Highlights of South-West England

Trip Type: Explorer
United Kingdom | 9 D | 1 - 12 People
Starts From:

NZD 4,845.00 /Person

Find history-filled towns, coastal landscapes and an electric urban buzz on this nine-day journey though England’s South West.

Highlights of South-West England

Find history-filled towns, coastal landscapes and an electric urban buzz on this nine-day journey though England’s South West. Start in London, marvel at the mystery of Stonehenge and embrace the great outdoors in Dartmoor. You’ll find a slice of coastal bliss and medieval history all in one as you wind through the idyllic Cornwall region. Get to know the places you visit with plenty of free time, lean into insider knowledge along the way with your local trip leader and feast on fresh seafood – and a Cornish pasty or two – on this unmissable adventure.

Welcome to London! The capital and largest city in England, London stands on the River Thames and has a history spanning back to the time of the ancient Romans. There’s lots to see and do in this bustling metropolis, so it’s recommended that you arrive a couple of days early to explore the city. Your trip begins with a welcome meeting tonight at 6 pm. After, you’re free to hit a West End show or find a fancy restaurant for dinner with a view.

After breakfast at the hotel, get ready to leave the city behind as you make your way via train to Salisbury, located in England’s southern rural heartland. When you arrive in this modern medieval city that meets at the confluence of five rivers, follow your trip leader to get your bearings with an orientation walk. After, you're free to roam the city and maybe even make your own way to see the Salisbury Cathedral which dates to 1227 and showcases an example of Early English Gothic architecture. The rest of the evening is free to spend as you wish.

This morning after breakfast, it’s time to explore one of Britan’s most iconic sites – none other than the 5,000-year-old Stonehenge. Just a short drive away, the morning will be dedicated to delving into the history of this archaeological marvel. After absorbing everything you need to know about this fascinating monument, you’ll then make your way to Dartmoor. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish. History lovers can learn about local myths and legends at some of the town's museums or galleries, or take it easy and find a cosy spot and a hearty feed at a nearby pub.

Today after breakfast, you’ll have the chance to experience some of the area’s best walking trails and panoramic landscapes. Keep an eye out for famed Dartmoor ponies in the area and cosy farmhouses that hold years of history. Together as a group, you will make your way along the Dartmoor Princetown walk. This gentle walk includes some inclines along the gravel bridleway and offers sweeping views across the rugged moors and takes you to South Hessary Tor. On a clear day, you may be able to see as far as Plymouth Sound. Next, travel to the seaside town of Penzance, with time to stop for lunch along the way. Your afternoon is free to wander through the picturesque town where cobbled streets, local boutiques and fisherman’s cottages can be found.

Enjoy breakfast before heading out to admire one of the most loved landmarks in the area – Land’s End, known for its impressive natural beauty and unique location. Hike along to Porthcurno and admire the spectacular terrain and coastal landscapes that stretch far into the distance, then enjoy some free time for lunch. Along the Cornish cliffs you’ll also visit The Minack Theatre – a spectacular open-air venue overlooking the water. Later, return to Penzance where the evening is yours to spend at your own pace.

After breakfast, you’ll visit St Michaels Mount, a fascinating tidal island in Mount’s Bay. You may have seen images of this rocky island, but nothing compares to witnessing the magnificent site up close. Enjoy time to explore St Michaels Mount at your own pace and maybe stop by the church and medieval castle set at the top of the island. Later, travel to the historic fishing village of Port Isaac. A guided walk with your leader will showcase the history and highlights of this cosy hub before continuing on to Tintagel – a destination that shares historic ties to King Arthur. The evening is yours to see what hidden wonders can be found within the town.

Step back in time after breakfast with a visit to Tintagel Castle and uncover the history, myth and tales of King Arthur. This historic site is set along the clifftops of North Cornwell and boasts dramatic views from all angles. The remainder of the day is yours. Make time to visit the Tintagel Old Post Office or drop into one of the small boutique gift shops or take a seat at one of the many eateries and restaurants.

Bid farewell to the panoramic coastline and vast landscapes and make your way to Newquay before catching the train to London. After arriving later in the afternoon, the evening is free to spend at your own pace. Maybe celebrate the final evening of your journey together as a group and choose one of London’s many exciting pubs or restaurants to enjoy an evening of good times and good company.

There are no activities planned for today so after breakfast, your trip will come to an end. If you’d like to stay and explore London for longer, speak to our booking agent about extended accommodation.

Meals
8 Breakfast(s), 1 Lunch(s),

Transport
Train , Private vehicle , Metro

Accommodation
Hotel (8 nights)

Included Activities

  • Salisbury - Leader led walk
  • Stonehenge visit
  • Dartmoor Princetown Walk guided walk & picnic lunch
  • Land’s End visit
  • Porthcurno guided hike
  • Minack Open Air Theatre visit
  • Tintagel - Port Isaac Leader led walk
  • Tintagel - St Michael's Rock visit
  • Tintagel -Tintagel Castle visit
  • Marvel at the archeological wonder of Stonehenge and discover all you need to know about the rich history of this iconic site.
  • Wander along the picture-perfect trails in Dartmoor National Park, stopping for a refreshing picnic lunch along the Dartmoor Princetown Walk.
  • Hop between coastal hubs in Cornwall, including Tintagel and Penzance, and explore must-see spots like Land’s End and the Minack Theatre.
  • Get your history fix at the ruins of Tintagel Castle and learn about the historic ties to King Arthur as you brace the sea breeze.
  • Explore the impressive, rugged island of St Michael’s Mount off the Cornwall coast.

Just as a heads up before you book, this trip is new to our range this year. And while we have thoroughly researched every detail of the logistics, new destinations can sometimes throw us some unexpected surprises. More often than not, it’ll be a great surprise. But every now and again there might be a hiccup. We like to think that’s what puts the ‘adventure’ in ‘adventure travel’. Please note that most of the travels on this trip is done by train. While this is fantastic and sustainable way to move around, you will be responsible for shifting you bags to and from the trains and moving them round the station. Sometimes a short walk from your hotel to the train station is also required. Please pack carefully and do not bring any unnecessary items with you. Suggested weight of your luggage should not exceed 12 to 15 kg.

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Destination Details
United Kingdom | 9 D | 1 - 12 People
Trip Location
Trip Starts:
United Kingdom
Trip Finishes:
United Kingdom
Countries Visited:
United Kingdom
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