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Goway Travel
OFFER ID 1722274
Iconic Landmarks, Off the Beaten Path, Rural Charm An Independent vacation through England, where ancient stones, wild moors, Cornish cliffs, and Arthurian legends stir every mile with wonder.
Trip Overview:
This small-group experience (maximum 16 participants) gets you off the beaten track so you get a real feel for the country. Our guides are hand-picked for their pride and passion for their country. You choose your style of accommodation. Transportation is in modern Mercedes Benz mini-coaches.
This 7-day round trip from London focuses on Devon and Cornwall to immerse you firmly in the tales and legends of England.
Spend your first night in London, where you can take in a West End show, enjoy an evening flight on the London Eye, or roam the never-sleeping streets of Soho, enjoying the colour and culture of this great city. Then travel from the new capital to the old, Winchester, where you’ll visit the historic cathedral and great hall. Then explore the beaches and stone formations of Devon, including the famous Durdle Door, before overnighting in Exeter.
Spend a morning exploring Dartmoor, home to the Clapper Bridge, and Sir Francis Drake’s hometown of Tavistock. Both are included on the tour before you return to Exeter, ready to explore its Roman past. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum will put some of your discoveries into context before a visit to the Norman cathedral transports you back to the 12th century.
The following day immerses you in the legends of King Arthur as you explore Cornwall. More 12th-century Norman structures dot the moors here. We can’t guarantee sightings of the fae folk or other mythical creatures, but you’ll certainly discover their stories, and pay a visit to Dozmary Pool, where Excalibur supposedly was laid to rest. Explore the ruins of Tintagel Castle, where Arthur was born, then come back to the present in the university town of Falmouth.
The town of Mousehole has a cute name, and a stunning location overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Porthcurno beach. The stories here even take musical form as you visit Penzance, the town that inspired Gilbert & Sullivan’s famous pirate operetta. Visit the remnants of Celtic communities and discover the artists of St Ives before overnighting in Falmouth. On your final day, ponder one of England’s most famous mysteries at Stonehenge. You’ll also visit Glastonbury Tor for one last taste of Avalon legend before returning to London in the evening.
6 nights from $2,007 per person
Day 1: Arrive in London
Transfer: London Heathrow Aptto London - Bayswater
Hotel: The Phoenix Hotel (3 Star Rating)
The Phoenix Hotel is a refurbished 125 bedroom Notting Hill Hotel located in the heart of London, just a few minutes walk from both Queensway and Bayswater Underground stations, and within walking distance to the world-famous Hyde Park and Notting Hill. Paddington Station, with its quick and easy access to Heathrow Airport, is only 10 minutes from the hotel.
Leaving central London, you travel through Wessex, one of England's ancient kingdoms. You pass through this millennia-old setting on the way to the historic city of Winchester. The former capital of Anglo-Saxon England is synonymous with Alfred the Great and boasts a magnificent cathedral and the Norman Great Hall.
Visiting Winchester isn't easy, because there's almost too much to do. Step back in time at the stunning Winchester Cathedral, with its awe-inspiring architecture and fascinating history. Examine the legendary King Arthur's Round Table at the Great Hall of Winchester Castle. Or absorb the echoes of the past as you walk through cobbled streets lined with timber-framed houses.
After lunch and time to explore the charming city of Winchester, we head to Stonehenge, one of the greatest marvels of the Neolithic period. This ancient site immerses you in mystery, with the visitor center offering fascinating insights into its origins—was it a temple, an astronomical calendar, or the work of Merlin? Next, we journey to Devon, a land of stunning contrasts, where golden beaches, rolling countryside, and rugged moorlands meet. Home to Dartmoor National Park with its wild ponies, rugged tors, and hidden gems, Devon's beauty leads us to Exeter, your home for two nights.
