The UK has its fair share of time-worn castles, where battle scars embedded in weathered stone speak of a long and storied past, idyllic market towns, where centuries-old homes provide an enduring homage to their famous residents, and even medieval cities, with architectural gems that seem to pop up around every corner. But it’s not often that you can explore all of these in a single day. Warwick Castle, Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Oxford: Guided Tour invites you to do just that, setting off from London in the morning and dropping you back in the evening – so you can climb into bed with cinematic dreams of honey-coloured villages and medieval sieges.
Where will you visit on this guided tour?
First off, while you can sit back, relax and soak up the passing scenery on the coach journeys, there’s still going to be a fair amount of time on your feet – think wandering down cobblestone roads and climbing to the top of castle towers – so be sure to wear something comfy.
A medieval castle built in 1068
The tour kicks off from London Victoria in the morning, with your first stop at the striking Warwick Castle, brimming with over a thousand years of intriguing history. The riverside fortress dates all the way back to the time of William the Conqueror and has lived many lives. During your time there, you’ll be able to step into a medieval world, gazing up at a grand 18th-century chandelier and perusing regal paintings in the opulent State Dining Room, taking in the gleaming armour and weaponry adorning the Great Hall and peeking in at the Queen Anne Bedroom, decked out in red velvet, silk and golden detailing. If it’s the military past you’re interested in, you can follow in the footsteps of knights as you check out the ramparts and the ‘Kingmaker’ walkthrough experience.
The hometown of a literary great
Next stop, Stratford-upon-Avon. Also known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare, the market town provides a window into the first chapters of his life, inviting visitors to explore the carefully maintained 16th-century half-timbered house where he was born in 1564. You can enjoy fascinating insights into his formative years as you wander through the rooms where he once lived. You’ll also be able to get up close to a collection of rare artefacts from the Shakespeare Trust, offering a chance to look at physical pieces of his world.
Honey-dipped villages and rolling hills
On the drive to the next destination, you’ll be able to soak up stunning views of the picture-postcard Cotswolds. Holding the title of the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK, you’ll be able to gaze out at emerald hills, fairytale-worthy villages and golden limestone churches. Make sure to keep your phones at the ready on this section of the journey, as you’ll no doubt be wanting to snap a photo at every turn.
The ‘City of Dreaming Spires’
Oxford is next up. Famed for its prestigious university, the oldest in the English-speaking world, the historic city has no shortage of treasures to explore. Your guide will take the group on an immersive walking tour, shining a light on all manner of striking buildings that showcase architecture through the ages, with some dating all the way back to the late Saxon period, and sharing intriguing insights about iconic sights such as the Bridge of Sighs and Trinity College. You might even spot some cinematic settings that have featured on the big screen in films such as the Harry Potter series, Saltburn and His Dark Materials.
Once the walking tour finishes, you’ll then hop back on the coach, which will whisk you back to London Victoria for 7pm. So, if you fancy, you’ll even have plenty of time to ponder the day’s incredible sights over a tipple or two in a nearby bar.
