CASTLES, KINGS, GARDENS & QUEENS
A Journey through England's History
2019 Dates: October 12-20
2020 Dates: August 8-16 ... October 10-18*
1st Day: We depart from the U.S. for the overnight flight to England.
2nd Day: Upon arriving in London 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 enjoy a delicious welcome dinner and have accommodations for the next 3 evenings. (D)
3rd 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,D)
4th 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,D)
5th Day: Drive south to Royal Tunbridge Wells, a town that became the favored spa destination for British Royalty as far back as the 17th century because of the healing powers of its famous waters. The original well can still be seen in the Pantiles Promenade, a series of carefully planned shops located along the “Walks.” On to Hole Park Gardens where we enjoy the lovely gardens and are treated to a very British “Afternoon Tea.” We travel to Maidstone, our home for the next 2 evenings. (B,Tea)
6th Day: We drive 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. On to Canterbury to see Canterbury Cathedral, the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury - the leader of the Church of England. Following is a scenic drive to Hever Castle & Gardens, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn who became the second of the 8 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 afternoon visit. (B)
7th Day: We drive to one of the world’s great cities, London, for a tour to remember. We’ll see such famous sites as Westminster Abbey, the Parliament Buildings, Big Ben, Hyde Park, Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus, the residential areas of Notting Hill and Mayfair, and many sites associated with the British Royal family: Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace & Gardens. Accommodations for the next 2 evenings are in London. And tonight we are treated to dinner in one of London’s finer restaurants. (B,D)
8th Day: A morning visit to the Tower of London - “Her Majesty’s Royal Palace.” Located on the River Thames, 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 royal residence. It now contains the remarkable Crown Jewels, truly a sight to behold. The afternoon is free to enjoy all that London has to offer. Perhaps a stroll through St. James Park, a ride on the Underground or a shopping excursion to Harrods. And, of course, there is always the theatre. (B)
9th Day: We transfer to the airport for our return flight home. (B)
Price: $2,949 per person, double occ
single supplement: $899
Our Tour Package Includes:
* 4-Star hotel accommodations
* 7 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners
* Afternoon Tea
* Sightseeing and admissions
* The services of a professional English Blue Badge tour escort
* Gratuities for the included meals
* Transfers in England
* Baggage handling
* Taxes
Airfare is additional
*2020 Price: $2,949
