The Temple's England Adventure
John & Tina Temple
Thursday 31st October – Saturday 9th November 2024
Thursday 31st October – Saturday 9th November 2024
Upon landing in London, your dedicated airport assistant is ready to greet you and swiftly help with your bags, ensuring a smooth pass through customs. In the arrivals hall, your host guide warmly welcomes you, escorting you to your chauffeured vehicle ready to whisk you to the heart of the city. Glide past iconic London landmarks, leading to luxurious Corinthia Hotel.
This afternoon, spend some time settling into the serene opulence of the Crystal Moon Lounge, indulging in a traditional afternoon tea, surrounded by the sparkling beauty of its grand Baccarat chandelier. Spend some time with your host guide discussing your exciting adventure ahead.
Please note: Traditional Afternoon Tea is included
Overnight: London | Corinthia London
Room Type: 1x Trafalgar Suite
Meals Included: None
This morning, meet your local expert guide and head to the Tower of London for a private morning jewel house tour. Its ancient walls echoing with the secrets of British royalty, your guide brings history to life as you explore the Crown Jewels and hear of famous prisoners who once walked these grounds. The day is filled with insight, pageantry, and the deep sense of history that surrounds you at every turn.
The next stop is Buckingham Palace, where you join the crowd to witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony, a display of British pomp and precision.
Afterward, head to your final stop of the day, Westminster Abbey, a majestic Gothic masterpiece, as your guide takes you on a tour through its centuries-old halls, recounting tales of monarchs and poets laid to rest beneath its vaulted ceilings.
Overnight: London | Corinthia London
Room Type: 1x Trafalgar Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Today, venture into Windsor beginning with a scenic drive out of London, passing through the charming English countryside. Upon arriving in Windsor, you’re struck by the grandeur of Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, still home to the British royal family.
Your local expert guide will lead you through its magnificent State Apartments, filled with opulent art and historic treasures, including rooms used by the Queen herself. Explore St. George’s Chapel, where royals are married and laid to rest, its intricate Gothic architecture leaving you in awe. As you wander the castle grounds, your guide shares fascinating stories of royal history, from Henry VIII to Queen Elizabeth II. The day offers a deep dive into the legacy of British royalty, all while surrounded by stunning views of the Thames and the lush countryside that has encircled the castle for nearly a millennium.
Later this evening, a private dinner cruise awaits aboard a luxury yacht. Enjoy an intimate, elegant experience with stunning views of London’s iconic landmarks, gently passing by with a delicious chef’s table, where gourmet dishes are crafted and presented by a private chef. The serene atmosphere and impeccable service makes for an unforgettable evening on the water.
Overnight: London | Corinthia London
Room Type: 1x Trafalgar Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Your day begins at the British Museum, where a private volunteer guide welcomes you for an intimate highlights tour of its world-renowned collection. Stand in awe before the Rosetta Stone, the key to deciphering ancient hieroglyphs, as your guide explains its pivotal role in unraveling Egypt’s secrets. Encounter other iconic artefacts such as the Lewis Chessmen, intricately carved medieval game pieces steeped in mystery and the majestic Parthenon Sculptures, masterpieces from Ancient Greece that once adorned the Acropolis.
Afterwards, head to the Tate Britain for an expert-led tour of British and international art. From Turner’s ethereal landscapes to modern works by Hockney, your guide brings each piece to life, connecting you to the artistic evolution across centuries.
Finally, you’re whisked to the Churchill War Rooms, where a behind-the-glass private tour unveils the hidden bunker where Winston Churchill directed WWII. Step into the preserved rooms, hearing gripping stories of wartime strategies, while standing in the very heart of Britain’s wartime command center, an unforgettable end to a day steeped in history and art.
