Overview
Discover some of the most historic sites in England on a 3-day tour of the southwest, visiting the Roman city of Bath, and center of the Kingdom of Wessex at Exeter. Drive along the preshistoric Jurassic Coast of Dorset, and head into the vast moorland of Dartmoor, a protected national park with exposed granite hilltops. The tour, by comfortable 16-seat minibus, also includes time at Stonehenge, the most famous stone circle in England, and a chance to climb Glastonbury Tor.
Day 1: Depart London for the old Kingdom of Wessex en route to the famous Neolithic standing stone circle of Stonehenge on Salisbury Plain. Explore the mystical stones, which continue to confound historians to this day. Next, head for the dramatic south coast of Dorset, enjoying the panoramic views over white sand beaches, and the natural rock arch of Durdle Door. Spend the afternoon on the Jurassic Coast before driving to the historic city of Exeter, which was the most southwesterly fortified settlement of the ancient Roman Empire. You will be based here for the next 2 nights.
Day 2: Enjoy a morning exploring the wilderness of Dartmoor, including the ancient “Clapper Bridge” at Postbridge. Go to the market town of Tavistock, where Francis Drake used to live. Return to Exeter in the early afternoon to explore the Roman town’s underground passages and ancient walls. Visit the renovated Royal Albert Memorial Museum to find fascinating sections on zoology, archaeology, anthropology, and fine art. Marvel at the 12th-century Norman Cathedral, which boasts the longest uninterrupted vaulted ceiling in England.
Day 3: On your final day, head to Glastonbury and visit Glastonbury Tor. Learn about its connection to Avalon and King Arthur, and climb the Tor for spectacular views across 3 English counties. Drive to the beautiful City of Bath for lunch, with time in the afternoon to explore the relics of its Roman past, including the famous Roman Baths. Admire the handsome Georgian architecture of the city center, and pop into the 7th-century Bath Abbey, noted for its fan vaulting and commemorative stained glass. Return to London for an early evening drop off.
