8-Nights Essential London & Wales - Escorted Tours from $3,925

Day 1: Arrive in London

Transfer: London Heathrow Aptto London - Marylebone

Hotel: The Marylebone (4 Star Rating)

The Marylebone is a luxury boutique hotel in London that enjoys a spectacular location in the heart of Marylebone village, one of London’s trendiest neighbourhoods. This stylish hotel sits within a short walk from the bustle of Oxford Street and the iconic stores of Bond Street, Mayfair and Harley Street.

The vibrant charm of Marylebone village is mirrored in the style and ambience of The Marylebone. This enticing tone starts in the hotel’s chic lobby and Cocktail Bar, characterised by their inviting nooks and crannies. Then, there is the ever-popular 108 Brasserie and Bar, set on the cobbles of picturesque Marylebone Lane - a lively forum for locals and guests alike. Stylishly designed guest rooms and suites, including their acclaimed rooftop terrace suites, epitomise modern comfort in central London. Meanwhile, guests may enjoy complimentary access to the exclusive on-site Third Space Health Club, which features a gym and an 18m pool among other modern facilities.

Day 2: Full Day Magic of London Tour with Cream Tea at Harrods

The morning part of the tour begins with a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral where you enter as their doors open. You will explore the masterpiece designed by Wren in 1673 with a professional guide, taking time to listen to the 1695 organ that Mendelssohn once played and visit the tombs of Nelson and Wellington. On Sundays when there is restricted viewing at the Cathedral there will be an opportunity to enter and enjoy one of the services. Next, a photo stop outside Westminster Abbey before you head to the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

Buckingham Palace is the official Royal residence of His Majesty the King. Watch the world famous changing of the Guard ceremony as the Queen's soldiers, dressed in their fabulous tunics and busbies march to military music. Free time will be given for lunch and our guide will be happy to recommend places to eat.

Arriving at the Tower of London built in 1066 by William the Conqueror, your guide will regale you with fascinating insights into the history of this Royal Palace and fortress. Ample time will be given to view the Crown Jewels and the White Tower and to wander around this imposing fortress. Take your seat for a 40 minute River Thames cruise. Enjoy spectacular views as you glide down the Thames. The river offers the best perspective of a number of top attractions and sights; view The Houses of Parliament, The London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe, St Pauls, The Shard and The Tower of London and Tower Bridge from the comfort of your seat.

The Harrods Tea Rooms’ quintessentially English cream tea stands amongst London’s finest, and when enjoyed in such regal surroundings, is an experience to be savoured, remembered and repeated. Home-baked English scones served with clotted cream and Harrods exclusive preserves and this is accompanied by a glass of Prosecco and your choice of tea from Harrods own tea gardens.

Tour ends at Harrods department store in Knightsbridge.

Day 3: Half-Day Private London Tour

A private 4-hour panoramic tour of London by car offers a relaxed and personalized way to experience the city’s most famous landmarks while traveling comfortably between districts. Accompanied by a knowledgeable driver-guide, you’ll explore the highlights of London while learning about the history, culture, and royal traditions that shape the British capital.

Your journey may begin in the historic heart of Westminster, where you’ll see the iconic Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament beside the River Thames. Continue past the majestic Westminster Abbey before arriving at Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Along the way, your guide will point out royal parks, historic squares, and famous streets such as Pall Mall and Piccadilly.

Driving through the West End and the City of London, you’ll also see landmarks including St Paul's Cathedral, the historic Tower of London, and the elegant Tower Bridge. Depending on your interests, the itinerary can include photo stops and short walks to admire the sights more closely.

With the flexibility of a private vehicle, this half-day experience allows you to cover more ground than a walking tour while enjoying insightful commentary and the freedom to tailor the route to your preferences - an ideal introduction to London’s rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 4: London to Cotswolds, Burford, Hay-on-Wye and Aberystwyth

Leave London and travel west to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, a region of timeless beauty, where rolling hills, picturesque, historic villages, and honey-colored stone cottages create a tranquil escape from the everyday.

First, you'll visit Burford, the 'Gateway to the Cotswolds'. This charming town feels like stepping into a storybook. With its narrow, cobbled streets lined with honey-hued stone buildings, it's a place where time seems to slow down.

Next, venture into Wales, a land of ancient language, over 600 castles, and stunning natural beauty. But there's so much more to uncover, let the adventure begin! Your first stop is Hay-on-Wye, the world's original "Booktown," famed for its secondhand and antiquarian bookshops. This charming town invites book lovers to uncover hidden literary treasures. Use your free time to browse, and who knows? You might leave with a new addition to your travel library. Then, it's on to the serene Elan Valley, where tranquil reservoirs, rivers, and lush woodlands create a breathtaking escape. Sit back, relax, and soak in the magic of Wales.

As your journey continues, the road climbs into the rugged splendor of the Cambrian Mountains, revealing dramatic views of rolling hills, towering peaks, and expansive moorlands. The scenery shifts as we descend toward the coast, arriving in Aberystwyth, a charming seaside town and cultural hub where you'll spend the next two nights. Your evening is free to explore as you wish-stroll along the iconic Victorian pier and savor breathtaking sunset views or discover a cosy restaurant to sample delicious Welsh specialties. Overnight in Aberystwyth.

Hotel: Moderate Hotel Aberystwyth (3 Star Rating)

We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.

Day 5: Eryri National Park to Beddgelert, Harlech Castle and Aberystwyth

Today, you're going to travel north to explore the mountainous Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. This is a land of stunning beauty and ancient legends where rugged peaks, serene lakes, and lush valleys have inspired awe for centuries.

