Ghent reveals another side of Flemish heritage. A narrated canal cruise showcases the city’s rich mercantile past, gliding past historic guild houses and impressive Gothic architecture. Free time allows guests to explore independently or join optional experiences.  Bruges is often described as the ‘Venice of the North’, a truly beautiful city boasting many canals, cobbled streets and remarkable architecture. The tour includes a scenic canal cruise in Bruges, offering wonderful views of elegant gabled houses, medieval bridges and tranquil waterways. With time at leisure, guests can wander the charming streets, visit local chocolate shops, or join an optional brewery visit.

Combining atmospheric old towns, scenic waterways and authentic Flemish culture, this tour provides an immersive introduction to two of Belgium’s most captivating historic cities.

With medieval mansions, royal palaces and un-imagined angles of Spanish contemporary architecture, Madrid is a truly beautiful city. What’s more, with its 75 museums, Madrid is an Aladdin’s Cave for those interested in art. It boasts three internationally important art museums: El Prado, Reina Sofiá and the Thyssen-Bornemisza. Masterpieces by home-grown talents such as Goya and Velázquez, as well as other Spanish painters such as Picasso, Dalí and Miró, now adorn the walls of the city’s world-class galleries. Madrid has also evolved into one of the richest culinary capitals with traditional markets showcasing some of the finest food in the land.

The Buen Retiro Park or the beautiful Botanical Gardens provide welcome shade and relaxation after a day sightseeing, or why not head to one of the many rooftop bars the city is famous for to watch the sun go down. And for the more sporty, no visit is complete without a trip to the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium of Real Madrid!

Just a short drive from Calais, Lille is renowned for its outstanding Flemish architecture and rich history. It is one of the most important towns in northern France, there is much to discover in the bustling city, with many green spaces. Perhaps take a stroll through the maze of cobbled lanes in Lille’s old town. Feast your eyes on the ornate 17th century Vieille Bourse, the city’s finest building, and the Grand Place, the favourite meeting place of the Lillois.

Bruges needs no introduction. Beautiful architecture and picturesque canals await around every corner. Explore the old town and experience the Belgian lifestyle. Another important aspect of visiting Bruges is visiting chocolate shops and sampling the local beers. See the towering Belfry dominate Bruges’ old market square or watch the swans swim serenely on the Lake of Love. Art lovers should take the opportunity to visit the Notre Dame church which houses Michelangelo’s Madonna. Also embark on a canal cruise to see the city from a different perspective as you pass under many of it’s quaint bridges or a romantic horse and carriage ride.

The Danube was once a long-standing frontier of the Roman Empire, and today flows through 10 countries, more than any other river in the world, however it is here in Budapest where it cuts the city in half.  A cruise on the Danube by night offers a perfect opportunity for a different view of this stunning city! As well as this, Budapest is blessed with an abundance of hot springs and the array of thermal baths are a cultural gem left by the Romans.

Around an hour and a half drive out of Budapest you find Lake Balaton, the greatest ‘inland sea’ in Europe and extending for almost 80km.  It is renowned for its thermal springs and chic resorts, including Héviz, Hungary’s most famous spa resort, on the southern edge as well as the wine growing areas and historic villages of the north shore.  Wine tastings can be arranged.

Home to Mozart, Schubert, Brahms, Strauss (both father and son), and Beethoven – as well a wealth of other greats – Vienna is also a city of music but it doesn’t stop with just music. The city’s MuseumQuarter, transformed from the former imperial stables, hosts a contrast of classical works of the Leopold Museum’s old masters and the striking modernity of MUMOK’s avant-garde. Meanwhile, the Naturhistorische Museum offers an earthier approach to Austrian history. Not to forget the Sigmund Freud museum either, which offers a look into the life and times of the founder of psychoanalysis.

In amongst the fine dining and vaulted Vinothek wine cellars lie some of the quaintest and most classically Austrian eating spots imaginable. Grand coffee houses serve cakes and pastries almost too ornate to eat while the pub-like Beisln of the city offerthe warm embrace of hearty wiener schnitzel and other Austrian favourites.

Vienna is also one of those rare cities in which it’s possible to be awestruck without ever having to pay an entry fee. The immense grandeur of the city’s imperial architecture, from the Kaiserappartments (Imperial Apartments) to the neo-Gothic Rathaus, is quite literally unmissable.  The Hofsburg Palace complex – home of the famed Habsburg monarchs – for over 6 centuries provides a spiritual centre point, bringing together the Burgkapelle (Imperial Chapel) and Spanish Riding School.

Not forgetting the 1441-room Schloss Schönbrunn, a picture of pure opulence. The former summer residence of the Habsburgs is UNESCO heritage site and a stunning reminder of Vienna’s regal history. It is also home to Tiergarten Schöbrunn, the world’s oldest zoo, opened in 1752.

Why not take a trip to the compact Slovakian capital of Bratislava? A quirky city of rich history decorated with vibrantly coloured buildings. Wander the city streets, from the cobbles of the medieval old town and baroque castles of Hungarian nobility to the harsh, angled reminders of Slovakia’s recent communist history.  The city is easy accessible by road or catamaran along the Danube

Your stay will be based in a comfortable and well-located hotel, with a choice of three central Bruges options — the elegant Dukes’ Academie Bruges, the traditional NH Brugge, or the stylish Le Bois De Bruges — each just a short walk from Bruges’ famous canals, cobbled streets and welcoming cafés. Alternatively, groups may stay at VOCO Ghent, conveniently located only six minutes from the metro for quick and easy access into Ghent’s lively historic centre.

