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Visit Salisbury Cathedral and see the Magna Carta. 2015 is the 800th Anniversary
The four surviving copies of the original Magna Carta from 1215 will come together for the first time in history next February as part of a one-off event to mark the 800th anniversary of the signing of the historic document.
We are operating small group tours including a visit to Salisbury Cathedral which has the best surviving copy of the Magna Carta. View our Salisbury and Magna Carta tours here. Our Windsor Castle tours will take you through Runnymede
The Magna Carta – literally, Great Charter – was issued by King John in 1215, as his barons revolted and civil war loomed. It saw the monarch avert crisis by acknowledging that the king was not above the law, and with the granting of a range of rights to English citizens. “To no one will we sell, to no one deny or delay right or justice,” runs one of its most famous clauses.
Written on single sheets of parchment, running to around 4,000 words of medieval Latin, two of the surviving 1215 Magna Carta documents are kept at the British Library – one of which was severely damaged in an 18th-century fire, and which has been painstakingly restored using multispectral imaging. One is currently at Lincoln Cathedral, and one at Salisbury Cathedral. On 3 February 2015, they will be brought together at the British Library.
‘Still relevant’
Although almost all of the clauses have been repealed in modern times, the document established a number of important principles that remain in place and have been copied around the world.
Julian Harrison, curator of early modern manuscripts at the British Library, said: “It established for the first time that nobody – not even the king – was above the law and it contains certain principles relating to individual liberties which still remain relevant today. Nobody can be imprisoned or detained indefinitely without being put on trial.”
The document inspired the US Constitution and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Magna Carta Tours
We are operating small group tours including a visit to Salisbury Cathedral which has the best surviving copy of the Magna Carta. View our Salisbury and Magna Carta tours here. Our Windsor Castle tours will take you through Runnymede
The Small Group U.K Tour Experts
http://www.welcome2britain.com
Reasons to visit Great Britain in winter
Britain may not be the most obvious choice for a winter break, yet it has a great deal to offer the more adventurous visitor. Of course our weather is ‘challenging’ but as long as you come prepared for rain, drizzle, wind, hail, sleet, snow and even the occasional burst of sunshine, you’ll be fine. So, assuming you have the right gear, what are the positives of visiting our green and pleasant land?
- There are far fewer visitors so you can easily get into places that have big queues in the summer months. This is especially relevant in London, which has so many fascinating museums, art galleries, historic houses, theatres and major attractions like the London Eye. Imagine being able to visit Madame Tussaud’s without waiting in line half way down Marylebone Road or getting a spectacular view from London Eye within minutes of arriving. However, this also applies to places all over Britain. Edinburgh and Belfast, York and Cardiff are all much quieter and more pleasant to get around in the winter.
- Accommodation is much cheaper. You can get some excellent deals at this time of year and lots of hotels, B&B, holiday homes, caravans and camp sites are open to a bit of negotiating if you call and ask what their best price is. (Although make sure to check school holidays such as half-term and Easter.) Rates can often be up to 50% less than in July or August.
- Many attractions have ‘out-of-season’ reduced rates and often lay on special events to encourage people to come along and see what they have on offer. Why not take a train ride through the stunning Yorkshire Dales, over the Ribblehead Viaduct and into the Cumbria countryside on the famous Settle-Carlisle Railway – if you’re lucky you may even get a seat on one of the iconic steam trains.
- Nature provides a beautiful plus to observing her glorious scenery by stripping many of our trees of leaves, enabling you to see through impressively skeletal trees to views that you can’t usually see once those branches are bedecked with green leaves, blossom or fruit. Check out our National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty for a selection of stunning outdoor destinations throughout the UK.
- Outdoor light is very different from other seasons of the year. You can get incredibly clear skies which give an amazing clarity to your photos of those mountains in the Lake District. A misty fog swirls evocatively across a Scottish river. The low-lying sun filters through bleached-out clouds above a deserted moor. Rosy dawn breaks over a the pier in a tranquil seaside town …
- Of course some days you just don’t want to venture far due to heavy rain or strong winds, or one of our infrequent but curiously immobilising snow storms. But then you’ve got a great excuse to duck into one of our welcoming country pubs or cosy tea shops. Britain is made for ‘changeable’ weather and some of our most traditional attractions come in the form of an oak-beamed inn or a quaint cottage art gallery. Or maybe you feel really brave and will just wrap up warm and go for a bracing walk along a Cornish beach or a Midland canal towpath.
