Pre-cruisepre: Churchill's Britain From $4,299 | 5 nights
5 nights
Discover the life of Sir Winston Churchill, the inspirational British statesman. Gain Privileged Access to the Churchill War Rooms followed by a private champagne dinner in this secret 1940s setting. Visit his family home and birthplace, with prominent figures providing informative presentations.
From
$4,299
A Viking Representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to explore the city on your own. This evening, enjoy a casual dinner with your fellow guests. Your Viking Tour Director is available to help you plan your time in London so you can make the most of your visit. (D)
Journey to Blenheim Palace, Churchill’s birthplace and the current home of the 12th Duke of Marlborough and his family. After an insightful private talk by your host, see the Churchill Exhibition and enjoy free time to explore the palace on your own. A delicious light lunch will be served in a room overlooking the stunning gardens, or at a local restaurant. On the return journey to your hotel, stop in the village of Bladon at St. Martin’s Church—Churchill’s final resting place. (B, L)
Travel through scenic countryside to Chartwell, the family residence of the Churchills from 1922 until 1964. Discover Churchill’s life through an array of photographs, books and artifacts, and admire the house and kitchen gardens he designed. An accomplished artist later in life, he found that painting provided him with a needed escape from the world of politics. Step inside Churchill’s studio to view some of his most highly regarded pieces and enjoy lunch before returning to London. (B, L)
Travel to the home of the World War II code breakers, Bletchley Park. In 1938, under Churchill’s orders, this team of scientists—including the brilliant mathematician Alan Turing—played a vital role in the success of the Allied forces. The drama that unfolded here, depicted in the movie The Imitation Game, was classified as top secret—the highest level of security. Explore the Victorian estate and discover the instrumental role Turing played in breaking the German Enigma code. (B, L)
Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, the masterwork of Sir Christopher Wren. Discover the story behind Operation Hope Not, which outlined the plans for Churchill’s funeral arrangements, 12 years before he died. Your guide will share details from the cathedral’s archives of the day’s events. This evening, enjoy a Privileged Access visit to Churchill’s War Rooms. Walk through dimly lit corridors to the iconic Harmsworth Room and savor a three-course champagne dinner in this secret 1940s setting. (B, D)
Explore Churchill’s London in the heart of the City of Westminster. See the Cenotaph war memorial and gates to 10 Downing Street, head toward Westminster Abbey and St. Margaret’s Church, and see where Churchill passed away in Kensington. Later this afternoon, you will transfer to your ship to begin your cruise. (B)
NOTE:
Optional Shore Excursions: a selection of additional excursions may be available to enhance your extension experience. Optional excursions will be bookable in MyVikingJourney.com when your cruise shore excursions open for sale.
Extension is not available on all departure dates; confirm availability & seasonal pricing when booking. Pricing may vary by departure or activity date. Activity order may vary. Accommodations are subject to change depending on availability; if advertised hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be confirmed. Any included flights are economy class. Luggage restrictions may apply on intra-country flights. Specific details will be provided once program is confirmed. Shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.
The following meals are included for all days as listed: B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner
