Destination: England

Bath

Revel in the architectural marvels of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting Georgian splendor and immaculately preserved Roman baths. Guided tours cater to mature travelers, showcasing the city’s elegant architecture, historical jewels, and charming period tearooms. Fans of Jane Austen can delve into her life and literary legacy at the Jane Austen Centre, adding depth to their visit.

York

Step into a vibrant medieval tapestry by exploring York, a city steeped in history within its ancient walls dating back to the 13th century. Discover the awe-inspiring York Minster, a Gothic masterpiece that stands as one of the world’s most stunning cathedrals. For discerning travelers, York offers a rich tapestry of day tours to enrich their English travel experience.

Travelling to York is like stepping back in history to a more magical and colourful version of the Middle Ages. Explore the fascinating walled city that is tucked within 13th-century walls and visit York Minster, one of the most stunning Gothic cathedrals in the world. For mature travellers, the city is well placed for a number of day tours as your tour England .

Oxford

With its iconic spires and medieval allure, Oxford stands as one of England’s most picturesque cities, ideal for leisurely walks among its historic lanes. The compact historic center invites mature travelers to immerse themselves in quaint British pubs and savor traditional meals. Literature enthusiasts will find inspiration in the city that has fueled the works of many renowned authors, thanks to its prestigious university and rich literary history.

Cambridge

Cambridge’s enduring allure is characterized by its captivating architecture and rich centuries-old legacy, setting it apart from the vibrant charm of Oxford. For senior travelers, the city offers a serene retreat amidst riverside gardens, lush meadows, and impeccably manicured college lawns. A day excursion in Cambridge exposes visitors to its deep historical significance, ideal for immersing oneself in the intellectual ambiance of this academic hub.

Stonehenge

Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as one of Europe’s most renowned prehistoric monuments. Visiting Stonehenge continues to inspire countless individuals, drawing millions of visitors who are captivated by the enigmatic collection of stones. The newly established visitor center enriches the experience, offering detailed insights into the history of Stonehenge, believed to have existed for over five millennia. Exploring the site with knowledgeable local guides unveils the intriguing theories proposed by archaeologists and anthropologists who have dedicated their efforts to unraveling its mysteries.

Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall, constructed by the Romans in 122 AD, stretches 117 kilometers and was designed to separate the Roman Empire from the Scottish tribes. Constructed in less than six years by a workforce of 15,000 men, Hadrian’s Wall stands as a testament to remarkable engineering and ambitious vision. A visit to this ancient wall, guided by local experts, unveils not only its historical significance but also the sheer scale of this Roman feat.

Tower of London

The Tower of London, once a royal residence and a notorious prison, has transformed into a UNESCO World Heritage site and a premier tourist attraction in England. Housing the illustrious Crown Jewels, a trip to the Tower of London offers a captivating glimpse into the rich tapestry of England’s past, steeped in both grandeur and intrigue.

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle, a functioning royal residence and the weekend retreat of the Royal Family, serves as a key destination for day tours departing from London. With a history dating back almost a millennium to its selection by William the Conqueror, Windsor Castle epitomizes regal opulence and fortitude. Exploring the lavish State Apartments under the guidance of a tour leader, visitors can admire the exquisite family portraits and marvel at the intricate details of Queen Mary’s Doll House, encapsulating centuries of royal heritage.

The Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion in Brighton, a highlight of guided tours through England, was commissioned by King George IV as a lavish seaside retreat. Reflecting the king’s extravagant tastes and flamboyant lifestyle, the Royal Pavilion showcases a fusion of Regency splendor with exotic influences from Indian and Chinese architecture. This decadent palace provides a vivid glimpse into a bygone era of lavish indulgence and royal excess.

In England, the nation’s robust transportation system and expansive rail network facilitate hassle-free travel.

During our Odyssey Traveller small group tours of England, we utilize coaches for transportation between locations. This approach enables us to make stops at significant sites between major cities and explore lesser-known historic landmarks. Opting for an escorted tour of England with an Odyssey tour director alleviates the need to concern yourself with intercity travel logistics, allowing you to rely on us to manage the journey between cities effortlessly. Moreover, on our Industrial Revolution tour, we incorporate various modes of transport such as canal boats, steam trains, and ferry rides to immerse ourselves in the essence of that era.

The best time to visit the United Kingdom is in spring (late March to early June) and autumn (September to November), when it’s usually warm and dry. You’ll see beautiful spring flowers or the leaves changing hue in autumn, and avoid the much busier summer period.

Odyssey specialises in educational small group tours, for seniors, typically groups between 6 to 12 people, and no more than 18 travellers. Odyssey has been offering this style of adventure and educational programs, since 1983.

We offer a wide range of educational, cultural and heritage journeys that expand horizons and broaden the mind. Our tours are designed for active, inquisitive travellers in a small group environment.