- People have more time to chat, to help and show you around. Travel and tourism businesses that are open in the winter rely on visitors like you and really appreciate that you have taken the time to visit their establishment. The important thing to remember is that you need to plan a bit in advance. For example, many National Trust properties are closed in the winter months but their gardens are open, so do check websites or contact the regional Tourist Office for latest information.
As one of our most famous walkers, Alfred Wainwright, said, “There’s not such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes.” Now, pack a waterproof, umbrella, sturdy shoes and some warm jumpers and make the most of your visit to Britain this winter.
Article source at Visit Britain Super Blog – click here
We operate a wide range of small group sightseeing tours departing from London. These include Day tours, half day tours, overnight tours and extended tours of England. Private bespoke tours for families and small groups can also be arranged.
The Small Group Touring Experts
http://www.Welcome2Britain.com
Can you beat this Great British bucket list?
After Barack Obama knocks a visit to Stonehenge off his bucket list, what else is there to do in Britain before you die?
When Barack Obama ordered his helicopter pilot to make an unscheduled stop at Stonehenge on Friday, following the Nato summit in Wales, he explained that the prehistoric landmark in Wiltshire was something he had always wanted to see.
“Knocked it off the bucket list,” he said.
A visit to Stonehenge also features on the “Great British Bucket List”, published in April – 50 feats to complete in Britain, which includes things as mundane as watching a box set of Only Fools and Horses to more active experiences, such as walking the Lake District and sailing around the Isle of Wight.
Top of the list was eating fish and chips on a seaside pier followed by whale watching in Wales.
Having a pint in the Rovers Return, the fictional pub in ITV’s Coronation Street, is one thing Britons apparently must do before they die, as is seeing Morris dancers at a country pub.
Others said people must take a ferry across the Mersey and see the Christmas lights in Oxford Street in London before they die.
The Great British Bucket List was compiled by Ask Jeeves, the search engine, which asked 1,000 people what they would like to do before they die.
The phrase “Bucket List” comes from the idiom “kick the bucket” – meaning to die.
The phrase became increasingly popular after the 2007 film The Bucket List, staring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman as two terminally ill men who escape from a cancer ward to go on a road trip with a wish list of things to do before they die.
Their adventures include skydiving, visiting the Taj Mahal, riding motorcycles on the Great Wall of China and going on a lion safari in Africa.
In contrast, Ask Jeeves found that Britons would be content with having a picnic, seeing inside the Houses of Parliament and going to a test match.
A spokesman for Ask Jeeves said: “It may take some time to do all 50 but at least you will not have to pay thousands to travel the world to do so.
“Most of these bucket lists include the kind of ambitions that look wonderful on paper but are out of reach for millions of us.
“Instead, we thought it would be good to look closer to home to find the kind of experiences Brits think everyone should try at least once.”
The Great British Bucket List in full
1. Eat fish and chips on a seaside pier
2. See whales off Wales
3. Go to a night at the Proms at the Royal Albert Hall
4. Visit Giant’s Causeway
5. Have a picnic at an open air concert
6. Go up in the London Eye
7. Travel Scotland’s West Coast by rail
8. Watch a Shakespeare play in Stratford-upon-Avon
9. Dine in a Gordon Ramsay restaurant
10. Go to a British Grand Prix
11. See inside the Houses of Parliament
12. Get the Ffestiniog railway in Snowdonia
13. Go to Glastonbury festival
14. Hold the FA Cup trophy in your hands
15. Take in the view from the top of the Shard
16. Be at Stonehenge on longest day of the year
17. See the Trooping the Colour
18. Go to a cricket test match
19. Visit ‘The Prisoner’ village in Portmeirion, Wales
20. Have tea at Betty’s tearooms, Harrogate
21. See a traditional Christmas pantomime
22. Watch a British player at Wimbledon
23. Do a ‘Wainwright’ walk in the Lake District
24. Drive round Brands Hatch motor racing circuit in Kent
25. Visit a whisky distillery
26. Go to a Six Nations rugby match
27. Go on a Jack the Ripper guided walk in London’s East End
28. Have a pint in the Rovers Return, the fictional pub in ITV’s Coronation Street
29. See Lake Windermere by boat
30. Go on a historic London pub tour
