Trip summary statistics
14days
England In-Depth: Historic Cities & Countryside Charm
London, York, Windermere, Liverpool, Bath, Cotswolds
Experience London’s historic charm and top sites, topped with a traditional afternoon tea.
Trace England’s literary roots: Dracula’s Whitby, Sherlock’s London, and Beatles’ Liverpool.
Explore York’s medieval past and Bath’s Roman charm with your guide bringing history to life.
Escape to the Lake District's beauty and the Cotswolds' postcard-perfect countryside charm.
Visit Churchill’s birthplace at Blenheim Palace with tips from your Destination Expert.
* Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
We personalize
There's no formula, we simply listen to you and make it happen.
We expertly plan
From your itinerary to the small details, we prepare it all on your behalf.
We don't settle
Refining your itinerary until you're happy, even while you're traveling.
When would you like to travel?
| Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
What's your ideal trip length?
If anything changes, we can always adjust.
Prefer to speak with a destination expert?
LondonThe Adventure Begins
- Airport Meet & Greet Service
- Private Transfer from London Heathrow Airport
- England Welcome Package
- Self-Guided: A Taste of London
LondonExplore a City of Contrasts
- City Highlights (4 hrs) - Private
- Admission: Tower of London
- Self-Guided: South Kensington Evening Stroll & Dining
London
- Black Cab The Bard, Beatles, Bond & Baker Street (4hrs) - Private
- Afternoon Tea at The Milestone Hotel
London to YorkOnward and Upward
- London-York - with Cambridge, King's College & York Walking Tour (10 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
YorkWinding the Wind-Swept Shorelines
- Whitby, Dracula's Coast & Castle Howard (8 hrs) - Private Tour
York to WindermereIt’s All Ancient History
- York-Windermere - with Hadrian's Wall, Vindolanda & Housesteads Fort (9 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
WindermereLose Yourself in Nature
- Mountains, Villages and Waters of the Lake District (with Cruise) (8hrs) - Private
WindermereVenture into the Outdoors
- 1/2 Day Keswick Village and Ancient Stone Circle Discovery (4hr) - Private
Windermere to LiverpoolExplore with an Expert
- Windermere-Liverpool - with Liverpool Tour
Liverpool to BathThe Journey Continues…
- Liverpool to Bath via Chester & Wrexham (10 hrs) - Private Transfer
BathAlong Cobblestone Streets
- Wells & Walking Tour of Bath - Private
Bath to CotswoldsA Journey Back in Time
- Bath to Cotswolds with Cotswolds Scenic Drive (8 hrs) - Private Transfer
CotswoldsStrolling the Magical Streets
- Blenheim Palace & Oxford (8 hrs) - Private Tour
Cotswolds to LondonUntil Next Time…
- Heathrow Airport, 2 hrs - Vehicle/Driver
LONDON
The Adventure Begins
For your added comfort, a Meet & Greet assistant will be waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall of the airport after you pass through customs. They'll direct you to your transfer, assist in the hotel check-in process, and take you through your travel documents.
Your private driver meets you on arrival at London Heathrow Airport and transfers you to your accommodation.A Welcome Package will be provided and will include any relevant documents or tickets required for your trip.
With so many options across the city to choose from, deciding where to dine in London can be difficult. To lead your taste buds in the right direction, you’ll receive a supplemental composition within your final trip documents which showcases our top restaurants throughout the city, as selected by Kensington Tours Destination Experts.
Where you’ll be staying
Superior
LONDON
Explore a City of Contrasts
Departing with a private guide and driver, you’ll set out on a half-day tour to experience the highlights of London, with opportunities to see many of the iconic sights of this global metropolis. Discover the West End, home to some of the world’s most prolific theaters, where you’ll pass by the renowned Royal Albert Hall before traveling through the City of Westminster and the City of London, the oldest part of the capital, and home to the financial district. See Marble Arch, historically used for royal processions, as well as the serene Hyde Park, with its lively Speakers’ Corner. Stop at Buckingham Palace, home of the King Charles III and site of the daily ‘changing of the guards’, an icon of British pageantry. View Harrods in Knightsbridge, and renowned squares like Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square with Nelson’s Column. You’re welcome to discuss with your guide if there’s a sight of particular interest that you’d like to view during your tour.
