Family Oriented Independent Tour of England - Family Fun

For further information on this tour, contact Across the Pond Vacations at 310-791-6101, or e-mail info@atpvacations.com.  www.atpvacations.com

Jolly Good Family Fun

Ideal for Summer - 12 Days/10 nights – from $2,795.00* per person, land only (price based on 2 adults / 2 children under 15 years of age) traveling. (Rates will change based on total occupancy.) Independent Tour

Jolly Good Family Fun is the perfect solution for the everyone. The family travels without the concerns of a group tour, often intended for adults only. This tour includes all the fun that the kids crave, and even sneaks in some education to please the parents! This jaunt around England will create memories that last a lifetime, at an affordable price!

Your Tour Price Includes:

• Roundtrip tickets on the Heathrow Express (enabling you quick and easy access to and from Heathrow airport)
• 5 days car rental in an automatic shift mini-van – perfect for the family
• 10 nights in family friendly 4 star hotels** (including a stay in a real Manor House – dinner included)
• Full English breakfast, daily
• Admission to:
• London Eye
• Hampton Court Palace
• Madame Tussaud’s
• Tower of London
• Paradise Wildlife Park
• Cadbury World
• Blue Planet Aquarium
• Blackpool Pleasure Beach
• Legoland (or Windsor Castle – your choice)
• Tour of London on the Original Sightseeing Bus
• City Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus in York
  Tickets (great seats!) to a London West-End Production of The Lion King, Mary Poppins, or The Sound of Music

• Part of tour, but not included in the above price:
• Cotswold Farm Park
• Chester Zoo

* Land only, per person price - if airfare required, please inquire with an ATP Vacations Tour Manager
** Hotels listed in tour description indicate first choice. Equivalent hotels of same star quality and location supplied if first choice unavailable.

All independent tours can be made into group tours for already assembled groups.

SUMMARY

Day 1 - Departure from U.S. to U.K.

Day 2 - Heathrow Express, London Eye Flight, London hotel

Day 3 - Full English breakfast, Hampton Court Palace, Madame Tussaud's, London hotel

Day 4 - Full English breakfast, London Hop-On/Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus, Tower of London, top theatrical production, London hotel

Day 5 - Full English breakfast, collect rental car, Paradise Wildlife Park, drive to Cotswolds, dinner at Calcot Manor, Calcot Manor hotel

Day 6 - Full English breakfast, Cotswold Farm Park, drive to Birmingham, Cadbury World, Birmingham hotel

Day 7 - Full English breakfast, Chester Zoo, Blue Planet Aquarium, Liverpool hotel

Day 8 - Full English breakfast, Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Liverpool hotel

Day 9 - Full English breakfast, drive to York, York Hop-On/Hop-Off sightseeing bus, York hotel

Day 10 - Full English breakfast, return rental car, train to London, London hotel

Day 11 - Full English breakfast, Windsor Castle or Legoland Windsor, London hotel

Day 12 - Full English breakfast, depart or continue on (please inquire for additional tour days)

 

Day 1 – Departure – You depart on your overnight transatlantic flight.

Day 2 – Let the Fun Begin! – Welcome to England! After taking the Heathrow Express in to the City, you arrive at your family-friendly hotel. Take the afternoon to relax, or may want to jump into this exciting city and get your sightseeing underway. Tonight, we’ll present you with a bird’s eye view of this great city as you take a flight on the London Eye. Located on the banks of the River Thames, this 135 meter-high observation wheel lays the grand city’s unrivaled views before you. Then, it’s back to your hotel for a good night’s rest. (London Hotel: Millennium Copthorne Tara or equivalent.)

Day 3 – Royals and Celebs! – After a full English breakfast, you’ll head over to Hampton Court Palace. Once home to Henry VIII, this magnificent palace see what life would have been like for the murderous king and his court. Don’t forget to explore the maze, which covers a third of an acre and contains half a mile of paths. And watch out for “unearthly apparitions”. One of the famous king’s wives, Jane Seymour, died at Hampton Court Palace and is said to still roam the grounds. Next, you’re off to rub elbows with the elite at Madame Tussaud’s. Start your day by sneaking past the paparazzi and attend a photo shoot with Kate Moss. Then mingle with Brad, Angelina and all the other stars in your very own premiere party. Visit the Chamber of Horrors, an inner-chamber where things take an even scarier turn. See the new Sports Zone, visit royals, the Music Zone, and even world leaders! The remainder of the day is yours to explore the exciting city. (London Hotel: Millennium Copthorne Tara or equivalent.)

Day 4 – Olde London Towne – Today, after your full English breakfast, you will catch the Original Sightseeing London Bus Tour. This hop-on/hop-off bus is perfect for catching all of London’s sites, enabling you to spend more or less time exactly where you’d like. Then, you’ll visit the Tower of London. This edifice is over 900 years old! See the fortress where history was made (and spirits of the past may still roam the grounds). Your Yeoman Warder (Beefeater) will detail the Tower’s lengthy and diverse history. And, don’t forget to see the Crown Jewels while you’re there. This evening, you visit the theatre in London’s famous West End. We’ve secured excellent seats for a family-fun production, such as Mary Poppins, The Lion King, or The Sound of Music.  Whichever music you choose, you’re certain to leave with a happy tune in your heart. (London Hotel: Millennium Copthorne Tara or equivalent.)

