Best Of England

Your journey begins on your overnight transatlantic flight to London.

If you purchased airline tickets through YMT, a representative will welcome you at the airport and transport you to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Join us later for a welcome dinner at the hotel (included). (D)

After breakfast, head out on a panoramic city tour of one of history’s most influential capitals. You’ll see many of London’s most important landmarks from the comfort of your roomy coach including the Tower of London, Big Ben and Piccadilly Circus, as well as Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and more! (Note that entrances are not included) (B)

Leave London this morning, and make your way to Oxford, your first stop for the day. Go on a guided tour of Oxford, a city known around the world as the home of Britain’s oldest and most prestigious university. See the school and 1,100-year-old village, including Christchurch, Oxford Castle, and more of the famous halls and greens of Oxford University (entrance not included). Next, make a photo stop in the Cotswolds, a stunning rural area with lush rolling hills, beautifully maintained historic buildings and villages, before heading to Bristol for the night. (B)

Journey back in time at two of England’s oldest sites, Stonehenge and the Roman Baths. A prehistoric monument whose ring of massive standing stones was built
approximately 5,000 years ago, Stonehenge has no written records and its purpose and the methods of its construction remain a mystery! In Bath, you’ll tour some
of the best Roman ruins in the world. Romans started taking advantage of Bath’s natural hot springs when Claudius invaded Britain in 43 AD. They turned the site
into a religious shrine that housed complex bathing areas. Explore largely intact ruins that are a testament to Rome’s incredible engineering skills. Return to Bristol for the night. (B)

Leave Bristol this morning and head to Stratford-upon-Avon. Explore Shakespeare’s birthplace, the restored 16th century home where he grew up and later lived with his beloved wife, Anne Hathaway. Hear family stories and live theatre recitals.Proceed to Liverpool and join us on an engaging optional tour where you’ll learn more about the life and times of The Beatles! (B)

Spend the day soaking up the beauty of Lake District, England’s largest national park, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Glide along the sparkling waters of Windermere, the largest lake in the area, as you sail past many scenic islands and majestic mountains. The circular cruise starts and ends at Bowness, a charming town on the banks of Lake Windermere. Bask in the scenery of the region, and later, return to Liverpool for the night. (B,D)

Tour Liverpool, a port city from where over nine million emigrants left England for a new life in America. You’ll see the Royal Liver Building, the headquarters of the White Star Line, the Albert Docks, and the two cathedrals of Hope Street. Your next stop is York. See the 13th century walls surrounding narrow streets, all of which wind their way toward the magnificent York Minster. One of England’s most impressive cathedrals looks down at the city that inspired and influenced the magical look of the Harry Potter movies—particularly Diagon Alley. Your tour takes you past York Minster, Exhibition Square, Stonegate and The Shambles. (B)

Proceed to London this morning and stop at Newstead Abbey enroute. This historic country home in Nottinghamshire is over 800 years old and is famous for being the residence of the Romantic poet Lord Byron. With over 300 acres of gardens, the sprawling grounds have pathways that wind past lakes and waterfalls. You’ll spend the night in London, and enjoy an included farewell dinner. (B,D)

Depart for Home. (B)