Welcome2Britain

Home » small group tours

Category Archives: small group tours

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 Newquaythousands 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

Advertisement

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
Lacock
is a little known, picturesque village dating back to the Saxon era. Many of the beautiful buildings originally formed part of an extensive monastic complex and are now owned by The National Trust. So pretty is the village that it has provided the setting for many movies and television dramas including Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and more recently Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone. We will take a delightful walk before we enjoy lunch in The George Inn, a vintage English pub built in 1361.
(Please note on rare occasions we may need to eat at another pub if the chosen pub is closed for a special function.)

World Heritage Bath City
Visit Stonehenge
Salisbury Cathedral

Salisbury Cathedral and Magna Carta
In the early afternoon we head to Salisbury to visit the vibrant Cathedral. Dating back to the thirteenth century, this magnificent building is also home to the tallest spire in Britain and the best preserved Magna Carta that is nearly 800 years old. This is the best preserved of the four remaining copies. The Cathedral also houses the world’s oldest working clock! 

Champagne reception and private talk at Stonehenge with local expert
Finally we head to Stonehenge where we enjoy a private talk away from the crowds.Taking advantage of the fabulous new visitor centre, one of the local expert guides will give us an entertaining overview of life at the site. Hear stories of marriage proposals, druid re-enactments, famous visitors and more, while being served Champagne and homemade shortbread. A full visit to Stonehenge is also included.

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
The Small Group Touring Experts

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?

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

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 toLoch Lomond Tour 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

This exclusive Scotland mini coach tour can be booked through our travel partners

We also offer a range of Scotland guided day and multi day tours departing from Edinburgh

Travel Editor
The Small Group Touring Experts
www.Welcome2britian.com

Yes, my Lord. Deluxe Small Group Scottish Castle Tour.

Scotland’s turbulent history has left a lasting mark on the landscape in shape of the many castles, fortresses and tower houses that pepper the countryside

These imposing structures have the power to fire the imagination and with your guide’s expert storytelling this tour will bring the past to life on a wonderful and unique journey around Scotland

Scottish Highland ToursFrom Edinburgh to the east coast, along the castle trail of the Royal Deeside and into the Highlands. From here you will visit Scotland’s highest Whisky Distillery and back into the Kingdom of Fife finishing the tour with a boat trip on Loch Leven, following the footsteps of Mary Queen of Scots Stay like a lord or lady in Ardoe House Hotel near Aberdeen for 2 nights and 1 night at Knockomie House Hotel near Forres, where a farewell banquet dinner is included in the package. View current prices and departures here

Day 1

You depart from the World Heritage City of Edinburgh and travel north, crossing the Forth Road Bridge into the ancient Kingdom of Fife. Your first visit of the day will be Falkland Palace, where during a private, guided tour you will be able to discover more of this pretty Royal Palace

Built between 1502 and 1541, it is set in the heart of the unique medieval village of Falkland and has been residence and hunting lodge of eight Stuart monarchs. Highlight of the visit will be to see the Real Tennis court, built in 1539! You continue to St Andrews and during a town walk your guide will tell you more about its past and more recent history

Its connection to the patron Saint of Scotland, birthplace of Golf, ancient University town and matchmaker to a Royal couple – there is a lot to see!

Your afternoon visit will be at the House of Dun near Montrose. This beautiful Georgian house, overlooking Montrose Basin, was built in 1730. It features superb plasterwork and now houses the Hutchison collection of Scottish colourists and the Stirling collection of furniture, ranging from the 18th century to the 1960s

On route to Aberdeen you will make a photo stop at Dunnottar Castle, a dramatic and evocative ruined cliff top fortress in a truly stunning setting. Dunnottar is where they filmed Hamlet’s Macbeth and provided inspiration for Disney Pixar’s movie “Brave”. From here you continue to Ardoe House Hotel, a lovely 19th century mansion house, where you will stay for 2 nights

Day 2

Today will be spent in the Royal Deeside area, famous for its many castles.

