signature england

Transfer from the airport to the city centre, before spending the afternoon on a guided tour of the city’s highlights. Visit Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, The Churchill War Rooms. Take a walking tour of Royal St James Park and Horseguards Parade, and Parliament. If arriving from London Heathrow, detour to visit Windsor Castle with over 1,000 years of history. The castle has been home to more than 39 kings and queens. Alternatively, make a stop at Eton College. 

Take the opportunity to go shopping in London’s famous Regent’s Street, Oxford Street or Marylebone village. Hop over to lesser-known London spots, such as Kenwood House, Hampton Court or Kew Gardens. Remarkably, London is actually one of the greenest cities in the world with many parks and gardens to explore.

Wander past the late-Gothic Colleges with medieval stained-glass windows towering over cobbled streets and look out over immaculate quads. Admire the historic Colleges from the river Cam. Zigzag between glorious green banks on a punting tour. Attend Evensong at King’s College Chapel or explore the Wren Library at Trinity College home to Newton’s Principia Mathematica. A walking tour is one of the best way to explore this compact university town.

Travel to the exquisite Viking town of York. After lunch, wander through Harry Potter-inspiring streets. Tour one of England’s most beautiful churches – York Minster, before stopping into quaint local shops among the gothic cobbled streets.

Your car will be delivered to your hotel and then you will leave York via one of England’s greatest country homes – Castle Howard. This manor house was used as a filming location for the period-drama Bridgerton. Drive across heather-clad rolling Moors to visit the Cistercian Rievaulx Abbey, one of the greatest in Europe. Ending your day in the picturesque market town of Helmsley. Optional activities – game drives/shooting; off-roading – guided green lanes experiences.

The ruins of Fountains Abbey are extraordinary. The structure is part of a complex of buildings and water gardens, making the grounds worthy of World Heritage Status. Visit nearby caves and waterfalls, before stopping by small historic market towns. Taste local cheese at an artisan cheesery. Overnight at Yorebridge House or Swinton Estate, the perfect place for afternoon tea.

Take a scenic drive through spectacular mountain passes, or explore the national park on foot either with a short walk up Cat Bells. If you’re feeling adventurous, how about a full-on all day hike up on the classic Wainwrights? Take a boat tour of Lake Windermere, or visit the Beatrice Potter museum.

Take a scenic drive through the Lake District’s winding country roads. If you’re ready for some fresh air, explore the national park on foot with a stroll around Tarn Hows or a hike up the dramatic heights of Helvellyn. Uncover local history at Dove Cottage, the former home of poet William Wordsworth. Discover cosy pubs, artisanal shops, and the tranquil beauty of hidden valleys and glistening lakes.

Watch university rowers train or complete near Christ Church Meadow. Take in some of the city’s most famous sites such as the Radcliffe Camera, the Bridge of Sighs or Trinity’s Carfax Tower on a walking tour. Lunch at the covered market or one of the many cafes popular with students and faculty. Then dine at one of the many historic pubs like the Eagle and Child.

Travel back to London. Alternatively travel via Chester, Manchester or Liverpool and take the train back to London from there.