The Land of Shakespeare (4 Days)

Extend any London vacation with a fabulous journey into Shakespeare's England!This four-day tour is an ideal tour to combine with a few nights in London - some might even call it a suitable antidote! After the bustle and excitement of one of the world's most dynamic cities, we'll introduce you to the tranquillity and tradition that is England. Our itinerary provides a host of snapshots of the cultural, historic and scenic wealth of this 'sceptred isle'. Countryside, literary sites, history and tradition. All in the company of a first class guide companion.Day by Day Itinerary Day 1 Oxford We leave London, with our first port of call being the ancient village of Amersham. Although only a short drive from London, you'll think you've entered another world and time. Unsuprisingly, the village was often used as a film setting by the many production companies based in this area. We'll potter around the pretty Chiltern Hills for a while before continuing to the fabulous Waddeston Manor. This was the Rothchild's 'pile' and the description 'magnificent' hardly does it justice. Later we head north and drive to the medieval Oxford where you'll enjoy a guided walk amidst the 'dreaming spires' of this famed university city before going to our base for the next three nights. Day 2 Cotswolds A full leisurely day in the wonderful Cotswolds. We'll explore the honey coloured villages, which are so much a part of this picturesque countryside, see ancient parish churches unchanged over the centuries and visit market towns like Chipping Camden, Burford, Broadway and Stow-on-the-Wold. The day would not be complete without seeking out a traditional country pub in which to have a spot of lunch. Day 3 Stratford-Upon-Avon Stratford-upon-Avon with its Shakespearean sites is first on today's visits. Stratford can be busy, being England's most popular tourist destination outside of London, but as we're staying close by, we'll arrive early and leave before the large tour coaches arrive! There'll be free time to explore this interesting town before we visit the lesser known house of Shakespeare's mother and take a most informative tour learning about life in the 1500's. This afternoon sees us at the incredible Warwick Castle where there will be ample time to explore both the castle and the mediaeval town itself. Day 4 London The prehistoric Rollright Stones are on this morning's agenda. Later we'll visit the magnificent Blenheim Palace, the Churchill family's treasure house. This is a must-see for the garden enthusiast! We will also see Winston Churchill's tomb at the nearby village. Later we'll follow the river Thames back to London with stops at Dorchester, with its ancient abbey, and Henley-on-Thames or Marlow, homes of the famous society regattas. You will be returned to the London hotel of your choice.