Discover England’s Cities
Country comfort and London sights
Drive yourself through the countryside of England, visiting towns and cities know for their Viking or Roman history, their academic secrets, landmarks, monuments, and architecture. Use your freedom to experience the sites that call to you most and stop in at other attractions that catch your interest between destinations.
Then finish your vacation in London, adapting to the mad pace of the capital city as you tour through museums and stunning palaces and gardens.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Manchester (MAN) and out of London (LHR)
- Manual car rental for 7 days- upgrade to automatic available
- 2 nights in York at the Sandburn Hall Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Oxford at the Courtyard by Marriott Oxford City Centre or similar
- Oxford City Sightseeing Hop-on/Hop-off Pass (24-hour)
- 2 nights in Bath at the Hotel Indigo Bath or similar
- Bath City Sightseeing Hop-on/Hop-off Pass (24-hour)
- 2 nights in London at the The Holiday Inn Bloomsbury Hotel or similar
- London Pass (2-day)
- Breakfast daily
Great Ways to Explore
-
Kick up Roman and Viking history buried within modern cities.
Ride the London Eye, Europe's largest ferris wheel, and take in the London skyline.
-
Take a dip in Bath and explore the remnants of Roman civilizations.
-
Explore through Oxford University, looking for the infamous Oxford secrets, and see if you can pick out landmarks seen in Hollywood blockbusters.
-
Take your London Pass through the capital city and enjoy an included cruise along the River Thames.
Tour through the some of the best towns and cities England has to offer. Everything from modern day towns built on the foundations ancient civilizations, castles, ruins, university towns, and of course, the capital.
With tour passes and your own rental car, make this vacation your own. Pick out your favorite sights to see and discover hidden stops along the way!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Manchester (MAN) and out of London (LHR)
- Manual car rental for 7 days- upgrade to automatic available
- 2 nights in York at the Sandburn Hall Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Oxford at the Courtyard by Marriott Oxford City Centre or similar
- Oxford City Sightseeing Hop-on/Hop-off Pass (24-hour)
- 2 nights in Bath at the Hotel Indigo Bath or similar
- Bath City Sightseeing Hop-on/Hop-off Pass (24-hour)
- 2 nights in London at the The Holiday Inn Bloomsbury Hotel or similar
- London Pass (2-day)
- Breakfast daily
-
Kick up Roman and Viking history buried within modern cities.
Ride the London Eye, Europe's largest ferris wheel, and take in the London skyline.
-
Take a dip in Bath and explore the remnants of Roman civilizations.
-
Explore through Oxford University, looking for the infamous Oxford secrets, and see if you can pick out landmarks seen in Hollywood blockbusters.
-
Take your London Pass through the capital city and enjoy an included cruise along the River Thames.
Tour through the some of the best towns and cities England has to offer. Everything from modern day towns built on the foundations ancient civilizations, castles, ruins, university towns, and of course, the capital.
With tour passes and your own rental car, make this vacation your own. Pick out your favorite sights to see and discover hidden stops along the way!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Manchester!
Arrive in Manchester Airport and pick up your rental car. Make your way to your first accommodation in York, a city whose history goes back to the time of the Romans and Vikings!
Once settled, head over to Clifford's Tower and hike the short path; you'll be treated to panoramic views of the old Viking City below!
Situated in the center of York amongst 1,000 acres of countryside is the upscale Sandburn Hall Hotel, featuring vast woodland and an 18-hole golf course. This fantastic 4-star accommodation is less than 10 miles away from several attractions including the Quilt Museum and Gallery, the York City Walls, and The Bar Convent Living Heritage Museum. Visitors are also 31 miles away from the Leeds Bradford International Airport. The hotel's serene countryside location make it perfect for nature activities like golfing, hiking, and cycling.
The Sandburn Hall Hotel offers guests an array of amenities including a restaurant and bar, free parking, 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, complimentary Wi-Fi, and gorgeous views. Additionally, patrons can indulge in a daily continental breakfast serving English and Irish meal options.
Guest rooms are elegant and comfortably decorated. They come with a TV, minifridge, private bathroom, and kettle.