Once the most westerly fortified settlement in Roman Britain, the historic city of Exeter is famous for ancient city walls, a Norman castle, gothic cathedral, Tudor heritage, a quayside, and a vibrant commercial and restaurant area. You've got free time in the evening, and you can decide what to do. Will you take a leisurely evening stroll along the river? Or perhaps visit one of the traditional pubs like The Old Firehouse or The Exeter Arms? No matter what you choose, there's another evening in this amazing city for you to enjoy tomorrow. Overnight Exeter.
Hotel: Mercure Southgate (4 Star Rating)
Contemporary 4-star hotel located in the heart of Exeter, the Southgate Hotel neighbours the Cathedral, the shopping areas of Princesshay, Bedford Square and the historic Quay. Flexible dining options suiting all tastes and occasions whether you are coming for business or for leisure. The hotel has a spa facility, with an indoor heated pool, sauna and fitness room. Each of the hotel's rooms features Freeview TV and facilities for making tea and coffee.
We leave Exeter and travel to the heart of the remote windswept magnificence of Dartmoor National Park, to Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Keep your eyes peeled for native ponies grazing close to the striking rock formations and other diverse flora and fauna.
Our first stop is Widecombe-in-the-Moor, a picture-perfect village nestled among the rugged hills and ancient stone tors of Dartmoor. Stroll through its charming streets, admire the striking St Pancras Church, and take in the serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere of this historic spot. Next, we journey through Dartmoor's vast, open landscapes to Clapper Bridge, an ancient stone bridge that has stood the test of time, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region's past and its close relationship with the land. Next stop is Tavistock for lunch, so make sure to treat yourself to the famous cream tea that is said to have been invented there.
Start your exploration with a true taste of Devon—cream tea. This treat consists of fresh scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, all accompanied by a pot of tea. When you've finished, walk off the calories and wander through the town's streets, lined with Georgian and Victorian buildings, and visit the Tavistock Abbey ruins, a reminder of the town's medieval past. We then travel back through the windswept expanses of the moors back to Exeter to explore some of its highlights, like Exeter Cathedral. Step inside this medieval masterpiece to be greeted by the soaring, intricate stone vaults and delicate stained-glass windows that have stood for over 900 years.
After soaking in the serene beauty of Exeter Cathedral, take the evening to explore the city's charming streets. Wander through the historic center, enjoy a meal at one of the many local restaurants, or relax at a cozy pub, where the city's vibrant atmosphere comes alive as the sun sets. Overnight Exeter.
Hotel: Mercure Southgate (4 Star Rating)
Contemporary 4-star hotel located in the heart of Exeter, the Southgate Hotel neighbours the Cathedral, the shopping areas of Princesshay, Bedford Square and the historic Quay. Flexible dining options suiting all tastes and occasions whether you are coming for business or for leisure. The hotel has a spa facility, with an indoor heated pool, sauna and fitness room. Each of the hotel's rooms features Freeview TV and facilities for making tea and coffee.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Arthurian legend mixes with genuine Celtic history in Cornwall, England's most western county. And today you're going to dive deeper into this land where rugged cliffs meet endless seas, and where myth and reality intertwine.
Our first stop is the enchanting North Cornish coast, where the Elizabethan fishing village of Boscastle awaits. Wander its picturesque harbor, indulge in a traditional cream tea at a local café, and take a leisurely stroll to the dramatic headland for breathtaking ocean views. For a touch of magic, step into the renowned Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, where centuries of folklore, spells, and intriguing artifacts bring Cornwall's mystical heritage to life.
Next, we visit Tintagel, home to the dramatic ruins of its cliffside castle. Perched on a rugged Cornish peninsula, this awe-inspiring medieval site, rumored to be King Arthur's birthplace, blends history and legend. Walk the iconic bridge for great coastal views, explore the ruins and get some lunch. Later on, we head to Port Isaac, the charming fishing village famous as the setting for Doc Martin. Stroll its narrow streets, admire historic cottages, and soak in the harbor's serene beauty. Finally, we journey south to Falmouth for a two-night stay. This lively port town, with its maritime heritage, bustling harbor, and coastal charm, promises an unforgettable experience.
