Tudor Legacy Tour: London & Central England
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Experience the Tudor Legacy, from Henry VII and the War of the Roses to the “Golden Age” of Henry VIII and Elizabeth I.
The Tudors – a name synonymous with power, wealth, and intrigue – a tapestry of characters that changed history with their religious and political scandal, carrying England from the medieval into the Renaissance era. Join Wanderlust’s expert docents on a fully guided, all-inclusive, seven night tour exploring the legacy of the 118-year Tudor dynasty from Henry VII (1485) to Elizabeth I (1603). Beginning in London, we step into the world of Henry VIII as local scholars guide us through castles, artworks, and churches, putting into context the impact of his decision-making on England’s social, religious, political, and architectural landscape. We visit sites related to his parents, Henry VII and Elizabeth of York, and all three of his children.
This Legacy tour digs deep into history and tradition, allowing us to see where heads rolled at the Tower of London; go behind the scenes at Henry’s pleasure palace at Hampton Court, and pay homage at his final resting place at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor. Our journey also carries us like royals via boat along the Thames River to Greenwich, for a look at Henry VIII’s birthplace and the Queen’s House.
Explore the legacy of the short reign of Edward VI; the tumultuous return to Catholicism under “Bloody” Mary; and be swept into the Golden Age of the Virgin Queen Elizabeth. We’ll raise plenty of pints during lunch and dinner at historic pubs- both in the city and throughout the countryside- including London’s historic George Inn. Take notes as we watch a live sword fighting demonstration at the Globe Theatre and practice your “God Save the Queen!” as we see the exact spot at Hatfield House where Elizabeth I learned she became queen.
Then it is off to the land of The ‘Kingmaker to spend three nights in the heart of Warwick. Here, we learn the pivotal role of Warwick’s powerful (and misaligned) Earls in the Tudors’ rise to power during a private tour and dinner at the marvelous medieval fortress, Warwick Castle. Wander the halls like mighty warriors admiring the world class armor while channeling your inner lord or lady during a private dinner. Up the road in the rolling hills of Warwickshire, English Heritage docents lead us through the picturesque ruins and Elizabethan Gardens of Kenilworth Castle, home to Elizabeth’s favorite, Robert Dudley.
Our final day of the Tudor Legacy Tour in the country is spent at leisure in Stratford-Upon-Avon, home of William Shakespeare. After lunch and a guided orientation of the village, meander Stratford’s cobbled streets lined with thatched roofed homes, tour John Harvard’s Tudor townhouse or revel in the legacy of the great bard with a visit to his birthplace. After dinner on your own, we’ll attend a play at the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Before returning to London, we stop for lunch in Windsor, where we have free time to explore the castle, which remains a royal residence, and to see the tomb of Henry VIII. The tour concludes with a farewell dinner in London and a bird’s eye view over the sparkling city during an evening ride on the London Eye Ferris wheel. A view fit for a king!
Call us for pricing
Single Supplement: Call us for pricing, Airfare not included, Attractions, Meals and some Wine included
Features & Attractions
Itinerary
Location
Our tour begins in London and journeys northwest into the Heart of England. Using the town of Warwick as a base to explore the countryside around Stratford-upon-Avon and ends in Windsor.