Isle of Wight Discovery

London - Portsmouth - Isle of Wight. Setting off from London, we head south to the coastal city of Portsmouth. There's free time here to climb to the top of Spinnaker Tower for views of the city and the Isle of Wight. You could also follow the historic harbour trails or visit King Henry VIII's warship, the Mary Rose. After a few hours of sightseeing at your own pace, it's time to board the ferry for our crossing to the Isle of Wight. The journey takes less than an hour and you can enjoy drinks and snacks onboard.

Arriving on the Isle of Wight, our first visit is to Quarr Abbey, a beautiful building blending French, Byzantine and Moorish architecture and design. We then make our way to the small village of Shanklin, where the evening is at leisure.

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.

Accommodation: Somerton Lodge B&B, Knights Rest B&B or similar

Today we are exploring the Isle of Wight. Departing after breakfast, our first stop is the Yarborough Monument. Celebrating the life of a wealthy earl from the 19th century, this is the tallest monument on the island. We also make a photo stop at Brading Downs, where endless green fields roll across the landscape.

Next we enjoy an included visit to the holiday home of one of England's most famous monarchs - Queen Victoria. She once said of Osborne House "it is harder to imagine a prettier spot" and you will find yourself agreeing with her as you explore the house and its pristine gardens. Built in an Italian style, Osborne House is equally as impressive on the inside, with golden rooms and historically important artefacts and furniture.

From the man-made to the natural, we then visit the main natural feature on the Isle of Wight. The Needles are a series of white stacks protruding from the ocean. Photograph them from the shore or opt for a boat ride out to The Needles for a closer look.

As the sun begins to set, we make a final stop at St Catherine's Down to admire the cliffs and surrounding green valleys. Watch the sunset before we return to Shanklin for the evening.

Accommodation: Somerton Lodge B&B, Knights Rest B&B or similar

Isle of Wight - Portsmouth - Winchester - Runnymede - London. This morning we catch the return ferry back to Portsmouth, and make our way to the historic city of Winchester. 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. There's free time to take in some of these sights, enjoy a coffee in a quaint local cafe, or browse one or more of the local museums.

Departing Winchester, we have time for a stop in Runnymede. This is where the famous Magna Carta, which limited the power of kings and queens, was signed by King John (renowned as one of England's worst ever kings, and the antagonist in the tale of Robin Hood) in 1215. We then complete our journey to central London, where our 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.