The tour includes a scenic canal cruise in Bruges, offering wonderful views of elegant gabled houses, medieval bridges and tranquil waterways. With time at leisure, guests can wander the charming streets, visit local chocolate shops, or join an optional walking tour or brewery visit.

A full-day excursion to Ghent reveals another side of Flemish heritage. A narrated canal cruise showcases the city’s rich mercantile past, gliding past historic guild houses and impressive Gothic architecture. Free time allows guests to explore independently or join optional experiences, including a chocolate-themed walking tour or general guided tour of the city.

Combining atmospheric old towns, scenic waterways and authentic Flemish culture, this tour provides an immersive introduction to two of Belgium’s most captivating historic cities.

Step into a winter wonderland at the Royal Hospital Chelsea and see the beautiful grounds transformed into a dazzling display of holiday cheer and seasonal surprises.

• Stroll through the enchanting 1.5km (0.93 mile) illuminated light trail through Ranelagh Gardens. See mesmerising light displays, including glowing arches, dazzling trees, light sculptures and interactive art for children.
• Explore the charming Chelsea Christmas market for handmade gifts and souvenirs.
• Tuck into hot food, sweet treats, spiced winter warmers, hot chocolate, toasted marshmallows and more at the Après Ski Bar.
• Enjoy pop-up choirs and carol services filling the air with a sprinkling of Christmas magic.
• Family rides and activities (additional fee)
• Battle friends and family at Curling Club (additional fee)
• Artisan craft workshops (additional fee)

While you are in London this is a great opportunity to also see the Christmas lights in Oxford Street and Regent Street which are sure to dazzle and make a great end to your evening

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Whilst you indulge in your Afternoon Tea, you will be taken on a delightful journey past some of London’s “must see” landmarks aboard a specially converted iconic 1960s Routemaster bus. On the “Round London Sightseeing tour” route you’ll see the Royal Courts of Justice, St.Paul’s Cathedral, Monument, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the London Eye, Big Ben & Parliament buildings, Westminster Abbey, 10 Downing Street & Whitehall, Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus. Return to your meeting point with a deeper appreciation for the city and some fantastic pictures of the sights from the bus.

As you sip on a freshly brewed cup of tea, savouring traditional sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and indulgent cakes, let the gentle hum of music set the perfect atmosphere. All the while, you’ll enjoy the sights of London’s essential sights as they roll by, creating a unique blend of tradition, luxury, and sightseeing. It’s an unforgettable high tea adventure that combines the charm of the past with the vibrancy of the present, making every moment a delightful journey.

During the evening we can arrange a group meal or maybe take in a West End show or a dinner cruise on the River Thames.

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Weekend tours in London – Let us whisk you away to some of the world’s most famous landmarks and historical attractions. Our weekend tours in London for Groups can offer you trips from the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Then onto the West End and the London Eye. This vibrant capital city is both contemporary and steeped in history, making it the perfect city break destination.

Great value tours in Central London for your group with the President & Tavistock Hotels

London has many famous museums – most are free to enter. Visit the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square to admire more than 2,000 paintings, including works from renowned artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt. Experience the delights of the British Museum’s remarkable collection, where you’ll find an array of fascinating exhibits – Egyptian mummies to the Rosetta Stone. Or, stop off in South Kensington to explore three of London’s most popular museums – The Natural History Museum, the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Science Museum.

Spend the afternoon strolling around beautiful Hyde Park. Alternatively, wander through the stunning Regent’s Park or visit the resident pelicans in St James Park. Then stop off at nearby Buckingham Palace to marvel at the magnificent London landmark.

Round off your weekend in London in a traditional London pub. Take your pick from classic British cuisine at affordable prices. Many pubs offer iconic dishes such as fish ‘n’ chips and sausages & mash.

Our great value London breaks show case two fabulous value for money hotels located in Bloomsbury – The President and the Tavistock , both just minutes from the British Museum and walking distance to Covent Garden and Oxford Street. In the evenings you are spoilt for choice with restaurants, bars and pubs to suite all tastes within a short walk from the hotel.

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Discover our other Irish tours here

Whilst in Dublin why not try a distillery tour? Pearse Lyons Distillery is Dublin’s only independently, family-owned distillery which opened in 2017. Located in the former St. James Church in the heart of Dublin’s Liberties, the award-winning distillery produces Pearse Irish Whiskey. Here your group have a guided tour of the graveyard and learn the history of St. James Church, take a tour of the distillery, and enjoy three samples of the Pearse Irish Whiskey range and one sample of Gin!

In the afternoon, we board the Chester Boat and take a two hour cruise down the River Dee. We will be served a cream tea and hot drink as the scenic countryside passes us by. The boat is covered and heated making it a cosy trip and nice way to relax after a busy morning shopping.

Our hotel for this trip is the Holiday Inn Chester South, a 4 star hotel located a short walk or a few miles from the city centre and the River Dee. There is a health club and a heated swimming pool. There is free WiFi for all guests and one restaurant that serves dinner and full English breakfast in the morning. The bar and lounge provide a welcoming space to relax and unwind after you day of walking and exploring.

We also visit St Fagans National History Museum, Wales’ most popular heritage attraction. This open-air museum chronicles the historical lifestyle, culture, different historical periods have been re-erected in the 100-acre parkland.