London & Cardiff by Rail Upgrade
All aboard!
Explore two capital cities on one amazing trip! From Big Ben to Cardiff Castle, experience the very best of the UK by rail. Treat yourself to warm scones at afternoon tea, enjoy an included sightseeing tour, and feast your eyes on spectacular scenery as you chug along from England to Wales.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to London (LHR)
- 1 night in London at the Hilton London Kensington Hotel or similar
- Standard class rail from London to Cardiff
- 3 nights in Cardiff at the Coal Exchange Hotel or similar
- Standard class rail from Cardiff to London
- 2 nights in London at the Hilton London Kensington Hotel or similar
- Breakfast Daily
PLUS!
- Cardiff Castle & House Tour
- Private Cardiff Food Tour
- London Explorer Pass (3 choices)
Great Ways to Explore
-
Try traditional favorites, like Welsh cakes in Cardiff and fish n' chips in London.
- Explore unique markets filled with handmade goods and local food vendors.
-
Gawk at amazing architecture in both cities, from Westminster Abbey to Cardiff Castle!
-
Relax on the pier near sparkling Cardiff Bay.
-
See postcard-worthy views of London from St. Paul's Cathedral, the Shard, or the London Eye!
Immerse yourself in class, culture, and history on this incredible 6-night journey through England and Wales! Enjoy scenic train rides between countries, and gaze out the window at stunning landscapes and small villages as you pass. Your trip will start and end in London, home of Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower Bridge, and tons of other postcard-worthy sites. Stroll through bustling Trafalgar Square, mosey around antique-shop-lined Notting Hill, or see a colorful musical in London's West End! Treat yourself to afternoon tea, or wander around buzzing Borough Market. Whatever you decide to do, be sure to grab a pint of ale and fish n' chips at a traditional pub.
The mid-section of your trip will be spent in cultural Cardiff. Step into a storybook at Cardiff Castle, enjoy cool vibes at the Pierhead, and take in beautiful views of Cardiff Bay. Take advantage of this city's art and food scene. Check out Cardiff's world-renowned restaurants and visit the city's unique museums and galleries! Take advantage of your other included tours, on which you'll become immersed in the history of Cardiff Castle, and sample local foods around the city center!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to London (LHR)
- 1 night in London at the Hilton London Kensington Hotel or similar
- Standard class rail from London to Cardiff
- 3 nights in Cardiff at the Coal Exchange Hotel or similar
- Standard class rail from Cardiff to London
- 2 nights in London at the Hilton London Kensington Hotel or similar
- Breakfast Daily
PLUS!
- Cardiff Castle & House Tour
- Private Cardiff Food Tour
- London Explorer Pass (3 choices)
-
Try traditional favorites, like Welsh cakes in Cardiff and fish n' chips in London.
- Explore unique markets filled with handmade goods and local food vendors.
-
Gawk at amazing architecture in both cities, from Westminster Abbey to Cardiff Castle!
-
Relax on the pier near sparkling Cardiff Bay.
-
See postcard-worthy views of London from St. Paul's Cathedral, the Shard, or the London Eye!
Immerse yourself in class, culture, and history on this incredible 6-night journey through England and Wales! Enjoy scenic train rides between countries, and gaze out the window at stunning landscapes and small villages as you pass. Your trip will start and end in London, home of Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the Tower Bridge, and tons of other postcard-worthy sites. Stroll through bustling Trafalgar Square, mosey around antique-shop-lined Notting Hill, or see a colorful musical in London's West End! Treat yourself to afternoon tea, or wander around buzzing Borough Market. Whatever you decide to do, be sure to grab a pint of ale and fish n' chips at a traditional pub.
The mid-section of your trip will be spent in cultural Cardiff. Step into a storybook at Cardiff Castle, enjoy cool vibes at the Pierhead, and take in beautiful views of Cardiff Bay. Take advantage of this city's art and food scene. Check out Cardiff's world-renowned restaurants and visit the city's unique museums and galleries! Take advantage of your other included tours, on which you'll become immersed in the history of Cardiff Castle, and sample local foods around the city center!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to London!
