Echoes of Empire: London, Liverpool & Cotswolds

London

For your added comfort, a Meet & Greet assistant will be waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall of the airport after you pass through customs. They'll direct you to your transfer, assist in the hotel check-in process, and take you through your travel documents.. Your private driver meets you on arrival at London Heathrow Airport and transfers you to your accommodation.. A Welcome Package will be provided and will include any relevant documents or tickets required for your trip.. With so many options across the city to choose from, deciding where to dine in London can be difficult. To lead your taste buds in the right direction, you’ll receive a supplemental composition within your final trip documents which showcases our top restaurants throughout the city, as selected by Memori Tours Destination Experts.

Accommodation: Leonardo Hotel London Aldgate (B) (Superior)

London

Departing with a private guide and driver, you’ll set out on a half-day tour to experience the highlights of London, with opportunities to see many of the iconic sights of this global metropolis. Discover the West End, home to some of the world’s most prolific theaters, where you’ll pass by the renowned Royal Albert Hall before traveling through the City of Westminster and the City of London, the oldest part of the capital, and home to the financial district. See Marble Arch, historically used for royal processions, as well as the serene Hyde Park, with its lively Speakers’ Corner. Stop at Buckingham Palace, home of the King Charles III and site of the daily ‘changing of the guards’, an icon of British pageantry. View Harrods in Knightsbridge, and renowned squares like Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square with Nelson’s Column. You’re welcome to discuss with your guide if there’s a sight of particular interest that you’d like to view during your tour.. With your admission to the Tower of London (tickets will be provided in your Welcome Pack, please be sure to bring them with you today!), you'll get to visit His Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress, more commonly known as the Tower of London, a castle and monument on the north bank of the River Thames. See five hundred years of spectacular royal armor, discover the iconic White Tower, and be dazzled by the 23,578 gems that make up the Crown Jewels. For over 600 years, exotic animals, and numerous prisoners were held captive at the Tower. Interactive displays help children and adults explore their stories. Included with your admission, join a Yeoman Warder tour, and you'll be entertained by tales from the Tower; pain and passion, treachery and torture, all delivered with a swagger and a smile.. As evening settles in, enjoy free time on a self-guided stroll through South Memori’s museum quarter. Admire the illuminated façades of the Natural History Museum and the V&A, then wander into nearby streets dotted with inviting restaurants and wine bars. There’s no guide and no agenda, just an easy way to take in the atmosphere and decide where the night leads.

Accommodation: Leonardo Hotel London Aldgate (B) (Superior)

London

Your professional cabbie will come and collect you from your hotel and then take you on a 4-hour tour around London, seeing the sites but will follow the footsteps of Shakespeare, The Beatles, James Bond and Sherlock Holmes. "Alas, poor Yorick" is not with you on this tour, but you will see Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. Where he lived in London, several statues dedicated to him, and the alleyways and streets he wandered, plus your registered tour guide will tell you tales of the man and his life. But all of this may be "Simply elementary" to you. Whilst travelling through London we shall of course come across 221b Baker St. You will also see where Sir Arthur Conan Doyle really did live and practice medicine. You will follow Holmes on clues all over London from the books to the films. "Shaken but not stirred" from all that you have heard and seen on this tour so far you will enter the world of James Bond. Ian Flemings house, MI6, MI5. You will visit James Bond film location sites all around town. You will also find out about real spies and how they worked and where they met. With all these spies you would think you are "Back in the USSR" but you are not you are on your Beatles section of this tour. It's the 1960s swinging London and you are following the Fab Four, John, George, Paul and Ringo seeing where they lived worked and played. Abbey Road, Paul's London office, John and Yoko's flat, Brian Epstein's home plus a lot more. Your Black Cab will return you to your hotel or drop you at your most convenient location in Central London after your tour.. Served in a elegant boutique hotel overlooking Memori Palace, afternoon tea at the Milestone is a traditional English activity not to be missed. Perhaps even catch a glimpse of William and Kate while feeling like a royal in this sophisticated culinary treat. Indulge in finger sandwiches, a warm selection of freshly-baked scones with Devonshire clotted cream, and a brew of your choice. Elevate this epicurean experience with a glass of champagne.

