CASTLES, KINGS 

GARDENS & QUEENS
A Journey through England's History

2021 Dates: July 18-25, Aug 15-22, Sept 12-19
 

1^st Day: Upon arriving in London, we are met at the airport. We take the short drive to visit Windsor Castle, the official residence of the British Monarchy. It is here that Her Majesty the Queen spends most of her private weekends. Then it's on to Oxford where we have accommodations for 3 evenings. We are treated to a tasty welcome dinner tonight. (D) 

2^nd Day:  We drive to Blenheim Palace & Gardens, the principle residence of the dukes of Marlborough and the ancestral home of Sir Winston Churchill. We then return to the famous university town of Oxford and enjoy a most interesting tour, highlighted by walking the grounds of the prestigious university campus. We’ll hear stories about Oxford residents J.R. Tolkien and Lewis Carroll (“Alice in Wonderland”), see Christ Church, the sites where much of the Harry Potter movies were filmed and the unspoiled narrow alleyways, ancient squares and towering spires of the city. (B)

3^rd Day: We travel north to visit Warwick Castle. Built in 1068 by William the Conqueror, and recognized as Britain’s best castle, Warwick Castle is one of England’s most popular historical destinations. Then it’s off to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Set upon the banks of the beautiful River Avon, we’ll get a taste of Olde England while strolling through the town, seeing Shakespeare’s Houses, the Swan Theatre, the 15th century timber-framed buildings, pubs and teahouses. Particularly appealing is a relaxing stroll along the river with its ever-present swans, past the many weeping willow trees and the glorious Royal Shakespeare Theatre. (B) 

4^th Day: We leave Oxford and drive through the beautiful English countryside as we make our way to the lovely Hever Castle and Gardens, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, who became the second of the 6 wives of King Henry VIII. Because of his love for Anne, the king renounced Catholicism and created the Church of England. The spectacular castle and award-winning gardens provide a fascinating visit. We then drive to and check into our hotel in Maidstone, where we have accommodations and are treated to a delicious dinner. (B,D)

5^th Day: A morning drive brings us to Dover to view the famous White Cliffs. The cliff face, which reaches up to 350 feet, overlooks what is still an important English port and served as an invaluable site from which to monitor the English Channel and protect England during World War II. Then it's on to Canterbury to see Canterbury Cathedral, the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury - the leader of the Church of England. Following our visit, we make our way to London, where we have accommodations for the next 3 evenings. We enjoy a tasty dinner in one of London's better restaurants tonight. (B,D) 

 6^th Day: Today is special as we take a tour of one of the world's great cities, London. We'll see such famous sites as Westminster Abbey, the Parliament Buildings, Big Ben, Hyde Park, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, the residential areas of Notting Hill and Mayfair and historic sites associated with the British Royal family: Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace & Gardens. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy all that London has to offer at your leisure. Perhaps a stroll through St. James Park, a ride on the famous Underground or a shopping excursion to Harrods. And, of course, there is always the theatre. (B)

7^th Day: We take a most relaxing morning cruise on the Thames River, which gives us a fascinating overview of the many different, distinct neighborhoods of London, the city's remarkable history and its future development. Following our cruise, we will visit the Tower of London - "Her Majesty's Royal Palace." Located on the Thames River, it was founded in 1066 as part of the Norman conquest of England. At times it has served as a prison, a grand palace and a royal residence. It now contains the remarkable Crown Jewels, truly a sight to behold! A delicious farewell dinner is prepared for us tonight. (B,D) 

8^th Day: We transfer to the airport for our return flight home. (B)

Airfare is additional