Advent season in South England

Experience the atmospheric Advent season in South England and let yourself be enchanted by festively decorated towns, traditional landmarks, and sparkling light displays. From the white cliffs of Dover to historic places like Canterbury, Bath, and Exeter, all the way to the vibrant metropolis of London, a journey full of Christmas spirit awaits you. Special highlights such as Stonehenge in winter, impressive light installations, and a ride on the 'Christmas Train of Lights' make this trip an unforgettable experience.

Day 1 | Arrival in Maidstone

Departure in the morning and drive to the ferry port in Calais or Dunkirk. You will cross the English Channel by ferry. Upon seeing the white cliffs, you will reach Dover, the gateway to England. Continue to Maidstone, check into the hotel, and have dinner.

Day 2 | Canterbury – Southampton

In the heart of the historic old town, the Christmas market in Canterbury invites you to a festive stroll. Around the cathedral, beautifully decorated stalls showcase handicrafts, gift ideas, and culinary delights. The scent of mulled wine, cinnamon, and pastries fills the air, while fairy lights and music create a warm atmosphere. Here, medieval charm meets Christmas magic – an unforgettable experience in one of England's most beautiful cities. Afterwards, head to Southampton for the overnight stay.

Day 3 | Stonehenge – “Winter Lights at the Gardens”

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the history of South England with a visit to Stonehenge: the mysterious stone circle monument is particularly impressive in the clear winter air and invites you to experience the mystical magic of this place up close. In contrast, the sea of lights at “Winter Lights at the Gardens” in the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens awaits you in the late afternoon. There, artistic illuminations transform exotic plants and winding paths into a fairy-tale world. Overnight stay in Southampton.

Day 4 | Exeter – “Christmas Train of Lights”

Today, your journey continues westward. In the historic city of Exeter, a stop is worthwhile to visit the Christmas market held around the impressive cathedral. In the late afternoon, a special highlight of your trip awaits you: the ride on the “Christmas Train of Lights.” The steam locomotive, adorned with colorful lights, takes you on a magical journey along the coast. Sparkling illuminations and glowing tunnels make the train ride an unforgettable experience. Overnight stay in Paignton.

Day 5 | Bath – Bristol

From Paignton, the journey takes you along the picturesque coast and through gentle hills to the elegant city of Bath. Enjoy a city tour here. Bath is particularly famous for its Roman baths and splendid Georgian architecture. In the festive glow of the Advent season, the city shines impressively – the Christmas market in Bath invites you to linger with handicrafts and culinary delights. Afterwards, continue to Bristol for the overnight stay, where modern vibrancy meets historical backdrops.

Day 6 | London

Today is yours for individual activities in the British capital. London in Advent is a paradise for Christmas shopping: dazzling shop windows, festively illuminated streets like Oxford Street and Regent Street, as well as elegant department stores like Harrods invite you to marvel and shop. Christmas markets and sparkling lights give the metropolis a magical atmosphere. Overnight stay in London.

Day 7 | Return Journey

After breakfast, drive to the port in Dover for the ferry crossing to France. After disembarking, begin your journey home.

• Travel in a modern coach with 5-star comfort and footrests
• 1x overnight stay including half board at the 4-star Mercure Great Danes Hotel in Maidstone (local category)
• 2x overnight stays including half board at the 4-star Leonardo Hotel Southampton in Southampton (local category)
• 1x overnight stay including half board at the 4-star Mercure Hotel Paignton in
  Paignton (local category)
• 1x overnight stay including half board at the 4-star Bristol Grand Hotel by Sunday in Bristol
• 1x overnight stay including half board at the 4-star Novotel Hammersmith in London (local category)
• Ferry crossing Dunkirk/Calais – Dover and back
• Entry to Stonehenge
• Entry to “Winter Lights at the Gardens” in the Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens
• Ride on the “Christmas Train of Lights”
  (approx. 90 minutes)
• City tour in Bath
• 1 complimentary drink per travel day
• Continuous BOHR travel accompaniment

Please note that you need a valid passport and an electronic travel authorization (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom. An ETA costs approximately £16 (about €19) per application and can be applied for through the "UK ETA App". We are happy to assist you and can take care of the application for the Electronic Travel Authorization on your behalf. A service fee of €30 per applicant will be charged for the application process.