Read and Higgins England Explorations - V4 - Final Information

Susan & Howard, Rick & Jane

Monday 16th June – Tuesday 24th June 2025

Number of Travellers:  4
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights

Day by Day

Day 1 - Monday 16th June - Welcome to London

On arrival in London, transfer to your centrally located hotel and take some time to relax ahead of your first evening in England. An unmissable destination for travellers, the capital city is an international melting pot that brims with culture, history and iconic landmarks. With a well-known and well-deserved reputation for an eclectic and globally diverse food scene, your dinner this evening is sure to be a thoroughly enjoyable affair.

Later, draw the curtains on the twinkling lights of the city to enjoy a good night’s sleep ahead of an exciting day of exploring tomorrow.

NOTE: Rick & Jane – You have a booked Pre-Night, so that you can check into your room and freshen up as soon as you arrive.

Overnight: London | Hotel Indigo - Kensington
Room Type: 2x Queen Bed Suite Rooms
Meals Included: None

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: June 16, 2025 | Airline: British Airways | Flight Number: BA182
Departure Airport: JFK Arrival Airport: LHR | Arrival Time: 11:15

Susan and Howard

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722510
Pick Up Location: Heathrow Airport Arrivals Hall | Pick Up Time: 11:15
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Susan and Howard 

Your private driver will meet you at arrivals and have a sign showing your name

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on +44 (0)141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: June 16, 2025 | Airline: Delta Airlies | Flight Number: DL3
Departure Airport: JFK Arrival Airport: LHR | Arrival Time: 10:15

Rick and Jane

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722509
Pick Up Location: Heathrow Airport Arrivals Hall | Pick Up Time: 10:15
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Rick and Jane

Your private driver will meet you at arrivals and have a sign showing your name

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on +44 (0)141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Wright Brothers | Location: Kensington
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: 5VD3V83TNYMR
Phone: +44 (0)20 7581 0131

Please note this is a table reservation only

Clients to pay directly

Cancellation policy: We ask that any cancellation to your reservation be made no less than 24 hours prior. For no shows or late cancellations, you will be subject to fee of £25 per person that will be applied.

 

Day 2 - Tuesday 17th June - Royal Ascot - Day 1

The first day at Ascot in the Queen Anne Enclosure is a blend of elegance, excitement, and tradition. As you arrive, you’re greeted by the immaculate grounds and a vibrant atmosphere, with everyone dressed in their finest, stylish attire and formal hats. Watch the Royals arrive in a moment of awe and excitement, as they glide past in their stately carriages, impeccably dressed and exuding grace, while the crowd erupts in respectful cheers and admiration.

The day unfolds with thrilling horse races, where the crowd buzzes with anticipation and cheers for their chosen favourites, all while enjoying gourmet food and champagne at your private table. Between races, conversations flow amidst the backdrop of live music and the picturesque surroundings. The blend of royal pageantry, sporting excellence, and social celebration makes for an unforgettable experience at one of Britain’s most prestigious events.

Early this evening, your private transfer awaits to return you to your luxurious nearby hotel.

Overnight: London | Hotel Indigo - Kensington
Room Type: 2x Queen Bed Suite Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 2 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722511
Pick Up Location: Hotel Indigo, Kensington | Pick Up Time: 09:15
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer will meet you outside the hotel entrance and take you to Ascot Racecourse

Day 2 - Ascot Racecourse Read More +

Activity: Ascot Racecourse
Queen Anne Enclosure: Hospitality Tickets
Start Location: The Deck | Start Time: 10:30
Booking Reference: 001-0001 9038
Phone: +44 (0)344 346 3000

Gates open at 10:30am

Please see your tickets attached in the additional important information drop down and bring them with you on the day

Day 2 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722512
Pick Up Location: Car Park 3 | Pick Up Time: 19:15
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer will collect you from the agreed meeting location and take you back to your hotel

Day 3 - Wednesday 18th June - Royal Ascot - Day 2

On your second day at Ascot in the Queen Anne Enclosure, the elegance and excitement continue, but with an added layer of anticipation. Arrive with a sense of familiarity, eager to immerse yourselves in the day’s events. As the races begin, the thrill of placing bets adds a pulse of excitement, with conversations revolving around the latest odds and racing tips. Hold your breath as horses thunder down the track, the tension heightened by the stakes of their wagers. Between races, the scene is lively with the clinking of champagne glasses and the enjoyment of more British affair, while the buzz of winning or losing bets ripples through the enclosure. The blend of fashion and adrenaline of betting ensures a day that is as exhilarating as it is sophisticated, making every moment at Ascot truly unforgettable.