Day 5 – Exploring We Go! – This morning after your full English breakfast, you collect your rental car (car size will be suitable to accommodate a family plus luggage), leave London, and head off to Paradise Wildlife Park, a fantastic, fun filled, destination for all the family. The Park has an amazing range of animals including tigers, lions, monkeys, zebras, camels and wolves. And, what makes this experience really unique is the fact that you can get up close and personal, meeting and feeding many of the animals. There are three themed adventure playgrounds, children’s’ rides, indoor soft play areas and many new attractions all the time. Then, you’ll head west into the beautiful Cotswolds where you’ll check into your hotel. Renowned for being very family-friendly, Calcot Manor is one of the most highly-acclaimed of today’s new breed of British country hotels. A former English farmhouse set around a pretty courtyard of lime trees and ancient stone barns and stables (dating back to the 14th century), Calcot is cuddled by beautiful gardens and its own 220 acre-estate, three miles west of the quiet Cotswold market town of Tetbury in Gloucestershire. You’ll enjoy a lovely dinner here (included in your package), and breakfast the next morning. (Cotswolds Hotel: Calcot Manor)

Day 6 – Country Charm and Chocolate – After you’ve said goodbye to Calcot Manor, you’ll visit Cotswold Farm Park. Established in 1971, the Farm Park can be aptly described as a pageant of history on four legs. Alongside the Park’s serious aims of conservation and education, visitors of all ages will find themselves easily entertained. On display is an unrivalled collection of rare breeds of British farm animals including sheep, cattle, pigs, goats, horses, poultry and waterfowl. Step into living history with their outdoor and indoor animal displays and daily demonstrations. After exploring the “country life”, you’ll head north to the city of Birmingham and explore the “chocolate life” at Cadbury World. Learn the history of chocolate, how Cadbury started, how it’s made today, and more! There’s lots of tasting to be done, and a playground is available to burn off some of that sugar. Tonight, you’ll stay in the lively city of Birmingham, very nearby Cadbury World. (Birmingham Hotel: Hilton Birmingham Bromsgrove or equivalent)

Day 7 – Animals and Aquatics – After breakfast, you will continue driving north and visit Chester Zoo, England’s number one zoo with over 7000 animals and 400 different species, including some of the most endangered species on the planet! After visiting Chester’s many land species, you’ll head just a few miles north to meet some of their aquatic friends in the giant aquarium, Blue Planet Aquarium. In addition to see a multitude of aquatic wildlife, you’ll also learn about conservation, and possibly even see someone diving with the sharks! After this full day, you’ll drive into the European Capital of Culture for the year 2008, Liverpool. (Liverpool Hotel: Radisson SAS Liverpool or equivalent)

Day 8 – Family Fun at Blackpool Pleasure Beach – Today is all about fun, fun and more fun! You’ll visit Blackpool Pleasure Beach with over 125 rides and attractions and spectacular shows. Take a thrilling ride on the Pepsi Max Big One, turn your world upside down & get ready to do it again on the Revolution or experience the classic twin tracked coaster the Grand National. (Rides and shows available upon purchase at Blackpool Pleasure Beach.) Head back to Liverpool and take a lovely evening ferry down the River Mersey, or perhaps take in The Beatles Story experience. The evening is yours to explore the city as you choose. (Liverpool Hotel: Radisson SAS Liverpool or equivalent)

Day 9 – Olde York – Before there was a ‘New York’, there was (olde) York, in England. York is one of the most intriguing cities in England - a city layered with history, beauty and variety. Superbly preserved, York has witnessed more than 2000 years of vibrant history. Highlights include the magnificent York Minster, the world’s biggest and best railway museum and the Castle Museum with its perfectly recreated Victorian and Edwardian street-scenes. Let 21st century technology transport you back to Viking Age York at JORVIK or marvel at William the Conqueror’s Clifford’s Tower and wander through the terrifying York Dungeon.  Quaint tea shops and “pedestrianised” streets make York an ideal city to explore on foot. Enjoy seeing York’s churches, the riverside, railway heritage, Roman York and the city walls. Take one of “Five routes to retail heaven” around cobbled streets containing 2000 shops. Today, after you arrive, you can leave your rental car here – you won’t need it anymore. Then, you’ll ride the City Sightseeing hop-on/hop-off bus to take you around to all of these wonderful attractions.  Stroll The Shambles - a perfect medieval thoroughfare - flag stoned, incredibly narrow and lined with overhanging timber-framed houses. Once the home of York’s butchers, you can still see the old meat hooks on one or two of the houses. The cobblestone streets brim with buskers, shoppers and street entertainment.  (York Hotel: Hilton York or equivalent.)

Day 10 – Back to London – This morning, after a full English breakfast, you’ll ride the English railways from York to London. The remainder of the day and evening is yours to explore on your own. (London Hotel: Millennium Copthorne Tara or equivalent.)

Day 11 – Wonderful Windsor – After breakfast, you’ll head in to Windsor. The activity today is your choice. If little ones are a part of your family, you may choose to go to Britain’s Legoland. If, however, you’re looking for a little more culture, then Windsor Castle is the better choice. Either way, you’ll love the charming city of Windsor. Windsor and The Royal Borough lie to the west of London in the charming rural countryside of Royal Berkshire.   The River Thames flows through the whole of the Royal Borough and it is along or near the river that many historic and attractive towns and villages can be found.   This is an exciting, fashionable and sophisticated area, rich in things to see and do.   There is excellent shopping and dining, interesting walks and tours, boat trips and open top bus tours, historic gardens and world-famous racecourses. All this, together with a host of international events, makes Windsor and The Royal Borough a year round visitor destination. You can arrive at Windsor by train, boat, or taxicab – the choice is yours. (London Hotel: Millennium Copthorne Tara or equivalent.)