Discover the meaning of true elegance at the luxurious The Grand York, the first 5-star hotel in York. Experience exquisite service, classically beautiful English style, gorgeous spa facilities, unforgettable Afternoon Tea, and award-winning restaurants.
You'll forget you're in the middle of the city when you escape to the secluded and tranquil Spa at The Grand York. Unwind with a variety of spa treatments that will work away every stress. Take a pleasant swim in the large pool, treat yourself to a mani-pedi, relax in the aromatic steam room, or break a sweat in the state-of-the-art gym.Cozy up in your luxurious room where you'll find Egyptian cotton bed linen, Molton Brown toiletries, free WiFi and oh so much more. Rain in the forecast? Don't worry - look around your room for your very own umbrella that you are free to use for the duration of your stay.
When it's time to eat, room service is an option at all hours of the day or night. If you feel like stretching your legs, head to Hudson's, The Grand York's award-winning restaurant that will leave you thinking wow. For more fun, grab a drink at the 1906 Bar and make sure to partake in Afternoon Tea before you leave!
Day 2. York
Enjoy a full day in York on your own. One of the finest walled cities in Europe, York bursts with history and culture at every corner. Head this morning to York Minster, a huge 13th-century Gothic cathedral with stained glass windows and two working bell towers.
Get a history lesson at the Yorkshire Museum, the York Castle Museum or National Railway Museum. Leave time to stroll The Shambles, a cobbled medieval street lined with timber-framed houses dating back to the late 14th and 15th centuries!
Day 3. York - Oxford
After breakfast, it's time to depart York. You might want to stop in Stratford and visit Shakespeare's Birthplace; then it's on to the iconic city of Oxford! Your 4-star hotel is located just a 5-minute drive to the city's picturesque center, so head into town for a leisurely dinner.
Make your retreat to Courtyard Oxford City Centre. Nestled in the heart of Oxford city centre, this hotel provides guests unparalleled access to local attractions like Oxford University, Bicester Village, Oxford Castle, Westgate Centre and so much more. Take in stunning castle views from the rooftop terrace or dine at the welcoming restaurant, offering modern English classics in the heart of this world-famous University City.
Located just about 8 miles away from the mystical and historical city of Oxford, the Doubletree by Hilton sits within 17 acres of fresh countryside land. Fully equipped with a fitness center, indoor pool, an on-site Rycote Restaurant featuring locally-grown ingredients, and more, the Doubletree in Oxford presents guests with a warm and welcoming stay in one of England's prettiest small towns. The real highlight of the hotel, aside from the outstanding garden and décor, is the incredibly serene spa with a heated pool, sauna, massage table, and a myriad of other pampering treatments.
A tennis court is also available to guests, as well as a golf course just a few blocks away. For outdoor attractions, guests are but a mere 12 minute drive away from Blenheim Palace; 25 minutes from Bicester Village; and 10 miles away from the Covered Market and England's prestigious Oxford University. With so many activities to do near the hotel, as well as rooms with free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service, a stay at the Doubletree by Hilton in Oxford will surely be one for the books.
Experience exquisite luxury at the leading 5-star Randolph Hotel. Indulge in mouthwatering cuisine at its award-winning restaurant, pamper yourself at its sensuous spa, and work all your stresses away in the fitness center. Feel like royalty knowing that this hotel has played host to several prime ministers and presidents. Explore the world-famous University City of Oxford from this perfectly located ideal base.
As you walk through this grand hotel, admire its elegant decor that mixes traditional rich colors and fabrics with modern furnishings. Head to your spacious room and find a large cozy bed, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, complimentary water, and much more. When it's time to eat, head to the hotel's Acanthus Restaurant and enjoy a delicious meal prepared by acclaimed chefs with only the finest, freshest ingredients. Unwind with a drink at the hotel's renowned Morse Bar, named after the world-famous Inspector Morse, or relax in the stylish Cartoon Bar. Be sure to head to the Drawing Room for an unforgettable Afternoon Tea experience!
Day 4. Oxford
Spend the day discovering the secrets of Oxford today!
In the evening, head to the famous Cowley Road and experience the vibrant nightlife of this university town.