Nestled in the heart of the national park is the charming village of Beddgelert. Surrounded by rugged mountains and lush forests, it offers picturesque streets lined with traditional stone cottages. But it's not the village setting that will pull your heart strings, it's the story of the legendary dog, Gelert.

Later you will travel to one of the favourite castles and a UNESCO Heritage Site, Harlech Castle. It offers epic sea views and a fascinating war-torn history filled with dramatic tales of dynamite. Intrigued to know more? Take some time to explore this incredible monument and eat lunch in the local cafe, before you jump back on the bus and return to Aberystwyth in the late afternoon. With some of the day and the whole evening free, you can jump on the Victorian-era funicular that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, the town, and the surrounding hills.

This is your second evening in this charming town, and you can decide if you want to relax or explore it even further. Overnight in Aberystwyth.

Hotel: Moderate Hotel Aberystwyth (3 Star Rating)

We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 6: New Quay to Dinefwr Estate, Laughanre and Tenby

Leaving Aberystwyth, you travel around the coast of Cardigan Bay through the quaint town of Aberaeron, and to New Quay.

A sandy harbour, whitewashed houses, and connections to Dylan Thomas: New Quay is one of the most picturesque and interesting little towns in Britain. Enjoy a short break here and some refreshments, and keep your eyes peeled. You may be lucky enough to spot dolphins and whales. Then you travel inland through rolling hills and green farmlands to explore the Dinefwr Estate (Newton House) and its ruined castle.

This lunch stop is a true treat, offering a chance to explore two distinct chapters of history. Begin with a visit to Dinefwr Castle, a medieval fortress that once served as the home of Welsh kings. Just a short stroll away, discover Newton House, a grand Georgian mansion that contrasts beautifully with the rugged castle ruins, representing a later era in Welsh history. Afterwards, head to Laugharne, nestled along the River Taf estuary. Your driver-guide will take you to Dylan Thomas's Boathouse, where the poet spent his final years and wrote the famous play "Under Milk Wood", or you can unwind outside the castle with a coffee in hand.

Finally, head to the charming harbour town of Tenby, nestled on the fringes of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. You've got a free evening in this lovely seaside resort, so make sure to explore its sandy beaches, admire its Victorian architecture and try out some of the traditional pubs. Overnight in Tenby.

Hotel: Moderate Hotel Tenby (3 Star Rating)

We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 7: St. Davids to Tenby

Today, you see some of Britain's most gorgeous coastlines at the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. This region is stunning and was the birthplace of both the patron saint of Wales and the Twdyr (anglicised to Tudor) royal dynasty. Stop for a quick refreshment in Pembroke before you continue the journey to St Davids.

Now it's time to explore St Davids, the smallest cathedral city in Britain, but one rich in history and charm. Named after St David, the patron saint of Wales, this beautiful city will steal your heart with the iconic St Davids Cathedral, a stunning example of medieval architecture.

Now, you can decide how you want to spend your afternoon. Castle lovers, you've got a chance to go back to Pembroke to explore the medieval castle, the birthplace of Henry VII. Seaside lovers, you can decide to spend more time in Tenby and relax on the beach or maybe go on a boat trip to the tranquil Caldey island, home to Cistercian monks. Whatever you choose to do, you will still have late afternoon in Tenby to potentially explore the ruins of the castle perched on a hill overlooking the sea, if you fancy.

You've got another free evening in this lovely place, so why not enjoy a sunset walk on the beach? Overnight in Tenby.

Hotel: Moderate Hotel Tenby (3 Star Rating)

We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 8: St. Fagans to Cotswolds, Castle Combe and London

Bid farewell to your newfound slice of heaven because it's the last day of your Welsh adventure. Travel through the south of Wales for a visit to the outdoor National Museum of History at St Fagans.

Step back in time and experience the heart and soul of Wales at St Fagans National Museum of History. Wander through centuries as you explore historic buildings, immerse yourself in traditional crafts, and uncover the stories that shaped a nation.

Inspired by history and journey through culture, you say farewell to Wales and travel across the Severn Estuary back to England. You're back in the beautiful and sleepy Cotswolds, famous for traditional, thatched-roof cottages and serene gardens. We stop at Castle Combe, widely recognised as one of the prettiest villages in the region. Here, you'll have time to capture the perfect picture of the famous bridge and explore the streets lined with charming, honey-colored cottages and admire the scenic countryside that makes this village a postcard-perfect destination.

As you make your way from the tranquil beauty of the Cotswolds to the bustling energy of London, you'll find yourself reflecting on the stunning landscapes, rich history, and peaceful moments you experienced on this tour through the stunning landscapes of England and Wales.

You return to London at approximately 7.30 pm.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Hotel: The Marylebone (4 Star Rating)

The Marylebone is a luxury boutique hotel in London that enjoys a spectacular location in the heart of Marylebone village, one of London’s trendiest neighbourhoods. This stylish hotel sits within a short walk from the bustle of Oxford Street and the iconic stores of Bond Street, Mayfair and Harley Street.

The vibrant charm of Marylebone village is mirrored in the style and ambience of The Marylebone. This enticing tone starts in the hotel’s chic lobby and Cocktail Bar, characterised by their inviting nooks and crannies. Then, there is the ever-popular 108 Brasserie and Bar, set on the cobbles of picturesque Marylebone Lane - a lively forum for locals and guests alike. Stylishly designed guest rooms and suites, including their acclaimed rooftop terrace suites, epitomise modern comfort in central London. Meanwhile, guests may enjoy complimentary access to the exclusive on-site Third Space Health Club, which features a gym and an 18m pool among other modern facilities.

Day 9: Depart from London

Transfer: London - Marylebone to London Heathrow Apt