Exploration of Southern England

Day 1 - Sunday 23^rd June - Arrival in Cornwall

Upon arrival at Newquay Airport, you’ll be greeted by the fresh Cornish air and stunning coastal vistas. Opting for a flight from London ensures a swift journey, though the scenic train ride is equally charming. A private driver awaits to whisk you away to your hotel in the picturesque enclave of St Ives, where quaint streets and golden beaches beckon exploration. With the afternoon and evening at your leisure, immerse yourself in the town’s artistic charm, dine on delectable seafood, or simply unwind amidst the tranquil beauty of Cornwall’s coast.

Overnight: St Ives | St Ives Harbour Hotel
Room Type: Sea View Double
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Monday 24^th June - Exploring Cornish Towns

As you meet your driver guide, the enchanting town of Helston unveils its charms, offering a glimpse into Cornwall’s rich history and vibrant culture. Wander through its quaint streets, where tales of bygone eras echo in every cobblestone. Following this, your journey leads to the iconic Minack Theatre, perched dramatically atop the cliffs overlooking the azure sea. While the allure of the theatre and its lush gardens beckons, the disappointment sets in as you discover that all shows are sold out. Nonetheless, the day promises to be one of exploration and discovery as you delve into the captivating villages that envelop this coastal gem.

Overnight: St Ives | St Ives Harbour Hotel
Room Type: Sea View Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Tuesday 25^th June - Falmouth and St Ives

Prepare for a day of maritime exploration with your knowledgeable driver guide in Falmouth, where the salty breeze whispers tales of seafaring adventures. Your journey includes a visit to the esteemed National Maritime Museum, a treasure trove of nautical history and marine marvels. Immerse yourself in the exhibits showcasing Cornwall’s rich maritime heritage, from towering ships to captivating maritime artefacts. After a day filled with maritime wonders, return to the idyllic haven of St Ives, where the afternoon awaits for your leisurely pursuits amidst the charming streets and golden sands.

Overnight: St Ives | St Ives Harbour Hotel
Room Type: Sea View Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Wednesday 26^th June - Bodmin Steam Railway and Padstow

A nostalgic journey awaits as you board a vintage steam train in Bodmin, where the rhythmic chug of the locomotive transports you to a bygone era of railway romance. Wind through scenic landscapes, soaking in the timeless charm of Cornwall’s countryside. Returning to the quaint fishing town of Padstow, the afternoon stretches before you like a canvas of possibilities. Wander along the picturesque harbour, where colourful fishing boats bob gently on the tide, or explore the narrow streets lined with artisan shops and cosy cafes. With no set agenda, indulge in the simple pleasures of coastal life, savouring the freedom of a leisurely afternoon in this coastal gem.

Overnight: Padstow | Padstow Townhouse
Room Type: Bon Bon
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Thursday 27^th June - Cornish Folklore and Ports

Begin your mythical journey as you delve into the legends of King Arthur at Tintagel Castle, perched dramatically atop rugged cliffs overlooking the wild Cornish coastline. With your knowledgeable driver guide by your side, uncover the tales of knights and enchantment that shroud this ancient fortress in mystery. After a morning steeped in Arthurian lore, pause for a delightful lunch before venturing to the charming village of Port Isaac. Here, meander through narrow lanes lined with whitewashed cottages, soaking in the timeless beauty of this picturesque fishing village. With the afternoon sun casting a golden glow over the harbour, enjoy a stroll along the coastal path, where breathtaking views and salty sea air await.

Overnight: Padstow | Padstow Townhouse
Room Type: Bon Bon
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Friday 28^th June - Foraging and Dartmoor

Today embark on a culinary adventure as you join a local forager for a morning of discovering the wild delicacies of Devon’s lush countryside. Delve into the bountiful hedgerows and wooded glens, uncovering nature’s hidden treasures under the expert guidance of your foraging companion. After your morning of exploration, indulge in a delectable lunch at a cosy local cafe, savouring the flavors of the region. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the natural splendour of Dartmoor as you take a gentle stroll around Pork Hill, where sweeping vistas and ancient landscapes await. As the day draws to a close, make your way to Lyme Regis, where the charm of this coastal gem welcomes you for the next few nights of relaxation and exploration.

