Shades of the English Countryside featuring London, Cornwall & The Cotswolds
Shades of the English Countryside featuring London, Cornwall & The Cotswolds
10 Days Starting in London, United Kingdom and ending in Cotswolds, United Kingdom
Visiting: London, Cornwall, Dartmoor National Park, Cotswolds
Tour operator:
Tour code:
16071
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of England with the "Shades of the English Countryside" tour, featuring the vibrant city of London, the rugged beauty of Cornwall, and the charming villages of the Cotswolds. Begin your adventure in London, where history and modernity intertwine, before marveling at the ancient mystery of Stonehenge. Discover Cornwall's stunning coastline and rich tin mining heritage, and enjoy a luxurious stay at Bovey Castle in Devon, where local folklore comes to life. Explore the dramatic landscapes of Dartmoor National Park and savor traditional English dining experiences. Conclude your journey in the picturesque Cotswolds, with its rolling hills and honey-colored stone homes, offering a quintessentially English experience. This tour promises a blend of historical intrigue, natural beauty, and cultural richness, making it an unforgettable exploration of the English countryside.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Overnight Flight
Location: London
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton London - West End
England and its charming countryside await you. Discover the genteel nature and wild landscapes of southern English towns and the vibrant energy of the capital city, London.
Day 2 : London, England - Tour Begins
Location: London
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to London, England’s dynamic capital, where the medieval intertwines with the modern. In this city steeped in history, everything you’ve read and seen in films comes to life as you take in the sights and everyday facets of London life. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3 : London
Location: London
Accommodation Name: The Carlyon Bay Hotel
Set out on a half-day walking tour of London’s iconic sights, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, and the royal residence of Buckingham Palace. History is all around as you walk along cobblestone streets and discover both old and new London with your local guide. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy free time and explore the city independently.
Day 4 : London - Stonehenge - Cornwall
Location: Cornwall
Accommodation Name: luxury resort on the Cornish coast
Meals Included: Dinner
Say goodbye to London and travel to the iconic site of Stonehenge. On this self-guided visit, follow in the footsteps of the prehistoric natives who lived here over 4,000 years ago. Continue your journey into the countryside with a stop at a family-owned farm shop on a working organic farm in the heart of a small community. Later, arrive in Cornwall on England’s remote southern peninsula. Settle in for your stay at a luxury resort on the Cornish coast and join your fellow travelers for dinner tonight.
Day 5 : Cornwall
Location: Cornwall
Accommodation Name: Bovey Castle
Joined by a local guide, discover the rugged beauty of Cornwall, climbing to see the breathtaking backdrop that steals the spotlight in the BBC’s Poldark. Uncover why so many poets, writers, and artists have found inspiration in this setting, with its miles of sandy beaches and outstanding natural beauty. Along the way, learn how the tin mining industry, dating back to the Bronze Age, has defined the landscape and local economy. Take time for lunch, then breathe in the ocean air on a coastal walk with your local guide.
Day 6 : Cornwall - Devon
Location: Cornwall
Accommodation Name: Bovey Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, join a woodland walk, going down some steps and through the back lane to the harborside of Charlestown. While famous for Poldark, this picturesque place has appeared in many films, including The Eagle Has Landed and Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland. Next, it’s on to Padstow, a charming fishing village, known locally for its famous chefs. After a brief orientation walk, free time is yours to enjoy lunch and explore on your own. This afternoon, travel to your home for the next two nights: Bovey Castle, a country retreat in Devon. Delve into the English’s love of stately homes during your stay at this neo-Elizabethan manor house, your glimpse into the lifestyle of English aristocracy. Tonight, a local storyteller regales you with myths, legends, and folklore before dinner at this classic English estate.
Day 7 : Devon
Location: Dartmoor National Park
Accommodation Name: The Queens Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
This morning, journey into the heart of Dartmoor National Park. As you travel by motor coach, learn about the mystery and legends surrounding this beautiful and wild area, and visit some of the towns and villages within it. After free time for lunch, return to Bovey Castle. Tonight, it’s dinner out at a traditional English country pub!
