Itinerary

Journey to Portsmouth

Get your sunglasses and sun cream ready, you're departing London and heading to the sunny, southern Isle of Wight. This fascinating island is blessed with beautiful beaches, epic white sea-cliffs, a warm climate, and remnants from the Romans, Normans, and two World Wars. Sounds exciting, doesn't it?

Exploring Portsmouth

Travelling through parts of the South Downs National Park, gently undulating chalk hills, lush green valleys and peaceful farms await us on our way to Portsmouth. First, you head to the ancient port-city of Portsmouth. This ancient port-city is a bustling spot that blends modern marvels with centuries of sea-faring stories. Head to the top of the 170-metre-high Spinnaker Tower for the best views of the city, the Isle of Wight and the South Coast. Follow the historic harbour trails or visit the remains of King Henry the VIII's tragic warship Mary Rose before joining your guide for your ferry at Gunwharf Terminal.

Ferry to the Isle of Wight and Quarr Abbey

Even if you're not a sea-loving, fish-catching ocean dweller, this ferry ride is a treat. In under an hour, you'll enjoy plenty of stunning views of the Solent and onboard refreshments. As you step off the ferry onto the Isle of Wight, you enter a world of coastal beauty and timeless charm, where golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lush countryside are waiting for you to explore. We begin with a unique gem: Quarr Abbey, an important religious site with striking architecture that blends French, Byzantine, and Moorish designs. Next, we head to Ryde, a town that's sure to capture your heart with its Victorian elegance, historic pier, and breathtaking coastal scenery.

Free evening in Shanklin

In the evening, we arrive at the unforgettably quaint village of Shanklin in time for an early dinner. Perhaps you'll wander through the quaint Old Village with its thatched cottages to find a cosy restaurant that serves seafood?

Journey to Yarborough Monument

Today, you're going to discover the unmissable highlights of the Isle of Wight, and you'll discover why Queen Victoria lived spending her time here. After enjoying a delightful breakfast, you'll set off for the Yarborough Monument, the tallest structure on the island. This impressive landmark honours the life of a distinguished 19th-century earl and offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, making it a must-see on your island adventure.

Visiting Osborne House, lunch

Next, you'll pause for a photo opportunity at Brading Downs, where the endless stretch of lush, green fields creates a breathtaking vista. Then, you'll head to Osborne House, where Queen Victoria famously said, “it is impossible to imagine a prettier spot”. And we agree. Osborne House was Queen Victoria's holiday home and as you explore the Italian-style building, you discover pristine green gardens, ornate golden rooms, and historically fascinating artefacts.

Exploring the coast, The Needles and journey to Shanklin

After that magnificent man-made marvel, it's time to see the Isle of Wight's most beautiful natural wonder, the Needles. These dramatic white chalk stacks rise majestically from the sea, creating a breathtaking sight. You can take a chairlift down to the beach, hop on a boat for an up-close view of the Needles, or explore a historic defensive battery nearby, adding an adventurous twist to your visit. Your day of discovery ends at St Catherine's Down, where the cliffs offer panoramic views of the island's southern coastline. It's the perfect spot to reflect on the island's stunning landscapes and rich history before we return to Shanklin.

Free evening in Shanklin

It's your second evening in the charming town, so why not stroll along the shore at sunset after a delicious dinner?

Journey to the ferry terminal, Isle of Wight

It's the final day. But cheer up, because we've saved some of the best sights for today. In the morning, you say goodbye to Shanklin and the beautiful Isle of Wight and head on the ferry back to Portsmouth.

Ferry crossing to Portsmouth and journey to Winchester

Now that you've reacquainted yourself with the mainland, we take you to one of England's most history-soaked cities, Winchester.

Lunch in Winchester, joining second part of the tour, Stonehenge

There's so much to do in Winchester. Step back in time at the stunning Cathedral, with its awe-inspiring architecture and history. See the legendary King Arthur's Round Table at the Great Hall of the Castle, or walk through cobbled streets lined with timber-framed houses. At the end of your visit, you change buses and meet your new group and driver-guide for the second part of the tour. Then, you head Stonehenge, one of the greatest marvels of the Neolithic period. This ancient site immerses you in mystery, with the visitor center offering fascinating insights into its origins—was it a temple, an astronomical calendar, or the work of Merlin?

Journey to Exeter and a free evening

Next, we journey to Devon, a land of stunning contrasts, where golden beaches, rolling countryside, and rugged moorlands meet. Home to Dartmoor National Park with its wild ponies, rugged tors, and hidden gems, Devon's beauty leads us to Exeter, your home for two nights. Once the most westerly fortified settlement in Roman Britain, this historic city is famous for so many things. Ancient city walls, a Norman castle, gothic cathedral, Tudor heritage, a quayside; they will all tempt to during your stay here. You've got free time in the evening, so will you take a leisurely stroll along the river? Or perhaps visit a traditional pub like The Old Firehouse or The Exeter Arms?

Journey to Dartmoor National Park

We leave Exeter and travel to the heart of the remote windswept magnificence of Dartmoor National Park, to Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Keep your eyes peeled for native ponies grazing close to the striking rock formations and other diverse flora and fauna.

Exploring Dartmoor, Widecombe-in-the-Moor

Our first stop is Widecombe-in-the-Moor, a picture-perfect village nestled among the rugged hills and ancient stone tors of Dartmoor. Stroll through its charming streets, admire the striking St Pancras Church, and take in the serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere of this historic spot. Next, we journey through Dartmoor's vast, open landscapes to Clapper Bridge, an ancient stone bridge that has stood the test of time, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's past and its close relationship with the land. Next stop is Tavistock for lunch, so make sure to treat yourself to the famous cream tea that is said to have been invented there.

