London in Depth

London, deeply traditional in its old Victorian manners, is also the home to many of Europe's most innovative artists and designers, a rapidly growing restaurant and "gastropub" scene that features creative new British cuisine, and some of the world's most impressive museums and historic buildings. This comprehensive tour of London includes flexible touring to allow travelers to tailor each day to their interests. Discover London's discreet charms—heritage architecture, private gardens, vibrant markets and exclusive boutiques.

Perhaps trace London's history at the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Fleet Street, and Lincoln's Inn Fields. Stroll the city's mews (narrow streets with old stables converted into homes) and marvel at Arts & Crafts homes along the Thames in Chelsea.

For museum lovers, the possibilities are endless. A few favorites include the incomparable Victoria and Albert Museum which showcases decorative arts from around the world. Somerset House on the Strand is a great destination for art lovers, with impressionist paintings in the Courtauld Gallery, European boxes in the Gilbert Collection, extensive Hermitage Rooms, and a beautiful courtyard filled with fountains. The Freud Museum in north London was once Sigmund Freud's residence and still houses his incredible collection of antiques that are known to have influenced his scholarly work. Visit the Turner Gallery in The Tate Britain, or view modern art in the spectacular Tate Modern, located riverside in a converted power station.

During leisure time, stroll through Hampstead Heath, Hyde Park or St. James Park. Unwind with a proper pint on Fleet Street at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, a pub dating from 1666. Go antique shopping on the Kings Road, go to the theater in London's West End. Browse markets in Notting Hill and Covent Garden, or sample English cheeses at the Borough Market. Perhaps spend a day visiting London's incredible department stores and their food halls, including Harrods, Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and Liberty. Browse exclusive shops along Sloane Street and Bond Street, and visit the tiny boutiques on narrow backstreets of Chelsea and South Kensington. Shop for old prints and books, or sit back and enjoy life in a local pub.

Spend one day on a private excursion into the countryside near London. Options include Greenwich, Bath, Stonehenge, the Cotswolds, or a gourmet lunch at a manor home such as Cliveden or Le Manoir aux Quats Saison.