Day 11 – A Fond Family Farewell – We know you’ll be sad to leave this beautiful country, but anxious to begin planning your next trip to visit England and all new locales in the UK. After a full English breakfast, you’ll return to Heathrow via the Heathrow Express and journey back home. Farewell, lovely England.

* Final price will be based upon exchange rate at time of booking, total number of adults and children in package, and time of year traveling.

 

For further information on this tour, contact Across the Pond Vacations at 310-791-6101, or e-mail info@atpvacations.com.  www.atpvacations.com

 

Posted by jaggerdiggydog

 

Northern England Independent Tour Package - Manchester, Liverpool, Lake District, and York

Beautiful North

(Ideal Package for Summer)
11 Days – from $2,995.00* per person (based on double occupancy, land only) Independent Tour

CONTACT ACROSS THE POND VACATIONS – 310-791-6101 OR E-MAIL INFO@ATPVACATIONS.COM

WWW.ATPVACATIONS.COM

Your Tour Price Includes:

• 10 days car rental in mid-size, automatic, air-conditioned car (VW Passat or similar)
• 9 nights in 4 star hotels**
• Full English breakfast, daily
• Manchester United Football Club Tour and Museum
• Entrance tickets to The Beatles Story in Liverpool
• Entrance to the York Dungeon
• City Sightseeing’s Hop-on/Hop-off bus in York
• Hadrian’s Wall

SUMMARY

Day 1 - Departure from U.S. to U.K.

Day 2 - Collect rental car, Manchester United Football Club Tour, Manchester hotel

Day 3 - Full English breakfast, Liverpool, The Beatles Story, Manchester Hotel

Day 4 - Full English breakfast, drive to Lake District, Lake District hotel

Day 5 - Full English breakfast, William Wordsworth Home and Museum & Dove Cottage, Lake District hotel

Day 6 - Full English breakfast, Hadrian's Wall visit and guided tour, Northumberland (Slaley Hall) hotel

Day 7 - Full English breakfast, Alnwick Castle, Northumberland (Slaley Hall) hotel

Day 8 - Full English breakfast, drive to York, York Hop-On/Hop-Off sightseeing bus, York hotel

Day 9 - Full English breakfast, York Dungeon, York hotel

Day 10 - Full English breakfast, drive to Manchester, Manchester hotel

Day 11 - Full English breakfast, depart or continue on (please inquire for additional tour days)

 

England’s Beautiful North is where you will find history comes alive! You’ll find the scenic grandeur of lakes and mountains, dramatic coastlines and glorious National Parks combined with cities rich in history, attractions and culture. This tour includes the best the north has to offer, traveling from metropolitan Manchester to Europe’s City of Culture for 2008-Liverpool, the glorious Lake District with its 16 sparkling lakes, majestic Northumberland forest and moorlands, historic York, and back to Manchester. And, England’s northerners are some of the friendliest people around. Don’t miss out on this diverse and richly historic tour. You’ll want to return again and again.

Day 1 – Departure – You depart on your overnight transatlantic flight.

Day 2 – Metropolitan Manchester – Welcome to England! This city is widely recognized as the coolest in Britain. Manchester has reinvented itself as a truly contemporary metropolis, with modern landmarks, excellent art and culture, great bars and world-class hospitality. This afternoon, you’ll visit one of the most famous Football Clubs in the world, Manchester United! Immerse yourself in the history of the world’s most famous football club, experience the magnificent trophy room, test your skills on the ‘interactives’ and enjoy the atmosphere inside the ‘Theatre of Dreams’- it certainly is a day to remember. You’ll see for yourself why more than 200,000 people visit the Museum and Tour Centre every year! Tonight, you’ll stay in a beautiful Manchester 4-star hotel. (Manchester Hotel: Hilton Manchester Deansgate or equivalent.)

Day 3 – Liverpool, “Yeah, yeah yeah!” – After a full English breakfast, head off to the place where it all started for 4 blokes named John, Paul, George & Ringo. While Liverpool’s main claim to fame is The Beatles, you’ll also come to understand why Liverpool was named this year’s ‘European City of Culture 2008’. Liverpool boasts more museums and galleries than any other city outside London (most of which are free)! You’ll visit The Beatles Story, the most famous (and in our opinion, best) tribute to The Beatles. Afterwards, the city is yours to explore. Take a “ferry ‘cross the Mersey”, or visit the two imposing cathedrals, each with their own extraordinary architectural styles. You’ll be amazed by Liverpool’s rich artistic and creative culture. The city is blessed with fine buildings representing its significant past and exciting future. Then head back to your Manchester hotel, only 30 minutes away. (Manchester Hotel: Hilton Manchester Deansgate or equivalent.)

Day 4 – Sparkling Lakes – Today, after breakfast, you drive north to the Lake District. With 16 sparkling lakes and England's highest mountains, this is without a doubt England's most beautiful corner and the country's best-loved outdoor playground. Rich in culture and heritage, the region offers an excellent array of attractions complemented by superb locally produced food and drink. Soak up the scenery, take a long walk, or go for a sail on one of the lakes. Immerse yourself in the beautiful surroundings… you can’t go wrong. You’ll stay, tonight, at the Leeming House hotel. This 200-year-old house is surrounded by 22 acres of lush gardens and woodland leading down to the shore of Ullswater in the glorious Lake District Countryside. Relax… enjoy! (Lake District Hotel: Leeming House or equivalent.)

