London: The City Experience 7 days / City Stays
About This Experience
London was once considered the capital of the world—and it shows. Britain’s most dynamic city has a history that stretches back 2,000 years, and a culture as rooted in the local pub as it is in world-class museums. Get acquainted with this city at your own pace, whether strolling through Kensington Gardens, climbing the Tower of London or experiencing Big Ben up close and personal.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
5 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 1 three-course dinner with beer or wine
Private deluxe motor coach
Multilingual Tour Director
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Boundless green spaces to explore
You might leave with a Cockney accent
The high culture at the British Museum
Charming pubs & eclectic eateries
Iconic Big Ben & Buckingham Palace
You’ll see the impact of the 2012 Olympic games
Overnight Flight1 night
London5 nights - hotel info
Day2
Get social, get started—it’s time to greet your group and the city
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to London. After clearing customs and collecting your bags, look for the “Hotel by Bus” transfer desk. They’ll be providing the transportation to your hotel. This evening, meet your fellow travelers at an included welcome dinner.
Day3
With sites that moonlight as pop culture icons, London is so familiar
Breakfast
Set out to discover London’s most iconic sites. On your guided sightseeing tour, you’ll make your way past the Piccadilly Circus, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and more. The afternoon is free for exploring on your own, or you can choose to join our optional excursion to Windsor Castle, the oldest occupied castle in the world and the official residence of the Queen.
Optional Excursions
Windsor Castle $85* pp
Led by a Blue Badge Guide, you’ll travel to Windsor for a guided visit to the world’s largest and longest-inhabited castle. Founded by William the Conqueror in 1070, Windsor has been the British Royal Family’s preferred retreat for the past 900 years. Step inside the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel (closed Sundays), where the Knights of the Garter ceremony takes place. View the exhibit of royal treasures on display within the castle. You’ll then have time to stroll through the town of Windsor and have a look at Eton College, a prestigious prep school attended by Princes William and Harry. Please note: Windsor Castle is occasionally closed when in use by the Royal Family; a visit to Henry VIII’s Hampton Court will be substituted when necessary. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservation and must be booked by 20 days prior to departure.
Day4
Today’s agenda: do anything and everything you fancy
Breakfast
Today, you can stroll through Kensington Gardens to view some of London’s most famous statues, or enjoy a taste of nostalgia at Pollock’s Toy Museum. Alternatively, embark on a full-day optional excursion to see Stonehenge, one of England’s most mysterious landmarks, followed by a stop in Bath, England’s most restorative city.
Optional Excursions
Stonehenge & Bath $109* pp
Visit Stonehenge, perhaps England’s most mysterious landmark. The origin and purpose of this ring of stones, which dates from the Neolithic period (an estimated 5,000 years ago), is unknown, though most believe it to have been a temple and observatory. Then, continue on to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath. Once a Roman town, now it's famous for its Georgian and Regency architecture. Your Tour Director will show you the town’s major sights, including the wonderfully preserved Roman baths for which the town is named. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservation and must be booked by 20 days prior to departure.
Day5
Step inside Shakespeare’s venue of choice or Newton’s resting place
Breakfast
If London’s literary side interests you, plan a stop at the Dickens House Museum and tour the newly reconstructed Globe Theater, a replica of where Shakespeare himself often appeared on stage. Alternatively, join our St. Paul's Cathedral & Westminster Abbey optional excursion.
Optional Excursions
St. Paul's Cathedral & Westminster Abbey $115* pp
Compare and constrast two of Britain's most famous churches, whose rich history provide an unparalleled look into the country's past. First, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, the second largest church building in the United Kingdom and seat of the Bishop of London. The English-Baroque style cathedral is globally renowned for its magnificent dome and glittering mosaics. Continue on to Westminster Abbey, a Gothic church located near the Houses of Parliament. Since 1066, every royal coronation, with the exception of Edward V and Edward VIII, has taken place at Westminster Abbey. The abbey also serves as the burial ground for Charles Darwin and Sir Isaac Newton. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservation and must be booked by 20 days prior to departure.
Day6
Indulge in some retail therapy…15 acres of it, to be exact
Breakfast
For shoppers, a leisurely visit to Harrods—15 acres of tempting merchandise, ranging from silk scarves and soap to the world’s most meticulously decorated cakes—is a must. Also consider joining an excursion to the Country Homes of Shakespeare & Churchill. This evening, savor a traditional pub dinner followed by a ride on the London Eye on an optional excursion.