Touch down in the city of class and sophistication: London! Upon arrival, make your way to your first accommodation. Once you check-in and get settled, head out and explore the city! Treat yourself to a celebratory dinner of fish n' chips - with a pint of local ale, of course.Â
A Tip For Your Trip: The best way to get to and from London Heathrow Airport and London's city center is the Heathrow Express. This train can be easily found by following the signs at LHR!
Located in the bustling Holland Park district is the accommodating Hilton London Kensington Hotel. Just 10 miles away from Heathrow Airport, this modern hotel is situated near a retail city center and a few of London's most popular tourist attractions. Some of which include Kensington Palace and Gardens, Battersea Park, and the Chelsea Football Club.
During your stay at this wonderful accommodation, enjoy access to a fitness center, room and concierge services, and an on-site restaurant. Within the guest rooms, visitors are provided complimentary beverages, bathrobes, slippers, and an array of elegant bedding accessories. The rooms are crafted in a contemporary style that features flat-screen televisions, a work desk, a mini-refrigerator, and air-conditioning!Â
Immerse yourself in English elegance at this beautiful, ideally located hotel. In just steps, find yourself at Park Lane, Oxford Street, Hyde Park, and many other landmarks that make up London's beautiful center! After a day of shopping and sightseeing, recharge with a cocktail at the hotel's trendy bar. When your stomach starts grumbling, indulge in classic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients at The Grill. This 1930's-themed on-site restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so stop by for a delicious meal at any time. If you're looking for a quick bite to eat, The Deli is a perfect place to enjoy a simple sandwich or relaxing cup of coffee. Don't forget to enjoy traditional, delicious Afternoon Tea, which is offered at the hotel daily!
As soon as you step into your room, you will forget that London's busiest street exists just around the corner. Unwind in this tranquil retreat of calm and comfort, where luxurious amenities such as blackout curtains, a rainfall shower, free unlimited WiFi, a Smart TV, and a complimentary mini bar will allow you to fall into a state of pure relaxation.Â
The Cumberland is intimate and spontaneous, ambitious and embracing - equal parts house show and world tour. The stylish guestrooms feature such special amenities as personalized playlists, Nespresso machines, Hypnos beds with Sleep-Like-A Rock® cotton linens, and more.
The hotel's ideal location allows you to explore the legendary city of London from the corner of Oxford Street and Park Lane, just steps from Hyde Park, Speaker's Corner and Marble Arch, and within easy reach via Tube to Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.
*Formerly known as The Hard Rock LondonÂ
Recently refurbished to the highest standards, the Thistle Kensington Gardens Hotel has the best of London right on the doorstep. Hyde Park is literally across the road from the hotel, while the West End shops and theaters are just a short cab ride away. Close to the hotel is Kensington Palace, which was home to Diana, Princess of Wales, and the famous Gardens that give the hotel its name. Fashionable and stylish Kensington High Street is a short stroll away. The Thistle Kensington Gardens hotel has 175 rooms, including spacious executive bedrooms offering wonderful views over Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
Hotel Novotel London West, located in the Hammersmith neighborhood of London, is a sanctuary in the middle of the bustling capital. With three of London's main tube lines within a three minute walk of the hotel, Â easily access any of the city's main attractions including Big Ben, the London Eye, and Hyde Park. Spend an evening at the Hammersmith Apollo Theatre, renowned for live music and comedy, just steps from the hotel!
All of the 630 contemporary en-suite bedrooms are designed to keep noise at a minimum, perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. On site, Hotel Novotel London West offers a restaurant and a bar/lounge where guests can unwind with a drink. The 4-star property also offers access to a business center and a meeting/conference room.
Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington features a restaurant and a bar/lounge. Room service is available 24 hours a day. The hotel serves Hot and cold buffet breakfasts (surcharges apply). Recreational amenities include a fitness facility. This 4-star property has a business center and offers a meeting/conference room, secretarial services, and audio-visual equipment. Wireless Internet access (surcharge) is available in public areas. This London property has event space consisting of banquet facilities and conference/meeting rooms.
The Clermont, Victoria is located steps from Victoria Station and just minutes from Buckingham Palace. Guest rooms are equipped with complimentary WiFi, complimentary essential oil-infused toiletries, coffee/tea making facilities, bathrobes, and slippers. Enjoy a meal, afternoon tea, or evening cocktail at the hotel's restaurant or bar. Then walk to one of the handful of nearby theaters to catch an evening show! Plus, with the hotel's prime location, you'll find that the entire city is easily accessible no matter where you wish to go.