Day 8 : Devon - Cotswolds
Location: Cotswolds
Accommodation Name: Cotswolds hotel
Today, venture into the Cotswolds region, taking in the rolling hills and honey-colored stone homes that make this one of England’s most beautiful areas. Upon arrival, a hilly walk takes you into the heart of Castle Combe, a quaint and picturesque Cotswolds village waiting to be explored. The afternoon is yours to soak in the rich history and stroll the pretty streets at your own pace. Later, return up the hill to your coach and continue to your Cotswolds hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 9 : Cotswolds
Location: Cotswolds
Meals Included: Dinner
This morning, visit Chavenage House, a country estate dating back to the 16th century, constructed of Cotswold stone and tiles. A guided tour delves into the deep history of this manor house, recognizable as a filming location featured in Poldark. Next, spend some free time in a neighboring town and find a nice spot for lunch on your own. This afternoon, discover more of the Cotswolds’ charm in beautiful Burford before enjoying a farewell dinner at a local inn with a toast to your English adventure.
Day 10 : Cotswolds - Tour Ends
Location: Cotswolds
Your journey from London through the English countryside ends today.
What's Included
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Guided Tours
Enjoy guided tours and free time to explore iconic sites and charming villages along the way.
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Accommodation
Experience the charm of England with stays at the DoubleTree by Hilton London - West End, The Carlyon Bay Hotel, Bovey Castle, and The Queens Hotel.
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Transportation
Travel through the picturesque English countryside by motor coach, with scenic drives from London to Cornwall, Devon, and the Cotswolds.
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Meals
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in London and a farewell dinner at a local inn in the Cotswolds.
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Local Experiences
Hear a storyteller share local folklore and enjoy classic English dining at Bovey Castle.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Airfare
International and domestic airfare to and from the tour start and end points is not included.
Experiences
Enjoy the fast-paced energy of London with a local guide.Take a scenic walk along Cornwall’s iconic coastline.Explore dramatic Dartmoor, steeped in English folklore and legends.Discover the quaint and quintessentially English villages of the Cotswolds.
Culinaries
At Bovey Castle, hear a storyteller share local folklore and enjoy classic English dining.Eat like a local in a typical English country pub.
Must See
Marvel at the mystery of Stonehenge, and step back in time in a Neolithic Village.Discover scenic Cornwall and its rich tin mining history.Spend two nights at Bovey Castle, a neo-Elizabethan manor house.
Choice Highlights
Walking Tour of London
Stonehenge Walk in the footsteps of so many before you when visiting prehistoric Stonehenge. This mysterious rock formation dates back to the Stone Age and remains one of the world’s most famous sites. Standing in the middle of the most dense complex of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments in England, Stonehenge is perhaps the most important prehistoric monument in England. And now, updates at the site will make it more accessible than ever! New galleries and visitor facilities will enhance the overall experience and understanding of Stonehenge for visitors of all ages and interests. Construction has started on three Neolithic houses which will be the focal point of the outdoor gallery at the new visitor center. These houses offer visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of the people who built Stonehenge. The experience of seeing this timeless monument is not to be missed – it will surely be a highlight of your tour.
Tin Mining History in Cornwall
Coastal Walk in Cornwall
Bovey Castle Hotel Stay
Dartmoor National Park
Country Pub Dinner
The Cotswolds
Mode of Transport
Travel through the picturesque English countryside by motor coach, with scenic drives from London to Cornwall, Devon, and the Cotswolds. Enjoy guided tours and free time to explore iconic sites and charming villages along the way.
Accommodation
Experience the charm of England with stays at the DoubleTree by Hilton London - West End, The Carlyon Bay Hotel, Bovey Castle, and The Queens Hotel. Enjoy a blend of modern comfort and classic elegance, including a stay at a neo-Elizabethan manor house in Devon.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of experiences can I expect in London during the tour?
In London, you will enjoy a half-day walking tour of iconic sights such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, and Buckingham Palace with a local guide. You will also have free time to explore the city independently.
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What activities are included in the Cornwall part of the tour?
In Cornwall, you will be joined by a local guide to explore the rugged beauty of the area, including a coastal walk. You will learn about the tin mining industry and have time for lunch. The tour also includes a visit to the harborside of Charlestown, known for its appearances in films.
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What can I expect during the stay at Bovey Castle?
During your stay at Bovey Castle, you will experience the lifestyle of English aristocracy in a neo-Elizabethan manor house. A local storyteller will share myths, legends, and folklore, and you will enjoy classic English dining.
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What will I see in the Cotswolds?
In the Cotswolds, you will visit Castle Combe, a picturesque village, and Chavenage House, a country estate with a deep history. You will have free time to explore the charming towns and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local inn.
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Is there a focus on local cuisine during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes dining experiences such as a dinner at a local restaurant in London, classic English dining at Bovey Castle, and a dinner at a traditional English country pub.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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