With your admission to the Tower of London (tickets will be provided in your Welcome Pack, please be sure to bring them with you today!), you'll get to visit His Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress, more commonly known as the Tower of London, a castle and monument on the north bank of the River Thames. See five hundred years of spectacular royal armor, discover the iconic White Tower, and be dazzled by the 23,578 gems that make up the Crown Jewels. For over 600 years, exotic animals, and numerous prisoners were held captive at the Tower. Interactive displays help children and adults explore their stories. Included with your admission, join a Yeoman Warder tour, and you'll be entertained by tales from the Tower; pain and passion, treachery and torture, all delivered with a swagger and a smile.
As evening settles in, enjoy free time on a self-guided stroll through South Kensington’s museum quarter. Admire the illuminated faÇades of the Natural History Museum and the V&A, then wander into nearby streets dotted with inviting restaurants and wine bars. There’s no guide and no agenda, just an easy way to take in the atmosphere and decide where the night leads.
Where you’ll be staying
Superior
LONDON
Your professional cabbie will come and collect you from your hotel and then take you on a 4-hour tour around London, seeing the sites but will follow the footsteps of Shakespeare, The Beatles, James Bond and Sherlock Holmes. "Alas, poor Yorick" is not with you on this tour, but you will see Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. Where he lived in London, several statues dedicated to him, and the alleyways and streets he wandered, plus your registered tour guide will tell you tales of the man and his life. But all of this may be "Simply elementary" to you. Whilst travelling through London we shall of course come across 221b Baker St. You will also see where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle really did live and practice medicine. You will follow Holmes on clues all over London from the books to the films. "Shaken but not stirred" from all that you have heard and seen on this tour so far you will enter the world of James Bond. Ian Flemings house, MI6, MI5. You will visit James Bond film location sites all around town. You will also find out about real spies and how they worked and where they met. With all these spies you would think you are "Back in the USSR" but you are not you are on your Beatles section of this tour. It's the 1960s swinging London and you are following the Fab Four, John, George, Paul and Ringo seeing where they lived worked and played. Abbey Road, Paul's London office, John and Yoko's flat, Brian Epstein's home plus a lot more. Your Black Cab will return you to your hotel or drop you at your most convenient location in Central London after your tour.
Served in a elegant boutique hotel overlooking Kensington Palace, afternoon tea at the Milestone is a traditional English activity not to be missed. Perhaps even catch a glimpse of William and Kate while feeling like a royal in this sophisticated culinary treat. Indulge in finger sandwiches, a warm selection of freshly-baked scones with Devonshire clotted cream, and a brew of your choice. Elevate this epicurean experience with a glass of champagne.
Where you’ll be staying
Superior
LONDON TO YORK
Onward and Upward
Depart London with your private driver-guide, stopping in Cambridge today for a private tour as you transfer to York. Cambridge is most widely known as the home of the University of Cambridge, founded in 1209 and consistently ranked one of the top five universities in the world. During your 1 hour tour of Cambridge, you’ll visit King's College, founded in 1441 by Henry VI and is one of the 31 colleges in the University of Cambridge. King's has an outstanding academic record and is also world-famous for its chapel and choir. Upon arrival to York, you’ll embark on a 1 hour walking tour of the city’s medieval alleyways and Georgian avenues. Hear the stories of kings, martyrs and merchants, and see York’s medieval city walls, St Mary’s Abbey and England’s most photographed street, the Shambles.
