Heart of Wales & England

Day 1: London at Leisure & Welcome Dinner

You will fly into London (Heathrow Aiport) and will receive a transfer to your hotel. If you are arriving into Gatwick Airport, a transfer will be an extra cost.

At approximately 2:30 pm you will be invited to go on an orientation bus tour around central London. In the evening feel free to meet your guide and fellow travellers during a welcome drink before enjoying dinner in your hotel. (D)

Day 2: Tower of London & City Sights

On the morning of day 2 you can take an open top bus tour around central London where you will see famous landmarks including Big Ben, Piccadilly Circus, Nelson’s Column, Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park and the Houses of Parliament. A must today is a visit to the Tower of London. Here you will be able to view the magnificent Crown Jewels, guarded by Beefeaters in distinctive Tudor uniforms. Take in the views of the White Tower, which was completed in 1097. You will have some free time in the afternoon and evening to do as you please. We recommend going to one of the wonderful West End shows. Ask your tour guide for tips and recommendations. (B)

Day 3: Jane Austen’s Bath & Cardiff Castle Banquet

On the third day, drive west to the town of Bath which was popular for its natural hot springs with the Romans 2,000 years ago and again in the Regency period. Jane Austen called Bath home from 1801 to 1806. The city also provided the backdrop to her novels “Northanger Abbey” and “Persuasion.”

You will be invited to take a walking tour to view Queen’s Square, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey. Next, visit the Roman Baths and Pump Room to see many sections still preserved after two millennia. Drive around the Royal Crescent and view other impressive houses before travelling into Wales to view the regenerated Cardiff Bay which is Wales’ capital. A stop at Cardiff Castle is a must as it was established in the Roman times and transformed into an elaborate Gothic-style castle in the 19th century. Following the tour of the castle, a glorious Welsh banquet is to be enjoyed. (B, D)

Day 4: Brecon Beacons & Portmeirion Village

Coal production has long been a part of Welsh history. Today you will drive past the coal producing region of South Wales and through the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park, which is a region of gentle hills sure to provoke a few photographs from those who enjoy natural beauty.
Stopping in the market town of Brecon is a must. Take some time to look around before the tour continues to drive north through the sleepy sheep pastures of Mid Wales.
In the afternoon you may be surprised to find a little bit of Italian culture as you pay the Italianate village of Portmeirion a visit. This endearing village with its winding streets, towers and woodland gardens was built in the 20th century to show how a naturally beautiful place could be developed without spoiling it. I’m sure you will agree that it is indeed beautiful.
Only a short drive will take you to Caernarfon which is best known for its great stone castle. It was first built in the 13th century, where the Prince of Wales was invested in 1969. Feel free to walk around and explore the market square, quaint buildings and narrow lanes. (B, D)

Day 5: Castles of North Wales & Snowdonia

On the fifth day of the tour you will set out and explore the areas in and around North Wales. You can enjoy some free time in Llandudno where you can browse along the seafront lined with elegant Victorian buildings. Also stop in Conwy where you will find plenty of opportunities to take breathtaking photos of Snowdon which is the highest peak in Wales, before visiting the National Slate Museum. Here you will hear the stories endured by the natives thanks to the region’s slate industry which was developed in Victorian times.
Once the tour was returned back in Caernarfon, tour Caernarfon Castle, built in 1283 by Edward I as a military stronghold as well as a royal palace. Explore the impressive walkways around the massive walls and battlements that dominate the town. After dinner you will have some free time where you may like to relax at the Anglesey Arms Pub which ideally located between the castle and the bay. (B, D)

Day 6: Llangollen & Stratford-upon-Avon

On day 6, you will be driven through the peaceful scenery of North Wales where you will take a break in the charming village of Llangollen before heading across the English border into Shropshire.
Next, explore the picturesque town of Bridgnorth which is divided by Britain’s longest river, the Severn. Pause in the High Town for a stroll around. Here you will find the old church as well as fine gabled and half-timbered house - one of which dates back to 1580.
Next, drive to Stratford-upon-Avon for a panoramic tour around the lovely old town with its many black-and-white houses and shops. A visit to Shakespeare’s Birthplace is a must where you will find an interesting exhibition that documents his life and work. Enter the house where he was born where you will find all rooms are furnished in the style of his times. Check in to your magnificent Tudorstyle hotel in the centre of the town where you can enjoy free time before dinner. (B, D)

Day 7: Cotswolds & Windsor Castle

On the second last day of the tour you will be driven across part of the Cotswolds and stop in the village of Broadway. Here you will find the quaint old houses built of honey-coloured stone that line the main street.

Next, you will drive south to Oxford and take a walking tour through the historic city centre. Learn all about the history of Oxford and the architecture, traditions and alumni of the most famous colleges, including Christ Church College which was founded in 1524 and featured in various movies.

Following some free time head to Windsor for a tour of the famous Windsor Castle which is just one of The Queen’s official residences and in fact is the largest occupied castle in the world. See the lavishly decorated State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel.

Check in to your hotel, for a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers and guides. (B, D)

Day 8: Depart for Home

You will travel by a group coach transfer and will arrive in Heathrow Airport at either 7:00am or 10:00am. Transfers to Gatwick can also be arranged but will require an additional fee.   (B)