USA to London

Today we will depart our home cities and travel "across the pond" and arrive in London mid-afternoon.  Upon our arrival, we will be met by our local sightseeing guide and transfer to the Baileys Hotel Kensington where you’ll stay while in London. This evening we will have dinner so the group can get acquainted with one another. 

City of London 

London is one of the world’s great cities.  Today you’ll enjoy a private tour of London including a stop to view Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard Ceremony then to Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London with a visit to the Crown Jewels and a cruise on the River Thames.

Windsor Castle and Free Afternoon in London

This morning a visit to Windsor Castle is scheduled. Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has since been the home of 39 monarchs. The rest of the day is yours to explore London. Perhaps some shopping at Harrods, extra time in one of London’s many museums or many other things that are available to enjoy today. Abby will be happy to suggest some of her favorite things to do and see. You may want to take in a West End theatre production this evening. 

London to Woodstock, The Cotswolds, and Chester

This morning we will transfer to Woodstock for a visit to Blenheim Palace.  Blenheim Palace is a monumental country and is the principal residence of the Dukes of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.  It is the only non-royal, non-episcopal country house in England to hold the title of palace. Next, we will travel to Bourton-on-the-Water, located in the Cotswolds, within the heart of England, famous for its honey-colored stone architecture and idyllic village scenes.  Known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, this one village offers a wealth of attractions and shops, restaurants and tea rooms, or simply the space for you to enjoy some tranquil time by the River Windrush, spanned by its five arched bridges.  Then on to Chester, one of England’s loveliest cities. Founded by the Romans over 2,000 years ago, Chester’s city walls are the most complete in Britain. 

Wales

Today you’ll visit Wales. First stop is Snowdon. At an elevation of nearly 6,000 feet above sea level, it is the highest point in the British Isles outside of the Scottish Highlands. You’ll ride to its summit on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, described as one of the most unique and wonderful railway journeys in the world. At its summit you’ll have time for views and to purchase lunch. Then return to Chester for the evening. 

Chester to Abbys Home Village of Audlem and on to Edinburgh

Today Abby hosts you in the village where she grew up and where her family still lives. In Audlem you’ll have a chance to learn about life as it is in England’s towns and villages away from the big cities and busy tourist spots. You will get to know some of Abby’s friends and family. Lunch is included in her good friend’s pub and then you will have time for shopping in some of her favorite shops. After time in Audlem, we will head to Scotland and Edinburgh.  

Edinburgh and Loch Lomond

Today you will get a glimpse of some of the Scottish Highlands as we travel to Loch Lomond.  This spectacular loch, the largest expanse of freshwater in Great Britain, home to over 30 islands. The Highland Boundary Fault surges right through it, making it a literal gateway to the Highlands. It's at the heart of the much larger Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.  We will enjoy a cruise on Loch Lomond and then a scenic drive in the area before returning to Edinburgh. 

Edinburgh Highlights

Scotland is filled with romance and legend. Edinburgh is a mix of Georgian crescents and steepled medieval tenements guarded by its spectacular castle which overlooks the city. This morning you will have a private tour of Edinburgh. The capital of Scotland since the 15th century, Edinburgh stands on seven hills creating a dramatic skyline. The tour highlights include visits to Edinburgh Castle and Palace of Holyrood House, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. This evening to conclude the tour a group dinner is included at hotel. 

Return flights home

This morning we will transfer to the airport for your return flights home.