I admit it, I am a “King Arthur Groupie”.  Over the past several years, I have read many of the books and histories surrounding the alleged first king of the Britons.  Did he truly exist or is he an amalgamation of several historical figures?  To that I say, “who cares?!”.  The stories are fascinating and are well known by all.  But, if they are real, where did they occur?

England offers superior riding opportunities and fascinating history.  Rolling hills, lush valleys, meandering rivers cover the beautiful countryside and sets the ambiance for our ride through history to see the world that Arthur knew so well.  From Winchester, where we start our riding, through Salisbury to Glastonbury and Bath.  From there, we leave the Arthurian legends, and meander through the Cotswolds to Oxford and finally to one of the great cities in the world, London.

Here is the planned itinerary for this People On Bikes exclusive trip:

Days 1 & 2 - Fly to any one of many airports in London or area, and make your way to Winchester (train, bus, and other options are available - People On Bikes will help with these arrangements including arranged pick ups).  In Winchester, we will explore the town, including the world famous cathedral made famous in the song of the same name from the 1960’s.  But, not only is the Cathedral in town, there is also a famed round table to discover - is it authentic?  We’ll find out together.  Winchester itself is rich in history and tradition and was once the capital of England until Norman times and a center of commerce and politics until the 13th century.

Day 3 - Winchester to Salisbury - the riding towards Arthur territory begins in earnest.  We swing up to the north and down south through Amesbury to visit the abbey where Guinevere retired after Arthur’s death.  That night, we end up in the picturesque town of Salisbury highlighted by the spectacular cathedral and beautiful downtown.

Day 4 - Stone Rings and Camelot.  An early rise takes us to Stonehenge before the crowds and then to Cadbury Castle - most often associated with Camelot. 

Day 5 - Camelot to Avalon. Through lush valleys and treed hills, we ride as Merlin and Arthur might have, from Camelot (South Cadbury) to Avalon (Glastonbury).  The description alone is magical.

Days 6 & 7 - Before Arthur, there were the Romans.  We ride to Bath where we will stay for 2 days and enjoy the Roman Baths and other wonderful sites.  On our layover day, we will provide a bus tour to Tintagel - Arthur’s birthplace on the coast of Cornwall.

Days 8 & 9 - English countryside and tradition.  Into the Cotswolds we ride to experience the local vacation area of the English.  From there to Oxford where the riding ends and we enjoy the famous university.

Days 10 & 11 - To London to visit the Queen?  Well, if she’s in, she may see us.  Do let us know if you are royalty or have connections and we’ll see what we can do!  At the very least, we’ll check out her local house.  Our itinerary is full in this fabulous city and our hotel location exceptional.  We’ll do the highlights and give you a taste of history.  After which, we’ll help you to the airport or wish you well on your continued travels.

For some, 11 days in England is too much - either in terms of time or expense.  As an option, People On Bikes will shorten this trip to 8 days ending in Bath with a transfer back to London.  You will see the Arthurian highlights and the glories of London, while spending one full week (Saturday to Saturday) away from work or other typical assignment.  By choosing this alternative, you can also reduce the trip price by approximately $600.  Contact us for more details.