31. Experience the Notting Hill Carnival
32. Try a deep fried Mars Bar
33. See the fireball ceremony at Stonehaven, Scotland, on New Year’s Eve
34. Sail round the Isle of Wight
35. Attend the Grand National, Guineas and Gold Cup horse races
36. Go to a World Darts Final
37. Take a selfie at both John O’Groats and Land’s End
38. Take a ferry across the Mersey
39. Climb Ben Nevis
40. See Tower Bridge raised
41. Visit Borough food market, London
42. Eat Haggis on Burns Night, in Scotland
43. See Morris dancers at a country pub
44. See the Christmas Lights on Oxford Street
45. Be at a recording of The X Factor or Britain’s Got Talent
46. See Blackpool Illuminations
47. Watch a boxset of Only Fools and Horses
48. Watch the Boat Race
49. Attend first day of Harrods sale
50. Watch the London Marathon live
Welcome2Britain
The Small Group U.K Touring Experts
Top ten UK landmarks to see before you die: Buckingham Palace, Loch Ness, Stonehenge
THE UK has some of the best tourist attractions in the world, from stunning castles, to Europe’s most famous prehistoric monument, to an indoor rainforest
Take a tour of the Queen’s official London residence [ GETTY]
Holidaying at home? Here’s your chance to start ticking off some of the top 10 must-see attractions, according to a poll organised by Travel site CheapHolidayLand.com Some of the attractions got the same number of votes so, in no particular order…
- Walk up the Mall to see Buckingham Palace – one of the four London attractions to make it into the top 10. Each summer the Palace also opens its doors to public tours until September 28. http://www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/the-state-rooms-buckingham-palace/plan-your-visit
- See the world’s largest indoor rainforests, created in the giant domes of the Eden Project at St Austell, Cornwall. There special summer dinosaur exhibition runs until September 16. edenproject.com
Stonehenge – Europe’s most famous prehistoric monument. Historians say it was built around 3100 BC [GETTY]
Marvel over the Imperial State Crown and other Crown Jewels at the Tower of London [GETTY]- Ancient Stonehenge is Europe’s best-known prehistoric monument. Don’t miss it! You’ll find it close to Salisbury in Wiltshire and a short drive from Bath. http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/stonehenge/directions?lang=en
- Gasp at the Crown Jewels on a trip to the Tower of London and see this year’s special ‘poppy’ artwork there to commemorate the 100th anniversary of World War One. hrp.org.uk/TowerOfLondon/
Hunt for the famous Loch Ness Monster in Scotland, just south of Iverness [GETTY]- Go monster-hunting on a trip to Scotland’s must-see, Loch Ness. This 37 kilometre-long lake is south of Inverness and best-known for sightings of the mystery ‘Nessie’. visitlochness.com/
- Contemplate thousands of miles of the Atlantic Ocean on a visit to Cornwall’s legendary Land’s End. It’s the most south-westerly part of mainland Britain and stunning scenery have helped make it a top spot. landsend-landmark.co.uk/
Antony Gormley’s impressive 66ft, Angel of the North Statue, located near Newcastle and Gateshead. [ GETTY]- See the inspired vision of one of the most recognisable landmarks in Britain, the Angel of the North, created by artist Anthony Gormley and standing watch over the A1 near Gateshead. http://www.angelofthenorth.org.uk
Head to Westminster, home to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben for some political sight seeing [ GETTY]- Hear Big Ben, the world’s most famous clock, striking the hour at the Houses of Parliament, on the banks of the Thames. It’s even possible to arrange a tour of inside through your local MP. parliament.uk/
Built around 1000 years ago – Benedictine monks first settled at the Abbey [ GETTY]- Step back in time at London’s Westminster Abbey. A church was first created at this spot over 1,000 years ago. It’s also the site from where the world watched the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge get married in 2011 westminster-abbey.org/home
Built in the Bronze Age around 900 BC, Edinburgh Castle was once home to Mary Queen Scots [ GETTY]
- See stunning Edinburgh Castle, a real highlight of a trip to Scotland’s capital city. Listen out for Edinburgh’s ‘big bang’ every day at 1pm when the traditional canon there is fired. edinburghcastle.gov.uk/
By: Anne Gorringe
Full article: http://www.express.co.uk/travel/shortbreaks/500735/Top-ten-UK-landmarks-to-see-before-you-die-Buckingham-Palace-Loch-Ness-Stonehenge
Welcome2Britain
Sightseeing Tours of England
The Small Group UK Tour Experts
A travel enthusiast’s guide to Newquay, Cornwall
Located in the picturesque county of Cornwall, Newquay is a popular seaside resort that offers tourists a plethora of things to do and see.