Your first visit will be Castle Fraser, one of the grandest of the Scottish baronial tower houses. Begun in 1575, the present castle contains an evocative Great Hall, fine furniture and many Fraser family portraits. You can round the visit off with a walk through the beautiful 18th century walled garden

The tour continues to Banchory where you might be able to see salmon jumping at the Falls of Feugh. Maybe take short nature walk in Glen Tanar or the Burn o’ Vat

Lunch stop is at Ballater before continuing with your afternoon programme. Crathes Castle provides the highlight for the afternoon. Turrets, gargoyles and the ancient Horn of Leys given in 1323 by Robert the Bruce are just a few of the features of this historic castle. You will be free to explore the house and the stunning gardens at your own pace

The gardens stay green irrespective of the time of year, as with the ancient yew hedges that frame the upper parts of the gardens, particularly the fountain and rose gardens. Wandering through the outstanding, world-renowned June Borders, beautiful vistas of the castle can be seen through the fusion of colourful flowers

You return back to Ardoe House later for another overnight

Day 3

Your tour heads further north today and starts the day with a visit to Fyvie Castle near Turriff, which will open its doors especially for our party at 9.30

Fyvie Castle dates back to the 13th century and has a fine collection of arms and armour as well as 17th century tapestries and opulent Edwardian interiors.You then continue, travelling through beautiful scenery and on to Nairn, where lunch will be taken at nearby Brodie Castle. Then you have time to explore the castle further. Dating from the 16th century, this imposing castle stands in rich Morayshire parkland

It has very unusual plasterwork and a major art collection and tells the fascinating story of the Brodie family.

In the afternoon you will be able to take the Clan Walk at the Culloden Visitor Centre. The Clan Stone Walkway is designed to commemorate the Scottish Clans and their clansmen who fought at the battle of Culloden with a special Insignia Stone. The Clans are represented with their individual Crest and personal inscription

After the visit you continue to Knockomie House Hotel. A dinner for our group will be held tonight in one of the private rooms

Day 4

Today sees you travelling south again through some of the most stunning scenery Scotland has to offer

You pass Inverness and travel to Kingussie for a photo stop at the Ruthven Barracks. From here you continue to Dalwhinnie Distillery. Dalwhinnie is the highest Distillery in Scotland and takes its waters right from the source of the River Spey. A tour of the distillery is included and you will also have the chance to taste the ‘Water of Life’

After a lunch stop in Pitlochry you head to Loch Leven by Kinross. In the middle of the Loch you find Loch Leven Castle, a late 14th century tower, which was the setting for the most traumatic year in the life of Mary Queen of Scots

It was in 1567 that she was imprisoned and forced to abdicate her throne before her dramatic escape a year later

You will enjoy a short boat ride over to the castle, following in the footsteps of Mary Queen of Scots. Then explore at your leisure the island and tower house, before returning back to Edinburgh, arriving around 18.30

This exclusive Scotland tour can be booked through our preferred travel partners ‘Best Value Tours’

More Scottish Day Tours and multi day tours can be viewed here

Welcome2Britain
The Small Group Tour Experts
www.Welcome2Britain.com

Visit Bath Christmas Market on a sightseeing tour from London.

Bath Christmas Market will take place between 28th November and 15th December 2013. Set in the heart of the city, alongside the stunning architecture of the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey, the market consists of over 120 beautifully decorated stalls.

Our small group guided tours depart daily from central London.  Our guided tours allow time to enjoy the wonderful Christmas market.

Bath Christmas Market

Bath Christmas Market 2013

The World Heritage city of Bath has a well-established reputation as a city of luxury, entertainment and relaxation – so what better time of the year to take advantage of this but at Christmas? With so much happening over the festive period, Bath is now becoming well known as the ‘Christmas Capital of the West’, with very good reason…

Once in Bath, you’ll find that there is so much more to explore and experience. The city centre is a shoppers’ heaven, plus there are many festive experiences for all the family to enjoy. It’s simply a question of which to do first: ice-skating in the crisp winter air, or watching the steam rise as you bathe in warm spa water overlooking the twinkling city?

