10-Day Tour of England and Wales

England shows off its considerable historical, scenic, and cultural assets on this whirlwind 10-day tour from Gate 1 Travel, which also includes a brief detour in Wales. Fashionable London, mysterious Stonehenge, harborside Plymouth, and the Magna Carta are all on the itinerary—and that’s all before you reach the midpoint. Each option includes:

• Round-trip airfare
• Airline taxes and fuel surcharges
• 3-night stay at Kensington Close Hotel in London
• 2-night stay at Copthorne Hotel Plymouth or Jurys Inn Plymouth
• 1-night stay at Clayton Hotel Cardiff
• 2-night stay at Holiday Inn Stratford Upon Avon or Mercure Stratford upon Avon Shakespeare Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon
• Hotel porterage
• 8 breakfasts, 3 dinners
• Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
• Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout

Days 1–3: London

The tour kicks off in historical, cosmopolitan London. After arriving on day 2, you’ll have free time to get your bearings and explore on your own. Things kick off in earnest the next day with a guided half-day sightseeing tour of the West End.

• Fashionable stops on the itinerary include the elegant Kensington district, Harrods department store, and the bright and bustling Piccadilly Circus.
• Historical sites: You’ll see Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace.
• Optional tour: Tower of London and Thames River cruise (extra fees apply)

Days 4–5: Salisbury, Plymouth, and Cornwall

Next, you’ll visit one of the most famous (and most mysterious) prehistoric monuments in the world—Stonehenge. Its been standing on the Salisbury Plain for more than 4,000 years, and we’re still not entirely sure why. While you’re in the area, you’ll swing by the Salisbury Cathedral to look at a copy of the Magna Carta before traveling onto the harborside city of Plymouth, where you’ll spend the night.

• Mayflower Steps: Of special interest to North American travelers is this Plymouth monument near the site where the Mayflower departed with its cargo of Pilgrims in 1620.
• Cornish excursion: On day 5, a coastal journey will take you past quiet coves and quaint villages on the way to Cornwall. Among the notable sights here: the castle-topped St. Michael’s Mount island and the trendy artists’ town of St. Ives.
• Optional tour: Scenic cruise in Plymouth Harbour and the Royal Navy Dockyard (extra fees apply)

Day 6: Glastonbury, Bath, Cardiff

Day 6 is probably the busiest of the trip. After stops in Glastonbury and Bath, you’ll cross over into Wales for an evening in the capital city, Cardiff.

• The stuff of legend: Glastonbury plays a big part in the legend of King Arthur. The mythic ruler is said to be buried in the city’s medieval abbey.
• Bath was founded by the ancient Romans as a thermal spa; you can still see the public bathing complex they built some 2,000 years ago.
• In Cardiff you’ll be treated to a hearty meal and an evening of traditional Welsh entertainment.

Days 7–8: The Costwolds, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Oxford

After a tour of Cardiff on day 7, the group returns to England, passing through the famed Cotswolds—a landscape of rolling green hills, stately mansions, and charming stone-and-thatch cottages. The day’s final destination is Stratford-upon-Avon.

• Shakespeare’s hometown: Best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, 2016 is a perfect time to visit since it’s the 400th anniversary of his death.
• Castles and colleges: Day 8 includes a visit to the majestic 18th-century Blenheim Palace and Oxford University, the second-oldest institution of higher learning on earth.
• Optional excursion: Dinner in a Stratford pub (extra fees apply)

Days 9–10: Windsor and London

On the drive back to London, you’ll stop at Windsor Castle, which has been housing English monarchs since the 11th century. You’ll be shown the lavish State Apartments and artwork from the royal collection.

• If the Queen is in residence, you’ll have to skip Windsor Castle and visit the stunning St. George’s Chapel instead.
• Your last night in London is yours to spend however you’d like—see a show in the West End, have dinner at one of the city’s chic restaurants, or rest up after your whirlwind trip.
• Departure: after breakfast on day 10

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much would it cost to fly from an airport not listed as part of this deal? Airfare is available from the New York City metro area. The departure airport (JFK, EWR or LGA) will be advised at the time of booked based on availability. The supplemental fee to depart from a city that isn’t included is subject to departure date and availability at the time of booking.

2. Can we extend our trip before or after the promotional dates for the deal? Yes, you may extend your trip for a supplemental fee at the time of booking. Please call Gate 1 Travel for more information.

3. How do I find out if the dates I want to travel are available? The dates available are listed on each option

4. What happens if I buy the Groupon and my travel dates are not available? You can either choose another date or be refunded by Groupon. We suggest calling Gate 1 Travel to redeem your vouchers as soon as possible so that you do not run into this problem.

5. Does my child need a Groupon, and can they stay in my room? Each person, including children, will need a Groupon voucher in order to travel. Different occupancy arrangements may be requested with Gate 1 Travel at the time of reservation.

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