Where you’ll be staying
Guest Room
YORK
Winding the Wind-Swept Shorelines
Embark on a full day tour with a private driver-guide, setting out to discover the coastal town of Whitby, followed by a visit to Castle Howard. You'll head northeast, driving through the scenic North York Moors National Park, a place of sheer beauty, shaped by nature over thousands of years, arriving to historic Whitby on the east coast of Yorkshire, former home 18th century explorer Captain James Cook. Take in the views of this town, soak in the fishing village ambiance, and admire sights of the hilltop ruins of Whitby Abbey, a piece of atmospheric inspiration for Bram Stoker's famous horror novel, Dracula. Looping back toward York, you'll head to Castle Howard, to visit one of Britain’s finest stately homes. Built for the third Earl of Carlisle over 300 years ago, the home has remained in the possession of the Carlisle branch of the Howard family ever since. Be dazzled by ornate interiors and world-renowned works of art, and enjoy time wandering the landscaped gardens before returning to York.
Where you’ll be staying
Guest Room
YORK TO WINDERMERE
It’s All Ancient History
Along with your private driver-guide, and in the comfort of a private vehicle, make your way to Windermere today. En route you’ll stop to explore a stretch of Hadrian's Wall, an ancient Roman stone fortification, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Approximately 1,900 years old, and stretching proudly across 73 miles of Northern England, Hadrian’s Wall is the largest Roman artifact in existence. Just south of Hadrian's Wall, visit Vindolanda, a Roman Army Museum which provides an authentic and dramatic tribute to Rome's extraordinary military legacy. Before continuing to Windermere, you’ll get to visit the nearby Housesteads Roman Fort, where you can wander ancient barracks blocks and hospital ruins.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic Room
WINDERMERE
Lose Yourself in Nature
Embark on an opulent journey through the exquisite Lake District, renowned as England's most picturesque haven. Delight in the lavish comfort of your private chauffeur-driven vehicle as you traverse majestic mountain passes, meander through lush valleys, and marvel at cascading waterfalls adorning the landscape. Immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Lakeland villages, where time seems to stand still, affording ample opportunities to capture breathtaking vistas and timeless memories. Indulge in the epitome of luxury with a serene lake cruise aboard an exclusive vessel, basking in uninterrupted views of the idyllic surroundings. Enjoy time rambling in iconic Lake District villages, where you'll savor leisurely moments exploring its quaint streets and upscale boutiques, all while reveling in the unparalleled sophistication of this premier destination.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic Room
WINDERMERE
Venture into the Outdoors
Meet your driver-guide today for a half day tour which delves into the depths of history and culture as your expert guide unveils the secrets of Castlerigg Stone Circle, a breathtaking archaeological marvel nestled amidst the majestic Cumbrian hills. Marvel at the spectacle of 38 ancient stones, each imbued with its own story, some towering over 5 feet tall, standing as silent witnesses to the passage of time over the past 5000 years. Afterward, luxuriate in the serene ambiance of Keswick, a charming township brimming with elegance and sophistication, where every corner reveals a tale of refined indulgence and timeless allure.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic Room
WINDERMERE TO LIVERPOOL
Explore with an Expert
Connect with your private driver-guide and set off from Windermere towards Liverpool. Upon arrival, embark on a city tour renowned as the birthplace of The Beatles. Learn intriguing anecdotes about the band and explore iconic sites like Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields, and Eleanor Rigby’s Grave. Delve into Liverpool's maritime heritage with visits to UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites. Wrap up your day at your hotel, reflecting on the rich cultural tapestry of Liverpool.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic Room
LIVERPOOL TO BATH
The Journey Continues…
History, architecture and athleticism combine, as you set out on a private journey from Liverpool to Bath, retracing the path through charming towns and scenic landscapes. As you leave Liverpool behind, head South towards Chester, known for its medieval architecture and iconic Rows. Take a leisurely stroll along the city walls, visit the almost 1000 year old Chester Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the former abbey's ambiance. Continue on your journey, pausing in Wrexham, a town renowned for the documentary "Welcome to Wrexham" and the birthplace of Wrexham AFC. Explore the local history and perhaps enjoy a pint at the Turf Pub before continuing your journey. Conclude your enchanting journey in Bath.
