Inclusions and Exclusions

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

Famous cities, sights, historical locations, varying accents and dialects, stunning scenery, cosy pubs, haunting music, humorous and friendly locals - all accompanied by Englands gloriously unpredictable weather! This Taste of England self-drive itinerary is the perfect way to experience beautiful England.

LAND ONLY PACKAGE INCLUDES:
7 Nights stay in 3* Hotels on a Bed and Breakfast basis
- 2 nights in the area of London (3* Mercure Farnham Hotel or similar)
- 2 nights in the area of Bath/ Bristol (3* The Gables Hotel or similar)
- 2 nights in Stratford-upon-Avon/ Warwickshire (3* Chesford Grange Hotel or similar)
- 1 night in the area of London/ St Albans (3* Mercure Fanham Hotel or similar)

Unlimited mileage
All taxes & fees
1 Additional driver
Damage Waiver

High Season rates may apply over certain dates - please request a quote based on your intended dates of travel.

Day 1 London Area
Arrive in London and head to your accommodation where you will stay for the first two nights of your tour. Depending on your arrival time, we recommend a visit Hampton Court Palace, a grade 1 listed royal palace located in the London borough of Richmond upon Thames. Building of this Tudor palace commenced in 1515 for Cardinal Wolsey, the chief minister of Henry VIII, and it is set amongst acres of beautiful gardens. Alternatively, visit Windsor Great Park to visit the Valley Gardens, Virginia Water or nearby Runnymede, where the historic Magna Carta was sealed over 800 years ago. 2x overnights in the London area.

Day 2 London area
Head into central London for the day. From museums and architecture, to its modern food and music scene, there really is something for everyone in this cosmopolitan city. Talk a walk along the Thames from Westminster to see Tower Bridge, passing by the famous ‘The Shard’, the UK’s tallest building. Enjoy the wonderful food in Chinatown and explore nearby Soho.

Day 3 Bath/Bristol
Drive southwest to the Bath/ Bristol area, ca. 180km from London. We recommend planning your journey via Salisbury to visit its wonderful cathedral, a masterpiece of the early Gothic style. A piece of the original Magna Carta can also be viewed. The UNESCO site of Stonehenge, the famous prehistoric site on Salisbury Plain, is on the way too and visits must be prebooked to gain access to the site. Plan a stop at the Cheddar Cheese Gorge, one of the last remaining cheddar cheese companies driving to your next accommodation. 2x overnights in the Bath/Bristol area.

Day 4 Bath/Bristol
Use this day to explore the Roman City of Bath, also known as the most beautiful City in South England and a world heritage site. Bath was named after its Roman-built baths and a visit (included) to the Roman Baths and Pump Room are very worthwhile or you can walk around the beautiful Georgian architecture on the Royal Crescent.

Day 5 Stratford-upon-Avon/Warwickshire area
Continue your journey towards Stratford-upon-Avon/ Warwickshire, ca. 130km drive. Plan your route through the beautiful and romantic area of the Cotswolds and enjoy a traditional English Cream Tea. Visit Burton-on-the-Water, a scenic Cotswold village, often called Venice of the Cotswolds and walk along the traditional stone buildings that the Cotswolds area is renowned for. Garden lovers should visit Painswick Rococco Gardens, a 18th century garden with café in the nearby area of Stroud. 2x overnights in the Stratford-upon-Avon/Warwickshire area.

Day 6 Stratford-upon-Avon/Warwickshire area
Explore the medieval market town of Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of William Shakespeare. Take a walk down the pedestrianised Henley Street where there are many cafes and local shops to enjoy and visit the birthplace of the famous bard himself, Shakespeare. There are five Shakespeare houses in total, 3 of which are in the town itself and they are wonderfully preserved and offer fascinating insights into the life of Shakespeare and his family. Take a River walk (ca. 2km – 1 hours) and visit Holy Trinity church where William Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway are buried.

Day 7 London area
Return to the London area, a drive of circa 220km. En-route, a stop to visit Blenheim Palace is included, birthplace of Winston Churchill or drive to the famous city of Oxford, a city that revolves around its famous ‘University of Oxford’ first established in the 12th century. The architecture of the city has led it to be called ‘the City of Dreaming Spires’ and whether exploring the many historic buildings, museums and colleges or taking in the modern shopping and eating facilities the city has a lot to offer. For shopping lovers, a stop at the Bicester Outlet Centre is highly recommended. 1x overnight in the London area.

Day 8 London area
Time permitting, we recommend a visit to the history town of Royal Windsor with is magnificent Castle. Queen Elizabeth II spent many weekends here and the town is picturesque and compact and a hive of activity in the summer.

PACKAGE EXCLUDES:

Flights, airport taxes, visas, travel or medical insurance, drinks and meals not mentioned and items of a personal nature.

Terms & Conditions

Prices are from a starting price per person sharing, subject to change, airfare increase, currency fluctuations and availability. Taxes are estimated and based on the current exchange rate and are subject to change. Please note that airport taxes, fuel levies & surcharges are approximate and subject to change, the exact amount will be confirmed at time of booking. Valid for dates as specified. Thompsons Standard Terms and Conditions may apply. For standard terms and conditions refer to www.gatewaytours.co.za E&OE