Oxford City Sightseeing Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Tour (24 Hours)
Home to the oldest University in Britain, Oxford is an
architectural marvel. On this 24-hour City Sightseeing Hop-on/Hop-off tour,
you'll get fantastic views of its honey-colored buildings as well as stunning
glimpses of the hushed courtyards of its many Colleges.
There is one route in Oxford: The Red Route, with 20 stops. The full route lasts approximately 40 minutes, however, you can hop-on and off wherever and whenever you like.
With numerous stops along the tour route, you
are free to hop on and off at your leisure so that you can make the most of
your stay. Hop off at Park End Street, where you can take a stroll and take in the
view of the Castle Steam Mill Stream, a hidden treasure in Oxford. Go right
straight past some of the old-style colleges, some of which date back to the early
14th century. Or fully immerse yourself in the English lifestyle
and go for afternoon tea at the famous Browns Restaurant located along the route.
Day 5. Oxford - Bath
Make your way to Bath today; on the way you might like to stop in the picturesque Cotswolds region with its quaint villages and charming thatched-roofed cottages. The rest of your day is to enjoy at leisure; you may want to make your way to Alexandra Park for sweeping views of the city which is especially beautiful as the sunset dominates the sky.
Set in the historic city of Bath, the Hotel Indigo Bath is a 4-star boutique hotel belonging to the IHG hotel family. This contemporary hotel was built in an 18th-century building and renovated to accommodate a relaxed, yet lavish lifestyle. The atmosphere is welcoming and home-like with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning throughout the facility. Guest rooms are exquisitely decorated and feature a variety of amenities including a flat-screen television, phone, private bath, Nespresso coffee machine, and more.
Guests can enjoy fine-dining at the on-site gourmet British restaurant, The Elder. Promising to serve traditional British cuisine in a sustainable and respectful-to-roots manner, the restaurant is open from lunch through dinner via the patio and inside its relaxed dining room. There is also a bar and garden.
A fitness center, business center, and concierge are also available. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk away from Bath Abbey, the Roman Baths, and the Bath Spa train station. Other notable nearby attractions include The Circus Bath, Queen Square, Pigeon Park, and many more.
This 4-star hotel in Bath is wonderfully-located near some of the area's top attractions. The Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and Bath Spa Train Station are all under a 10-minute walk away from the hotel, while Bristol Airport is about 18 miles away. Other notable sights near the hotel include The Circus Bath and Royal Crescent.
There are many amenities at the hotel for guests to enjoy such as a continental breakfast, fitness center, and bar. All guest rooms are comfortably decorated and come with all the modern necessities a traveler needs. This includes a flat-screen TV, private bathroom, mini-fridge, coffee/tea maker, and free Wi-Fi.
Ease your stress away at the DoubleTree by Hilton Bath. Enjoy views of the stunning Pulteney Bridge, rolling hills, and lovely skyline from one of the four beautifully decorated suites. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, 200-capacity meeting rooms, a 24-hour front desk, daily breakfast, coffee and newspapers in the lobby, an on-site restaurant, a bar, and concierge services.
Rooms are spacious and stylish, and feature air conditioning, complimentary mineral water, a desk, a safe, ironing facilities, and private bathrooms including a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Deluxe rooms also feature sitting areas, and suites also include a separate bath and power shower.
The Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel is nestled in stunning gardens and offers 5-star decadence and excellent personal service to all guests who reside in one of the 129 luxurious rooms. Tranquility features in almost every aspect of the hotel and if offers, a Thermal Suite, signature spa treatments, a swimming pool, a hydro therapy pool, two award-winning restaurants, free Wi-Fi, and a wonderful environment to enjoy the splendors of Bath.
Rooms are elegant and luxuriously furnished, and outfitted with air conditioning, coffee and tea facilities, free bottled water, a safe, ironing facilities, a minibar, a phone, and a TV. They also have private bathrooms that include bathrobes and a hairdryer.
Day 6. Bath
Today embark on a sightseeing adventure with help from the hop-on/hop-off bus!
