6-Nights Essential London and the Southern Coast from $2,663

Day 1: Arrive in London

Transfer: London Heathrow Aptto London - Bayswater

Hotel: Blakemore Hyde Park Hotel (4 Star Rating)

This hotel is located in the centre close to Hyde Park and 400 m away from Lancaster Gate tube station and it has great access to all of London's attractions. London Heathrow Airport is approximately 17 km away. With a range of services, this newly refurbished hotel now resembles a more luxurious property with all the trimmings including gold tinted marble flown in from Italy and all furniture hand crafted to create a unique space to relax and unwind. The restaurant houses a stunning conservatory style seating area with floor to ceiling windows, a creative cocktail bar and a beautiful terrace to enjoy some al fresco dining in the summer months. The establishment has 3 fully air-conditioned conference and function rooms a fully renovated lobby with 24-hour reception and wireless Internet. The 168 generously sized guest rooms with large comfy beds and contemporary design offer a restful space away from the fast city pace.

Day 2: Half Day Vintage Double-Decker Afternoon Tour and Cruise

What better way to see the highlights of London than from the upper level of a vintage double-decker bus? Take in excellent views of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral and the Tower of London on a meandering route, sweeping through the streets and history of the English capital.

The tour also includes a boat trip on the river Thames as well as a visit to Buckingham Palace, the official Royal residence of His Majesty the King. Following your time at Buckingham, the scene shifts to the river Thames where you'll set off on serene sailing coursing through the central waterway of London, passing sites of interest including Shakespeare's Globe, London Bridge, the Shard and Tower Bridge before arriving at the London Eye pier, where you'll disembark. Shortly after, you'll be returned to the Victoria Coach Station where you'll bid farewell to your guide and enjoy time on your own.

Important note: The Changing of the Guards only takes place in the morning and therefore cannot be seen on this afternoon excursion.

Day 3: Full Day London Hidden Treasures Tour & Thames Dinner Cruise

Your Registered Taxi driver/guide will escort you around the major sites of London stopping at each landmark for a photograph and a historical explanation. Stand outside of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Kensington Palace, plus a lot more, before heading down to the City. Here the history dates back over 2000, to Roman times and the City is filled with history. Here you will see the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St Paul's Cathedral, and the modern financial district.

You will see Hidden Treasures and unusual places not seen by many tourists! See and hear about many of London's hidden treasures, these are the places that tourists never get to see. You shall wander alleyways and hear the tales of murder and mystery. See the smallest house in London the smallest square in town, wander by the site of Henry VIII's cow shed and tennis court.

We have 300 year old shops to enter and once you know their history you may wish to purchase some of their stock. There are Hidden Tunnels, the oldest Church in London, Victorian Book shops, A street on a river, secret alleys. Visit a church that sold corpses and a dead body that still sits around a table at meetings. This tour takes you to both the landmark sites of London and the unusual. There is a lot more to tell you about but they don't want to spoil the surprises.

Remember, this is your tour so they will tailor make it to your wishes and complete the tour at your pace.For a unique celebration or date night idea, look no further than a Thames dinner cruise with City Cruises. With delectable food and drink, live entertainment and spectacular views, this is a fun and different way to dine in London.

You'll be greeted with a glass of fizz as you step aboard, then enjoy a three-course dinner as you glide through your London River cruise dinner experience, taking in the stunning landmarks on the banks of the Thames. As night falls, you'll be surrounded by the glittering lights of the capital. Then dance the night away as our live performer plays popular hits or enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the open upper deck with someone special.

Day 4: Touring Portsmouth and Quarr Abbey

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?

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.

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. Begin with a unique gem: Quarr Abbey, an important religious site with striking architecture that blends French, Byzantine, and Moorish designs. Next, head to Ryde, a town that's sure to capture your heart with its Victorian elegance, historic pier, and breathtaking coastal scenery.

In the evening, 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 cozy restaurant that serves seafood?

Overnight in Shanklin.

Hotel: Channel View Hotel (3 Star Rating)

An AA Rated 3 Star Hotel boasts picturesque views of The English Channel in an idyllic location, set atop the cliffs of Shanklin Bay. The hotel sits in prime location on the coastal path and within walking distance to amazing beaches. Shanklin Seafront provides the perfect day at the beach for all, whether you are looking to relax, play crazy golf or fancy a spot of sailing. There is fun for all.

Sit back and indulge in a Traditional English or Continental Breakfast, other options available, in the Osborne Dining Room and enjoy the benefits of full table service and prominent sea views. Join in the evening and enjoy a varied menu which caters to all dietary requirements (when available). If you have any special dietary requirements, we ask you please inform a member of our team upon arrival, or while in the dining room, so we can ensure we can cater accordingly.

After dinner join in the Alverstone Room for Local Live Entertainment (not on every evening). Enjoy the comfortable and relaxed environment, sit back with a drink chosen from our wide range of Wines, Gins and other spirits (including a local selection). The Alverstone Room has a large maple sprung dancefloor, perfect should you wish to dance the night away. All rooms feature En-Suite Bathroom, Flatscreen Freeview Television, Telephone, Hairdryer, Complimentary Tea & Coffee. Each En-Suite comes with complimentary toiletries and large fluffy towels.

Day 5: Discover Osborne House & The Needles

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.

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.

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 you return to Shanklin.

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

Overnight Shanklin.

Hotel: Channel View Hotel (3 Star Rating)

An AA Rated 3 Star Hotel boasts picturesque views of The English Channel in an idyllic location, set atop the cliffs of Shanklin Bay. The hotel sits in prime location on the coastal path and within walking distance to amazing beaches. Shanklin Seafront provides the perfect day at the beach for all, whether you are looking to relax, play crazy golf or fancy a spot of sailing. There is fun for all.

Sit back and indulge in a Traditional English or Continental Breakfast, other options available, in the Osborne Dining Room and enjoy the benefits of full table service and prominent sea views. Join in the evening and enjoy a varied menu which caters to all dietary requirements (when available). If you have any special dietary requirements, we ask you please inform a member of our team upon arrival, or while in the dining room, so we can ensure we can cater accordingly.

After dinner join in the Alverstone Room for Local Live Entertainment (not on every evening). Enjoy the comfortable and relaxed environment, sit back with a drink chosen from our wide range of Wines, Gins and other spirits (including a local selection). The Alverstone Room has a large maple sprung dancefloor, perfect should you wish to dance the night away. All rooms feature En-Suite Bathroom, Flatscreen Freeview Television, Telephone, Hairdryer, Complimentary Tea & Coffee. Each En-Suite comes with complimentary toiletries and large fluffy towels.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 6: Explore Winchester and Runnymede

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.

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

Visiting Winchester isn't easy, because there's almost too much to do. Step back in time at the stunning Winchester Cathedral, with its awe-inspiring architecture and fascinating history. Examine the legendary King Arthur's Round Table at the Great Hall of Winchester Castle. Or absorb the echoes of the past as you walk through cobbled streets lined with timber-framed houses. Once you've had time to explore this wonderful city, we've got one more stop at Runnymede, the home of the Magna Carta and the cornerstone of modern democracy.

Now, it's time to unwind and reflect on the beauty and charm of the Isle of Wight, along with all the fascinating places you've explored today, before we arrive in London this evening.

You return to London at approximately 7.30pm.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Hotel: Blakemore Hyde Park Hotel (4 Star Rating)

This hotel is located in the centre close to Hyde Park and 400 m away from Lancaster Gate tube station and it has great access to all of London's attractions. London Heathrow Airport is approximately 17 km away. With a range of services, this newly refurbished hotel now resembles a more luxurious property with all the trimmings including gold tinted marble flown in from Italy and all furniture hand crafted to create a unique space to relax and unwind. The restaurant houses a stunning conservatory style seating area with floor to ceiling windows, a creative cocktail bar and a beautiful terrace to enjoy some al fresco dining in the summer months. The establishment has 3 fully air-conditioned conference and function rooms a fully renovated lobby with 24-hour reception and wireless Internet. The 168 generously sized guest rooms with large comfy beds and contemporary design offer a restful space away from the fast city pace.

Day 7: Depart from London

Transfer: London - Bayswater to London Heathrow Apt