Don’t forget to check the action packed events calendar too, as Christmas in Bath brings festive carols, parties, markets, pantomime and more.

http://www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk/
http://www.welcome2britain.com/uk_day_tours.htm

However you like to ‘make merry’ during the festive season, celebrate in style – celebrate Christmas in Bath.

Welcome2Britain
The U.K Small Group Touring Expers

Stonehenge Private Vieweing Tours. Go beyond the fences and into the inner circle

The best way to visit Stonehenge is to go at Sunset or Sunrise (with special permission from the English Heritage) beyond the fences and after the crowds have gone home.

Welcome2Britain have arranged with English Heritage for you to experience a unique guided visit to this ancient sacred site . Walk amongst the stones and experience the magical atmosphere within the inner circle.  A unique photo opportunity and a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity’

Stonehenge-inner-circle-tour-July-2012 (23)

Tick it off your bucket list in 2014

We anticipate publishing our 2016 small group Stonehenge private viewing dates shortly, however should you wish to have advance priority notice of 2016 availability at 2015 prices then simply send us your email address (info@welcome2britain.com)

  • Private guided  tours for couples, families and small groups  but need to be booked well  in advance.  2014 dates for private groups are available now!

Regular  visit to Stonehenge

For those of you who have not visited this sacred site, we should mention that the complex is roped off. Visitors observe the stones from a distance and are not permitted within the temple complex……….

A selection of other Stonehenge Tours from London that can also include:  Bath, Lacock Village, Salisbury Cathedral, Windsor Castle, Avebury Stone Circle, The Cotswolds, Oxford etc click here

You can always follow us on Twitter for updates: https://twitter.com/Welcome2Britain

http://www.welcome2britain.com/stonehenge_access_tour.htm
http://www.welcome2britain.com/uk_day_tours.htm

Welcome2Britain
The U.K Small Group Touring Experts

Private Guided Tour: ‘Downton Abbey’ Film Locations Tour by Private Chauffeur

Go back to the Edwardian era on this three-hour private tour of sites from the popular television period drama ‘Downton Abbey.’ This is an amazing opportunity for fans of the TV show to travel in style with a private driver to chauffeur you around – just like the Crawleys themselves! Visit major filming locations, including Highclere Castle (the real-life Downtown Abbey) and the village of Bampton (the real-life Downton village).

Highlights

  • Downton Abbey tour of London with a personal chauffeur/guide
  • Visit the filming locations of the successful British TV show
  • See the beautiful Highclere Castle and the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Bampton
  • Private tour ensures a privileged, personalized experience and flexibility to explore at your own pace

Why Our Insiders Chose This Tour

If you love Downton Abbey, you can’t miss this opportunity to visit key filming locations in a spacious private car with your own personal chauffeur. Being able to go at your own pace means you’ll have plenty of time for pictures!

What You Can Expect

Private Tour: 'Downton Abbey’ Film Locations Tour by Private Chauffeur                Private Tour: Downtown Abbey Film Locations Tour by Private Chauffeur

Head west of London for a day of Downton Abbey sightseeing! After pickup from your central London hotel in a spacious luxury vehicle, your private tour guided by a professional chauffeur will take you out to Highclere Castle, known to Downton Abbey fans as the home of the Earl of Grantham and his aristocratic family. Highclere is used for both exterior and interior filming for the show. If you think the castle is stunning on television, you’ll be absolutely amazed by its appearance in person as you admire its stately Jacobethan style and dramatic façade.
Next, continue following the Crawley family and their servants as you make the drive to Bampton, a village in Oxfordshire where many outdoor scenes of the fictional village of Downton were filmed. Admire the well-preserved village with its charming main street and historical buildings, some of which date to the 12th century.
Your day tour ends as you are returned to your London hotel.
Please note: Entrance fees to the grounds and gardens of Highclere Castle are included in the booking price, however, entrance fees into the castle and exhibition are not included due to limited availability.
The Small Group Tour Experts
Welcome2Britain – www.Welcome2Britain.com

Did you know? Some lesser-known facts about Britain’s top attractions

You’ve probably heard of all these places, but there are a few fun facts you probably didn’t know we think you might like…

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle by Buddhacat1 on Flickr
Photo by Buddhacat1 on Flickr

We’re lucky to have Windsor Castle. Not only did it survive two sieges, but in 1649 it survived a bill for its demolition too – by just one vote!

