UK TOUR BY PRIVATE COACH
London - Bath - Cheddar Gorge - Stratford-upon-Avon - York - Halifax
28th September - 11th October 2025
Diva Destinations offers an enchanting tour through some of England's most iconic locations, blending cultural immersion with historical exploration. The journey begins in London, where you are treated to both the city's iconic landmarks and hidden gems, from the Tower of London to the vibrant West End. Moving on to Bath, you will experience the city’s stunning Georgian architecture, Roman Baths, and scenic countryside. From Bath, we have a day trip to Cheddar Gorge. This unique visit is like stepping into a natural wonderland, where dramatic limestone cliffs and ancient caves reveal the beauty and mystery of one of England’s most stunning landscapes. Next, is Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Here we delve into the life and legacy of the playwright while exploring charming Tudor-style buildings including Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. Finally, the tour heads to York, an ancient city steeped in history, where you can wander the medieval Shambles, marvel at the Gothic splendour of York Minster, and enjoy the city's rich tapestry of stories and traditions. Each destination is carefully curated to provide a memorable blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making this Diva Destinations tour an exceptional way to experience England
Anne Lister / Gentleman Jack - During your stay in York we have arranged a captivating trip to Halifax, where we invite you to step into the world of Anne Lister, a trailblazing Lesbian icon of the early 19th century whose life story has captured hearts worldwide. Known as "Gentleman Jack," Anne Lister was a pioneering landowner, diarist, and openly Lesbian woman who defied societal norms. The trip includes a visit to her ancestral home, Shibden Hall, an exquisitely preserved Tudor manor where her life and legacy come alive through its period rooms and grounds. Here you will gain an insight into Anne’s bold personality, meticulous diaries, and innovative estate management practices. We will also immerse ourselves in the town's rich industrial history, from the grand architecture of the Piece Hall to the cobblestone streets that Anne herself once walked. This part of our tour provides a deeply moving experience in Anne Lister’s unique story, LGBTQ+ history, and the charm of Yorkshire’s heritage sites.
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Diva Destinations hosts throughout your stay
Return private coach transfers from Heathrow to your London Hotel
Private coach throughout your tour
Entrance to Windsor Castle
Hotel porterage throughout
4 nights bed & breakfast accommodation at the 4* Copthorne Tara Hotel, central London
Entrance to Tower of London
Guided walking tour of London
Entrance to Buckingham Palace (we will confirm which area of the Palace we can access during the month of October)
Dinner Cruise on the Thames including Welcome drink on arrival - 4 course meal - Live entertainment and dancing till late
3 nights bed & breakfast accommodation at the 5* Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel
Guided walking tour of Bath
Entrance to Roman Baths with a 1-hour audio guided tour of the Baths
Entrance to Cheddar Caves & Gorge
2 nights bed & breakfast accommodation at the 4* Hotel Indigo, Stratford-upon-Avon
Entrance to Shakespeare's Birthplace
Entrance to Anne Hathaway's Cottage
Entrance to the Shakespeare distillery or similar
Show at the Shakespeare Theatre
4 nights bed & breakfast accommodation at the 4* Milner York (formerly The Principal York)
Entrance to Fairfax house
Guided walking tour of York
Entrance to Shibden Hall
100% financial protection
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Meals not stated
Personal Travel Insurance
Tips/Gratuities
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Sole Occupancy Room: £5,888 | $7,700 USD
Twin / Double Room: £4,685 | $6,100 USD per person
USD$ rates are subject to exchange rate fluctuation.
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Diva Destinations Hosts throughout your stay
Entrance to Windsor Castle
Entrance to Tower of London
River Boat Dinner Cruise on the Thames
Private Coach hire for your 10-day tour
Guided walking tour of Bath led by a local Blue Badge Guide
Entrance to the Roman Baths with a 1-hour audio-guided tour
Entrance to Cheddar Caves & Gorge
Entrance to Shakespeare's Birthplace
Entrance to Anne Hathaway's Cottage
Entrance to the Shakespeare distillery or similar
Show at the Shakespeare Theatre
Entrance to Fairfax House, York
Guided walking tour of York (including references to Anne Lister/Gentleman Jack) led by a local Blue Badge Guide
Entrance to Shibden Hall, Halifax the ancestral home of Anne Lister
Visit the Piece Hall, Halifax
4 nights Accommodation at the 4* Milner York (formerly The Principal York)
4 nights Accommodation at the 4* Copthorne Tara Hotel, Kensington, central London
2 nights Accommodation at the 4* Indigo Hotel in Stratford upon Avonem description
3 nights Accommodation at the 5* Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel in Bath
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Sunday 28 Sep 2025, Day 1
Our overseas guests will be picked up from Heathrow airport by private coach and transferred to our hotel to drop of our luggage. Our Uk clients can either meet us at Heathrow or at our central London Hotel. We will then all continue by private coach for entry to Buckingham Palace. Visiting Buckingham Palace offers a rare look into the British monarchy’s official London residence, a symbol of the nation’s royal heritage and grandeur. The palace opens its State Rooms to the public, where guests can view luxurious rooms filled with precious artwork, elaborate furnishings, and sparkling chandeliers that have witnessed centuries of royal ceremonies and receptions. After this visit, we will go back to our hotel to check-in and relax before taking our welcome group dinner in a nearby restaurant.
