3-Day Isle of Wight and the Southern Coast Small-Group Tour From London

Exploring the Isle of Wight and southern coast of England offers a unique glimpse into the country’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. This 3-day small-group tour from London promises an immersive experience, from visiting Queen Victoria’s beloved Osborne House to discovering the home of the iconic Bombay Sapphire gin. With comfortable accommodations and free time to explore Portsmouth’s iconic attractions, this tour provides an opportunity to escape the city and uncover the hidden gems of the region.

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Key Points

A 3-day small-group tour from London to the Isle of Wight and Southern Coast, visiting Osborne House and Bombay Sapphire distillery.
Accommodation includes 2 nights’ stay at a 3-star hotel or B&B, with breakfast included.
Free time in Portsmouth to visit the Mary Rose or HMS Victory ships.
Transportation provided via 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, with an English-speaking driver-guide.
Luggage limited to 14kg per person, with specific meeting and departure information provided.

Tour Overview

The 3-day tour from London to the Isle of Wight and Southern Coast allows travelers to explore Queen Victoria’s favorite holiday destination, featuring beaches, white sea cliffs, and historical sites dating back to the Normans, Romans, and two world wars.

The small-group experience, limited to 16 travelers, includes visits to Osborne House and the home of Bombay Sapphire gin. Travelers also have free time in Portsmouth to optionally visit the Mary Rose or HMS Victory.

The tour includes 2 nights’ accommodation, entry to Osborne House, and English-speaking driver-guide services, with transport via a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach.

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Inclusions

The tour includes 2 nights’ en-suite accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star hotel or B&B.

Entry to Osborne House is covered, and travelers will have an English-speaking driver-guide.

Travelers will have an English-speaking driver-guide and entry to Osborne House is included in the tour.

Transportation is via a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach.

During free time in Portsmouth, visitors can optionally explore the Mary Rose or HMS Victory, though advance ticket reservations are recommended.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience.

Luggage is limited to 14kg per person, with one carry-on and a small personal item allowed.

Meeting and Departure Information

The tour meets at the Green Line Coach Station, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London, SW1W 9SH.

Departure time is 09:15 am.

The location is accessible via Victoria Train and Underground Station, with taxi drop-off available at Buckingham Palace Road and Elizabeth Bridge.

The tour is conducted in an English-speaking mini-coach with a maximum of 16 travelers.

Guests should arrive at the departure point punctually to ensure the tour departs on time and the full itinerary can be enjoyed.

Accommodation Details

Guests have a choice between 3-star bed and breakfast or hotel accommodation when booking the tour.

B&Bs may require a 20-30 minute walk to local facilities, while hotels are usually centrally located but may also require a similar walk.

The tour operator can arrange ground floor rooms or lift access upon request.

Exploring Queen Victoria’s Favorite Holiday Destination

As Queen Victoria’s favorite holiday destination, the Isle of Wight offers visitors a chance to explore its beaches, white sea cliffs, and historical sites dating back to the Normans, Romans, and two world wars.

The tour features visits to several highlights:

Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s former royal residence.
The home of Bombay Sapphire gin, showcasing the island’s diverse attractions.
Free time in Portsmouth to visit the Mary Rose or HMS Victory, with advance ticket reservation recommended.

This small-group experience provides an immersive exploration of the island’s rich history and natural beauty.

There's plenty more to explore in London

Visiting Osborne House

Although the tour’s diverse offerings are enticing, a highlight for many visitors is the chance to explore Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s former royal residence on the Isle of Wight.

As the Queen’s favorite holiday home, the grand Italian-style palazzo provides a glimpse into the private life of the monarch. Travelers can wander through the stately rooms, admiring the lavish decor and regal furnishings.

The tour also includes access to the beautiful gardens and private beach, allowing visitors to experience the tranquility that once captivated the Queen.

This exclusive opportunity makes Osborne House a must-see on the Isle of Wight tour.

Discovering the Home of Bombay Sapphire Gin

Along With visiting the historic Osborne House, the Isle of Wight tour also provides an opportunity to discover the home of the renowned Bombay Sapphire gin.

The tour includes a visit to the Bombay Sapphire Distillery, where guests can:

The tour includes a visit to the Bombay Sapphire Distillery, where guests can explore the grounds, learn about the distillation process, and enjoy a gin and tonic.

Explore the beautiful grounds and take a guided tour of the distillery.
Learn about the unique distillation process and the 10 botanicals used to create the iconic gin.
Enjoy a gin and tonic while taking in the stunning views of the River Test.

This stop offers a delightful complement to the historical highlights of the tour.

Exploring Portsmouth’s Historic Attractions

The Isle of Wight tour also provides an opportunity to explore the historic attractions of Portsmouth.

Guests can visit the Mary Rose museum, which houses the wreckage of Henry VIII’s iconic warship. Alternatively, they can tour the HMS Victory, Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar.

Both offer immersive experiences to learn about Britain’s naval history. Advance ticket reservations are recommended to avoid long lines.

With free time in Portsmouth, travelers can discover these iconic sites at their own pace before returning to London.

The Sum Up

This 3-day tour offers an immersive experience of the Isle of Wight and the southern coast. Travelers will visit Osborne House, the former royal residence, and the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery. They’ll also have free time to explore historic sites in Portsmouth. With comfortable accommodation and breakfast included, this small-group tour provides a well-rounded and memorable getaway from London.