Tower of London

Tower of London by xiquinhosilva on Flickr
Photo by xiquinhosilva on Flickr

Despite being built to withstand serious onslaught by enemy troops and siege machinery, the only time the Tower of London was ever breached was actually by a riotous band of peasants during the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381.

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Clifton Suspension Bridge by yoJoebosolo on Flickr
Photo by yoJoebosolo on Flickr

One of Bristol’s most beautiful spots would have been the scene of a tragedy if it wasn’t for Victorian ladies’ fashion. In 1886, Sarah Ann Henley threw herself from the bridge after an argument with a lover, but her billowing crinoline petticoats helped to slow her fall and cushioned her landing. She landed in the mud, and though injured, she survived and lived until 1948.

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle was the scene of Scotland’s first recorded attempt at flight. It was way back in 1507, and the hopeful aviator was Italian alchemist John Damian. Unfortunately, the feathered wings Damian had built for the purpose proved ineffective: he crashed ignominiously into a dunghill and broke his leg.

The Lake District National Park

Scafell Pike by asands on Flickr
Photo by asands on Flickr

The Lake District is a place of many superlatives. It’s the largest National Park in England, taking up about 1% of Britain’s landmass. It’s also home to England’s highest mountain (Scafell Pike), its deepest lake (Wastewater) and its wettest inhabited place (Seathwaite).

More great blogs from Visit Britain:  http://www.visitbritainsuperblog.com

Travel Team
The Small Group UK Touring Expertswww.Welcome2Britain.com

 

UK Sightseeing. Small Groups are more fun!

Why small groups ? With a maximum group size of just 16, we keep the experience and enjoyment both as individual and as personal as possible. Typically, a group consists of half couples or friends and half individuals t alone. Our tours attract people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities but united in a desire to break away from regimented, impersonal big coach tours.

Country Lane Exploration with small groups

Country Lane Exploration

Small groups are environmentally more friendly and their effect less disruptive to local communities. It also means you get the chance to get away from crowded tourist haunts, taking scenic backroads to places you may not have heard of, but wouldn’t want to miss.

Small groups leave fewer footprints.

Luxury Travel – Choosing OUR small group tours doesn’t mean you compromise on comfort or safety. We use recent models Mercedes mini coaches (less then 3 years old) – coaches renowned for their reliability and safety, custom built to our specification for your comfort – huge panoramic windows for the very best views above the hedgerows, high backed coach seats, 3 point seat belts, air conditioned and a first class sound system

All the features of a big coach without all the passengers!

About Our Guides – Our guides are carefully selected for their personality, wide knowledge and genuine enthusiasm for our style of tours. Never boring – you will find them informative, professional but down to earth with a real passion for showing you the very best of Britain ! They pride themselves on entertaining you with tales of England’s rich history, culture and legend to ensure a memorable experience of the real England. Of course all our drivers and guides are trained to meet the high standards of the London Tourist Board’s ‘Welcome Host’ program

Affordable Quality- Relevant entrance fees are included (some tours include lunch in historic pub). – NO HIDDEN EXTRAS

We have PRIORITY ENTRANCE into all attractions. No QQQQQQ’s – more time to explore

We GUARANTEE that you wouldn’t be able to visit the same places in one day, or at a cheaper price, by raveling independently using public transport

Small groups are environmentally more friendly and their effect less disruptive to local communities

Doing it once ? Do it properly!

The Small Group Touring Experts

http://www.Welcome2Britain.com