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Land of the Red Dragon (Tour 120) |
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DAY ONE - WEDNESDAY Leaving London early, we take the freeway leaving the city behind. Shortly we leave to join the old coaching road and visit the perfectly preserved 14th century town of Laycock, home of the founder of the photography, George Fox Talbot. The stately and magnificent Georgian city of Bath is next on the itinerary where, following a panoramic tour of its architectural splendours, we'll take lunch. Then it's across the mighty Severn River into Wales, "Land of Song" and a first stop at Roman Caerleon, reputedly home to King Arthur and where we'll see a well preserved amphitheatre. Subject to time, we'll visit a small historic hill town noted for tis connection with Druid Dr Robert Price before arriving at our accommodation for the night. Our accommodation is either a 17th century Welsh Farm, or a picturesque vineyard. DAY TWO - THURSDAY We begin our day by taking a panoramic tour of Cardiff, capital of Wales, before visiting St Fagans, the outdoor national folk museum of Wales where scores of rebuilt ancient properties, including houses, churches, a mill, bakery, pubs and even a school have been wonderfully preserved. This afternoon we explore the verdant vale of Glamorgan, including the market town where Sir Anthony Hopkins went to school, the Valley of Kings where the wizard Merlin was schooled, rugged coastline where smugglers lured ships to the rocks, and cross a river by 13th century stepping stones. Tonight we round off our perfect day with a cultural night in the dungeons of Cardiff Castle! Accommodation as above. DAY THREE - FRIDAY Many different invaders, Romans, Saxons, Normans and more recently 18th century industrialist, have tried to conquer Wales, and in their attempts have left many reminders. We'll be in the drive up the famed Rhondda Valley (home of Tom Jones and cradle of British Socialism). Here you'll see the houses of the old mining villages clinging to the hills and the mass grave that marks the site of Abervan, where 134 young children lost their lives in a mining accident in the 1960s. Then, by complete contrast, to historis Monmouth home of Mr Rolls of Roll Royce fame, birthplace of Henry IV, and an interesting museum featuring Admiral Horatio Nelson. We'll be taking lunch in Wales's olderst pub, used by "Hanging Judge" Jefferies and still showing the marks of the moose! Then through the breathtaking Black Mountains to a 11th century priory or ancient "hidden" church. Our afternoon takes us down the magnificent Wye Valley and a visit to Tintern Abbey and the magnificent Chepstow Castle. After a pub supper here we'll attend a Make Voice Choir practice (not in August). Accommodation as above.  DAY FOUR - SATURDAY Today, we'll drive through the Wales-England border Forest of Dean to the lovely city of Gloucester. A highlight of our visit will be a tour of the magnificent cathedral, a tour of Gloucester's restored Victorian docks and a visit to the shop Beatrix Potter used as a model for her 'House of the Tailor' story. From Gloucester, we drive through the honey coloured villages of the Cotswolds, stopping at quaint and photogenic sights en route. Whether Spring, Summer or Autumn, the flower filled gardens and rolling hills make this one of England's most picturesque areas. Two will stand out in particular, Burford and Minster Lovell. Eventually we'll arrive back into London. Your tour price includes all transportation, including airport transfers (subject to our general conditions). Accommodation in three star or equivalent style lodgings. All rooms en suite, unless specifically informed at the time of booking your tour. Full English breakfasts on every morning. Three course dinners every evening. All tips and taxes included on group bills, excluding those you may wish to give to your guide/companion and any additional tips you may feel desirous of giving to locals for exceptional service (your guide will advise). All entrance fees when accompanied by the guide, excluding any itemised as optional in the itinerary. |
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