From London, take in the best of England's far west and south. Marvel at UNESCO-listed Stonehenge and explore the former Anglo-Saxon capital of Winchester. Spend two nights in the Devon city of Exeter and uncover the windswept and wild Dartmoor National Park. Visit charming Cornish fishing villages and towns including Port Isaac and St Ives, see iconic St Michael's Mount and the Minack Theatre, and visit Glastonbury Abbey on your way back to the capital.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Winchester & Stonehenge
London - Winchester - Stonehenge - Exeter. As we leave central London, our journey takes us through Wessex, one of the ancient kingdoms of England. This historic region leads us to the renowned city of Winchester, which was once the capital of Anglo-Saxon England. Winchester is famous for its association with Alfred the Great and is home to a majestic cathedral and the impressive Norman Great Hall.
Continuing our exploration, we head towards the captivating standing stone circles of Stonehenge. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stonehenge has been meticulously preserved. The award-winning visitor centre offers a fascinating exhibition showcasing hundreds of prehistoric artefacts from the Stonehenge collection. A land train shuttle takes you to the iconic stone circles, which are known worldwide.
Next, we proceed to Exeter in Devon, a significant fortified settlement during Roman times. This charming city serves as our base for two nights, allowing ample time to delve into its rich history and cultural offerings.
Please note: Check-in closes at 09:00 on day 1 (tour departs at 09:15) - Stance 3, Greenline Coach Terminal London, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London, SW1W 9SH.
Please also note In rare circumstances, this tour may stay in Torquay instead of Exeter. Additionally, Stonehenge will be closed to visitors on June 21, 2024, due to the Summer Solstice. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Accommodation: Exeter Townhouse, Telstar or similar
Overnight: Exeter
Dartmoor & Exeter free time
Exeter - Dartmoor - Exeter. Today we experience the breathtaking beauty of Dartmoor, an isolated and windswept landscape adorned with stunning rock formations. As we traverse the moor, you'll have the opportunity to witness native ponies grazing peacefully amidst the wilderness. Dartmoor is also home to a rich variety of plant and animal life, providing a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and smells.
During our journey, you'll have the chance to cross the historic Clapper Bridge at Postbridge before we make our way to Tavistock. This quaint market town holds great historical significance, with its claim as the birthplace of the esteemed explorer Sir Francis Drake.
Upon returning to Exeter in the early afternoon, you'll have ample time to immerse yourself in the city's ancient treasures at a relaxed pace. Discover the remnants of the city walls, marvel at the majestic Norman cathedral, explore the captivating Royal Albert Memorial, and soak in the ambiance of the Quayside. If staying in Torquay, the afternoon will also be free to explore.
Accommodation: Exeter Townhouse, Telstar or similar
Overnight: Exeter | Breakfast
Captivating Cornwall
Exeter - Falmouth. In Cornwall, England's most western county, Arthurian legend merges with real Celtic history. Our day begins with a trip to the North Cornish coast and the charming Elizabethan fishing village of Boscastle. There is free time here to sample a delightful cream tea, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the headland, or explore the fascinating Museum of Witchcraft for a glimpse into the world of spells and magic.
We continue to the village of Tintagel, where the majestic ruins of its headland Castle stand. This iconic setting is believed to be the legendary birthplace of King Arthur. After satisfying your appetite with a delicious lunch, proceed to Port Isaac, a picturesque fishing village famous for its association with the television show "Doc Martin." Fall in love with the scenic beauty of this charming village and immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere.
Accommodation: Poltair, Gyllyngvase House or similar
Overnight: Falmouth | Breakfast
St Michael's Mount, Land's End & St Ives
Falmouth - St Michael's Mount - Land's End - St Ives - Falmouth. Today, we will be exploring the most westerly point of England. Our first stop will be the island community of St. Michael's Mount. After a brief visit, we will continue our journey to the unique and breathtaking Minack Theatre, which overlooks a powerful ocean and the stunning Porthcurno beach, managed by the National Trust.
Next, we will visit Land's End, a location famous for its association with the Cornish tin mining heritage and also featured in the popular TV series Poldark. Land's End isn't quite the most southerly point in the UK, but it's the furthest point from John O'Groats in the far north. As we travel through the landscapes, you will notice the remnants of the mining industry that once thrived in this area.
Our final destination for the day will be St. Ives, a charming town known for its vibrant art scene. You will have the opportunity to explore the numerous galleries tucked away in the narrow streets by the harbour. We will then return to Falmouth for the night.
Please note: During the winter season, the Minack Theatre will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. However, it will reopen seven days a week around Easter. As a result, tours departing on Fridays or Saturdays will be unable to visit the theatre. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Accommodation: Poltair, Gyllyngvase House or similar
Overnight: Falmouth | Breakfast
Glastonbury & return to London
Falmouth - Glastonbury - London. In the morning, we bid farewell to Cornwall and make our way across Bodmin Moor, a rugged moorland recognized as an outstanding area of natural beauty. Before leaving Cornwall, there will be a brief stop, following which we will continue our journey to Glastonbury. Here, you will have the opportunity to explore the remains of a 7th-century Abbey, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or climb Glastonbury Tor to take in the panoramic views of five counties. Glastonbury is home to the UK's most popular music festival, famous with music lovers the world over. From Glastonbury, we will return to London, where your tour comes to an end.
Please note: This tour ends at 19:30 - London Victoria Drop Off, Stance 3, Greenline Coach Terminal, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London, SW1W 9SH.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to all solo travellers, or if your booking party cannot reach the minimum of 2 persons in a room. Single Rooms can also be booked by any other person wanting the comfort and privacy of their own room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Exeter Townhouse , Exeter
Located just a 5-minute walk from the centre of Exeter and a 20-minute drive from Dartmoor National Park, Townhouse Exeter is a Grade II-listed Victorian property that has been modernised to offer en-suite rooms with free WiFi. The M5 motorway is a little over a 10-minute drive away, providing easy access to Bristol and beyond, while the major port of Plymouth is less than an hour away by car. Exeter University is a 15-minute walk away, and Exeter Central Railway Station is just a 5-minute stroll from the guest house. Some rooms feature fireplaces, and all are equipped with towels and complimentary toiletries. Committed to using locally sourced, fair trade, homemade, and free-range products whenever possible, the guest house offers a thoughtful experience. The antique shops and boutiques of Topsham are a 20-minute bus ride away, and a variety of water sports can be enjoyed in Exmouth.
Poltair , Falmouth
Poltair Guest House, located in Falmouth and just a 13-minute walk from Pendennis Castle, is a 4-star establishment offering a concierge service. The guest house features a sun terrace and provides free Wi-Fi. Falmouth Docks is only a 10-minute walk away, and Newquay Cornwall Airport is 33 km from the property. All guest rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV and a kettle, and some rooms also feature a balcony.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to all solo travellers, or if your booking party cannot reach the minimum of 2 persons in a room. Single Rooms can also be booked by any other person wanting the comfort and privacy of their own room.
At a Glance
The coach was okay, seats are not very comfortable for sitting for long periods
Itinerary was good, except for the Town of Glastonbury. Too long in this not that interesting town ”