Day 5 – Wordsworth’s Lakes – William Wordsworth once said, “In human life there are moments worth ages.” We believe this to be true. And nothing like seeing this beautiful countryside will help you understand that more. Today, we recommend visiting the poet’s Lakeland homes and museum. The National Trust has recreated Wordsworth House’s environment so that visitors get a sense of what the poet’s early years were really like. Visitors may encounter some of the Wordsworth’s servants going about their daily chores – washing, cooking, cleaning. There is even a chance to join in, if you don’t mind hard work! Then, you’ll drive to Dove Cottage. Dove Cottage was the home of William Wordsworth from 1799 to 1808, the years of his supreme work as a poet. The cottage is located in the hamlet of Town End, Grasmere, a place and a landscape at the center of the English Lake District where the poet lived, wrote and found inspiration. You can take a guided tour of the home, which tells of Wordsworth’s family, friends, and what life was like in the Lake District 200 years ago. Then visit the Wordsworth Museum, which was founded in 1943, and recreated in 1981 within the walls of an 1850s coach house. On display are some of the nation's greatest treasures from the age of Romanticism including original manuscripts, 18th and 19th century local landscapes, portraits of Wordsworth, his contemporaries and family processions. (Lake District Hotel: Leeming House or equivalent.)

Day 6 – Hadrian’s Wall – You head even further north today, as you make for Hadrian’s Wall. In 122 A.D., to defend Rome’s Northern Frontier from the invading Barbarians, Hadrian built a 150 mile long wall. Today, the wall has 118 circular walks and 25 Roman forts and museums. We suggest a guided tour at Birdoswald Roman Fort. The tour covers 200 years of history at this amazing site. Start by looking at a model of the Roman Fort, continue on a walk around the site and end by admiring the spectacular views of the Irthing Valley towards the Lake District. While this hour long tour offered by English Heritage is free, advance booking (at least 4 weeks in advance) is required. Tonight, you’ll stay at the incredibly beautiful Slaley Hall Hotel, winner of the “Hotel of the Year” award at the 2007 North East England Tourism Awards. This elegant Edwardian house stands proudly in 1,000 acres of prime Northumberland forest and moorland. (Northumberland Hotel: Slaley Hall or equivalent.)

Day 7 – Northumberland and Alnwick Castle – Pronounced “Annick” Castle, today you’ll visit the world famous Alnwick Castle, filming location for all of the Harry Potter movies, some of the hilarious ‘Black Adder’ episodes, and even from the movie, ‘Beckett’! To many people, their first sight of this glorious medieval castle fills them with a sense of drama and intrigue. There’s lots to see and do here at this mighty medieval fortress, one of Europe's finest. The castle has a long a colorful life. It has been at the center of many of the country's famous historical events - from bloodthirsty battles between the English and the Scots, to the dramatic intrigues of the Guy Fawkes plot. Today it is a 'must see' visitor attraction and the family home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland. Like every home, there are sure signs to be found of those that came before us. Around every corner, there's a memory and around many there's a surprise. At almost every step there's a story, at a few a mystery, at others a romance or a feud. Step inside and be part of a story that never ends. After a long day of exploring, you’ll retire at beautiful Slaley Hall again for the night. (Northumberland Hotel: Slaley Hall or equivalent.)

Day 8 – Historic York - After a hearty breakfast, you drive on to York. Once the Roman capital of Northern England, York has witnessed wars, peace agreements and prosperity throughout its turbulent history. Marvel at the colossal 13th Century York Minster, home to half of all the medieval stained glass windows in Europe, and hear all about the City described by King George VI as being “the history of England”. Today, you’ll take the City Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off bus, which will allow you to visit all the remarkable sites York has to offer, including the Jorvik Viking Center, Castle Museum, York Minster (the largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe) and much more! Tonight, you’ll settle into another beautifully appointed four-star hotel. The night is yours, whether you choose to visit the theatre, enjoy some fine dining, or just relax with the locals at a pub. (York Hotel: Marriott York or equivalent.)

Day 9 – Bloody York – After breakfast, take a stroll around town, or go back to visit some of the spots you may have missed yesterday. This afternoon, you’ll head to the York Dungeon. Transport yourself back to the dark and grizzly history of the Roman city of York. Live actors, shows and interactive special effects ensure that you face your fears head on in this unique experience. Everything that you see is based on real historical events from the Labyrinth of the Lost Roman Legion, to the chilling tale of highwayman Dick Turpin, torture and the plague. Step back in time into the depths of the York Dungeon for a thrilling and fun experience that will leave you screaming for more. After that experience, we recommend a good “stiffener” at the local pub. Tonight is yours to do exactly as you please. (York Hotel: Marriott York or equivalent.)

Day 10 – Manchester and Memories – This morning, after a full English breakfast, you head back to Manchester, where this fantastic itinerary all started. This is a great opportunity to see much that Manchester has to offer, whether it’s the shopping, dining, or museums. Don’t forget to pick up those last minute souvenirs! (Manchester Hotel: Hilton Manchester Deansgate or equivalent.)