Tavistock and Exeter

Start your exploration with a true taste of Devon—cream tea. This treat consists of fresh scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, all accompanied by a pot of tea. When you've finished, walk off the calories and wander through the town's streets, lined with Georgian and Victorian buildings, and visit the Tavistock Abbey ruins, a reminder of the town's medieval past. We then travel back through the windswept expanses of the moors back to Exeter to explore some of its highlights, like Exeter Cathedral. Step inside this medieval masterpiece to be greeted by the soaring, intricate stone vaults and delicate stained-glass windows that have stood for over 900 years.

Free evening in Exeter

After soaking in the serene beauty of Exeter Cathedral, take the evening to explore the city's charming streets. Wander through the historic center, enjoy a meal at one of the many local restaurants, or relax at a cosy pub, where the city's vibrant atmosphere comes alive as the sun sets.

Journey to Boscastle, Cornwall

Arthurian legend mixes with genuine Celtic history in Cornwall, England's most western county. And today you're going to dive deeper into this land where rugged cliffs meet endless seas, and where myth and reality intertwine.

Exploring Boscastle

Our first stop is the enchanting North Cornish coast, where the Elizabethan fishing village of Boscastle awaits. Wander its picturesque harbour, indulge in a traditional cream tea at a local café, and take a leisurely stroll to the dramatic headland for breathtaking ocean views. For a touch of magic, step into the renowned Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, where centuries of folklore, spells, and intriguing artifacts bring Cornwall's mystical heritage to life.

Lunch at Tintagel, Port Isaac and journey to Falmouth

Next, we visit Tintagel, home to the dramatic ruins of its cliffside castle. Perched on a rugged Cornish peninsula, this awe-inspiring medieval site, rumored to be King Arthur's birthplace, blends history and legend. Walk the iconic bridge for great coastal views, explore the ruins and get some lunch. Later on, we head to Port Isaac, the charming fishing village famous as the setting for Doc Martin. Stroll its narrow streets, admire historic cottages, and soak in the harbor's serene beauty. Finally, we journey south to Falmouth for a two-night stay. This lively port town, with its maritime heritage, bustling harbor, and coastal charm, promises an unforgettable experience.

Free evening in Falmouth

You've got a free evening in this bustling little town, and you can decide how you want to spend it. Explore the town's lively streets filled with cosy pubs, and waterfront restaurants and try local specialties. Don't miss a visit to the historic Pendennis Castle, a Tudor fortress with stunning views of the coastline, or take a stroll along the golden sands of Gyllyngvase Beach.

Journey through Cornwall

Today, we embark on a journey to the most westerly tip of England, where the land meets the wild, untamed beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. This rugged and breathtaking corner of Cornwall is known for its dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and timeless landscapes that have inspired generations.

Minack Theatre

We make a brief stop at the picturesque Long Rock Beach, where you can enjoy stunning views of St Michael's Mount, a tidal island with a medieval castle, a village, and beautiful gardens, all with a rich history dating back to the 8th century. Next, we continue to the dramatic Minack Theatre, perched above the roaring sea, with the stunning National Trust beach at Porthcurno below. Built in the 1930s by the visionary Rowena Cade, this remarkable theatre remains a testament to her dedication and creativity. Please note that, due to availability, a visit to the theatre may not be possible, but your driver-guide will inform you as you go.

Land's End, St Ives for lunch and journey to Falmouth

We continue along the rugged Cornish coast to Land's End, one of the UK's most iconic landmarks. As the southernmost point of England, its dramatic cliffs offer stunning views, while the waters below are said to hide the fabled 'Lost Land of Lyonesse' from Arthurian legend. We then pass through landscapes marked by Cornwall's tin mining history, now featured in the Poldark series, before reaching St Ives. In this coastal gem, you'll be amazed by the turquoise waters. Why not treat yourself to some classic fish and chips and enjoy them on the golden sands of the beach? Finally, we make our way back to Falmouth to conclude another unforgettable day on the Cornish coast.

Free evening in Falmouth

Spend another lovely evening in Falmouth and indulge in the town's local specialties. Start with a classic Cornish pasty and wash it down with a refreshing pint of local Cornish cider.

Journey through Bodwin Moor

You pack your bags and leave Falmouth behind. Your driver-guide takes you through Bodmin Moor, the vast wilderness covered in rugged heathland and dotted with historic standing stones and weathered tors.

Jamaica Inn

Next, we stop at Jamaica Inn, a historic inn famous for its connection to Daphne du Maurier's novel and its intriguing tales of smugglers, travelers, and mystery. Explore the museum, which delves into the area's smuggling history, or grab a quick refreshment before we continue our journey.

Glastonbury and return journey to London

Bid farewell to Cornwall as we set off towards Glastonbury, a town renowned not only for its world-famous music festival but also for its legendary ties to King Arthur and the Holy Grail. Take time to wander its quaint streets and enjoy lunch, perhaps sampling some local delicacies. If you're a fan of Arthurian legends, be sure to visit Glastonbury Tor, a hill that some say marks the mythical island of Avalon. From here, you start your return journey to London, a bustling metropolis that feels worlds apart from the serene landscapes and mythical charm of Devon and Cornwall.

Return journey to London

As the capital's iconic skyline looms ahead, you carry with you the magic of the southwest—its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences—ready to add a new perspective to your time in London.