Bath City Sightseeing Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Tour (24 Hours)
Spend time sightseeing in Bath and be thrilled by this renowned Georgian city. Few places share such impeccable historic credentials with the diversity of museums, irresistible shopping and quality restaurants – you will never be short of things to do in Bath.
Sightseeing in this amazing city is an incredibly enjoyable experience for all ages so sit back, relax and let this 24-hour City Sightseeing show you the sights! Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Bath is home to some of the finest architectural sights and fascinating things to do in Europe; such as the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge and the Circus alongside one of the largest tourist attractions in South West England – The Roman Baths.
In addition to the Red Line City Route, your ticket includes access to the spectacular Skyline Route that takes you via the Abbey on to the University of Bath and the nearby American Museum, then around the beautiful Claverton Downs with some amazing views of the city to Prior Park Landscape Garden. The full Red Line loop takes approximately 50 minutes, and the Skyline Route takes approximately 45 minutes - however you can hop on and off wherever and whenever you'd like, along the way.
Day 7. Bath - London
Today you can depart Bath and visit iconic Stonehenge, steeped in mystery. Then its on to London to drop off your car rental and make your way to your city-centre hotel. Celebrate your first night in England's capital city by indulging in a platter of fish & chips!
Welcome to the sleek and ultra-modern Holiday Inn Bloomsbury! This hotel is situated right in the Bloomsbury area and is conveniently located near several attractions including the British Museum, Charles Dickens Museum, and the Grant Museum of Zoology. With a wide array of restaurants and bars within walking distance, visitors can also explore other popular areas of London such as Covent Garden, Soho, and even Westminster!
The Holiday Inn Bloomsbury offers guests several in-room and onsite amenities. Guests will stay in smart rooms that are equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen televisions, and complimentary tea and coffee makers. Those staying in executive rooms and suites can opt for room service as well. For hotel dining options, visitors are able to enjoy meals at the Callaghan's Pub or hot and cold beverages at the Junction Bar. Other amenities include access to business services for those on work trips!
Recently refurbished to the highest standards, the Thistle Kensington Gardens Hotel has the best of London right on the doorstep. Hyde Park is literally across the road from the hotel, while the West End shops and theaters are just a short cab ride away. Close to the hotel is Kensington Palace, which was home to Diana, Princess of Wales, and the famous Gardens that give the hotel its name. Fashionable and stylish Kensington High Street is a short stroll away. The Thistle Kensington Gardens hotel has 175 rooms, including spacious executive bedrooms offering wonderful views over Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
The Clermont, Victoria is located steps from Victoria Station and just minutes from Buckingham Palace. Guest rooms are equipped with complimentary WiFi, complimentary essential oil-infused toiletries, coffee/tea making facilities, bathrobes, and slippers. Enjoy a meal, afternoon tea, or evening cocktail at the hotel's restaurant or bar. Then walk to one of the handful of nearby theaters to catch an evening show! Plus, with the hotel's prime location, you'll find that the entire city is easily accessible no matter where you wish to go.
Immerse yourself in English elegance at this beautiful, ideally located hotel. In just steps, find yourself at Park Lane, Oxford Street, Hyde Park, and many other landmarks that make up London's beautiful center! After a day of shopping and sightseeing, recharge with a cocktail at the hotel's trendy bar. When your stomach starts grumbling, indulge in classic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients at The Grill. This 1930's-themed on-site restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so stop by for a delicious meal at any time. If you're looking for a quick bite to eat, The Deli is a perfect place to enjoy a simple sandwich or relaxing cup of coffee. Don't forget to enjoy traditional, delicious Afternoon Tea, which is offered at the hotel daily!
As soon as you step into your room, you will forget that London's busiest street exists just around the corner. Unwind in this tranquil retreat of calm and comfort, where luxurious amenities such as blackout curtains, a rainfall shower, free unlimited WiFi, a Smart TV, and a complimentary mini bar will allow you to fall into a state of pure relaxation.
Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington features a restaurant and a bar/lounge. Room service is available 24 hours a day. The hotel serves Hot and cold buffet breakfasts (surcharges apply). Recreational amenities include a fitness facility. This 4-star property has a business center and offers a meeting/conference room, secretarial services, and audio-visual equipment. Wireless Internet access (surcharge) is available in public areas. This London property has event space consisting of banquet facilities and conference/meeting rooms.