Day 11 – Departure from Manchester – We hope you have walked away from this tour with a greater understanding of English history, a deeper love of the English people, and memories that will last a lifetime! Extend your stay (inquire with us), or depart from Manchester airport back home.

* Prices from $2,995/pp based on double occupancy. Single and triple occupants will change rate. Final price will be based upon exchange rate at time of booking, and time of year traveling.
** Hotels listed in tour description indicate first choice. Equivalent hotels of same star quality and location supplied if first choice unavailable.

All independent tours can be made into group tours for already assembled groups.

CONTACT ACROSS THE POND VACATIONS – 310-791-6101 OR E-MAIL INFO@ATPVACATIONS.COM

WWW.ATPVACATIONS.COM

 

Posted by jaggerdiggydog

England Independent Tour Package - Mystery and Murder

Land of Mysteries and Monarchs

(April through October) (Popular tour - early booking recommended)
11 Days – from $2,795.00* per person (based on double occupancy) Independent Tour

(Tues. arrival required)

CONTACT ACROSS THE POND VACATIONS – 310-791-6101 OR E-MAIL INFO@ATPVACATIONS.COM

WWW.ATPVACATIONS.COM

 

Your Tour Price Includes:

• Airport transfer via authentic London taxicab from airport to your hotel, including airport ‘meet and greet’
• 9 nights in 3 ½ to 4 ½ star hotels** (including 2 nights in a castle!)
• Full English breakfast, daily
• Murder Mystery Weekend including hotel, 2 nights dinner, 2 mornings full English breakfast, and Murder Mystery program
• Five days car rental air-conditioned, automatic shift car
• Roundtrip Stonehenge Tour
• Visit to Winchester Cathedral
• See the statue to Alfred the Great
• Entrance to mysterious Stonehenge
• A panoramic tour of the Georgian city of Bath
• Visit the Roman Baths and Pumps Room
• First-class luxury motor-coach and the services of a professional Blue-Badge guide
• Entrance fees/tickets to:
• London Eye Flight
• Tower of London
• Berkeley Castle
• Hampton Court Palace
• Windsor Castle
• Jack the Ripper or London Ghost Walk Tour
• Shakespearean Houses Tour, including transportation
• Airport transfer to London airport upon departure

SUMMARY

Day 1 - Departure from U.S. to U.K.

Day 2 - Airport transfer, London Eye Flight, London hotel

Day 3 - Full English breakfast, Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Jack the Ripper Walking Tour, London hotel

Day 4 - Full English breakfast, Escorted full day tour to Winchester, Stonehenge and Bath, London hotel

Days 5, 6 & 7 - Full English breakfast (in London), collect rental car, Murder Mystery Weekend to include 2 dinners, 2 breakfasts, cocktail reception, hotel accommodation, and Murder Mystery program, Shakespearean Houses Tour in Stratford-upon-Avon, Stratford-upon-Avon hotel

Day 7 (cont.)- Drive to the Cotswolds, Thornbury Castle overnight

Day 8 - Full English breakfast, Berkeley or Sudeley Castle, Cotswolds Driving, Thornbury Castle overnight

Day 9 - Full English breakfast, drive to Windsor, return rental car, Windsor hotel

Day 10 - Full English breakfast, Windsor Castle, Windsor Hotel

Day 11 - Full English breakfast, airport transfer from Windsor, depart or continue on (please inquire for additional tour days)

 

A country with a past dating back over a millennium is bound to be overflowing with history and all that it entails. From the mysterious time when Pagans roamed the land to the real and (and fictional) mysteries of the last century, England is rich with a colorful and sometimes murderous history. Not only will you visit many of the famous highlights, you will even have the opportunity to solve a mystery yourself at an entertaining English Murder Mystery Weekend. Whether this is your first time to enigmatic England, or you’re a regular visitor, this tour is guaranteed to amaze and mystify one and all.

Monday - Day 1 – Departure – You depart on your overnight transatlantic flight.

Tuesday - Day 2 – Welcome to London – Welcome to the land of the Henry VIII, Jack the Ripper, Agatha Christie, and numerous other interesting and sometimes shady characters! You will be greeted at the airport and depart in an authentic London taxicab. As you arrive at your four-star hotel, take the afternoon to relax. Tonight, we’ll present you with a bird’s eye view of this great city as you take a flight on the London Eye. Located on the banks of the River Thames, this 135 meter-high observation wheel lays the grand city’s unrivaled views before you. Then, it’s back to your hotel for a good night’s rest. (London Hotel: Millennium Gloucester hotel or equivalent.)

Wednesday - Day 3 – Monarchs and Murders – After your full English breakfast, you will visit two of the homes of one of the most well-known monarchs, King Henry VIII. First, you will visit the Tower of London. This historic palace has been an integral part of British history for nearly 1,000 years. Drenched in history, it is only at the Tower of London that you can marvel at the breathtaking Crown Jewels, stand on the execution site of three English queens (2 of whom were the infamous king’s own wives!), and listen to Beefeaters share with you the myths and legends that make a visit to the Tower an excursion ‘to die for’. After your visit to “The Tower”, you’ll visit another of Henry’s homes, Hampton Court Palace. You’ll see Henry VIII’s Great Hall - England’s last and greatest medieval hall. The room is spanned by a large and sumptuously decorated hammer-beam roof and its walls are hung with Henry VIII’s most splendid tapestries. Then visit The Privy Garden which has been returned to its 1702 glory using incredibly detailed accounts so that the garden has been restored to how it would have looked for William III. And, don’t miss The Maze – one of the most famous garden mazes in the world. Then, brace yourself for tonight’s adventure – a mysterious trek around the streets of London. You’ll be on one of Richard Jones’ famous Walking Tours, the “Jack the Ripper” Tour. (Optional tour: Ghosts of London.) (London Hotel: Millennium Gloucester hotel or equivalent.)