Optional Excursions
Country Homes of Shakespeare & Churchill $109* pp
Spend a relaxing day strolling outside the capital and through the Cotswolds, a range of low, rolling hills where Winston Churchill was raised. A local guide will lead you on a tour of Blenheim Palace, the stately country home where he was born. Blenheim Palace is also the country's only non-royal palace, a gift to Churchill's illustrious ancestor, the Duke of Marlborough. Afterward, set out to discover Shakespeare's birthplace, the market town of Stratford-upon Avon.
Optional Excursions
London Eye & Pub Dinner $119* pp
Glide through London's skyline on the London Eye. As the world’s third-tallest observation wheel, the London Eye lifts its passengers 450 feet above the River Thames on a 30-minute ride in an enclosed gondola. In clear weather, you can see for 25 miles around the city center. Afterward, take a brief tour of London’s West End before venturing to a local pub for dinner. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservation and must be booked no fewer than 20 days prior to departure.
Extend Your Stay
Add London $259*
A city that loves to be explored, London beckons with world-class (and often free) museums and galleries, quirky shops, outstanding restaurants, royal pageantry, charming neighborhoods and an unconquered heritage of more than 2,000 years of history.
London2 nights - hotel info
Day1
Day2
About This Experience
London was once considered the capital of the world—and it shows. Britain’s most dynamic city has a history that stretches back 2,000 years, and a culture as rooted in the local pub as it is in world-class museums. Get acquainted with this city at your own pace, whether strolling through Kensington Gardens, climbing the Tower of London or experiencing Big Ben up close and personal.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
5 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 1 three-course dinner with beer or wine
Private deluxe motor coach
Multilingual Tour Director
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Boundless green spaces to explore
You might leave with a Cockney accent
The high culture at the British Museum
Charming pubs & eclectic eateries
Iconic Big Ben & Buckingham Palace
You’ll see the impact of the 2012 Olympic games
Overnight Flight1 night
London5 nights - hotel info
Day2
Get social, get started—it’s time to greet your group and the city
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to London. After clearing customs and collecting your bags, look for the “Hotel by Bus” transfer desk. They’ll be providing the transportation to your hotel. This evening, meet your fellow travelers at an included welcome dinner.
Day3
With sites that moonlight as pop culture icons, London is so familiar
Breakfast
Set out to discover London’s most iconic sites. On your guided sightseeing tour, you’ll make your way past the Piccadilly Circus, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and more. The afternoon is free for exploring on your own, or you can choose to join our optional excursion to Windsor Castle, the oldest occupied castle in the world and the official residence of the Queen.
Optional Excursions
Windsor Castle $85* pp
Led by a Blue Badge Guide, you’ll travel to Windsor for a guided visit to the world’s largest and longest-inhabited castle. Founded by William the Conqueror in 1070, Windsor has been the British Royal Family’s preferred retreat for the past 900 years. Step inside the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel (closed Sundays), where the Knights of the Garter ceremony takes place. View the exhibit of royal treasures on display within the castle. You’ll then have time to stroll through the town of Windsor and have a look at Eton College, a prestigious prep school attended by Princes William and Harry. Please note: Windsor Castle is occasionally closed when in use by the Royal Family; a visit to Henry VIII’s Hampton Court will be substituted when necessary. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservation and must be booked by 20 days prior to departure.
Day4
Today’s agenda: do anything and everything you fancy
Breakfast
Today, you can stroll through Kensington Gardens to view some of London’s most famous statues, or enjoy a taste of nostalgia at Pollock’s Toy Museum. Alternatively, embark on a full-day optional excursion to see Stonehenge, one of England’s most mysterious landmarks, followed by a stop in Bath, England’s most restorative city.
Optional Excursions
Stonehenge & Bath $109* pp
Visit Stonehenge, perhaps England’s most mysterious landmark. The origin and purpose of this ring of stones, which dates from the Neolithic period (an estimated 5,000 years ago), is unknown, though most believe it to have been a temple and observatory. Then, continue on to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath. Once a Roman town, now it's famous for its Georgian and Regency architecture. Your Tour Director will show you the town’s major sights, including the wonderfully preserved Roman baths for which the town is named. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservation and must be booked by 20 days prior to departure.
Day5
Step inside Shakespeare’s venue of choice or Newton’s resting place
Breakfast
If London’s literary side interests you, plan a stop at the Dickens House Museum and tour the newly reconstructed Globe Theater, a replica of where Shakespeare himself often appeared on stage. Alternatively, join our St. Paul's Cathedral & Westminster Abbey optional excursion.