With such an array of wonderful beaches, it’s hardly surprising that hundreds of 
thousands of people flock to Newquay every year. Newquay epitomises everything that’s great about British seaside resorts, from its pleasant eateries, to its bustling nightlife, there is literally something for everyone!
In this article I will provide you with a guide to one of Britains most cherished seaside resorts:
Where to stay
There is certainly no shortage of places to stay in and around the Newquay Town Centre. If you’re visiting Newquay as a family, there are a number of great Bed and Breakfast hotels, all of which are priced very reasonably. The best place to stay will depend on what you plan to do when you get there. If you want to enjoy the nightlife, its recommended that you stay somewhere in the town centre.
If you’re visiting Newquay to enjoy its many surfing beaches, there is some great surf lodges located close to the beaches. These lodges have a very unique vibe and are a great place to relax in-between surf sessions. Newquay is very popular during the summer months, so it’s recommended that you book your accommodation two or three months prior to your arrival.
Where to eat
As you would expect with any seaside resort, Newquay boasts a plethora of great seafood restaurants. If fish is your thing, The Boathouse Restaurant is a must! All of their food is locally sourced and customers get to enjoy their food in its beautiful harbour surroundings. If fish isn’t to your taste pallet, Butchers Bistro is renowned for its steaks, and the prices are pretty reasonable too! Their passion for Cornish food is evident in everything they do. They also have a number of themed European nights.
Where to visit
Regardless of whether you visit Newquay as part of a group, with the family, or as a couple, there is something for everyone. If you want to enjoy a family day out, look no further than the Blue Reef Aquarium. Here you can enjoy over 40 themed habitats that will take you on a journey from local waters to the Caribbean. The aquarium also has a breeding programme in place, so expect to see some infant sharks, pipefish and seahorses.
If you’re feeling nostalgic, take a trip to Towan head where you will find Huers Hut, a small white hut that is steeped in heritage and history. It is said by many that the hut dates back to the 14th Century. Its primary purpose was to be used as a lookout by the ‘Huer’! The Huer played an important part in Newquays fishing industry at the time. He was responsible for spotting shoals and then alerting Newquays fishermen of their arrival. The views from the Hut are unbelievable, so it’s definitely worth visiting!
Walks
If you enjoy walking, Newquay boasts some excellent coastal paths. Possibly the best of all is the walk from Newquay to Mawgan Porth. The walk begins at the resort centre, passing many of Newquay’s most popular beaches. The path then takes you onto the gigantic beach at Watergate Bay, a firm favourite among surfers and then onto the famous Mawgan Porth beach.
The majority of the beaches you will pass along the way have seaside awards to their name, making it a perfect walk if you want to take a break and spend some time on the beach or go for a swim. Newquay to Perranporth is another enjoyable walk and takes you past the world famous Fistral beach.
How to get around
Newquay has a comprehensive network of bus services which provide tourists with a frequent and reliable way to travel in and around the town. The primary bus operator in Newquay is Western Greyhound; they run services across Cornwall to all of the surrounding attractions villages and towns.
They also provide a regular inbound service for anyone staying on the outskirts of Newquay. There are also a number of taxi firms in the town centre, but please be aware that most of these taxis need to be pre booked. The Newquay town centre is approximately 6 miles from Newquay airport, and takes around 15/20 minutes by taxi.
Author by-line:
This article was contributed by David at Mor Lodge Newquay
Want to tour Devon and Cornwall? See our small group tour: http://welcome2britain.com/cornwall-devon-england-vacation.htm
Visit Cornwall Tourism: http://www.visitcornwall.com/search/newquay
Travel Editor
The Small Group Tour Experts
British Royal Coat of Arms and Motto
Photo of Royal coat of arms
The Royal Arms we see today have evolved over nine centuries, since Richard the Lionheart chose three lions to represent England. This symbol on the King’s shield would immediately identify him in the midst of battle
The function of the Royal coat of arms is to identify the person who is Head of State. In respect of the United Kingdom, the Royal arms are borne only by the Sovereign.