Odyssey Traveller specializes in catering to travelers over 50, 60, 70, or 80 years of age, ensuring that your fellow travelers share similar interests and a mutual understanding. Our programs are specifically designed with the mature traveler in mind, whether you are journeying solo, as a couple, or with friends. Even when traveling alone, you are not isolated, as there are opportunities to meet and explore with other solo travelers or couples in the group, with around a third of our travelers being singles who often become repeat companions.

Beyond the typical tourist experience of visiting museums and monuments, Odyssey Traveller offers a dynamic journey focused on interactive learning and immersion in the rich culture of the world’s most captivating destinations. We understand the importance of free time during your travels, so our itineraries are crafted to allow for personal exploration and relaxation at your own pace.

Odyssey welcome enquiries for private groups, at a minimum of 6 participants.

Odyssey Tours typically range from two to three weeks in duration, with each small group tour designed to spend 2 to 3 nights in quality 3 or 4-star hotels at each location. These tours, led by knowledgeable guides, offer a perfect mix of sightseeing and relaxation. They also provide opportunities for solo travellers to immerse themselves in the experience, whether by taking a break from the group for a few hours or exploring with a companion before continuing to the next destination.

For solo travellers over 50, Odyssey offers a diverse selection of holidays tailored to individual preferences. While river cruises and dedicated solo travel tours are not part of our regular offerings, there is a single supplement applied to all small group tour programs. This supplement covers the cost of single occupancy of a hotel room with a double bed (single bedded rooms are uncommon in Europe) or a single cabin on a cruise. We prioritize transparency in pricing, ensuring that our clients over 50 are only required to cover the single supplement without any extra fees.

Odyssey Traveller offers an array of captivating tours spanning the globe, including Europe, The British Isles, Asia, Africa, The Middle East, and The Americas. Embark on an enchanting journey to witness the mystical Aurora Borealis in the remote corners of Norway, delve into the lush jungles of Madagascar to immerse yourself in its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, or marvel at the ancient splendor of Machu Picchu in South America. For those intrigued by history, partake in a thematic exploration of Britain’s historic canals and railways. If cruising is your preference, join our unforgettable venture through Mongolia and Russia, featuring a 10-night river cruise from Moscow to St. Petersburg, or set sail on the legendary Nile River during our Egypt tour.

For travelers seeking adventures closer to home, we offer an exceptional selection of tours in Australia, ranging from Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territory to Kata Tjuta, Outback Queensland, Kangaroo Island, Tasmania, and New Zealand. Explore the scenic wonders of both the North and South Islands, including the majestic landscapes along the east coast, the geothermal marvels of Rotorua, the serene beauty of Milford Sound, and the adrenaline-pumping activities in Queenstown.

Odyssey specialises in educational small group tours, for seniors, typically groups between 6 to 12 people, and averages at 12 participants per tour, a mix of singles and couples

Odyssey provides a curated selection of authentic small group tours, which are strategically priced to mirror the intimate nature of these experiences. Unlike larger tour operators accommodating groups of 18 or more, our small group tours typically consist of 6 to 12 individuals. This ensures a personalized setting where travelers can relish evening meals together around a single dinner table. By prioritizing smaller group sizes, we prioritize creating an atmosphere where our clients can immerse themselves fully in the unique and engaging experiences we offer, rather than aiming for the economies of scale achievable with larger groups on coaches – an aspect of travel that distinguishes our tours at Odyssey.

Odyssey tours are genuinely based around;

• A Small group tour of less than 18 people for the mature traveller as holidays for a couple and holidays for solo travellers over 50.
• Knowledgeable local expert guides and a great tour leader who has an interest in the theme of the tour.
• Inclusive pricing, including all entrances, tipping and the majority of meals included. That means, no hidden extras with respect to cost. Transparent pricing of the single supplement for the single traveller.
• A learning based escorted tour with a like minded fellow traveller.
• Accommodation in 3 & 4 star hotels and self catering apartments.
• A blend of group learning, touring activities and free time to explore a place further, whether on a discovery or walking holiday program.
• No name badges or flags to follow when out and about.
• Travel to places that extend your learning and curiosity, often where others will not follow.
• Spending typically between 60 to 85% of the operating cost of the tour in the country visited, benefiting the local communities directly.

England has a single time zone (excluding its overseas territories), Greenwich mean time . The nation observes daylight saving time from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.

If you’re on an Odyssey tour, we take care of tipping so you don’t need to give it a second thought. However, in your free time, or if travelling independently, it’s essential that you make sure you tip an appropriate amount for services, as is the case throughout much of Europe. It’s customary to tip 10-15% of the bill at restaurants, or 1 to 3 GBP at a more casual establishment. It’s polite to round a bill up to the nearest whole figure or leave the change when buying drinks.

Internet access is easily accessible, and most hotels and many cafes will be able to offer it.

Check with your cell phone provider to see whether you’re able to make calls and use data while in England. Many providers will offer a daily fee that allows you to make calls and check the internet while only being charged your regular rates. However, be certain to inform your provider that you’re heading overseas, because just like a bank they can turn off your service as a result of unusual activity.