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'Great Tours of London, Britain & Ireland' West Country Delights (4 Nights/5 Days) If you enjoy visiting places which have an atmosphere of timelessness, viewing magnificent moorland and coastal scenery and staying in 'real' countryside, this tour could be the choice for you. There are good opportunities for shoppers to indulge themselves, too. Not too much energy needed*, except that we begin and end the tour with fairly high motorway mileage, much of the tour involves making pleasant short breaks at interesting and attractive places. Everyone will enjoy the unique ambience of the lovely places I've selected for your overnight stays - you'll get a real flavour of the West Country! *Except at one stop - which could be described as 'a village like a waterfall' - the stepped streets tumble to the sea, and donkeys make the daily deliveries! If you wish to see it, and you really should if you can, we have to walk down a steep little street to the tiny harbour - cars are banned here! Day 1: Our direction is Westerly, and the first priority is to put around 80 miles between us and London (on route, we'll give a 'nod' to Stonehenge). We're entering the land of Wessex and a place that has been accepted by folklorists for centuries as the site of King Arthur's court, legendary Camelot. From here it's but a short drive to the interesting little town of Glastonbury, where we'll spend an hour or so, visit the beautiful ruined Abbey and see the grave claimed to be that of Arthur and his queen, Guinevere. A good lunch at an atmospheric inn follows, before the last leg of today's journey brings us to the majestic Exmoor National Park in the county of Devon where tonight's accommodation awaits; it will be rather special as will be the recommended table d'hote dinner! |
Day 2: After breakfast we head off for a drive along Devon's Atlantic coast, one of the finest stretches of coastline scenery in the UK. We'll take a mid-morning visit to one or two of the picturesque little sea-side towns, and include lunch. Then we'll visit the famous Dartington Glass Factory, before travelling along the coast to Clovelly for afternoon tea, and an opportunity for the shoppers to indulge; for non-shoppers, who are so inclined, we could take a short boat trip with great views of the coastline. Later, hopefully refreshed, we'll make for our base for the next two nights - just over the border into England's most south-westerly county, Cornwall! |
Day 3: We begin by today by visiting Boscastle and Tintagel. In addition to the ruined 12 century castle, there is much evidence here of a 6th century Celtic Christian settlement. The whole setting is incredibly romantic, so it's not surprising to find that we have another major contender for the Camelot site! A visit to the atmospheric artists town of St. Ives around lunch-time. Free afternoon here; to relax, explore, shop, swim .. or whatever takes your fancy! |
Day 4: A gentle meander aong the south coast beauty spots today. Stops for those who like to stroll the harbours and little lanes of these enchanting places, or hiking on the moors for those nedding something more active. Alternatively, if you want to take it easier, how about a sea trip to admire the coastal scenery from another angle? Overnight we return to our cosy bed and breakfast guest house. Day 5: An early breakfast is recommended, as this is our last day and we still have much to show you. We'll make a short coastal drive first, then pause to visit a Stately home, with exceptionally fine gardens, and take an early lunch here. After lunch we'll continue eastwards, to Bickleigh Castle, an interesting place which has seen 900 years history. Chance to get your last West Country Cream Tea here before sadly, it's time to head for the motorway and home. We won't arrive back in London 'till late evening, but you'll be glad we lingered a little longer in the West Country - once visited, it's never forgotten! Tour cost is £2400, which covers the cost of your A/C Minivan carrying up to 8 persons, with full driver-guide's service, parking, fuel and all miles driven. Complimentary drinks and occasional snacks are provided along the way. Total luggage handling throughout. The cost includes my hotel/subsistence expenses but not your own. I can arrange guest house/inn/hotel accommodations from £70 per twin or double room, £90 a family room per night including breakfast, or you can go on-line and choose your own with my help. Please note that meals and entry fees to the sites visited are not included. HOW TO BOOK THIS TOUR: First check my online diary for availability Next send me an email me to have your tour dates/details/prices confirmed When your dates heve been reserved book your tour by going here and choosing Option 6 from the dropdown menu
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Last updated: May 11, 2011