Overnight: Lyme Regis | Alexandra House
Room Type: Wallace Double Room with Sea View

Day 7 - Saturday 29^th June - The Jurassic Coast

Head to the coast for a fascinating journey through time as you meet a local fossil expert for a day of exploration on the beach, uncovering the secrets of Lyme Regis’ ancient past. With the waves gently lapping at the shore, you’ll scour the sands for hidden treasures, learning about the diverse fossils that have been preserved in the region’s geological layers. From ammonites to ichthyosaurs, each discovery unveils a chapter of Earth’s history. After a morning of discovery, the afternoon stretches before you like an open canvas in Lyme Regis. Whether you choose to wander the charming streets, relax on the sandy shores, or indulge in a spot of local cuisine, the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Overnight: Lyme Regis | Alexandra House
Room Type: Wallace Double Room with Sea View

Day 8 - Sunday 30^th June - Historic Portsmouth

Prepare to delve into the poignant history of wartime Portsmouth as you meet your knowledgeable local guide. Together, you’ll unravel the stories of courage and sacrifice that echo through the city’s streets, with a visit to the D-Day Museum offering a comprehensive insight into the pivotal role Portsmouth played in World War II. Your journey continues with a fascinating exploration of the hull of an original LCT 7074 Landing Craft, providing a tangible connection to the historic events of D-Day. As the late afternoon approaches, bid farewell to Portsmouth and embark on a journey to the scholarly city of Oxford, where centuries of academic excellence await your exploration.

Overnight: Oxford | Old Parsonage Hotel
Room Type: Superior Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Monday 1^st July - Oxford City

Explore the storied streets of Oxford with your insightful local guide, who unveils the city’s rich tapestry of history and academia. Wander through the hallowed halls of venerable colleges, where luminaries have shaped the course of knowledge for centuries. Following this enlightening exploration, you’ll join an Oxford student for a private punting excursion along the tranquil waters of the River Cherwell, where the city’s elegant spires and lush landscapes unfold in all their splendour. Conclude your day with a visit to the iconic Bodleian Library, a bastion of learning and culture steeped in centuries of literary tradition.

Overnight: Oxford | Old Parsonage Hotel
Room Type: Superior Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Tuesday 2^nd July - Blenheim Palace

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of history as you spend a day exploring the magnificent Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled amidst breathtaking landscaped gardens and rolling parklands. Marvel at the opulent interiors adorned with priceless art and intricate tapestries, and stroll through the tranquil grounds once roamed by Winston Churchill. From the ornate State Rooms to the serene lakeside pathways, every corner of this stately home whispers tales of splendour and prestige. As the day draws to a close, return to Oxford for a final evening, where you can reflect on the memories of your journey so far, perhaps enjoying a leisurely dinner at a quaint local eatery or taking a twilight stroll along the historic streets.

Overnight: Oxford | Old Parsonage Hotel
Room Type: Superior Deluxe
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11 - Wednesday 3^rd July - Wartime England

Begin a riveting journey through wartime secrets and aviation history as you begin your day with a visit to Bletchley Park, the once top-secret home of the World War II codebreakers. Delve into the fascinating world of cryptography and espionage, uncovering the pivotal role Bletchley played in shaping the course of history. After a morning of intrigue, your adventure continues at Duxford Air Museum, where legendary aircraft and aviation artefacts await. From iconic Spitfires to mighty bombers, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring stories of flight and heroism. As evening approaches, continue to the distinguished Raffles OWO – the Old War Office – where history echoes through every corridor. Settle into this historic haven for the next few nights, steeped in the grandeur and legacy of its storied past.

Overnight: London | Raffles OWO
Room Type: Classic Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Thursday 4^th July - Wartime England

Step into the pages of history as you begin your day by meeting your local guide at the hotel, ready to embark on a journey through wartime London. Your first stop is Churchill’s War Rooms, where the underground nerve centre of Britain’s wartime efforts awaits. Trace the footsteps of Churchill and his inner circle as you explore the preserved bunkers and command rooms, gaining insight into the strategic decisions that shaped the course of World War II. Continuing your exploration, venture to the Imperial War Museum, a poignant tribute to the human experience of conflict. From the trenches of World War I to the Blitz of World War II and beyond, immerse yourself in the stories of courage, resilience, and sacrifice that define wartime London.

Overnight: London | Raffles OWO
Room Type: Classic Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - Friday 5^th July - Vibrant London

Overnight: London | Raffles OWO
Room Type: Classic Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 14 - Saturday 6^th July - Depart the Cotswolds

As your journey comes to a close, you’ll be met by your private transfer, ready to whisk you away to the airport for your onward travel. Relax in comfort and convenience as you bid farewell to the city’s bustling streets, reminiscing about the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories you’ve gathered along the way. Whether you’re heading home or embarking on another adventure, let the smooth transition from destination to departure mark the perfect conclusion to your remarkable journey.