The arms are used in the administration and government of the country, appearing on coins, in churches and on public buildings. They also appear on the products and goods of Royal warrant holders.
The Sovereign’s coat of arms has evolved over many years and reflects the history of the Monarchy and of the country.
In the design the shield shows the various Royal emblems of different parts of the United Kingdom: the three lions of England in the first and fourth quarters, the lion of Scotland in the second and the harp of Ireland in the third.
It is surrounded by a garter bearing the motto Honi soit qui mal y pense (‘Evil to him who evil thinks’), which symbolises the Order of the Garter, an ancient order of knighthood of which the Queen is Sovereign.
The shield is supported by the English lion and Scottish unicorn and is surmounted by the Royal crown. Below it appears the motto of the Sovereign, Dieu et mon droit (‘God and my right’).
The plant badges of the United Kingdom – rose, thistle and shamrock – are often displayed beneath the shield.
Separate Scottish and English quarterings of the Royal arms originate from the Union of the Crown in 1603.
The Scottish version of the Royal coat of arms shows the lion of Scotland in the first and fourth quarters, with that of England being in the second. The harp of Ireland is in the third quarter.
The mottoes read ‘In defence’ and ‘No one will attack me with impunity’. From the times of the Stuart kings, the Scottish quarterings have been used for official purposes in Scotland (for example, on official buildings and official publications).
The special position of Wales as a Principality was recognised by the creation of the Prince of Wales long before the incorporation of the quarterings for Scotland and Ireland in the Royal Arms.
The arms of the Prince of Wales show the arms of the ancient Principality in the centre as well as these quarterings.
Coats of arms of members of the Royal Family are broadly similar to The Queen’s with small differences to identify them.
A crest is not the same as a coat of arms. A crest is only one part of the full coat of arms: the three-dimensional object placed on top of the helm.
Link source: http://www.royal.gov.uk/MonarchUK/Symbols/Coatsofarms.aspx%5B/embed
Welcome 2 Britain
The British Small Group Touring Experts
Small groups leave fewer footprints. Explore England with our Best Value U.K Mini Coach Tour
Our classic Stonehenge and Bath tour just got better. We now include Salisbury Cathedral and a champagne reception at the new fabulous visitor centre and an expert talk about the ancient landscape and most recent theories. (11 hours)’
On this tour you will be travelling with no more than 16 other people – guaranteed! Our purpose-built minibuses have large windows, good air circulation and clear PA systems so that your professional guide can escort you comfortably through our wonderful country. Our itineraries are carefully planned (with many years of experience) so that you discover as much as possible, without spending too much time on the road.
As we travel in smaller vehicles, we normally use the most scenic routes, where large coach are prohibited from travelling. Additionally, as our group sizes are smaller we are able to more time out of the vehicle. We also employ a the very best driver/guides
| Explore the Heritage City of Bath Our morning begins in picturesque city of Bath that boast beautiful Georgian neo classical architecture and is also the home to the Royal Crescent, unique Pulteney Bridge and the fabulous Abbey. Join us for a walking tour of this World Heritage city once home to Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, Gainsborough, Lord Nelson and Beau Nash or alternatively why not visit the Roman Baths? Afterwards, we enjoy a scenic drive through the leafy lanes of the Cotwold’s to visit the national trust village of Lacock where we stop fo rlunch. (*Roman Baths and lunch not included in the price.) Visit Lacock Village in the Cotswolds |
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Salisbury Cathedral and Magna Carta Champagne reception and private talk at Stonehenge with local expert We also visit the medieval village of Lacock which has hardly changed in the past 500 years. With its magnificent abbey, half timbered cottages and greystone houses it recently provided the perfect setting for the filming of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”. Maybe enjoy lunch in the George Inn Probably the best value small group day tour of England! Book it here: http://www.welcome2britain.com/bath_lacock-salisbury-stonehenge_tour.htm Welcome2Britain U.K Sightseeing Tours |
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12 Places You’d Never Believe Were In The U.K.
The U.K. landscape varies wildly, from the snow-swept peaks of Ben Nevis to the tropical looking, white sandy beaches of Cornwall. It wasn’t for the weather, you’d probably never have to go abroad at all.
