Shades of the English Countryside

England and its charming countryside await you. Discover the genteel nature and wild landscapes of southern English towns and the vibrant energy of the capital city, London.

Welcome to London, England’s dynamic capital, where the medieval intertwines with the modern. In this city steeped in history, everything you’ve read and seen in films comes to life as you take in the sights and everyday facets of London life. With no scheduled activities through the afternoon, take your time to immerse yourself in the London atmosphere and perhaps visit one of the many free museums and art galleries. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for dinner at a local restaurant.

Set out on a three-hour walking tour to admire the exteriors of London’s iconic landmarks, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, and the royal residence of Buckingham Palace. History is all around as you walk along cobblestone streets and discover both old and new London with your local guide. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy free time and explore the city independently.

Say goodbye to London and travel to the iconic site of Stonehenge. On this self-guided visit, follow in the footsteps of the prehistoric natives who lived here over 4,000 years ago. Continue your journey into the countryside with a stop at a family-owned farm shop on a working organic farm in the heart of a small community. Later, arrive in Cornwall on England’s remote southern peninsula. Settle in for your stay at a luxury resort on the Cornish coast and join your fellow travelers for dinner tonight.

Joined by a local guide, discover the rugged beauty of Cornwall, the breathtaking backdrop that steals the spotlight in the BBC’s Poldark. Uncover why so many poets, writers, and artists have found inspiration in this setting, with its miles of sandy beaches and outstanding natural beauty. Learn how the tin mining industry, dating back to the Bronze Age, has defined the landscape and local economy. Take time for lunch, then breathe in the ocean air on a coastal walk with your local guide.

After breakfast, it’s your choice! Join a local expert for a woodland and coastal walk of Charlestown, famous for Poldark and featured in films like The Eagle Has Landed and Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland -OR- enjoy a self-guided visit to The Lost Gardens of Heligan, with its stunningly restored Victorian garden, exotic jungle, and array of wildlife. This afternoon, travel to your home for the next two nights, Bovey Castle, a country retreat in Devon. Delve into the English’s love of stately homes during your stay at this neo-Elizabethan manor house, your glimpse into the lifestyle of English aristocracy. Tonight, a local storyteller regales you with myths, legends, and folklore before dinner at this classic English estate.

This morning, journey into the heart of Dartmoor National Park. As you travel by motor coach, learn about the mystery and legends surrounding this beautiful and wild area, and visit some of the towns and villages within it. After free time for lunch, return to Bovey Castle. Tonight, it’s dinner out at a traditional English country pub!

Today, venture into the Cotswolds region, taking in the rolling hills and honey-colored stone homes that make this one of England’s most beautiful areas. Arrive in Castle Combe, a quaint and picturesque Cotswolds village waiting to be explored. The afternoon is yours to soak in the rich history and stroll the pretty streets at your own pace. Later, arrive at your Cotswolds hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure.

This morning, visit Chavenage House, a country estate dating back to the 16th century, constructed of Cotswold stone and tiles. A guided tour delves into the deep history of this manor house, which is also recognizable as a filming location featured in Poldark. Next, spend some free time in a neighboring town and find a nice spot for lunch on your own. This afternoon, discover more of the Cotswolds’ charm in beautiful Burford before enjoying a farewell dinner at a local inn with a toast to your English adventure.

Your journey from London through the English countryside ends today.