London Explorer

Embrace the pomp and pageantry of a city that marches to its very own vibrant tune – yours to explore before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers later this evening for dinner to kick-start your grand exploration of London.

Begin with an orientation tour of London alongside your Travel Director. See Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. Then head to St. James’s Palace to watch the Old Guard parade and Changing of the Guard procession. Armed with your travel pass, this afternoon is free for you to explore. You might join an Optional Experience walking through Soho’s backstreets, sampling local favorites and hearing stories of the area’s past. Later, choose another Optional Experience visiting the National Gallery with a Local Specialist who’ll give insight into its most well-known works. Afterwards, there’s time to explore Covent Garden, known for its shops, street performers and food spots.

Spend the day in London your way. With your travel pass in hand, you’re free to explore the city’s many neighborhoods, museums and markets at your own pace. You might visit the British Museum, head to Camden for something to eat or explore the South Bank’s riverside walkways and galleries. If you’d prefer to see more of England, there’s the option to join a full-day Optional Experience to Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds. In Oxford, visit one of the historic colleges with a Local Specialist. In Stratford-upon-Avon, see the house where Shakespeare was born. And take in the countryside views as you pass through some of the region’s prettiest villages.

This morning, enjoy London your way or choose to join a Local Specialist on an Optional Experience to explore St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London. Head to Borough Market where food stalls serve everything from pastries to global street eats. It’s a great spot to try something new or grab a bite while soaking up the atmosphere. Later, you might stroll through Regent’s Park, visit a museum or explore one of the city’s characterful neighborhoods. Don't miss your chance to join an Optional Experience to see a West End theater show, a must while in London.

Leave London behind and head into the countryside with your Travel Director. Your first stop is Stonehenge, where you’ll visit this iconic monument and hear stories about its ancient past. Then travel to Windsor to explore the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle, home to royalty for over 1,000 years. Walk through the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel before heading back to the capital. This evening, enjoy your Be My Guest experience at London Cru, an urban winery housed in a former Victorian warehouse. Learn how wine is made in the heart of the city, then sit down to a three-course meal, paired with a London Cru wine selected by your hosts.

Imagine the kings and queens who have glided gracefully upon the 13th-century mosaic floor of Westminster Abbey. We’ll have an opportunity to explore this architectural wonder on a guided visit with a Local Specialist. Find out why this church lost its cathedral status and pay your respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior. Later, visit Kensington Palace and Dive Into Culture, gaining insights into the lives of the Royal Family. Tour the Royal Palace, which was once home to Diana, Princess of Wales, and her sons Prince William and Prince Harry. Indulge in a delicious English cream tea in The Orangery surrounded by beautiful formal gardens before returning to your hotel.

Enjoy one last day in the lively city streets of London. Consider taking a trip up the Shard – one of Europe's tallest buildings, admire England's proud history reflected in its monuments to great men and victories, or see the treasures of the British Library. This afternoon meet with your Travel Director and travel companions for a leisurely cruise down the Thames to Greenwich. Sail under the famous Tower Bridge before enjoying a taste of sustainable London gin at the Old Royal Naval College during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience. Toast to your unforgettable week on a Farewell Dinner at a historic pub.

After breakfast, say a fond farewell to London and your newfound friends as you prepare to return home after a memorable holiday in one of the world's greatest cities.