You've got a free evening in this bustling little town, and you can decide how you want to spend it. Explore the town's lively streets filled with cozy pubs, and waterfront restaurants and try local specialties. Don't miss a visit to the historic Pendennis Castle, a Tudor fortress with stunning views of the coastline, or take a stroll along the golden sands of Gyllyngvase Beach. Overnight Falmouth.
Hotel: Moderate Hotel Falmouth (3 Star Rating)
We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Today, we embark on a journey to the most westerly tip of England, where the land meets the wild, untamed beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. This rugged and breathtaking corner of Cornwall is known for its dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and timeless landscapes that have inspired generations.
We make a brief stop at the picturesque Long Rock Beach, where you can enjoy stunning views of St Michael's Mount, a tidal island with a medieval castle, a village, and beautiful gardens, all with a rich history dating back to the 8th century. Next, we continue to the dramatic Minack Theatre, perched above the roaring sea, with the stunning National Trust beach at Porthcurno below. Built in the 1930s by the visionary Rowena Cade, this remarkable theatre remains a testament to her dedication and creativity. Please note that, due to availability, a visit to the theatre may not be possible, but your driver-guide will inform you as you go.
We continue along the rugged Cornish coast to Land's End, one of the UK's most iconic landmarks. As the southernmost point of England, its dramatic cliffs offer stunning views, while the waters below are said to hide the fabled 'Lost Land of Lyonesse' from Arthurian legend. We then pass through landscapes marked by Cornwall's tin mining history, now featured in the Poldark series, before reaching St Ives. In this coastal gem, you'll be amazed by the turquoise waters. Why not treat yourself to some classic fish and chips and enjoy them on the golden sands of the beach? Finally, we make our way back to Falmouth to conclude another unforgettable day on the Cornish coast.
Spend another lovely evening in Falmouth and indulge in the town's local specialties. Start with a classic Cornish pasty and wash it down with a refreshing pint of local Cornish cider. Overnight Falmouth.
Hotel: Moderate Hotel Falmouth (3 Star Rating)
We try to reserve accommodation that's no more than a 20-minute walk from the town centre. We regularly check our accommodation partners to ensure they reach a certain standard.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Hotel: The Phoenix Hotel (3 Star Rating)
The Phoenix Hotel is a refurbished 125 bedroom Notting Hill Hotel located in the heart of London, just a few minutes walk from both Queensway and Bayswater Underground stations, and within walking distance to the world-famous Hyde Park and Notting Hill. Paddington Station, with its quick and easy access to Heathrow Airport, is only 10 minutes from the hotel.
You pack your bags and leave Falmouth behind. Your driver-guide takes you through Bodmin Moor, the vast wilderness covered in rugged heathland and dotted with historic standing stones and weathered tors.
Next, we stop at Jamaica Inn, a historic inn famous for its connection to Daphne du Maurier's novel and its intriguing tales of smugglers, travelers, and mystery. Explore the museum, which delves into the area's smuggling history, or grab a quick refreshment before we continue our journey.
Bid farewell to Cornwall as we set off towards Glastonbury, a town renowned not only for its world-famous music festival but also for its legendary ties to King Arthur and the Holy Grail. Take time to wander its quaint streets and enjoy lunch, perhaps sampling some local delicacies. If you're a fan of Arthurian legends, be sure to visit Glastonbury Tor, a hill that some say marks the mythical island of Avalon. From here, you start your return journey to London, a bustling metropolis that feels worlds apart from the serene landscapes and mythical charm of Devon and Cornwall.
As the capital's iconic skyline looms ahead, you carry with you the magic of the southwest—its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences—ready to add a new perspective to your time in London.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Transfer: London - Bayswater to London Heathrow Apt
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
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