Shakespeare’s Stratford, Warwick Castle, Oxford & the Cotswolds

The birthplace of William Shakespeare, the greatest writer in the English language and home to the theatres of the world-renowned Royal Shakespeare Company, Stratford is a charming market town set in the heart of rural England. A delightful river winds its way through the town, past the beautiful Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare lies buried. There are some wonderful half-wooden buildings that date back to Shakespeare’s time, including Shakespeare’s Birthplace.

Described as ‘one of the most atmospheric, magical and important buildings in the whole of Britain,’ Shakespeare’s Schoolroom and Guildhall opened its doors to the public for the first time in 2016 to mark the 400th anniversary of the writer’s death. Step back in time to the 1570’s when William Shakespeare was a pupil learning to read and write, and see the room where leading theatre companies came to perform – a strong influence on the young playwright. You will be invited to enjoy a private tour before the school opens to the public in the morning, including the chance to take part in a tudor lesson, write with a quill and ink, witness the rare medieval wall paintings and much more. Not to be missed.

Enjoy free time for lunch in Stratford-Upon-Avon.

Warwick Castle is, quite simply, the greatest medieval castle in Britain. With a history that dates back over 1,000 years, Warwick Castle will take you back in time – to a world of sumptuous banquets, bloody battles and royal splendor. Enter over the footbridge and explore the castle’s ramparts, towers and gardens. The castle really brings history to life. Visit the waxwork displays of Madame Tussauds, where you can watch, and hear, the Earl of Warwick’s preparations for battle. Feeling brave? Then take a look at the ghostly dungeons where prisoners were tortured. Alternatively, relax with a stroll through the castles beautiful gardens. 

Oxford, the city of dreaming spires, boasts one of the world’s greatest – and oldest – universities, as well as some of the finest architecture in Europe. The colleges themselves, which make up the university, are amongst the architectural highlights, their ivy-clad stone walls protecting beautiful chapels, halls and libraries.

Soak up the atmosphere of this remarkable town with a guided walking tour of the city or take tea in the shop where the real-life Alice (inspiration for Alice in Wonderland) bought her sweets! Our trip to Oxford promises an unforgettable experience for young and old alike. On the way to the remarkable city we will also enjoy a short drive through the scenic Cotswolds.

London Victoria Train Station

Your Tour will finish near London Victoria Train Station, centrally located and easily accessible by national rail and underground; it is serviced by the Victoria, District and Circle Lines and is in Travel Zone 1.