Optional Excursions
St. Paul's Cathedral & Westminster Abbey $115* pp
Compare and constrast two of Britain's most famous churches, whose rich history provide an unparalleled look into the country's past. First, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, the second largest church building in the United Kingdom and seat of the Bishop of London. The English-Baroque style cathedral is globally renowned for its magnificent dome and glittering mosaics. Continue on to Westminster Abbey, a Gothic church located near the Houses of Parliament. Since 1066, every royal coronation, with the exception of Edward V and Edward VIII, has taken place at Westminster Abbey. The abbey also serves as the burial ground for Charles Darwin and Sir Isaac Newton. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservation and must be booked by 20 days prior to departure.
Day6
Indulge in some retail therapy…15 acres of it, to be exact
Breakfast
For shoppers, a leisurely visit to Harrods—15 acres of tempting merchandise, ranging from silk scarves and soap to the world’s most meticulously decorated cakes—is a must. Also consider joining an excursion to the Country Homes of Shakespeare & Churchill. This evening, savor a traditional pub dinner followed by a ride on the London Eye on an optional excursion.
Optional Excursions
Country Homes of Shakespeare & Churchill $109* pp
Spend a relaxing day strolling outside the capital and through the Cotswolds, a range of low, rolling hills where Winston Churchill was raised. A local guide will lead you on a tour of Blenheim Palace, the stately country home where he was born. Blenheim Palace is also the country's only non-royal palace, a gift to Churchill's illustrious ancestor, the Duke of Marlborough. Afterward, set out to discover Shakespeare's birthplace, the market town of Stratford-upon Avon.
Optional Excursions
London Eye & Pub Dinner $119* pp
Glide through London's skyline on the London Eye. As the world’s third-tallest observation wheel, the London Eye lifts its passengers 450 feet above the River Thames on a 30-minute ride in an enclosed gondola. In clear weather, you can see for 25 miles around the city center. Afterward, take a brief tour of London’s West End before venturing to a local pub for dinner. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservation and must be booked no fewer than 20 days prior to departure.
Extend Your Stay
Add London $259*
A city that loves to be explored, London beckons with world-class (and often free) museums and galleries, quirky shops, outstanding restaurants, royal pageantry, charming neighborhoods and an unconquered heritage of more than 2,000 years of history.
London2 nights - hotel info
Day1
Day2
Passport & Visa
In order to enter Great Britain, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport. The expiration date must extend at least six months beyond the date of your return home. No visa is required for U.S. or Canadian citizens. If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact the U.K. consulate for your specific entry requirements.
Health
There are no recommended immunizations for travel to London.
Cuisine
One of the most enjoyable aspects of traveling is the delightful variety of local cuisine. For traditional British fare at a reasonable price, try a pub meal. Stilton cheese, steak and kidney pie, and Cumberland sausages are specialties. Sip afternoon tea with delicious finger sandwiches and scones at Harrods for the ultimate in English tradition. Modern-day London also boasts an array of ethnic restaurants unmatched by almost any other city in the world for its diversity.
Transportation / Walking on tour
Round-trip flights arrive in and depart from London. Your transfer upon arrival in London is provided by Hotel by Bus transfer service, and you can find them at a desk when you make your way through customs and baggage. When you first arrive in London, a Go Ahead representative will meet you after clearing customs. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
Baggage Allowance
Airlines have varying weight restrictions on luggage. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline’s checked baggage policies. Bear in mind that your luggage will probably weigh more on your return trip due to souvenir shopping. We allow only one suitcase per person. One carry-on bag is also permitted, provided that it does not exceed 45 inches (length + width + height). There may be times when you will have to handle your own bags, and you’ll find that lightweight luggage provides a distinct advantage. Make sure you label your baggage and carry valuables, medication and documents in your carry-on luggage.
Clothing and Packing Tips
To ensure you’re comfortable while out exploring, we recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered. For sightseeing, we suggest bringing a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers, as well as a lightweight sports jacket or rainwear. If you’re planning a visit to a high-end restaurant or performance, you may also want to bring dressier attire. Also, please remember that it’s preferable to avoid showing bare legs or shoulders during visits to churches or other religious sites (entrance may be denied on this basis).
Currency
The British pound is the currency you will be using on your tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available in your destination countries, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We advise that you take a combination of bank/ATM cards and credit cards, as needed. We suggest that you inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
Tipping
At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity. We recommend tipping in your tour country’s currency, the equivalent of $3USD/CAD per person per day for your driver and $6USD/CAD to $9USD/CAD per person per day for your Tour Director. If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD/CAD per local guide. Tips can only be paid in cash. Please keep current local currency exchange rates in mind when tipping.