Just a 4 minute walk from Holborn Underground Station the Thistle Holborn Kingsley Hotel stands proud with a beautiful Edwardian facade that ties traditional and contemporary styles together. Guests can enjoy two on-site restaurants, a bar and lounge, and free Wi-Fi.
Rooms have sleek furnishings as well as satellite flat-screen TVs, a safe, air conditioning, a desk, ironing facilities, and a private bathroom complete with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Settling in London's Bloomsbury area, the British Museum, Theatreland, Covent Garden, and Oxford Street can all be reached in about 20 minutes of walking, and St. Pancras International is a 25-minute walk away, and offers access to the Eurostar link.
Day 2. London - Cardiff, Wales
Rise and shine! Enjoy an energizing breakfast, then hop aboard a scenic train ride from London, England, to Cardiff, Wales. Keep your eyes focused out the window, as you will be passing through some stunning landscapes!
Make your way to your Cardiff accommodation and get settled. Take a walk through the city center and get to know the area!
Train to Cardiff!
The Coal Exchange Hotel is located just a short walk from Cardiff Bay, amidst many top attractions. Guest rooms are well-appointed and include free WiFi, television, complimentary toiletries, and more. The onsite restaurant serves dishes that feature fresh, local produce. The hotel also has meeting rooms, banquet facilities, concierge services, and additional amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.
Clayton Hotel Cardiff is one of the most centrally located hotels in Cardiff city centre, nestled between some of Cardiff’s most iconic sights and a few minutes' walk to the shopping and business hubs of the city and right next to Cardiff’s central train station and bus station. Our 4-star hotel is in the ideal place for shopping in St. David’s Shopping Centre and iconic venues including Wales Millennium Centre, The Principality Stadium & much more.
With grand staircases, lustrous gleaming chandeliers, and beautifully designed sleeping quarters, the Angel Hotel Cardiff is the perfect hotel to stay in during your trip to Cardiff! Built in 1883, this magnificent Victorian hotel features a delectable on-site restaurant named Castell's that serves seasonal dishes with views that overlook the historic Cardiff Castle.Â
The hotel is just an eight minute walk from Bute Park where you can explore the Cardiff Castle Animal Wall with sculptures dating back to the 1890s. While staying at Angel Hotel, you're also just a ten minute walk to one of Cardiff's main shopping centers. St. David's Shopping Center is filled with clothing shops, coffee spots, restaurants, bars and more. Other nearby places to explore include the famous Principality Stadium, Cardiff Castle, and the Cardiff Center Train Station all just a ten minute walk from the hotel.
A recently renovated Victorian townhouse, this 5-star hotel is as cozy as it is luxurious. There are 8 hotel rooms in the main building, with a one and two bedroom apartment as well. Outside the main building at the end of the garden is a 2 bedroom coach house that is absolutely perfect for a family or group getaway. The hotel has an on-site exquisite coffee shop, restaurant, bar, and even a secret garden with outdoor seating so you can enjoy the beautiful sun while having a pastry and coffee.
No.73 by Coffi Co is just a ten minute walk or a two minute taxi ride into the center of Cardiff, a fifteen minute walk to the historical Cardiff Museum, and just two miles from Cardiff Bay. Other nearby sites to see include Bute Park and Library, Cardiff Castle, and St. David’s Shopping Center, all accessible within less of a mile of the hotel.
Day 3. Cardiff
Start off with a lovely breakfast. Then, grab your camera and embark on your Cardiff Castle & House Tour! Learn all about the history of this storybook site, and enjoy a fun-filled day of sightseeing in Cardiff.
Cardiff Castle Admission
Cardiff Castle is a truly extraordinary place to visit. As one of Wales’ foremost heritage attractions and a place of international significance, the site is a must-see while in the area. The castle was built during the 11th Century on a Roman Fort that dates back to AD 55. Renovations were made during the Victorian period.
You can also visit the World War II air raid shelter tunnels located within the castle walls. As you explore you will discover magnificent, richly decorated rooms including the Nursery, Lord Bute’s Bedroom, the Winter Smoking Room, a rooftop garden, plus many more of the castle’s apartments! Admire the fascinating wood carvings and stained glass windows which are abundant throughout the castle.