No Meals are included today
Monday 29 Sep 2025, Day 2
After a late breakfast we depart for our trip to Windsor Castle. A visit to Windsor Castle is a journey into the heart of British royal history and tradition, set within the walls of the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Nestled in the charming town of Windsor, the castle has served as a royal residence for over 1,000 years, making it a living museum of England’s monarchy. As you approach, you are greeted by the grandeur of the castle’s towers and stone battlements, a testament to centuries of architectural evolution. Inside, you can explore the opulent State Apartments, adorned with masterpieces by artists like Rembrandt and Rubens, and marvel at the exquisite furnishings that have been collected over centuries. St George's Chapel, the site of numerous royal weddings, is another highlight, with its stunning Gothic architecture and royal tombs, including that of Henry VIII. Outside, the sweeping views from the castle grounds reveal the lush landscape that has made Windsor a favoured royal retreat. A visit to Windsor Castle offers a rare glimpse into the private and public lives of the British monarchy, providing an unforgettable experience of heritage, history, and regal splendour. We return to our hotel where we’ll have our group dinner in a nearby restaurant. Tonight there will be an optional excursion to a West End Theatre Show. Meals: B
Tuesday 30 Sep 2025, Day 3
This morning, we have our guided walking tour of London, led by a certified Blue Badge Guide. After lunch we have our visit to the Tower of London. A visit to the Tower of London is an immersive journey into one of England’s most historic and storied sites, where nearly a thousand years of royal history, intrigue, and legend come to life. Originally built by William the Conqueror, this imposing fortress on the banks of the River Thames has served as a royal residence, prison, treasury, and armoury. From its dark tales of imprisonment to its glittering symbols of monarchy, the Tower of London offers a fascinating glimpse into England's rich and complex past. Today we will use our Oyster card giving us travel on public transport within Zones 1&2 of London.
After our visit to the Tower of London we will make our way back to the hotel to freshen up before our evening Dinner Cruise on the Thames. Meals: B,D
Wednesday 01 Oct 2025, Day 4
After breakfast we depart by private coach for the beautiful city of Bath. Our home for 3 nights is the Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel. This 5* property has wonderful views over the city of Bath, which is a ten minute walk away. Situated in extensive grounds, this Grand old house offers 104 bedrooms furnished with a subtle blend of colours to maintain the feel of a private house. The hotel also has a fully equipped gymnasium, beauty facilities, indoor pool, spa pool, saunas and a tennis court and croquet lawn in the grounds.
After checking in we’ll wander into Bath centre and take dinner in a local pub. Meals: B
Thursday 02 Oct 2025, Day 5
After breakfast we will be taken on a guided walking tour led by a local certified Blue Badge Guide (up to 3 hrs). Visiting Bath is like stepping into a beautifully preserved slice of Georgian elegance, set against the natural beauty of the English countryside. Famous for its stunning honey-coloured stone buildings, Bath is renowned for its Roman heritage and 18th-century architecture. Just nearby, Bath Abbey offers a glimpse into medieval history with its stunning stained glass and grand Gothic architecture. Walking through the city, the grand Royal Crescent and Circus are breathtaking examples of Georgian design, with sweeping rows of elegant townhouses. Bath’s cultural charm is further enriched by its connection to Jane Austen, whose novels captured its genteel society; fans can delve into her world at the Jane Austen Centre. After lunch you have a visit to the famous Roman Baths with a 1-hour audio guided tour of the Baths. The Roman Baths is a remarkably preserved complex that once drew ancient Roman visitors to its warm, mineral-rich waters. Today, we can tour the baths and even taste the mineral water that made the city famous. On the site of an even more ancient spring (supposedly discovered by the Celtic King Bladud in 870BC), the Romans constructed a baths complex dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva. The initial building was finished in the 1st Century, but the baths were extended and became increasingly sophisticated over 400 years of use. We will spend the remainder of the day at leisure before our group evening meal in a local restaurant. Meals: B
Friday 03 Oct 2025, Day 6
After breakfast we take our private coach to the beautiful town of Cheddar to visit the Cheddar Caves & Gorge, a truly iconic natural gem nestled in the Mendip Hills. Cheddar Gorge is not only one of Britain's most spectacular natural landmarks, but also a Site of Special Scientific Interest and part of the newly formed Mendip Hills National Landscape. The Gorge boasts awe-inspiring cliffs and extraordinary subterranean stalactite show caves, plus many fascinating secrets about our prehistoric ancestors. After our visit to the caves and gorge we hope to have time to explore the quaint town of Cheddar. As the name suggests it’s the birthplace of Cheddar cheese, which has been produced there since the 12th century.