Overnight: London | Corinthia London
Room Type: 1x Trafalgar Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Your visit to Highclere Castle today begins with a warm welcome into the Saloon, the grand heart of the castle. Take in the room’s impressive 75-foot-high glazed ceiling, its magnificent open fireplace and the gothic minstrel gallery that overlooks the space. Your exclusive tour begins as one of the castle’s expert guides, brimming with anecdotes and deep knowledge, escorts you through the Main State Rooms and Castle bedrooms, each space familiar from Downton Abbey. Admire the exquisite artwork, antique furnishings, and grand architecture as the guide shares stories of the aristocratic life once lived here. Uncover treasures and artefacts discovered by the 5th Earl of Carnarvon and Howard Carter, including items from the famous tomb of Tutankhamun. It’s a day steeped in history, both ancient and modern, offering a rare glimpse into the world of Highclere Castle.
After a day immersed in grandeur, return to the serene elegance of the Le Manoir in Oxfordshire. The drive takes you through the scenic countryside, offering moments to reflect on the day’s rich history and beauty.
Overnight: Oxford | Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel
Room Type: 1x Studio Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
This morning, visit the grand Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Experience a celebration guided tour through the opulent State Rooms, marvelling at the lavish interiors. As you explore, your guide will share fascinating insights into the palace’s rich history, from its construction in the early 18th century as a gift to John Churchill, to its role in shaping British history. Wander the stunning Water Terraces and then to round off your visit, enjoy a luxurious champagne afternoon tea.
As the day winds down, you’ll return to your hotel, relaxed and enriched from a day filled with stunning views, royal history, and English elegance.
Overnight: Oxford | Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel
Room Type: 1x Studio Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
This morning, check out of your hotel and travel to your luxury retreat in Bath, stopping en-route in Oxford city, the City of Dreaming Spires. Meet your local specialist guide, who’ll lead you through the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Visit the iconic Bodleian Library and the striking Radcliffe Camera, a symbol of academic excellence. A visit to Christ Church College reveals its majestic halls and gardens, famously inspiring the world of Harry Potter. If the weather is fine, perhaps end the day with a peaceful punt along the River Cherwell, taking in Oxford’s picturesque scenery from the water.
Later this afternoon, arrive at your luxurious retreat in Bath for a relaxing evening ahead.
Overnight: Bath | Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
Room Type: 1x Master Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Set out for a day with your guide exploring the quintessential Cotswolds. After a scenic drive through ancient rural landscapes, where rolling hills, stone-walled fields, and grazing sheep create a postcard-perfect setting, visit a myriad of tranquil villages.
Make a stop in Cotswold highlights such as in Lacock, with its cobbled streets and medieval architecture, it feels like stepping back in time. Highlighted by the stunning Lacock Abbey, famous for its historical significance and filming locations. Next, nearby, Castle Combe, often dubbed England’s prettiest village, with its beautifully preserved cottages, narrow streets, and idyllic river setting is perfect for a peaceful stroll. Then Chippenham, a bustling market town, blends its historic charm with modern amenities, offering vibrant markets, independent shops, and easy access to nearby natural beauty.
As you explore these ancient villages, each brimming with history, your guide shares stories of the region’s past, making the day an enchanting window into England’s rural heritage.
Overnight: Bath | Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
Room Type: 1x Master Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
This morning, meet your expert local guide to explore the historic city of Bath and journey through the city’s rich past. Your first stop is the Roman Baths, an astonishingly well-preserved relic of ancient Britain. As you wander through the atmospheric Great Bath and explore the intricate mosaics, hear stories of how this site once buzzed with Roman life.
Next, visit the stunning Bath Abbey, its Gothic architecture soaring above you. Inside, learn about the Abbey’s history, from its origins as a Norman cathedral to its current role as a beacon of English heritage, while searching out its intricate fan-vaulted ceilings and colourful stained glass. The day is a perfect blend of ancient history and architectural beauty, with your guide bringing every corner to life.
Head back to your hotel to unwind on your final night in England.
Overnight: Bath | Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
Room Type: 1x Master Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pricing:
The NET price for this itinerary, based on 2 clients on a twin-share basis, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:
£36,000 GBP per person
Please see our booking terms here.