Tours

Stratford

The birthplace of William Shakespeare, the greatest writer in the English language, and home to the theatres of the world-renowned Royal Shakespeare Company, Stratford is a charming market town set in the heart of rural England. A delightful river winds its way through the town, past the beautiful Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare lies buried. There are some wonderful half-wooden buildings that date back to Shakespeares time, including the famous cottage of Anne Hathaway, who married the great writer in 1582. You can even see the school Shakespeare attended. Our tour includes a visit to Shakespeares birthplace, before we enjoy lunch in a 15th century inn in the picturesque Cotswolds.

Leeds castle

Described as the "loveliest castle in the world", Leeds Castle was once a Royal residence for six of Englands medieval queens, a palace of Henry VIII, and a retreat for the rich and powerful. The setting is simply idyllic. The Norman castle was built on two small islands, in the middle of a lake, and is surrounded by a vast estate. Our day begins with a private viewing prior to the castle opening to the public. We will explore the chapel, galleries, courtyards and banqueting hall before taking time to enjoy the setting and wildlife, which includes wildfowl, black swans and the birds of the aviary.

Canterbury

The ancient city of Canterbury has been the centre of Christian worship for almost 1,700 years. Its greatest treasure is the cathedral, infamous as the setting for the brutal murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170. When Henry II snapped "Who will rid me of this turbulent priest?", four of his knights rode to the Cathedral and sliced Becketts head off. Canterbury became the centre of one of the most important medieval pilgrimages in Europe, immortalised by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales. Your ticket includes entrance to the Cathedral and also allows some free time to explore the atmospheric old town.

York

Yorks city walls, built during the 13th century are amongst the most impressive medieval fortifications in Europe. Inside them youll find a thriving, bustling city centre with charming medieval streets and Georgian housing overlooking the River Ouse.
The crowning glory is the Minster, the finest and largest Gothic Cathedral in Europe. Your independent day pack which has been designed to give you the best insight into the city includes a city sightseeing bus tour and a historic cruise on the River Ouse and ticket to the Yorvik Viking Centre.