Royal Berkshire, Oxford & Christmas Castles

DAY 1

We arrive in Reading where our hotel, for four nights, is the Pentahotel, ideally located a 10-minute walk from the train station. Tonight, we enjoy our first evening meal together.

DAY 2

This morning we travel by rail to the market town of Newbury where our coach transfer awaits to take us to Highclere Castle, the film location of ITV's top drama series "Downton Abbey". We will discover the history of the castle on a guided tour, admire its festive décor which includes a breathtaking 24ft Christmas tree adorned with baubles, and explore the annual Christmas Fair*. With gifts and festive foods available, this could be the perfect place to complete your Christmas shopping, or you can visit the castles exhibitions and gardens (British weather permitting!). After our transfer back to Newbury, we have time to stroll through the town before taking the return journey to Reading.

DAY 3

After breakfast today, we take the train to Oxford where we are greeted by our knowledgeable guide for our walking tour of Oxford and a visit to Oxford Castle & Prison. Here we will climb the 101 steps to the top of St George's Tower, one of the oldest buildings in Oxford with fantastic views over the city, and we will explore the prison and descend into the 900-year-old crypt. This afternoon is spent at leisure, you may wish to explore the architectural delights of the historical city, visit fascinating museums, or maybe indulge in some Christmas shopping.

DAY 4

Today, after breakfast, we walk to the station and board our train to Windsor & Eton for our exciting tour of Windsor Castle. Built in the 11th century, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and has been associated with the British Royal family for centuries. In the afternoon, we take a short stroll to Windsor Promenade where we board our boat for a relaxing two-and-a-half-hour cruise down the River Thames enjoying a festive afternoon tea, followed by time at leisure to explore the town of Windsor before heading back to our hotel for our final dinner together.

DAY 5

We bid farewell to Reading as we make our way home.

*Important Note: Highclere Christmas Fair has not been confirmed for 2024 at the time of tour compilation. We do reserve the right to make substitutions and changes to the itinerary should it be deemed necessary.

B=Breakfast, LR=Light Refreshments, D=Dinner