Your private transfer awaits to return you to your luxurious hotel.

Overnight: London | Hotel Indigo - Kensington
Room Type: 2x Queen Bed Suite Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722513
Pick Up Location: Hotel Indigo, Kensington | Pick Up Time: 09:15
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer will meet you outside the hotel entrance and take you to Ascot Racecourse

Day 3 - Ascot Racecourse Read More +

Activity: Ascot Racecourse
Queen Anne Enclosure: Hospitality Tickets
Start Location: Furlong Restaurant | Start Time: 10:30
Booking Reference: 001-0001 9439
Phone: +44 (0)344 346 3000

Gates open at 10:30am

Please see your tickets attached in the additional important information drop down and bring them with you on the day

Day 3 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722514
Pick Up Location: Car Park 3 | Pick Up Time: 19:15
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer will collect you from the agreed meeting location and take you back to your hotel

Day 4 - Thursday 19th June - Glyndebourne & The Cotswolds

Susan & Howard:
Today begins with eager anticipation as you set off for the Glyndebourne Festival. As your driver transports you through the scenic Sussex countryside, rolling hills and quaint villages guide your way. Arrive at the stately opera house, greeted by lush lawns and attendees setting up their picnics. The day unfolds with an exquisite performance, where the world-class opera captivates you in the intimate setting of the historic auditorium. Between acts, you enjoy some fine dining, surrounded by the beauty of the English gardens, savouring summertime delicacies and champagne.

The evening culminates in a magical performance that leaves them you awe, a perfect blend of culture and nature, before your private transfer returns you to your hotel for a peaceful nights sleep.

Accommodation for Susan & Howard: Hotel Indigo – Kensington

Rick & Jane:
Embark on a journey to the countryside, immersing yourself in the quintessential English charm. Your private transfer will whisk you to stop en route in the historic city of Oxford where you will spend an afternoon wandering through Oxford’s cobbled lanes and tranquil courtyards with your guide, uncovering hidden gems, buildings full of history and charming cafés.

Continue your journey into the Cotswolds, meandering through narrow lanes bordered by honey-coloured stone cottages, each village more picturesque than the last. The gentle pace of life in the Cotswolds invites you to explore the idyllic countryside, with its rolling hills, flower-filled meadows, and charming tea rooms. Arrive at your luxury rural retreat, a serene escape into a world where time seems to stand still, offering a true taste of England’s timeless beauty.

Your guide will arrange a meeting location and time with you for tomorrow, at the end of today

 

Overnight: Broadway | The Lygon Arms
Room Type: 1x Classic Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722515
Pick Up Location: Hotel Indigo, Kensington | Pick Up Time: 11:00
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Susan and Howard 

Your private transfer will meet you at your hotel entrance and take you to Glyndebourne Opera Festival

Day 4 - Glyndebourne Read More +

Activity: Glyndebourne
Opera Festival: Parsifal Show
Start Location: Glyndebourne, West Sussex | Start Time: 14:50
Booking Reference: 2271829
Phone: + 44(0)1273 815 000

Tickets for Glyndebourne will need to be collected from the box office on arrival.

Tickets are booked under Howard Read.

Day 4 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722516
Pick Up Location: Glydebourne | Pick Up Time: 21:10
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Susan and Howard 

Your private transfer will meet you in the agreed location take you back to your hotel

Day 4 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722517
Pick Up Location: Hotel Indigo, Kensington | Pick Up Time: 09:00
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Rick and Jane

Your private transfer will meet you at the hotel entrance and take you to Oxford city centre where you will meet your local guide

 

Day 4 - Guide Details - Steve Gray Read More +

Name: Steve Gray
Contact Number: +44 (0) 7747 128 081
Meeting Place: Merton Street, Oxford | Meeting Time: 11:00

Rick and Jane

Your local guide Steve will meet your from your private transfer and will have all your tickets required for the day and take you onwards to the Lygon Arms in Broadway

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Grill by James Martin | Location: Your Hotel
Reservation Time: 18:45 | Booking Reference: 3T2MNUDEMZCW - Mr. Richard Higgins

Please note that this is a table reservation for 2 pax only. Please pay directly.

Day 5 - Friday 20th June - Day 2 in the Cotswolds & Return to London

Susan & Howard:
Spend the day at your own pace, at leisure.