We return to our hotel in Bath for our group dinner. Meals: B
Saturday 04 Oct 2025, Day 7
After breakfast we take our private coach and make our way to Stratford-upon-Avon. Visiting Stratford-upon-Avon is a charming journey into the life and times of England's greatest playwright, William Shakespeare. This picturesque market town, nestled along the River Avon, is steeped in literary history and Tudor charm. A highlight for many is visiting Shakespeare’s Birthplace, the half-timbered house where the Bard was born and raised, filled with period furnishings and engaging exhibits. Nearby, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage—the childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife offers a glimpse into rural Tudor life, surrounded by lush gardens and orchards. Wandering the cobbled streets, you can explore more historic buildings, such as Hall’s Croft, home to Shakespeare's daughter, and Holy Trinity Church, where he is buried. From quaint bookshops to riverside cafes, Stratford-upon-Avon brings Shakespeare's world to life, making it a must-visit for literary lovers and history enthusiasts alike. It’s here we will spend 2 nights at the 4* Hotel Indigo. You only have to step out of the hotel door and you’ll see New Place; exquisite gardens and commissioned artwork designed to celebrate the family home of William Shakespeare. Parts of this boutique hotel date back to the 15th-centu with each of the 93 rooms styled to honour the medieval market town's most famous son. After checking in to our hotel we’ll have time to explore this stunning historical town before our group evening meal. Depending on what’s on and availability we will include entry to take in a show at the Shakespeare Theatre this evening or tomorrow night. Meal: B
Sunday Oct 2025, Day 8
After breakfast we’ll visit the house where the world’s most famous playwright was born and grew up. Discover the fascinating story of William Shakespeare's early years, and see where he spent the first five years with his new wife. See how his father, John, earned his living as a glove maker and explore The Shakespeare Exhibition, before entering the house and its outstanding gardens. After we’ll visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage - Located in Shottery, (a hamlet just outside Stratford) this beautiful, thatched childhood home of Shakespeare's wife is exquisite. We finish our day at the Shakespeare distillery, located in the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon, the former home of William Shakespeare's daughter Judith. This historical timber framed building is now home to our Shakespeare Distillery shop and opulent upper floor tasting rooms. We’ll enjoy a fun and informative spirit tasting starting with a Stratford Gin & Tonic as you relax and discover the fascinating history of gin together with an insight into how they make their spirits.
We will then return to our hotel for dinner or take dinner at a local restaurant. Meals: B
Monday 06 Oct 2025, Day 9
After breakfast we will make our way by private coach to York. Visiting York is a captivating experience that immerses you in the rich layers of England’s medieval and Viking history. This walled city boasts stunning medieval architecture, with narrow cobbled streets and timber-framed buildings that make every corner feel like a step back in time. A centre piece of York is the magnificent York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, known for its breathtaking stained glass and awe-inspiring architecture. Exploring The Shambles, a narrow, winding street lined with charming shops, tea rooms, and historic buildings, is like walking through a storybook. For a deeper historical dive, a walk along the ancient City Walls offers panoramic views of the city and insights into York’s storied past. With its vibrant blend of history, culture, and northern charm, York provides an unforgettable glimpse into England's heritage. Here we spend 4 nights at the 4* Milner York (formerly The Principal York). With spectacular views over the beautiful, historic city and set in 3 acres of landscaped gardens, The Milner York will certainly enhance any visit to York. The rooms are high quality and are supported by 24-hour room service and extensive leisure facilities complete the offerings from this fine hotel. This afternoon we have at our leisure before taking dinner in a local restaurant. Meals: B
Tuesday 07 Oct 2025, Day 10
After breakfast we will be taken on a guided walking tour of York, led by Sarah Cowling, a certified Blue Badge Guide. Not only will Sarah take us on a breathtaking walk through York but she is also an Anne Lister expert and will tell us little nuggets of interest about the life and times of Anne Lister/Gentleman Jack who married her lover Ann Walker in Holy Trinity Church in Goodramgate, York in 1834. After lunch we have entrance to Fairfax house Visiting Fairfax House in York is a delightful step into the grandeur of 18th-century Georgian life. This meticulously restored townhouse is considered one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture in Britain, filled with exquisite period decor and an outstanding collection of furniture from the era. Originally built in 1762 as a winter home for Viscount Fairfax, the house showcases the elegance and refinement of the Georgian elite, with intricately detailed plasterwork, opulent furnishings, and beautiful artworks that give each room a sense of sophistication. Guided tours lead visitors through lavishly decorated rooms, from the grand Entrance Hall to the drawing rooms, each carefully curated to transport guests back to a time of elegance and social grace. We return to our hotel before taking dinner in a local restaurant. Meals: B
