10-Nights England, & The West Country - Land Journey from $8,790

Tauck World Discovery: England, & The West Country

Day 1
Arrive London and on to Bath

Tour Begins: 2:00 PM The Gainsborough Bath Spa. A transfer is included from Heathrow airport, London Stansted airport or London Gatwick airport to The Gainsborough Bath Spa in Bath. This afternoon, join us for a walking tour of Bath - and this evening, a welcome reception and dinner at your hotel.

The Cotswolds - with its old stone houses and quaint village homes, country estates and historic towns, stretches across the counties of Warwickshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire and Somerset; truly a fairytale region. After breakfast, you'll have the entire day to discover these limestone villages with your local guide - discover medieval weavers' houses and learn about the wool trade, visit stone cottages and see some of England's most picturesque landscapes. Return to your hotel late afternoon; dinner this evening is at your leisure.

Morgan Motor Company is one of the world's pre-eminent coachbuilders of Morgan Sports Cars. Each car is handcrafted with artisanal skills that have been passed down through generations and honed over decades. Today, you'll have a visit to factory, the only place in the world where Morgan sports cars are built. Learn about the three core elements - ash, aluminum and leather - that make these remarkable automobiles and have the chance to drive or ride in one for yourself with a cruise through the Malvern Hills. Lunch is at the Morgan Factory before heading out for a guided tour by the family of Chavenage House - featured in the BBC TV show Poldark. Built in 1576, much of the house retains its original features, including oak-panelled walls, intricately carved fireplaces, and fine examples of 17th-century furniture. The property has been owned and carefully preserved by the same family for generations, adding to its sense of continuity and heritage; it maintains a slightly rustic charm, which speaks to its roots as a working family home through the centuries. Return to Bath late afternoon; this evening, enjoy a dine-around for dinner in Bath.

Today you'll visit Highgrove or Sudeley Castle - both are captivating journeys through British history, architecture, and natural beauty. Highgrove, the private residence of King Charles III, opens its exquisite gardens to visitors, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and organic gardening. Each garden reflects the King's personal vision, from the romantic Thyme Walk to the tranquil Stumpery, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the gardens' design and the environmental ethos behind their creation. Sudeley Castle, steeped in over 1,000 years of history, invites exploration of its stunning grounds and historic interiors. Once home to Queen Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII, the castle features remarkable exhibits, including artifacts from her life and the beautifully restored chapel where she rests. The award-winning gardens, particularly the Queen's Garden with its vibrant rose displays, add to the castle's charm. Whether wandering Highgrove's serene gardens or delving into Sudeley Castle's regal past, both experiences promise to inspire and enrich, connecting visitors to the cultural and natural heritage of the English countryside. Return in the afternoon to Bath, where the remainder of the day is free.

This morning, it's off to Wells for a walking tour with a local guide. This small medieval city was featured in a host of TV and Hollywood films such as Dungeons and Dragons, Elizabeth: The Golden Age, and Wolf Hall. You'll see The Bishop's Palace and Garden, home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years, St. Cuthbert's Church, and more with your local guide. Depart for Glastonbury and where our lunch is known to have the best fish and chips in all of Glastonbury. En route to your hotel in Cornwall this afternoon, enjoy landmark sights and scenic stops along the way before arrival at your hotel. Join us this evening for a Cornish themed dinner at the hotel with a performance by local Shanty singers.

After breakfast, you're off for a cooking class and lunch at Philleigh Cookery School with chef Rupert and his staff. Learn how to make local Cornish pastries and enjoy homemade scones and pastries, paired with a traditional Cornish cream tea. After filling up on Cornwall delights, you have the option to visit The Eden Project, an educational charity that helps explore the interconnections between all living things and was been named the "Eight Wonder of the World" by locals, The Eden Project Biomes are as it's the largest indoor rainforest in England. Alternatively, if you wish to return to Fowey, the remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