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Wonderful Experience!
My husband and I had a great time in London. Our tour director, Kay, was fantastically helpful (and such a delightful personality). She gave us great advice on how to get to different places in the city, and she knew the best area to score Doctor Who souvenirs. Stonehenge was beautiful (even though our bus broke down -- but Go Ahead refunded our money for that one, so all in all, it wasn't too bad). We were also delightfully surprised by the grandeur of Blenheim Palace. A caveat: the hotel room was cramped and the storage for clothing was less than adequate. Go Ahead should offer an option to upgrade the hotel room.
Good Tour/Bad Hotel
It was good tour with a great tour leader but the hotel, Kensington Cross, was dreadful. Rooms were extremely small, as were the elevators. The breakfast with 'reconstituted eggs' was pretty bad. Hallways were partially renovated. There was no business office; we were sent to the hotel next door if we needed to use the internet. Incidently the hotel next door definitely looked to be of a higher quality - why weren't we there?
London City Tour
This was a great tour with just enough tour guide access and just enough time on our own. The morning city tour was wonderful with a great guide and the trip to Stonehenge was fantastic. We also took the optional Windsor tour but thought that it was not worth the money. I suggest that anyone wanting to go to Windsor Castle, take the train out of London as there is a train stop right AT the castle. The town of Windsor is not large so its easy to walk and the castle is right there in town. The tour guide is not allowed to go into the castle with you so you are on your own there anyway. You could go to Windsor Castle for the cost of a train ticket and a castle ticket. Total waste of money for this excursion which I find unusual for GoAhead. Those are the only two excursions we took on this tour. The hotel(Kensington Close) I found to be very adequate. the room and bathroom are a little small but very functional. TV had good coverage. I only wish that Britain and Europe would be like the US and offer FREE wifi in hotel rooms. They charge 9.99 pounds for 24 hours of useage and once you log in, the clock is ticking. Overall, though, another good trip with GoAhead.
Loved it!
After being to Scandinavia and Germany with Go Ahead in prior years, this trip converted us to City Stay tours for the future. We actually took this trip June of 2011 and thoroughly had the time of our lives. Our hotel was superb (modern, clean, had air conditioning, bar and restaurant) and convenient to so much. Thanks to Kay our tour Director, she gave us as much or as little direction as we needed. We went to museums, restaurants, plays and much more. This November we are going again with Go Ahead to Paris on another city stay-the only concern we have is if we can possibly have near as good a time in Paris as we did in London!
Excellent
From the introduction gathering to the sit down dinner, the trip started off very nicely. Our tour guide informed us with all the necessary guidelines and kept us informed throughout the week. Saw many interesting places and enjoyed all the food. Fish and chips and meat pies - yummy!!! All the people were helpful and very friendly. London was very clean! Would come back again!
Every day was better than the day before!
The 2 Go Ahead Tours were very well planned out and very informative.
Great Trip
I truly enjoyed my trip to London. It was great to have some scheduled activities, but also to have the ability to enjoy free time. Kay was an awesome tour director and very helpful. My only complaint was the hotel. They were doing renovations in our hotel, so it was very noisy at times and the rooms were incredibly small. However, it wasn't enough to ruin our trip. It was great fun. The museums were great.
Perfect way to see London!
Hotel (great location) and air were arranged for us. In London we could choose our own activities and things to see, and stay as long as we liked at each location. There are so many things to do that we ran out of time. Tour director Kay was friendly and fun and available at the hotel with suggestions, directions and her phone to make reservations. Trip highlight.....We saw the Queen!!!
London City Tour
Not only did we have the freedom to plan our personal tour of London and set our own pace, but we also had the guidance and support of an outstanding tour director! We planned our daily itinerary beforehand and purchased the London City Pass with travel online. Thus, we were able to start immediately after check in with evensong at St. Paul's before the group meeting and dinner. Our tour director Kay was a valuable daily resource for confirming plans and making reservations. I had the trip of a lifetime!
london city stay
There is sso much to see and do in London reallly need more time or not to do any excursions. We had a Lot! Of rain. The hotel was not what I expected. No air condioning in our room and after complaining for 48 hours and it not being addressed they moved us to another room. They are in the process of renovations, but we did not have the reno rooms. The bathrooms are tiny and our sink looked like it would fall off the wall. On the positive ide the breakfast buffet had just about everything and was great. Did not have time to even visit the spa area.