Thursday – Day 4 – Mystical and Mysterious Stonehenge, Winchester and Bath – Today you are on a full-day tour. You will be picked up directly from your hotel and greeted by your fellow day trippers as you journey southwest to Winchester. You’ll start the day across the chalk downs of Hampshire to Winchester, a delightful city that basks in an atmosphere of beauty, antiquity and tranquility! Winchester was once a major fortification against the Vikings and King Alfred the Great who was buried at Winchester in 899 and is commemorated in a magnificent statue in the city centre that has become a landmark in itself. You’ll also see the mighty 11th century Winchester Cathedral. Next, it’s on to mysterious Stonehenge. 5,000 years ago the huge 40 ton stones were dragged from over 280 miles away in Wales. Who built it and why remains a mystery, today. Some say that it was built as a religious temple, or an astronomical clock. Stonehenge continues to enthrall the imagination and captivate the heart of every visitor. And finally, you’ll visit Bath. This beautiful Georgian city justly deserves its status as a World Heritage Site, with its delightful terraces, elegant crescents and stunning architecture. On your panoramic tour of the city you’ll see the crescents, Pulteney Bridge modeled on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence and Bath Abbey. Then into the Roman Baths built over 2,000 years and still in perfect working order. You’ll return to London at around 7pm, plenty of time to enjoy a nice meal out, or have a traditional English dinner at a local pub. (London Hotel: Millennium Gloucester hotel or equivalent.)

Friday and Saturday - Days 5 and 6 – … and the Murderer is… – After breakfast, and perhaps even a trip to the Sherlock Holmes museum (to get you ‘in practice’ for the weekend), you’ll pick up your rental car and drive to Stratford-upon-Avon. Home of the Great William Shakespeare, this will also be the exciting locale for your Murder Mystery Weekend. Included in your Weekend are two nights’ accommodation (check-in is from 2.00 pm on Friday), a 3-course dinner will be served on Friday and Saturday nights and a full country house breakfast on Saturday and Sunday mornings. The entertainment will commence at 7.30 pm in the bar on Friday evening continuing Saturday to conclude on Sunday morning. Dressing up is optional, casual dress is accepted. There will be plenty of free time to explore the delights of this historic Shakespearian town and we’ve made arrangements for you to do just that. You will have a ticket today for the City Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off bus to visit all five Shakespearean Houses (bus and admissions included). (Stratford-upon-Avon Hotel: BW Grosvenor Hotel.)

Sunday - Day 7 – … and the Murderer is… solved – “Whodunit?” will be on everyone’s mind at breakfast. The murderer will finally be revealed… were you able to solve the crime? We invite you to take advantage of your time in Stratford-upon-Avon by taking a relaxing sail down the Avon River, or enjoying a bit of shopping in some of the quaint shops. Perhaps a traditional pub lunch is in order. The choice is yours. Moving on… how about staying in a castle tonight? We’ve arranged for you to do just that! Tonight, you’ll be staying at the 4 ½ star Thornbury Castle! Kings and queens have stayed here. Courtiers have flirted with ladies-in-waiting in the ancient yew-hedged gardens. Serving girls have chattered in the stone-flagged courtyard. Today, Thornbury Castle still resonates with history and is the only Tudor castle in England to be open as a hotel. We invite you to relax and allow yourself to be pampered.

Monday - Day 8 – It’s Good to be King (or Queen) - You’ve just woken up… in a castle! And today, after a breakfast fit for royalty, you’ll take in a bit more history. Drive to either Berkeley or Sudeley Castle. Both have interesting and haunting tales attached to them. Visit these beautiful edifices and find out just what happened here. Tonight, we recommend you really treat yourself by dining at Thornbury Castle, which has always been renowned for its fine food and is the recipient of many prestigious awards. (Please note: If you wish to dine at Thornbury this evening, please advise us upon booking your tour so that we may make reservations for you, as the dining room fills up fast.) Enjoy your last night here at Thornbury Castle.

Tuesday - Day 9 – Regal Windsor – After breakfast, you will say goodbye to Thornbury Castle. As you drive through the Cotswolds, we recommend you stop in at a few towns, take in some of the local beauty, and perhaps even a visit to Cotswold Farm Park, Britain’s first ever farm park. Then, drive on to Windsor, where you will leave your rental car late afternoon. (You won’t need it from here on out.) You’ll check in to your 3 ½ star hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to explore this beautiful town. Enjoy! (Overnight: Mercure Castle Hotel or equivalent.)

Wednesday - Day 10 – Wonderful Windsor – Today, it’s Windsor Castle. Windsor Castle is an official residence of The Queen and the largest occupied castle in the world. A Royal home and fortress for over 900 years, the Castle remains a working palace today. Walk around the State Apartments, extensive suites of rooms at the heart of the working palace. Within the Castle complex there are many additional attractions, including the Drawings Gallery, Queen Mary's dolls' house, and the fourteenth-century St. George's Chapel, the burial place of ten sovereigns and setting for many Royal weddings. Today is also the ideal time to fit in any last minute shopping (or pub hopping). (Overnight: Mercure Castle Hotel or equivalent.)