1. The Maldives?
Put away your passport (and your sun cream): this perfect white sandy shore is actually Seilebost Beach in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland.
2. Mont Blanc?
View this image ›This is actually the Observatory Gully on Ben Nevis in the Lochaber area of the Scottish Highlands. Standing at 1,344 metres (4,409 ft) above sea level, it’s the highest mountain in the UK.
3. Italy?
Good guess, but this is actually the quirky Portmerion Village in Gwynedd, North Wales. It was designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975 in the style of an Italian village. If it looks familiar, that might be because it was used as the location for surreal 60s spy drama The Prisoner.
4. Ancient Greece?
No, this is Cornwall. The Minack Theatre is an open-air theatre, constructed above a gully with a rocky granite outcrop jutting into the sea. The theatre is at Porthcurno, 4 miles from Land’s End in Cornwall, England.
5. Normandy?
Nope, Cornwall again! St Michael’s Mount’s Cornish name means “grey rock in the woods”, and may represent a folk memory of a time before Mount’s Bay was flooded. The Cornish legend of Lyonesse, an ancient kingdom said to have extended from Penwith toward the Isles of Scilly, also talks of land being inundated by the sea.
6. Cyprus?
This might look like a Mediterranean sun-trap, but it’s actually Achmelvich Beach in the Highlands of Scotland. Sutherland, to be precise.
7. Polynesia?
You don’t have to go to the Pacific ocean to visit this reef-like inlet. It’s actually part of the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall. Two miles to the north of Lizard Village lies the secluded Kynance Cove, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
8. South of France?
Although it looks Provence-like, the road signs and very British-looking onlookers clearly show that this picture-perfect village is actually in England. It’s called Cockington (stop sniggering) and it’s only a stone’s throw from Torquay in Devon.
9. Portugal?
This lookalike starts with the same letters, at least. This is Porthmeor Beach in St Ives, Cornwall. The deep blue water is popular with surfers.
10. New Zealand?
This is actually a view from the top of the deliciously named Cheddar Gorge in Somerset’s Mendip Hills. No hobbits here!
11. India?
This Taj Mahal style building is Brighton’s iconic Royal Pavilion. It was built in three stages as a seaside retreat for George, Prince of Wales, who became the Prince Regent in 1811.
12. Skyrim?
No, it’s not actually a location from a video game. This is the spectacular Smoo Cave in Durness, Sutherland (Scottish Highlands). The cave is unique within the UK in that the first chamber has been formed by the sea, and the inner chambers by rainwater.
Post by: HilaryWardle (BuzzFeed Contributor)
http://www.buzzfeed.com/hilarywardle/12-places-youd-never-believe-were-in-the-uk-aplm
Please visit our England Tours for a wide range of escorted small group sightseeing tours of Britain
The Small Group Guided Tour Experts
www.Welcome2Britain.com
Sightseeing Tours and Transfer Service from Southampton Docks Cruise Terminal.
We are delighted to announce that we are now offering our exclusive small group guided tours from Southampton Port. These are scheduled tours and can also be arranged for private groups.
Cruise Ships Supported in 2016
This service is available on all dates when a Royal Caribbean, Cunard, Oceania, Celebrity or Princess cruise ship is visiting Southampton. If you are travelling on another cruise line that is in port the same day as one of the above you can still use the cruise bus service but you will need to disembark and take a local taxi to another cruise terminal where a supported ship is docked.
Most Popular Tour
When your cruise ship docks at the Port of Southampton, make the most of the journey to London with our coach transfers that visits three of England’s must-see destinations – Salisbury, Stonehenge and Windsor.
In the beautiful city of Salisbury, you’ll see the medieval Salisbury Cathedral. Then enjoy the drive to Stonehenge, where you can contemplate the various theories about this prehistoric monument, and visit the town of Windsor, home to Windsor Castle. The coach will then take you to your London hotel.
This port transfer allows you to combine the drive from the Port of Southampton to London with visits to three world-class attractions! You will be met on arrival at the Southampton docks by your friendly guide and transferred by luxury coach to London via Salisbury, Stonehenge and Windsor.