Accommodation: Leonardo Hotel London Aldgate (B) (Superior)

London, York

Depart London with your private driver-guide, stopping in Cambridge today for a private tour as you transfer to York. Cambridge is most widely known as the home of the University of Cambridge, founded in 1209 and consistently ranked one of the top five universities in the world. During your 1 hour tour of Cambridge, you’ll visit King's College, founded in 1441 by Henry VI and is one of the 31 colleges in the University of Cambridge. King's has an outstanding academic record and is also world-famous for its chapel and choir. Upon arrival to York, you’ll embark on a 1 hour walking tour of the city’s medieval alleyways and Georgian avenues. Hear the stories of kings, martyrs and merchants, and see York’s medieval city walls, St Mary’s Abbey and England’s most photographed street, the Shambles.

Accommodation: No.1 by Guesthouse York (B) (Guest Room), London

York

Embark on a full day tour with a private driver-guide, setting out to discover the coastal town of Whitby, followed by a visit to Castle Howard. You'll head northeast, driving through the scenic North York Moors National Park, a place of sheer beauty, shaped by nature over thousands of years, arriving to historic Whitby on the east coast of Yorkshire, former home 18th century explorer Captain James Cook. Take in the views of this town, soak in the fishing village ambiance, and admire sights of the hilltop ruins of Whitby Abbey, a piece of atmospheric inspiration for Bram Stoker's famous horror novel, Dracula . Looping back toward York, you'll head to Castle Howard, to visit one of Britain’s finest stately homes. Built for the third Earl of Carlisle over 300 years ago, the home has remained in the possession of the Carlisle branch of the Howard family ever since. Be dazzled by ornate interiors and world-renowned works of art, and enjoy time wandering the landscaped gardens before returning to York.

Accommodation: No.1 by Guesthouse York (B) (Guest Room)

York, Windermere

Along with your private driver-guide, and in the comfort of a private vehicle, make your way to Windermere today. En route you’ll stop to explore a stretch of Hadrian's Wall, an ancient Roman stone fortification, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Approximately 1,900 years old, and stretching proudly across 73 miles of Northern England, Hadrian’s Wall is the largest Roman artifact in existence. Just south of Hadrian's Wall, visit Vindolanda, a Roman Army Museum which provides an authentic and dramatic tribute to Rome's extraordinary military legacy. Before continuing to Windermere, you’ll get to visit the nearby Housesteads Roman Fort, where you can wander ancient barracks blocks and hospital ruins.

Accommodation: The Wild Boar (B) (Classic Room), York

Windermere

Embark on an opulent journey through the exquisite Lake District, renowned as England's most picturesque haven. Delight in the lavish comfort of your private chauffeur-driven vehicle as you traverse majestic mountain passes, meander through lush valleys, and marvel at cascading waterfalls adorning the landscape. Immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Lakeland villages, where time seems to stand still, affording ample opportunities to capture breathtaking vistas and timeless memories. Indulge in the epitome of luxury with a serene lake cruise aboard an exclusive vessel, basking in uninterrupted views of the idyllic surroundings. Enjoy time rambling in iconic Lake District villages, where you'll savor leisurely moments exploring its quaint streets and upscale boutiques, all while reveling in the unparalleled sophistication of this premier destination.

Accommodation: The Wild Boar (B) (Classic Room), Windermere

Windermere

Meet your driver-guide today for a half day tour which delves into the depths of history and culture as your expert guide unveils the secrets of Castlerigg Stone Circle, a breathtaking archaeological marvel nestled amidst the majestic Cumbrian hills. Marvel at the spectacle of 38 ancient stones, each imbued with its own story, some towering over 5 feet tall, standing as silent witnesses to the passage of time over the past 5000 years. Afterward, luxuriate in the serene ambiance of Keswick, a charming township brimming with elegance and sophistication, where every corner reveals a tale of refined indulgence and timeless allure.