Where you’ll be staying
Premium Room
BATH
Along Cobblestone Streets
Meet your private driver-guide, and set out on a full day excursion today, first visiting the medieval city of Wells, returning to Bath afterward for a walking tour through the picturesque city. In Wells, England’s smallest city, you’ll tour the impressive 13th century Wells Cathedral, considered one of the most beautiful churches in Britain. The adjacent Bishop’s Palace and Park contains the set of springs which gave Wells its name centuries ago. Also check out Vicars’ Close, the oldest intact residential street of Europe. Return to Bath, admiring landmarks like Bath Abbey, a stunning Gothic church with history dating back to the 7th century. Marvel at the magnificent 18th century architecture of Royal Crescent, with a uniform Georgian faÇade designed by John Wood, the Younger. Visit the Roman Baths and Temple complex, providing you with access to four main features: the near 2,000-year-old remains of the Temple of Aquae Sulis, the Roman bath house, the Sacred Spring (the only hot spring in Britain), and a well-presented museum of artifacts found at the site. The Roman Baths are situated below street level of modern Bath, and other Roman ruins stretch out beneath the city in all directions.
Where you’ll be staying
Premium Room
BATH TO COTSWOLDS
A Journey Back in Time
Leaving Bath today with your private driver-guide, enjoy a scenic drive as you transfer to the Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty characterized by picturesque medieval towns and villages with thatched roofs and distinctive yellow limestone. Take your walking shoes and explore some of the many short hikes across the rolling hills, and along the 102-mile Cotswold Way trail, or tour the villages, perhaps opting to eat in a traditional pub and enjoying afternoon tea in an authentic Cotswold tea shop (not included). The larger market towns and villages of the Cotswolds, such as Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester, Chipping Norton and Tetbury, are famous for their shops. Maybe you’ll happen upon a hidden gem, a village off the beaten track such as Painswick, Biddestone, Winchcombe or Woodstock, or an unspoiled historic church, such as at Northleach often called the “Cathedral of the Cotswolds” – open the church door and you’ll discover a hidden world of history.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic
COTSWOLDS
Strolling the Magical Streets
Today you'll visit Blenheim Palace and the city of Oxford with your private drive-guide. Experience Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Baroque manor house where Sir Winston Churchill was born. Feel like a noble as you delve into the history of the 18th-century manor house, getting up close to priceless works of art and tapestries as you explore the opulent chamber, and wander the stunning park and gardens. After, visit renowned university town Oxford, known as the “city of dreaming spires”, home to the world's oldest English-speaking university, Oxford University. Tour the medieval city and enjoy a visit to Christchurch College, a unique institution, and one of the largest colleges in the University of Oxford.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic
COTSWOLDS TO LONDON
Until Next Time…
Depart with your private driver-guide from Cotswold to London Heathrow Airport today. Approximate drive time is 2 hours.
LONDON
Leonardo Hotel London Aldgate
Leonardo Hotel London Aldgate is a contemporary retreat in London’s Square Mile, ideally located next to Aldgate Underground for easy access to the city’s landmarks, including the Tower of London, River Thames, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed, featuring king or twin beds, complimentary Wi-Fi, workspaces, and sleek bathrooms with walk-in showers. Upper-floor accommodations offer panoramic views of the City of London and the East End. The hotel’s dining options include an inviting restaurant and bar, serving a diverse all-day menu that highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients. Guests can also enjoy a 24-hour fitness center equipped with modern facilities to maintain their wellness routine. With accessible rooms and lift access to all floors, Leonardo Hotel London Aldgate combines modern style with convenience, providing a perfect base for exploring London or unwinding after a busy day.