Day 4. Cardiff
Seize the day! Enjoy a light breakfast - you've got a food-filled day ahead! Nosh on some yummy Welsh cakes and other local favorites as you explore the city center on a Private Food Tour. After an exciting day, get some fresh air in nearby Bute Park and take a walk along the River Taff!
Private Cardiff Food Tour
This special tasting tour guides you from point to point around the city center. You'll stop by specialist food producers, retailers, and Cardiff indoor market. The menu will include a variety of tastings such as continental meats, cheeses, cockles, laverbread, and Welsh beverages.
Along the way, you’ll pass beautiful parks, majestic buildings, and key landmarks including Cardiff Castle and Principality Stadium: the home of Welsh rugby. The tour includes six irresistible food and drink tastings, which include Welsh and international cuisine, as we walk around Cardiff city center.
Day 5. Cardiff - London
Say "see ya" to Cardiff and board your train back to London! After a scenic ride, make your way to your hotel and check-in.
Spend the rest of your day leisurely exploring England's cool capital. Treat yourself to classy afternoon tea, enjoy a ride on the London Eye, or climb St. Paul's Cathedral for an incredible view.
Be sure to take advantage of your included London Explorer Pass!
Train to London!
Just across the way from the Paddington Underground and Rail Station,the Hilton London Paddington awaits as the perfect resting place to enjoy luxurious nights and allow city-wide exploration during the day. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, the bar, daily breakfast, concierge services, tour and ticket assistance, currency exchanges, room service, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, fitness facilities, and more.Â
Rooms are comfortable and spacious, featuring a flat-screen satellite TV, air conditioning, coffee and tea making facilities, complimentary bottled water, a desk, a safe, a minibar, and a private bathroom complete with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Some rooms also feature a sitting area.With Little Venice, as well as the Regent's Canal, Hyde Park, and the West End shops, clubs, and theaters just 10 minutes away, there is plenty of opportunity for excitement. Heathrow Airport is just 15 minutes away, and London City Airport is just 10 miles from the property.
Immerse yourself in English elegance at this beautiful, ideally located hotel. In just steps, find yourself at Park Lane, Oxford Street, Hyde Park, and many other landmarks that make up London's beautiful center! After a day of shopping and sightseeing, recharge with a cocktail at the hotel's trendy bar. When your stomach starts grumbling, indulge in classic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients at The Grill. This 1930's-themed on-site restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so stop by for a delicious meal at any time. If you're looking for a quick bite to eat, The Deli is a perfect place to enjoy a simple sandwich or relaxing cup of coffee. Don't forget to enjoy traditional, delicious Afternoon Tea, which is offered at the hotel daily!
As soon as you step into your room, you will forget that London's busiest street exists just around the corner. Unwind in this tranquil retreat of calm and comfort, where luxurious amenities such as blackout curtains, a rainfall shower, free unlimited WiFi, a Smart TV, and a complimentary mini bar will allow you to fall into a state of pure relaxation.Â
Located in the bustling Holland Park district is the accommodating Hilton London Kensington Hotel. Just 10 miles away from Heathrow Airport, this modern hotel is situated near a retail city center and a few of London's most popular tourist attractions. Some of which include Kensington Palace and Gardens, Battersea Park, and the Chelsea Football Club.
During your stay at this wonderful accommodation, enjoy access to a fitness center, room and concierge services, and an on-site restaurant. Within the guest rooms, visitors are provided complimentary beverages, bathrobes, slippers, and an array of elegant bedding accessories. The rooms are crafted in a contemporary style that features flat-screen televisions, a work desk, a mini-refrigerator, and air-conditioning!Â
Recently refurbished to the highest standards, the Thistle Kensington Gardens Hotel has the best of London right on the doorstep. Hyde Park is literally across the road from the hotel, while the West End shops and theaters are just a short cab ride away. Close to the hotel is Kensington Palace, which was home to Diana, Princess of Wales, and the famous Gardens that give the hotel its name. Fashionable and stylish Kensington High Street is a short stroll away. The Thistle Kensington Gardens hotel has 175 rooms, including spacious executive bedrooms offering wonderful views over Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
Hotel Novotel London West, located in the Hammersmith neighborhood of London, is a sanctuary in the middle of the bustling capital. With three of London's main tube lines within a three minute walk of the hotel, Â easily access any of the city's main attractions including Big Ben, the London Eye, and Hyde Park. Spend an evening at the Hammersmith Apollo Theatre, renowned for live music and comedy, just steps from the hotel!