Accommodation: The Wild Boar (B) (Classic Room), Windermere

Windermere, Liverpool

Connect with your private driver-guide and set off from Windermere towards Liverpool. Upon arrival, embark on a city tour renowned as the birthplace of The Beatles. Learn intriguing anecdotes about the band and explore iconic sites like Penny Lane, Strawberry Fields, and Eleanor Rigby’s Grave. Delve into Liverpool's maritime heritage with visits to UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites. Wrap up your day at your hotel, reflecting on the rich cultural tapestry of Liverpool.

Accommodation: Hard Days Night (B) (Classic Room), Windermere

Liverpool, Bath

History, architecture and athleticism combine, as you set out on a private journey from Liverpool to Bath, retracing the path through charming towns and scenic landscapes. As you leave Liverpool behind, head South towards Chester, known for its medieval architecture and iconic Rows. Take a leisurely stroll along the city walls, visit the almost 1000 year old Chester Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the former abbey's ambiance. Continue on your journey, pausing in Wrexham, a town renowned for the documentary "Welcome to Wrexham" and the birthplace of Wrexham AFC. Explore the local history and perhaps enjoy a pint at the Turf Pub before continuing your journey. Conclude your enchanting journey in Bath.

Accommodation: Hotel Indigo Bath (B) (Premium Room), Liverpool

Bath

Meet your private driver-guide, and set out on a full day excursion today, first visiting the medieval city of Wells, returning to Bath afterward for a walking tour through the picturesque city. In Wells, England’s smallest city, you’ll tour the impressive 13th century Wells Cathedral, considered one of the most beautiful churches in Britain. The adjacent Bishop’s Palace and Park contains the set of springs which gave Wells its name centuries ago.  Also check out Vicars’ Close, the oldest intact residential street of Europe. Return to Bath, admiring landmarks like Bath Abbey, a stunning Gothic church with history dating back to the 7th century. Marvel at the magnificent 18th century architecture of Royal Crescent, with a uniform Georgian façade designed by John Wood, the Younger. Visit the Roman Baths and Temple complex, providing you with access to four main features: the near 2,000-year-old remains of the Temple of Aquae Sulis, the Roman bath house, the Sacred Spring (the only hot spring in Britain), and a well-presented museum of artifacts found at the site. The Roman Baths are situated below street level of modern Bath, and other Roman ruins stretch out beneath the city in all directions.

Accommodation: Hotel Indigo Bath (B) (Premium Room)

Bath, Cotswold

Leaving Bath today with your private driver-guide, enjoy a scenic drive as you transfer to the Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty characterized by picturesque medieval towns and villages with thatched roofs and distinctive yellow limestone. Take your walking shoes and explore some of the many short hikes across the rolling hills, and along the 102-mile Cotswold Way trail, or tour the villages, perhaps opting to eat in a traditional pub and enjoying afternoon tea in an authentic Cotswold tea shop (not included). The larger market towns and villages of the Cotswolds, such as Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester, Chipping Norton and Tetbury, are famous for their shops. Maybe you’ll happen upon a hidden gem, a village off the beaten track such as Painswick, Biddestone, Winchcombe or Woodstock, or an unspoiled historic church, such as at Northleach often called the “Cathedral of the Cotswolds” – open the church door and you’ll discover a hidden world of history.

Accommodation: Bay Tree Hotel (B) (Classic), Bath

Cotswolds

Today you'll visit Blenheim Palace and the city of Oxford with your private drive-guide. Experience Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Baroque manor house where Sir Winston Churchill was born. Feel like a noble as you delve into the history of the 18th-century manor house, getting up close to priceless works of art and tapestries as you explore the opulent chamber, and wander the stunning park and gardens. After, visit renowned university town Oxford, known as the “city of dreaming spires”, home to the world's oldest English-speaking university, Oxford University. Tour the medieval city and enjoy a visit to Christchurch College, a unique institution, and one of the largest colleges in the University of Oxford.

Accommodation: Bay Tree Hotel (B) (Classic), Cotswolds

Cotswolds, London

Depart with your private driver-guide from Cotswold to London Heathrow Airport today. Approximate drive time is 2 hours.