YORK
No.1 by Guesthouse York
The No.1 York is a charming property situated in an early 19th century Grade II Listed Regency Townhouse. With its excellent city center location and only a 15-minute walk from the magnificent York Minster, this boutique hotel has a grand-but-friendly face with huge sash windows, higher-than-high ceilings and a sweeping central staircase. The 39 brightly-lit rooms are dotted around the building's three floors. Each of the rooms are cozy in design, many have fireplaces and most have leafy views. Guests will find locally sourced antiques, art and curios and down the hall from all of them, a Pantry full of complimentary treats is there for the taking. The restaurant is a lovely, light-filled room with a relaxed but elegant vibe. Ingredients hail from nearby farms, dairies and hives. Throughout the day and night, a wonderful mix of drinks is served at the handsome bar (or on the sun terrace if it’s nice out). Exceptional cocktails, local brews and favorites flow out from the hands of its happy team. Beyond the bar, there’s a divine snug of a lounge. Its rich tones are a nod to the great British toast-and-teacake-topper that is marmalade. Here guests can indulge in Afternoon Tea. Elsewhere guests can find five treatment rooms at the spa, a cocooning world of bespoke wellbeing experiences.
WINDERMERE
The Wild Boar
Nestled in the captivating Gilpin Valley, just a 10 minute drive to Bowness-on-Windermere, The Wild Boar hotel offers an exceptional level of service amidst its charming traditional interiors, creating a welcoming and cozy ambiance. Today, The Wild Boar is renowned for its inviting atmosphere, crackling log fires, and its Grill & Smokehouse open kitchen, where guests can indulge in seasonal culinary delights. As a 5-star inn, The Wild Boar is celebrated for its traditional hospitality, impeccable customer service, and menus that showcase the best of British cuisine, utilizing fresh local ingredients and incorporating flavors from the onsite Smokehouse. Guests can explore the private woodland trails or enjoy a round of golf at Windermere Golf Club. When seeking accommodation in Windermere, none rival the refreshing and invigorating stay offered by The Wild Boar.
LIVERPOOL
Hard Days Night
The Hard Days Night Hotel is located in Liverpool City Center and is easily accessed by train, bus, boat or from John Lennon Liverpool Airport. Sitting adjacent to the world famous Cavern Club where the Beatles rose to fame, and an array of the city's famous Beatles landmarks, the hotel not only offers the perfect getaway for visitors, but is much loved by art lovers, music lovers, and food lovers alike. All rooms are individually designed around the contours of the original building and elegantly furnished with specially commissioned Beatles-inspired artwork adorning the walls. The hotel's restaurant Blake's, named after the celebrated Sergeant Pepper album cover and artist Sir Peter Blake, serves up a range of classic British dishes along with home cooked favorites.
BATH
Hotel Indigo Bath
Located in the Bath city center, Hotel Indigo Bath offers 166 guestrooms split across 5 unique styles, each contemporary with a traditional twist, reflecting the age and style of the 18th century Georgian building while also catering for modern tastes. History emanates from the walls of this Grade I listed building, perfectly situated for you to explore the romance and literary history of Bath with ease. Open Wednesday through Sunday, enjoy a bite at the on-site restaurant which showcases what great contemporary British cooking can be; authentic, honest, timeless. Throughout the week, quality small plate food offerings are available in the hotel bar and on the terrace.
COTSWOLDS
Bay Tree Hotel
The charming Bay Tree Hotel is found in the picture-postcard town of Burford, the southern gateway to the Cotswolds. Set amidst the celebrated ancient black and white timbered buildings and those constructed from the beautiful honey-colored Cotswold stone, a scene is created which beyond doubt has an aura of yesteryear. An impressive location for country breaks whatever the season, the Bay Tree Hotel is well situated for exploring the countryside, for visiting National Trust properties, and famous Cotswold gardens. Acclaimed for its unique charm, the Bay Tree Hotel in Burford has welcomed visitors through its solid oak doors since 1565. With its walls of mellow Cotswold limestone, enhanced by ancient wisterias, it is steeped in character and times past. The Cotswolds abounds in attractive villages and towns, pretty streets with a wealth and variety of antique shops, inviting small cafÉs and enchanting hotels and hostelries, amongst which the Bay Tree Hotel at Burford is truly outstanding. Few could resist the rustic charm of this picturesque retreat.
Made to Order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- Regional flights between stops in your itinerary (unless otherwise indicated)
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What's not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Protect your travel
- We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
- No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel. Still unsure? Consider these frequently asked questions.








