Extraordinary England and Scotland

Your Small Group Discovery Begins! At 3 pm meet your Tour Director and travel companions and walk the short distance to Windsor Castle to visit inside the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and one of the official residences of over 40 monarchs. Later, enjoy a welcome dinner. (D)

Dukes and Dreams Walk with your Tour Director through the beautiful streets of Oxford to be introduced to “the city of dreaming spires.” On to magnificent Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and home to the Dukes of Marlborough since the early 1700s. Overnight in Stratford-upon-Avon in the heart of the Cotswolds. (B,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT Architectural beauty, academic significance, and cultural contributions are just three reasons why the city of Oxford is renowned worldwide. The University of Oxford, established in the 12th century, is the oldest university in the English-speaking world, and consistently ranks among the top universities globally. The city is home to stunning and unique architecture. Truly film set stuff!

Cotswolds Charm This morning, you’ll be enchanted by the landscape of rolling hills and the picturesque villages as you explore the Cotswolds. Time to enjoy the honey-colored limestone buildings, stone walls, and thatched houses before returning to Stratford-upon-Avon and a visit to William Shakespeare’s Birthplace. There is plenty of time to explore this market town on your own this afternoon. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT Ah, young love! Even more true, as young Shakespeare’s fiancée was eight years his senior. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and family home in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. Hear tales of Shakespeare’s family life, marriage, and children with a close look at fascinating artifacts in a world-class collection assembled by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.

To the Lakes Travel north through the English midlands to Elizabethan Levens Hall with its renowned topiary garden, the oldest in the world. Onwards to the heart of the Lake District, and at Dove Cottage, get absorbed by the life and times of poet William Wordsworth and in an intimate reading of his poems. You will also discover why this tranquil setting inspired him to write some of the finest romantic poems in the English language. (B,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT William Wordsworth lived in the Lake District for much of his life. His “Daffodils” poem beginning “I wandered lonely as a cloud” is the quintessential Lake District poem characterized by its emphasis on nature, emotion, and the importance of the individual experience. Feel it all amongst the beauty that motivated its creation.