Accommodation for Susan & Howard: Hotel Indigo – Kensington

Rick & Jane: 
Spend today out exploring the Cotswolds beginning with a leisurely morning walk through the charming village of Broadway, admiring its honey-coloured stone cottages and browsing quaint shops and cafés. Afterward, hike up to Broadway Tower, the highest point in the Cotswolds, for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Cotswold Lavender, where the fields burst into fragrant purple bloom in summer, offering a perfect setting for a peaceful walk among the flowers. Complete the day by exploring nearby villages, soaking in the idyllic beauty and timeless charm of this enchanting region.

Your guide will arrange a meeting location and time with you for tomorrow, at the end of today

Overnight: Broadway | The Lygon Arms
Room Type: 1x Classic Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Guide Details - Steve Gray Read More +

Name: Steve Gray
Contact Number: +44 (0) 7747 128 081
Meeting Place: Pre-arranged directly with clients

Rick and Jane

Steve will have all your tickets required for the day

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Russell's Restaurant | Location: Broadway
Reservation Time: 18:45 | Booking Reference: B77VKVWP
Phone: + 44(0)1386 853555

Rick and Jane

Please note this is a table reservation only

Clients to pay directly

Cancellation policy: £25pp fee will be applied for no shows or cancellations within 24 hours of the reservation

Day 6 - Saturday 21st June - Exploring London's Hidden Gems

Rick & Jane: This morning your private transfer will whisk you from the peaceful Cotswolds countryside to the metropolis of London to meet Susan & Howard for your London adventure.

Susan & Howard: Enjoy a morning of leisure and reconvene with Rick and Jane.

All: Take a stroll through Hyde Park and escape into nature with tree-lined paths and the peaceful Serpentine Lake contrasting the bustle of London. Approach the regal Kensington Gardens, leading you to the stately Kensington Palace. Inside the palace, grand rooms filled with period furniture and royal portraits tell the stories of historical figures like Queen Victoria and Princess Diana. The serene beauty of the palace interiors, paired with views of the surrounding gardens, creates a harmonious blend of history, nature, and royal elegance.

Overnight: London | Hotel Indigo - Kensington
Room Type: 2x Queen Bed Suite Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722518
Pick Up Location: Lygon Arms, Broadway | Pick Up Time: 09:30
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Rick and Jane

Your private transfer will meet you outside your hotel and take you back to Hotel Indigo in London

Day 6 - Tour Read More +

Activity: Tour
Self Guided: Kensington Palace
Start Location: Kensington Palace, London | Start Time: 13:00

Please see your tickets attached in the additional important information drop down and bring them with you on the day

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Windmill | Location: Mayfair
Reservation Time: 17:30 | Booking Reference: DMN-16898658892
Phone: +44 (0)20 7491 8050

Please note this is a table reservation booked under Richard Higgins

Clients to pay directly

Cancellation policy: £20pp fee applied for no shows or cancellations within 24 hours of the reservation

Day 6 - Theatre Show Read More +

Activity: Theatre Show
Mrs Warren's Profession: Garrick Theatre
Start Location: Garrick Theatre, Charing Cross Road | Start Time: 19:30
Booking Reference: TFT2JF2
Phone: +44 (0)330 333 4815

Rick and Jane

Please note that Tickets will be sent 72 Hours before the performance via email to the email provided for Jane Sanzen
Please bring them with you on the day

Day 7 - Sunday 22nd June - Susan & Howard Depart - Free Day for Rick & Jane

Susan & Howard: This morning a private transfer will collect you from your hotel and take you to the airport to catch your onward travel.

Rick & Jane: Enjoy a full free day in the city as you please.

Overnight: London | Hotel Indigo - Kensington
Room Type: 1 x Queen Bed Suite Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722519
Pick Up Location: Hotel Indigo, Kensington | Pick Up Time: 09:30
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Susan and Howard

Your private transfer will meet you outside your hotel and take you to Heathrow Airport for your return flight home

Day 7 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: June 22, 2025 | Airline: British Airways | Flight Number: BA177
Departure Airport: London Heathrow | Departure Time: 13:20
Arrival Airport: JFK

Susan and Howard

Day 7 - Lunch Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Holland Restaurant | Location: Kensington
Reservation Time: 12:30 | Booking Reference: 37RDYPEL2NFH
Phone: +44 (0)204 599 1369

Rick and Jane

Please note this is a table reservation

Clients to pay directly

Cancellation policy: Should your plans change please inform us by 11:30am on the day of your reservation . A No-Show or very late cancellation (after 11:30am) of the reservation will incur a charge of £25 per person.