First up today in Cornwall is a visit to the South Wheal Mining Complex for a fascinating glimpse into Cornwall's rich industrial past. Nestled in a dramatic landscape, this historic site is a testament to the region's 19th-century tin and copper mining boom. A guided tour reveals the daily lives of miners, the engineering marvels of the time, and the site's enduring legacy as you explore the remnants of engine houses, chimneys, and tunnels that tell stories of resilience and innovation. With sweeping views of the Cornish countryside, a tour of South Wheal combines history and spectacular scenery, making it an unforgettable journey into Cornwall's mining heritage. Next, arrive at the iconic Minack Theatre, an extraordinary open-air venue perched dramatically on the Cornish cliffs, overlooking the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, explore the history and charm of this remarkable theater. Learn the captivating story of Rowena Cade, the visionary behind the Minack, who single-handedly designed and built this masterpiece in the 1930s - its setting is stunning, carved into the rugged cliffside. You'll gain insights into the determination and creativity that brought her dream to life - a true testament to human ingenuity. Visit the ancient tidal island of St. Michael's Mount to explore the village and harbor, and the legendary castle and gardens. You have the option to take the path which wraps around the island which is a steep, cobbled and uneven climb. Enjoy the views from the top, or stay at the base and explore the island. Next, visit St. Michael's Mount - an unforgettable experience at one of Cornwall's most iconic landmarks. Depending on the tides, you'll either stroll across the ancient cobbled causeway or take a boat ride to this enchanting island. Once there, prepare for a steep climb along winding pathways and uneven cobblestones as you make your way to the historic castle perched high above. The ascent is rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and the chance to explore centuries of history, legends, and charm on this remarkable tidal island. Alternatively, you can stay at the base of St. Michael's Mount. Here you can explore an array of attractions including the charming Island Café or nearby exhibitions in the visitor center showcasing the island's rich history, from its medieval roots to its role in Cornish heritage, with interactive displays and fascinating artifacts. Have lunch, then return to your hotel early evening, free to spend as you please.

In Redruth, Cornwall, enjoy a guided walking tour of Tintagel, where legends of King Arthur blend with striking coastal beauty. You can choose to explore the charming village, discovering its quaint shops and local culture, or delve into history with a visit to the remains of the 13th-century Tintagel Castle. While you won't ascend to the castle ruins due to the challenging and steep terrain, you'll still have the opportunity to take in the dramatic views and hear captivating stories about this iconic site and its mythical past. Following lunch, visit Cornwall's famous fishing village, Port Isaac. It's best known as the primary filming location for the popular British TV series Doc Martin, starring Martin Clunes. Port Isaac is also the home of the real-life Fisherman's Friends, a group of sea shanty singers who rose to fame and brought traditional Cornish music into the spotlight (as depicted in the recent British film bringing depicting the true story of the Cornish fishermen who became unexpected music stars. Next, travel into Devon and drive through Dartmoor National Park; rolling moorland stretches as far as the eye can see, dotted with granite tors, wild ponies, and sheep grazing freely. The winding roads lead past quaint villages, dense woodlands, and dramatic valleys - it's a serene escape into nature, where the rugged charm of the landscape creates an unforgettable experience. End the day at your hotel, Bovey Castle, built in 1907 as a private estate for Viscount Hambleden; the property enjoys a rich history as a symbol of Edwardian elegance. Bovey Castle is set within 275 acres of lush countryside, with beautifully manicured gardens and a championship golf course. Dinner this evening is at your hotel.

Today is spent immersing in the thoughtfully curated activities of Bovey Castle, each one reflecting the estate's rich heritage and idyllic countryside setting. it's your choice, both morning and afternoon. Try your hand at archery, a timeless skill that combines precision and focus as you aim for the bullseye in the castle's scenic surroundings. For something more exhilarating, take part in clay pigeon shooting, where expert instructors guide you through this classic countryside pursuit. Discover the ancient art of falconry, interacting with majestic birds of prey as they soar and return to your gloved hand, a truly unforgettable encounter. For a more relaxing option, embark on a horse-drawn carriage ride, winding through the estate's beautifully manicured grounds and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of Dartmoor. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in local traditions with a cider and sloe gin making class. Celebrate the region's heritage as you learn the age-old techniques of pressing and fermenting apples, honoring the orchards that have shaped the countryside for centuries. Discover the art of crafting sloe gin, an enduring practice that involves infusing gin with handpicked sloe berries, capturing the flavors of foraging and preservation of seasonal fruits - a hands-on experience connecting you to the rich rural history of the estate while creating your own delicious concoctions to enjoy. Whether you seek excitement, tradition, or relaxation, today offers a chance to immerse yourself in the character and traditions that define the heart of the English countryside. Dine at Bovey Castle this evening.

The Stonehenge World Heritage Site is one of the most famous prehistoric landmarks in the world. There is no definite evidence as to the purpose The Stonehenge but its unique circle set presumes it was aligned on the sun and used to observe the sun and moon aligning the farming calendar. Other legends believe it was a site dedicated to the world of ancestors, separated from the living. You have free time to explore here and enjoy lunch. Drive to Windsor early afternoon for free time at your hotel before a final farewell reception and dinner.

Tour Ends: Anytime: Fairmont Windsor Park, Windsor. Fly home anytime. A transfer from Fairmont Windsor Park to Heathrow airport, London Stansted airport or London Gatwick airport is included. Please allow a minimum of three hours for flight check-in at the airport.