Your first stop is Salisbury, home to one of Britain’s finest Gothic cathedrals, built in the 13th century (entry at own expense). After a guided tour through the medieval town, you will have free time to explore on your own and go into the cathedral if you wish. Then hop back in your coach and drive through the beautiful English countryside, past villages with historical churches and thatched-roof cottages.
On your way to your next stop – Stonehenge – your guide will tell you some of the many myths, legends and facts behind one of the greatest mysteries of the prehistoric world. Was it a temple, a clock, a burial site? Decide for yourself as you walk around the stones (entry at own expense) or browse in the gift shop.
After 90-minutes at Stonehenge, depart for the town of Windsor, where more than 900 years of history await. Grab some lunch (own expense) in one of the lovely restaurants in the town center, and then enjoy a guided walk of the old town and Eton College. You’ll also have some time to visit the castle if you wish (castle entrance fee at own expense). Windsor Castle is the largest continuously occupied castle in the world, and your guide will explain to you its full history.
Your coach will depart Windsor at 4pm for your journey to London, which is less than an hour’s drive. When you arrive in London, additional vehicles or taxis may be used (included in the price) to ensure that hotel drop-offs for all passengers are completed as quickly as possible.
Cruise Transfers With Tour… En-route Tours For Southampton, Dover And Harwich!
Cruise transfers with tours – For a small extra charge may be you would like to include a small tour: If you are travelling to / from Heathrow, Gatwick and London to / from Southampton cruise port the en route tours include: London, Windsor Castle, Winchester, Stonehenge, Salisbury, Bath.
If you are travelling to / from Heathrow, Gatwick and London to / from Dover cruise ports the en route tours include: London, Leeds Castle, Canterbury, White cliffs of Dover and Dover Castle.
If you are travelling to / from Heathrow, Gatwick and London to / from Harwich cruise ports the en route tours include: London, Hampton Court and Windsor Castle.
Whether you simply require a pickup or want to combine the journey with some local sightseeing, our chauffeurs and driver-guides will ensure that every minute of your trip will be memorable and add to your experience. All group sizes catered for:
Welcome2Britain
The Small Group Tor Experts
http://www.welcome2britain.com/
Fancy ‘a wee dram’ ? A whisky connoisseurs dream tour of the Scottish Islands
A tour to tease the palette – 8 days to immerse yourself on the world famous isle of Islay, a whisky connoisseurs dream, before enjoying a four island fest including the rolling mountains of gentle Mull, the spiritual and ever peaceful island of Iona, the extraordinary and inspiring island of Staffa and the dramatics and majesty of the island of Skye
Day 1
This tour of the Scottish Highlands starts out in Glasgow and then onto Loch Lomond before going west through the mountains to
the beautiful little village of Inveraray on the banks of Loch Fyne. (we also offer this tour departing from Edinburgh)
Here you can perhaps sample some of the local seafood for lunch or just explore the historic town itself. After lunch you will then travel through Argyll and into the ancient Kingdom of Dalriada
There are more than 350 prehistoric monuments within a six-mile radius of the village of Kilmartin. You will stop here to see the mysterious stone circles and standing stones and visit the community museum. From here it is a short drive to Kennacraig where you catch the early evening ferry to Islay
The sail is just over 2 hours and you should look out for wildlife such as dolphins, whales and seabirds. On arrival on Islay it is a short drive to Bowmore for your 3-night stay.
Day 2
A full day exploring Islay. The itinerary today is quite flexible with a mixture of beautiful scenery, white sand beaches, short walks and of course the famous Islay whiskies – renowned for their strong peaty flavours and nurtured by the salty sea air
In the morning you will take the short drive to the west of the island via Saligo Bay for a visit to Kilchoman Distillery (the newest and smallest on the island) with the option of a coastal walk to Machair Bay for any non-whisky lovers
After lunch you will explore the tiny harbour village of Portnahaven (look out for seals) before taking the back roads along the west coast with its lovely sandy bays, on the way back to Bowmore. You will have the chance to visit Bowmore distillery or just relax and explore the village
Day 3
Another day in paradise! Today you will explore the southern side of the island, home to the smokiest and peatiest of all whiskies – Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg. We will visit Ardbeg for a tour, tasting and lunch. The restaurant here is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy local produce as well as some unique whisky
We follow this up with a visit to Laphroaig and if time allows a short stop for a tasting at Lagavulin. It should also be possible to visit to the ruins of Kildalton church with its famous 8th Century Celtic cross
Alternatively we may stop in Bridgend where you could visit the community craft producers at Islay House Square or take a walk through the woods along the nearby River Sorn.