Day 8 - Monday 23rd June - Free Day for Rick & Jane

Rick & Jane: Enjoy another full free day in this unique capital city at your leisure.

 

 

Overnight: London | Hotel Indigo - Kensington
Room Type: 1 x Queen Bed Suite Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Tuesday 24th June - Depart

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

Day 9 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Little's Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2722520
Pick Up Location: Hotel Indigo, Kensington | Pick Up Time: 08:30
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Rick and Jane

Your private transfer will meet you outside your hotel and take you to Gatwick Airport for your return flight home

Day 9 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: June 24, 2025 Departure Airport: Gatwick Airport | Departure Time: 12:00
Arrival Airport: JFK

Rick and Jane 

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 6 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
    • D0 – 1 x Queen Bed Suite Room at Hotel Indigo – Kensington to allow early check in for Rick & Jane on arrival
    • D1-3 = 2 x Queen Bed Suite Rooms at Hotel Indigo – Kensington
    • D4 = 1x  Queen Bed Suite Rooms at Hotel Indigo – Kensington & 1x Classic Room at Lygon Arms
    • D5 = 1x Queen Bed Suite Rooms at Hotel Indigo – Kensington & 1x Classic Room at Lygon Arms
    • D6 = 2x Queen Bed Suite Rooms at Hotel Indigo – Kensington
    • D6 & 7 – 1 x Queen Bed Suite Room at Hotel Indigo – Kensington for Rick & Jane
  • Breakfast each morning, as stated in the itinerary above
  • 2 x Private Airport Transfers for 2 pax on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • 2 x Private Airport Transfers for 2 pax on Departure Days
  • Tickets to Royal Ascot for 2 days in the Queen Anne Enclosure includes;
    • Private return transfers for both days for 4 pax
    • Private table for 4
    • Champagne reception
    • 3 course set menu
    • Afternoon tea
    • Complimentary bar throughout the day
    • Race card and racing paper
  • Private return transfers from The Cotswolds to London for the Higgins
  • Entry to Kensington Palace (self-guided)

Susan & Howard:

  • Tickets to the Glyndebourne Opera Festival (best available and subject to availability)
  • Private return transfers from the hotel to Glyndebourne

Rick and Jane:

  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 4 and Day 5 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by your guide on guided days
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Entry to the Bodliean Library
    • Entry to Christ Church College
    • Entry to the Broadway Tower, Bunker and Ground
    • Entry to Cotswold Lavender
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Notes Read More

Tipping Guidelines

For tipping our guides – We don’t generally recommend a set amount as tipping is not expected in the same way that it is in North America. However, similar North American travel companies generally suggest something along the lines of £10-30 per person per day for your guide, which is a wide range to choose from. Generally, we would encourage you to ask yourself what you were expecting from your guide, and then think about how they have exceeded those expectations and choose an amount you are comfortable with.

For local services such as restaurants again tipping is not expected but if you receive great service then 10-15% of the bill is normal.

 

Luggage Notes

Please note that we expect travellers to bring an average of One Large Holdall or Suitcase and up to Two smaller day-bags or hand-luggage sized pieces. If you expect to bring more than this then please let us know well in advance of arrival so that we can ensure there is capacity for this (additional charges will apply if separate luggage transfers are required).

 

Notes on Weather & Flexibility

Weather – June in England can be a very wide range of weather, and very changeable. Suitable clothing and footwear is essential, as well as a flexible attitude. Plans may have to be changed to accommodate Mother Nature, and your guide will have back-up plans that they will discuss with you if required.

 

Essential Packing List

  • Waterproof jacket with hood
  • Waterproof over-pants
  • Sturdy hiking boots/shoes (sneakers or tennis shoes are not suitable for any hiking in England & Wales)
  • Day pack 20-30 litre for carrying water and extra layers
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Warm layers
  • Warm hat, gloves and a neck gaiter
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Smart casual attire for dinners

Note: If you would like us to provide trekking poles for your use then please just let us know and we will ensure these are available for you.

Important Contact Numbers Read More
Wilderness England Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

UK: +44 (0)1768 721 210
US: 888 351 5706


Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

+44 (0)7482 170 401


Emergency Services

999

Optional Upgrades Read More
  • Room Upgrades are available in some locations, subject to availability. Pricing on request.
Pricing Read More

The NET price for this V4 itinerary, based on 4 clients as per the itinerary, is a total trip cost of:

For Susan and Howard Read: £12,090 GBP 
For Rick and Jane Higgins: £15,090 GBP 

Important Additional Information Read More
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.