Thursday - Day 11 – Fond Farewell – Your authentic London taxicab awaits you at your Windsor hotel to take you to the airport. We hope you have had a wonderful time exploring this Land of Mysteries and Monarchs!

* Prices from $2,795/pp based on double occupancy. Single and triple occupants will change rate. Final price will be based upon exchange rate at time of booking, and time of year traveling.
** Hotels listed in tour description indicate first choice. Equivalent hotels of same star quality and location supplied if first choice unavailable.

All independent tours can be made into group tours for already assembled groups

CONTACT ACROSS THE POND VACATIONS – 310-791-6101 OR E-MAIL INFO@ATPVACATIONS.COM

WWW.ATPVACATIONS.COM

Posted by jaggerdiggydog

 

England Independent Travel Package - London, Bath, & Stratford

English Highlights – the Heart of It All

10 Days – from $2,695.00* per person (based on double occupancy, land only) Independent Tour

Your Tour Price Includes:

• Airport transfer via authentic London taxicab from airport to your hotel, including airport ‘meet and greet’
• 8 nights in centrally located 4 star hotels**
• Full English breakfast, daily
• BritRail Pass***
• Entrance fees/tickets to:
• London Eye Flight
• Tower of London
• Jack the Ripper or London Ghost Walk Tour
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Kensington Palace
• Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
• Madame Tussaud's
• Roman Baths & Pump Room
• Shakespearean Houses Tour, including transportation
• Windsor Castle
• Roundtrip Stonehenge Tour (including entrance fees to Stonehenge) from Bath
• Top London Theatrical Production+
• River Thames Dinner Cruise (Dinner and Dancing)
• Changing the Guard++
• Airport transfer to London airport upon departure

SUMMARY

Day 1 - Departure from U.S. to U.K.

Day 2 - Airport transfer, London Eye Flight, London hotel

Day 3 - Full English breakfast, Changing of the Guards, Shakespeare Globe Theatre, Tower of London, Jack the Ripper Walking Tour, London hotel

Day 4 - Full English breakfast, St. Paul's Cathedral, Kensington Palace, Theatrical Production, London hotel

Day 5 - Full English breakfast, Madame Tussaud's, Dinner and Dancing River Cruise, London hotel

Day 6 - Full English breakfast, train to Bath, Escorted Stonehenge Tour, Bath hotel

Day 7 - Full English breakfast, Roman Baths & Pump Room, train to Stratford-upon-Avon, Stratford-upon-Avon hotel

Day 8 - Full English breakfast, Shakespearean Houses Tour (including transportation), Stratford-upon-Avon hotel

Day 9 - Full English breakfast, train to Windsor, Windsor Castle, Windsor Hotel

Day 10 - Full English breakfast, Airport transfer from Windsor, depart or continue on (please inquire for additional tour days)

This tour incorporates some of the best that Southern England and the Heart of England have to offer. Not only will you see some of London’s most famous highlights, but you will also experience some of the best that Britain has to offer, including Stonehenge, Bath and the home of The Bard himself, Stratford-upon-Avon. This tour is ideal for the first time visitor, or the returning anglophile wishing to revisit some of the timeless features in this ‘green and pleasant land’.

Day 1 – Departure – Depart on your overnight transatlantic flight.

Day 2 – Extraordinary London - Upon arrival at London’s Heathrow or Gatwick airport, you are greeted by your driver who will take you via authentic London taxicab to your four-star hotel. The day is yours to do as you please, whether you choose to get caught up on your sleep from a flight across the pond, or the excitement of the city overcomes you, and you decide to go exploring on your own. Tonight, you will see this beautiful and magnificent city in all its glory from a bird’s eye view on the London Eye. Located on the banks of the River Thames, this 135 meter-high observation wheel lays the grand city’s unrivaled views before you. Then, it’s back to your hotel for a good night’s rest. (London Hotel: Millennium Gloucester hotel or equivalent.)

Day 3 – Majestic London – You’ll start your day off with a Full English breakfast. Then, head to Buckingham Palace to see the Changing of the Guard+++. The regular hand-over of guards in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace draws thousands of visitors to watch the soldiers and listen to the music. Soldiers are drawn from one of the five regiments of Foot Guards in the British Army: the Scots Guards, the Irish Guards, the Welsh Guards, the Grenadier Guards and the Coldstream Guards. Then, how about a bit of Shakespeare? Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Exhibition explores the life of Shakespeare, the London where he lived, and the theatre for which he wrote. A fascinating guided tour then takes you into the unique space. Afterwards, you’ll make your way to one of the oldest edifices in all of England, The Tower of London! This historic palace has been an integral part of British history for nearly 1,000 years. Drenched in history, it is only at the Tower of London that you can marvel at the breathtaking Crown Jewels, stand on the execution site of three English queens, and listen to Beefeaters share with you the myths and legends that make a visit to the Tower an excursion ‘to die for’. Now that we’ve got you in the mood to wonder at some of London’s more grizzly tales, we’re sending you out tonight to walk the streets of where some of London’s mysteries still capture our attention. You’ll experience either the ‘Jack the Ripper’ walk, or the ‘London Ghost Walk’, presented by Richard Jones’ London Walking Tours. Hold on to someone close… just in case things do go ‘bump’ in the night! (Overnight in London.)