Wednesday 08 Oct 2025, Day 11
Today we have a fascinating journey to Halifax, home of Anne Lister. Anne Lister was a remarkable 19th-century English landowner, businesswoman, diarist, and trailblazer often referred to as the "first modern lesbian." Born in 1791 in Halifax, West Yorkshire, she defied social norms with her bold, unconventional lifestyle and openly romantic relationships with women, most notably her partner Ann Walker, whom she “married” in a church ceremony in 1834. Lister documented her life in an extensive series of coded diaries, covering everything from her relationships and travels to her astute management of her ancestral estate, Shibden Hall. These diaries, later decoded, provide a rare and candid glimpse into the life of a woman living authentically against the grain of her time. Lister was fearless in both love and business, investing in local industries, challenging male landowners, and expanding her estate. Her story, rediscovered in the 20th century, has since become an inspiring symbol for LGBTQ+ history and women's empowerment. We will take you to Shibden Hall, Anne’s ancestral home which offers a fascinating journey through the life of Anne Lister, known as "Gentleman Jack." Nestled in the lush countryside of Halifax, West Yorkshire, Shibden Hall is a beautifully preserved Tudor manor that showcases a blend of Elizabethan architecture and later Georgian additions. We will explore the richly decorated rooms where Anne lived, worked, and meticulously documented her life in her series of diaries. Walking through Shibden's historic halls, you will gain a unique insight into Lister's bold personality, her forward-thinking estate management, and her resilient spirit. The surrounding grounds add to the charm, featuring meticulously landscaped gardens, a boating lake, and woodland trails. With each room brimming with period furniture and personal artifacts, Shibden Hall offers an intimate look into the life of one of history's most intriguing women. We will spend the remainder of the day exploring Halifax including the Piece Hall, an architectural and historical gem that stands as a unique testament to Yorkshire’s industrial heritage and the 18th-century wool trade. Opened in 1779, this magnificent Georgian building was originally designed as a marketplace for "pieces" of woolen cloth, hence its name. The hall provided a central, secure, and regulated location for local handloom weavers and traders to sell their cloth to merchants from across the country. Its design is striking and unusual, with 315 rooms arranged around a vast open courtyard, creating a grand and symmetrical layout that reflects the prosperity and ambition of the era. Over time, as the industrial revolution transformed the textile industry, the wool trade shifted to larger mills, and the need for the Piece Hall declined. By the 19th century, it had become a mixed marketplace and even hosted public events, gradually evolving from a centre of commerce to a community hub. Following a major restoration completed in 2017, the Piece Hall has been revitalized as a vibrant cultural destination, home to artisan shops, cafes, and a calendar of events ranging from concerts to festivals. Today, it stands not only as a preserved architectural treasure but also as a lively space celebrating Halifax’s rich history and Yorkshire’s enduring spirit of community and enterprise. We return to York for our group evening meal in a local restaurant. Meals: B
Thursday 09 Oct 2025, Day 12
Today is free to explore York at your leisure. Tonight we’ll have our group dinner in a local restaurant. Meals: B
Friday 10 Oct 2025, Day 13
After breakfast for those travelling home we depart by private coach for London, stopping on the way for lunch. For our guests travelling on to Scotland we will have train travel booked for you. In London you will spend the afternoon at our leisure after checking in to the 4* Copthorne Tara Hotel, London. We will have our farewell dinner in a central London restaurant. Time to say our final farewells. Meals: B
Saturday 11 Oct 2025, Day 14
After breakfast you will be transferred to Heathrow Airport for your flight home. Meals: B
B= Breakfast, D=Dinner
UK Tour|28th Sep-11th Oct 2025|£1500pp
Important Information about our Hosted Group Holidays:
Kindly note we do require a minimum number to guarantee our hosted group holidays. In the unlikely event we do not reach the numbers required we will refund your deposit in full. In the meantime we request you do not book any other elements for this trip including flights or other transport/accommodation arrangements until we guarantee departure.
Your Hotels
London - 4* Copthorne Tara Hotel
Bath - 5* MacDonald Bath Spa
Stratford-Upon-Avon - 4/5* Indigo Hotel
York - 5* The Milner York (formerly The Principal York)