London Pass (2-day)
The 2-Day Go City London Pass is an easy-to-use digital pass which offers you free entry to 80+ iconic tourist attractions, magnificent landmarks and tours, including an informative 1-day hop-on/hop-off bus tour. Save time and money off the normal admission prices and customize your visit to this incredible city, while paying nothing at the gate. The more you see, the more you save! A digital guidebook is also included.
The London Pass (2-day) Includes:
- Free entry to over 80 of London’s top attractions, tours, museums and sights
- Fast Track Entry to a selection of the most popular attractions
- Ultimate flexibility in planning your own vacation
- One day Hop-on/Hop-off bus ticket
- Digital guidebook packed with useful information about the attractions, including directions and maps
- Access to your Pass, digital guidebook, map, attraction details and more, all from your smartphone with the London Pass app
Day 8. London
Being your sightseeing adventure in London by heading to Buckingham Palace in time for the Changing of the Guard! Then, continue using the benefits of your London Pass; enjoy a ride on the hop-on/hop-off bus and hop off at the Tower of London, where you can enjoy a guided tour with the Beefeaters.
In the evening, consider treating yourself to a ride on the London Eye, which offers sweeping views of the city below.
A Tip For Your Trip: Changing of the Guard takes place daily at 11:30 AM April-July, and then on alternating days the rest of the year. Check the official website for information regarding the schedule.
Day 9. Depart England
To day you will be transferred to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) in accordance with your departure flight.
Transfer to London airport (LHR)
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Aer Lingus Vacation Store website and may not represent current prices.
Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid Aer Lingus transatlantic services as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.
Air fares are based on a 14-day advance purchase and include round-trip economy class airfare, including carrier and government-imposed taxes and fees, and the September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per enplanement originating at a U.S. airport. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect some taxes or fees. Other departure dates and origins are available at slightly higher rates and may be operated by our partner airline, JetBlue, our codeshare partner, United Airlines, or interline partners American Airlines and USAirways. Travel to Britain / Continental Europe are via connecting service in Dublin, Ireland and may be operated by our partners Stobart Air (operating Aer Lingus Regional) and Flybe. Fares apply to North American originating passengers only, and are not eligible for accrual of frequent flyer points/mileage. Full payment is required at the time of reservation. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Child/infant discounts are not available, and stopovers are not permitted. Advance seat selection may not be available on all flights.
Optional Bag and Service Fees: A second checked bag fee applies. Click here for optional bag and service fees.
Vacation packages are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date or on all flights, and may be restricted to certain hotel room and car categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required at the time of reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only. Bookings made through our call center may incur a concierge fee of up to $25 per person.
Escorted vacation packages are per person based on two travelers (unless otherwise specified), and typically include hotel accommodations; transportation with professional driver/guide; sightseeing as listed, some meals, local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage of one (1) suitcase per person, due to limited capacity on motor coaches. Space is limited and prices may be restricted to certain travel dates, length of stay or room type. Driver and guide gratuities are not included, and are at the discretion of the traveler. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum child ages and handicapped traveler restrictions may apply on escorted tours; please call for details.
Promo Code Offer Details: All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Offers are available for phone bookings via our reservation agents as well as online. This promo code can be input online on the payment screen. The call center is open Monday through Friday 9AM – 9PM ET, Saturdays 10AM – 6PM ET. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for airfare only, or any other products or services. If a flight reservation is changed or cancelled, the original fare basis rules apply (plus any increase in fare). Additional restrictions may apply.
Cancellations/Changes: Rates are non-refundable. Substantial restrictions apply for cancellation/change, and depend upon the package type. Trip protection is recommended.
Call 1-800-495-1632 or go to Terms&Conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.
Aer Lingus Vacation Store is managed by DH Enterprise & Associates (Tax ID #61-1452112); the Tour Operator, is responsible for fulfillment of all products and services purchased regardless of affiliates used. Purchaser's credit card will be charged by DH Enterprise & Associates and will appear as follows on credit card statement: "Aer Lingus Vacation Store."