Day 4 – Notable London - Today, bathe yourself in English history. This morning, take a tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral. This Cathedral, dedicated to St. Paul, has overlooked the City of London since 604AD, a constant reminder to this great commercial centre of the importance of the spiritual side of life. The current Cathedral – the fourth to occupy this site – was designed by the court architect Sir Christopher Wren and built between 1675 and 1710 after its predecessor was destroyed in the Great Fire of London. Next, you’ll visit Kensington Palace, one time home of Princess Diana. A Royal residence since 1689, today’s visitors can explore the magnificent State Apartments and the Royal Ceremonial Dress Collection. This evening, you are treated to a top theatrical production in London's famous West End**. (Overnight in London - full English breakfast included.)

Day 5 – Modern London - Your final (full) day in London, today you visit the world-famous Madame Tussaud's More than just a wax museum, Madame Tussaud's is an ever-changing attraction with several figure launches every year. Boosting numerous interactive experiences such their time limited Warhol's Women exhibition and the Big Brother Diary Room there is always something new to experience for everyone. This afternoon, may we suggest a cream tea – the quintessential English experience? Let us recommend some of the more exquisite locales for this time-honored tradition of relaxing and experiencing the good life. This evening, you’ll have the opportunity to dress up and soak in London from a new point of view… the River Thames. You’ll enjoy dinner and dancing as you sail down the river on this dinner cruise offering a four course meal and live music - a perfect finale to your stay in London. (Overnight in London - full English breakfast included.)

Day 6 – Southern History - Time to travel on. You’ll journey via British Rail to the beautiful Roman city of Bath. After checking in to your four-star hotel, you’ll join a small group for a tour to Salisbury Plain to see one of Britain’s oldest and most enigmatic structures – Stonehenge. Standing as a timeless monument to those who built it, Stonehenge attracts people from all over the world who wonder at its mystery. The evening is yours to explore the ancient city of Bath. Enjoy a luxurious and romantic dinner, or just spend some time with the locals in a neighborhood pub. (Overnight in Bath – hotel Harrington’s Hotel or equivalent. Full English breakfast included.)

Day 7 –Bath and Bard - Today, you visit “the best preserved Roman religious spa in the world”, the Roman Baths. In Roman times, these sources of hot water were something for which there was no natural explanation, so they were considered to be the work of the Gods. This sacred aspect added to their perceived curative powers and Bath was one of several sites in the Roman Empire where natural hot springs became a focus for pilgrimage and curative bathing. Regarded as the social heart of Bath for more than two centuries, the Pump Room is a striking neo-classical salon and is the place where hot Spa water is drawn for drinking. Traveling on, you’ll take the train to the home of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon. Check in to your 4-star hotel, then, the evening is yours to visit one of Stratford's many quaint pubs, or even take an early evening sail on the Avon River, should the mood suit you. (Overnight in Stratford – hotel MacDonalds Swan’s Nest or equivalent. Full English breakfast included.)

Day 8 – Shakespeare Country - One of England’s gems, Stratford-upon-Avon, with its river setting and Elizabethan buildings is home to many treasures, including theatres, castles and family attractions. Today, you’ll visit the five famous Shakespearean homes: Mary Arden’s House, Hall’s Croft, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, and Nash’s House & New Place. You’ll easily get around to these homes as you have a ticket for the ‘hop-on/hop-off’ bus, so you can spend as much or as little time as you like at each locale. If you haven’t had a chance yet for a peaceful sail along the Avon, and a pint at a friendly local watering hole, we suggest you give that a try tonight. Alternatively, see what the Royal Shakespeare Company is performing at one of the Stratford Theatres+++. (Overnight in Stratford - full English breakfast included.)

Day 9 – Charming Windsor - You take your final train trip today… to Windsor. The ancient town of Windsor, located just west of London, is the ‘home away from home’ for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Check into your four-star hotel and you are within walking distance of Windsor town centre. Then, you’ll visit Windsor Castle, an official residence of The Queen and the largest occupied castle in the world. A Royal home and fortress for over 900 years, the Castle remains a working palace today. Your final evening in England is yours to spend just as you like, whether it's taking a stroll through town centre, getting in some last minute shopping, or an elegant dinner out. (Overnight in Windsor – hotel Mercure Castle Hotel or equivalent. Full English breakfast included.)

Day 10 – Farewell, Fair England - Your authentic London taxicab await you at your hotel to take you back to the airport. We hope you’ve come to love the land we hold so dear in our hearts.

* Prices from $2,695/pp based on double occupancy. Single, triple and quadruple occupants will change rate. Final price will be based upon exchange rate at time of booking, and time of year traveling.
** Hotels listed in tour description indicate first choice. Equivalent hotels of same star quality and location supplied if first choice unavailable.
*** BritRail is for 4-day Consecutive Pass, England only, standard class. First class available, but price will increase.
+ Tickets subject to availability. Performances subject to change.
++ Changing the Guard does not take place daily – ask us for dates and details. Note, also, that the ceremony does not take place in extremely wet weather.
+++ We will happily purchase theatre tickets for you, if you choose to see a production. The cost will be added to your overall tour price.
All individual tours can be made into group tours for already assembled groups

For further information on this tour, contact Across the Pond Tours at 310-791-6101 or email info@atpvacations.com

Posted by jaggerdiggydog