lake District with a tranquil lake cruise and a scenic ride on a steam railway through the picturesque Leven Valley. Experience the charm of Ascot, the epitome of British elegance and tradition. This thoughtfully curated itinerary captures the true spirit of Britain, offering the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Upon arrival at the London Heathrow airport, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel in London, where you will be assisted with check-in.
Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane
Today, your expert guide and chauffeur will take you on a sightseeing tour of London, starting with the Tower of London, where you’ll see the Crown Jewels and enjoy views of Tower Bridge from within the historic complex. Next, visit St. Paul's Cathedral, which was rebuilt by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London. In the afternoon, tour Westminster, including a ride on the London Eye for spectacular city views, a visit to Trafalgar Square, and a drive down Whitehall, passing Downing Street and the Houses of Parliament. You'll also explore Westminster Abbey, the site of royal coronations and numerous significant events, before finishing with a drive past Buckingham Palace on your way back to the hotel.
Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane
Following a delicious breakfast this morning, your expert local guide and chauffeur will meet you for a sightseeing tour of the Bloomsbury area of London. You’ll visit the British Museum, renowned for its world-class collection of historic artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore their exceptional collection of Egyptian antiquities. Time permitting, you may also visit the British Library, where you can view priceless documents such as the Gutenberg Bible and Shakespeare's First Folio edition.
Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane
Check out of your London hotel this morning and head west into the charming English countryside. Your knowledgeable driver-guide will take you to Oxford, known as the "City of Dreaming Spires" and home to England's oldest university. Here, you can stroll through the impressive university buildings, with an art historian highlighting the remarkable architecture and splendid settings of the various colleges. Next, you’ll continue to Woodstock for a visit to Blenheim Palace. Designed by architect John Vanbrugh, the palace is the birthplace of wartime leader Sir Winston Churchill and is set within a vast park, beautifully landscaped by Capability Brown. After the tour, you will proceed to your hotel in Oxfordshire.
Hotel: Belmond, Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons
Today, you will explore the beautiful Georgian city of Bath, often regarded as one of the loveliest cities in England. Originally a Roman settlement established in the first century AD, Bath evolved through troubled centuries to become a fashionable spa resort in the 1700s, drawing visitors for its healing waters and elegant society. Your driver-guide and private vehicle will be at your disposal for a full day to help you discover the city. You will tour the Roman Baths, which are exceptionally well-preserved and located near Bath Abbey, and admire the city's renowned Palladian architecture, best seen in the Circus and the Royal Crescent.
Hotel: Belmond, Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons
Your private driver-guide will take you on a full-day tour of the Cotswolds and into Warwickshire today. Enjoy the picturesque charm of the Cotswolds as you travel through quaint villages renowned for their distinctive honey-colored Cotswold stone. Continuing into Warwickshire, you'll visit Stratford-upon-Avon, celebrated as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Explore the town center and visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage in the nearby village of Shottery. You may also wish to visit Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare is buried, located on the banks of the River Avon near the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. After your visit, return to your hotel.
Hotel: Belmond, Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons
Check out of your hotel this morning and meet your private driver to embark on a scenic journey through the Warwickshire countryside as you travel towards your next destination, North Wales.
Hotel: Palé Hall
Today, your driver-guide will take you on a full-day adventure into North Wales. Begin by traveling west past the fortified town of Conwy to the historic town of Caernarfon, where Edward I’s imposing castle dominates the skyline of this predominantly Welsh-speaking community. After touring the castle, continue into the heart of Snowdonia National Park. Here, you’ll board a steam train that will carry you to the summit of Mount Snowdon. If time allows, visit the enchanting Italianate village of Portmeirion, a unique architectural gem designed by Clough Williams-Ellis, offering stunning coastal views and captivating structures. Conclude your day with a return to your hotel in Bala.
Hotel: Palé Hall
Depart Wales today and journey north to the Lake District, a National Park renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The Lake District is England’s largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its stunning landscapes of rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and lush greenery. On the way, stop in the charming village of Cartmel, known for its flower-filled corners, scenic streamside walks, humpbacked bridges, cobbled streets, and traditional inns. At the heart of the village stands the Priory Church of St. Mary and St. Michael, which has served the community for hundreds of years. Continue your travels with a visit to Levens Hall, an exquisite Elizabethan mansion famous for its remarkable topiary gardens.
Hotel: Gilpin Hotel & Lake House
Spend today exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District with your driver-guide. Discover the region’s unique geography of mountains, valleys, and lakes, shaped during the Ice Age. Enjoy a serene lake cruise, followed by a scenic ride on a steam railway through the picturesque Leven Valley. If you wish, take some time to walk along the numerous trails, soaking in the stunning views. This evening, return to your lakeside accommodation for a peaceful night’s rest.
Hotel: Gilpin Hotel & Lake House
Today, journey to the Scottish border to visit Hadrian’s Wall, built by Roman Emperor Hadrian to defend against northern tribes. Explore Housesteads Roman Fort, one of the best-preserved sites along the wall, where you can see the foundations of key structures. Continue to the medieval university city of Durham, where Durham Castle, once home to the Prince-Bishops, overlooks the River Wear. Nearby, Durham Cathedral, a Norman masterpiece dating back to the 11th century, dominates Palace Green. End your day with a relaxing evening at Grantley Hall outside York.
Hotel: Grantley Hall
Today, you’ll journey down the coast to the charming and traditional British resort town of Whitby. Perched high on the East Cliff, the haunting ruins of Whitby Abbey, founded by St. Hilda in AD 657, offer stunning views and a deep sense of history. Whitby is also famously known for inspiring Bram Stoker’s Dracula. After exploring Whitby, your driver-guide will take you through the breathtaking landscapes of the North Yorkshire Moors, a dramatic National Park renowned for its heather-clad moorlands and picturesque villages. Your day concludes as you arrive at your hotel near York, where you can relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Hotel: Grantley Hall
Today, your driver-guide will lead you on a full-day journey back to Southern England. On your way south, you’ll make a stop in the picturesque city of Cambridge, home to England's second-oldest university, founded in 1209. The city is renowned for its stunning college buildings, with King's College Chapel standing out as a true masterpiece. Its magnificent fan-vaulted ceiling is regarded as one of the greatest architectural marvels in the world. After exploring Cambridge, you'll continue your journey to your hotel in Ascot, where you can unwind and enjoy the evening.
Hotel: Coworth Park
This morning, following breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to the airport in time for your flight.