Day 4
This morning you take the ferry back to the mainland then travel through Argyll along the coast to Oban – the main ferry port for the islands, and known locally as the ‘Charing Cross’ of the north
You will say goodbye to this group here, and will be collected by your new guide and group on the morning of day 5
You will have a free afternoon in Oban to enjoy this bustling and busy highland town. For those who are partial to some retail therapy, there are numerous shopping possibilities, or for those who wish to continue their thirst for Scottish whisky, Oban distillery is nicely situated in the heart of the town
A hike uphill will bring its own rewards with stunning views from the most photographed structure in the west, McCaig’s folly. The folly built on instruction by a local banker in 1897 resembles the coliseum in Rome, and provides magnificent vistas over the distant Firth of Lorne
You will stay in this glorious highland town for 2 nights
Day 5
Is an early start crossing on the ferry to Mull and enjoying an island adventure exploring her dramatic coastlines and wild beauty, before taking the small ferry to the peace and tranquility of Iona – birthplace of Celtic Christianity and ancient burial ground of Scottish Kings. Here you can visit the historic abbey with its intricate carved crosses in the churchyard or explore the rocky headlands and sandy coves of this island gem
There is also an opportunity to take a small boat out to the island of Staffa (except Saturday departures in September) and view the dramatic basalt columns immortalised by Mendelssohn in his Hebridean Overture “Fingal’s Cave”. You then return on the ferry to Oban for your second night
Day 6
Takes you north along the west coast around Appin, passing the impregnable Castle Stalker, and Glencoe, scene of the infamous massacre of the Clan Macdonald in 1692. You then pass through Fort William and take the historic road to the Isles to catch the ferry to Skye. You will travel through Glenfinnan, at the head of Loch Shiel, this is where the standard was raised to start the Jacobite rebellion
Glenfinnan is also home to a 100year old viaduct, which was made famous when the Hogwarts Express steamed across it on the way to school in the Harry Potter film
From Glenfinnan the road crosses mountains and glens before reaching Arisaig and on through a spectacularly scenic stretch of coast with fantastic views of the islands of Rum, Eigg, Muck and Skye, This beautiful coastline is formed by a series of white beaches and a turquoise sea, known as the white sands of Morar
The road ends at Mallaig where you take the short ferry crossing ‘over the sea to Skye’ where you arrive on the Sleat Peninsula, commonly referred to the ‘Garden of Skye’ with great views of the Cuillin mountains. From here you travel north to the picturesque harbour town of Portree. You are then dropped off at your accommodation in the early evening
Day 7
Is a very flexible day on Skye. There are many possibilities depending on the weather and your driver/guide will use his/her local knowledge to decide on the best day out for the group
For example you might travel north to the stunning Quiraing mountain pass and enjoy a spectacular walk through some of Skye’s extraordinary geological scenery or visit the Kilt Rock, composed of basalt columns (reminiscent of the pleats in a kilt) with its waterfall cascading over the cliffs and down into the sea below
After lunch you may travel to Neist Point for a walk out to the lighthouse at the most westerly point on Skye. Alternatively a visit to Dunvegan Castle, ancient ancestral seat of the Clan McLeod, may be possible. Whatever you do we are sure you will enjoy it. We return you to your accommodation in Portree in the late afternoon for you to enjoy a free evening in the village
Day 8
You will be collected from your accommodation and travel south through the Cuillin Hills and back over to the mainland
You will stop to visit the famous stronghold Eilean Donan Castle, used in the film “Highlander”, set at the junction of 3 lochs as protection against Viking raiders, before travelling east for stunning views over Loch Duich and the 5 Sisters of Kintail
Onto Loch Ness for lunch and the possibility of spotting “Nessie”. Heading south now through the Grampian mountains along Loch Laggan, made famous now as “Monarch of the Glen Country” before passing Dalwhinnie, home to Scotland’s highest whisky Distillery, and onwards into Perthshire where we stop for refreshments before heading back to Edinburgh past Perth and over the Forth Road Bridge. Arriving at 19.00 approx
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Travel Editor
The Small Group Touring Experts
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