All of the 630 contemporary en-suite bedrooms are designed to keep noise at a minimum, perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. On site, Hotel Novotel London West offers a restaurant and a bar/lounge where guests can unwind with a drink. The 4-star property also offers access to a business center and a meeting/conference room.
Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington features a restaurant and a bar/lounge. Room service is available 24 hours a day. The hotel serves Hot and cold buffet breakfasts (surcharges apply). Recreational amenities include a fitness facility. This 4-star property has a business center and offers a meeting/conference room, secretarial services, and audio-visual equipment. Wireless Internet access (surcharge) is available in public areas. This London property has event space consisting of banquet facilities and conference/meeting rooms.
The Clermont, Victoria is located steps from Victoria Station and just minutes from Buckingham Palace. Guest rooms are equipped with complimentary WiFi, complimentary essential oil-infused toiletries, coffee/tea making facilities, bathrobes, and slippers. Enjoy a meal, afternoon tea, or evening cocktail at the hotel's restaurant or bar. Then walk to one of the handful of nearby theaters to catch an evening show! Plus, with the hotel's prime location, you'll find that the entire city is easily accessible no matter where you wish to go.
Just a 4 minute walk from Holborn Underground Station the Thistle Holborn Kingsley Hotel stands proud with a beautiful Edwardian facade that ties traditional and contemporary styles together. Guests can enjoy two on-site restaurants, a bar and lounge, and free Wi-Fi.
Rooms have sleek furnishings as well as satellite flat-screen TVs, a safe, air conditioning, a desk, ironing facilities, and a private bathroom complete with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Settling in London's Bloomsbury area, the British Museum, Theatreland, Covent Garden, and Oxford Street can all be reached in about 20 minutes of walking, and St. Pancras International is a 25-minute walk away, and offers access to the Eurostar link.
London Explorer Pass (3 Choices)
The Go London Explorer Pass is a flexible multi-attraction pass that allows London visitors to unlock their favorite attractions and tours around the city. Choose 3 London attractions from a list of London’s most popular attractions, and create your own itinerary, at your own pace. Included are such top London landmarks as Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's Cathedral and Tower Bridge, as well as city tours such as a one-day Big Bus London Hop-On-Hop-Off tour and Thames River Cruise.
The benefits of your Go London Explorer Pass are as follows:
• Included entry into multiple attractions, with one Pass
• Ultimate flexibility in planning your own vacation
• Link to a comprehensive guidebook, with useful information on London attractions
• Passes available in print or digitally – print at home, or use on the free Go City app
There is no need to select which attractions you'd like to see before you purchase the Pass; you can pick and choose any of the Explorer attractions as you go. This allows you to change your mind and wait and see how you feel in the moment. Just download your Pass onto the Go City mobile app and use it right from your phone, or print your Pass at home from your confirmation email. From there, all you have to do is present your Go City London Explorer Pass to be scanned at each attraction, and you’re in! You'll receive the Pass digitally in your client portal after you've purchased, and you'll then have the option to print off your Pass at home or download it onto the free Go City app and use it straight from your phone. Once you have your Pass, it's ready to use. All you have to do is turn up at your first chosen attraction and get your Pass scanned for admission (please check individual attractions for reservation details, in case you need to book beforehand). The Go City app is free and available for both Apple and Android devices. The app includes your Pass(es), Go London Explorer Pass guidebook, itineraries, and more. After activation, your Explorer Pass will remain valid for the next 60 days.
Day 6. London
Make the most of your last day in London! Be sure to get selfies on the Tower Bridge and in an iconic red phone-booth. Check out the Tower of London, feel like royalty at Buckingham Palace, and say hello to Big Ben!Â
Looking to explore beyond the city center? Discover the beautiful pastel-painted houses of charming Notting Hill, indulge in delicious bites at artsy Camden Market, or take a photo crossing iconic Abbey Road!
Day 7. Depart England
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your suitcase and head to the airport. Find your gate, then spend your flight home replaying wonderful memories and dreaming about your next adventure!
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
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