Classic Cambridge & Oxford's Dreaming Spires

Itinerary

Classic Cambridge & Oxford's Dreaming Spires

On this break, learn about two cities distinguished by their hallowed halls of academia and explore the highlights of each of them through guided tours. We visit the stunning city of Oxford, perched on the Thames and known for its world-famous Royal Regatta and Cambridge, with its combination of tranquil botanical gardens and striking buildings. There’s also the chance to discover the fine charms of Ely and Stamford.

Classic Cambridge & Oxford's Dreaming Spires

Included Excursions

Cambridge

Discover beautiful façades, exquisite views, stunning architecture and so much more in the thriving city of Cambridge, famous for its historic university. We find out more on our walking guided tour of the city before we enjoy some free time here. Wander down Bridge Street, the main shopping thoroughfare, discover Kings College, where the magnificent Chapel is a perfect example of late Gothic architecture, or enjoy a relaxing punt ride on the picturesque River Cam.

Oxford

Today we enjoy time in Oxford. This beautiful city of dreaming spires has plenty to offer, with many historic university buildings to see including the famous Bodleian Libraries, and postcard-perfect scenes of students and visitors punting on the river. Oxford also has a wide variety of shops, from High Street stores to quaint individual boutiques and bookshops, peppered with plenty of restaurants and olde worlde taverns. The city’s literary connections include J.R.R Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and Oscar Wilde and it also provided inspiration for some of the sets in the Harry Potter films.

Optional Excursion

Ely & Stamford (£14pp)

We have the chance to explore the riverside city of Ely. The historic cathedral is not to be missed, home to the country’s only museum dedicated to stained glass, while Ely Museum in the city’s old gaol is a fascinating place to discover more about the past. With its range of eateries, peaceful atmosphere and picturesque views, the waterside area is a lovely spot for relaxation.

We then visit idyllic Stamford. Wander through the cobbled streets of the “finest stone town in England” and discover a treasure trove of attractions on offer, from All Saints Church, Barn Hill and the Stamford Art Centre to the relaxing beauty of Stamford Meadows and the historical delights at Stamford Museum.

Classic Cambridge & Oxford's Dreaming Spires

• Return coach travel
• Overnight stay at the Northampton Hotel (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast
• Excursions to Cambridge & Oxford

Optional Excursion to Ely & Stamford £14pp

Classic Cambridge & Oxford's Dreaming Spires

• Overnight stay at the Northampton Hotel (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast
• Excursions to Cambridge & Oxford

JG3

Hotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.

Images

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Accommodation

Holiday Inn, Northampton

JG3 rating

This riverside Holiday Inn is located in Northampton and offers everything we need for a comfortable stay, including a games room, lounge/bar, restaurant, tennis court, fitness centre, free Wi-Fi and en-suite bedrooms with tea and coffee-making facilities.