Day 1 Shanghai → Transit Point → London
All day
丨 Full refund if visa is rejected:
How to cancel the visa:
After the trip, you need to collect your passport and round-trip boarding passes and send them to the consulate for visa cancellation. This is expected to take about half a month. Please arrange your itinerary after returning home.
About the team:
This trip is a China-TravelNote independent tour, with a maximum of 25 people. A China-TravelNote tour leader will be arranged upon completion of the trip.
丨Ticket Description:
This itinerary includes round-trip international air tickets. Since group air tickets require approval from the airline, the departure times of international flights in different departure batches are different. Please refer to the flight time in the group departure notice.
·morning
Since the departure is at 0:00 am, tourists should arrive at Shanghai Pudong Airport 1 day in advance and 3 hours in advance according to the flight information, check in and take the flight to London, the capital of the United Kingdom.
Reference flights:
EK303, Shanghai Pudong PVG - Dubai DXB, 00:05 - 05:35, flight time 10 hours, transfer time approximately 2 hours 25 minutes
EK15, Dubai DXB - London Gatwick LGW, 08:00 - 12:35, flight time 8 hours
We arrived in London at noon and after completing customs clearance, we took a short tour of the city of London today.
Arrive in London's financial district and admire Tower Bridge (exterior) spanning the Thames. Its towering Baroque columns create a classic British scene. Nearby, the Tower of London (inside), still a royal residence, dates back to the Roman Empire and has served as a palace, prison, armory, arsenal, and menagerie. The royal family's treasures are also housed here, and a ghost story is said to linger within.
We then returned to the hotel to rest and adjust to the jet lag, preparing for the next trip.
Day 2 London Full Day
·morning
Important note: As attractions in London, Oxford, Cambridge, and Windsor have different opening hours and may be temporarily closed due to academic or royal events, the order of visiting attractions on Days 2 to 4 may be adjusted according to the opening conditions. Please understand.
After breakfast, we headed to the British Museum (entrance + guided tour), one of the four largest museums in the world. This museum boasts a collection of precious artifacts spanning the globe, encompassing civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, Rome, Asia, and the Middle East. It is known as the "Encyclopedia of Human History."
Egypt District: It houses a large collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, the most famous of which is the Rosetta Stone.
Greek and Roman exhibition area: Here are the Parthenon sculptures, which once adorned the Parthenon Temple on the Acropolis in Athens //
Oriental Art Exhibition Area: This area houses a large collection of Chinese cultural relics, including bronzes, Tang Dynasty tri-colored glazed pottery, Song Dynasty porcelain, and the famous Dunhuang mural manuscripts.
Middle East Exhibition Area: This area displays stone carvings and murals from the ancient Assyrian Empire, especially the "Assyrian Lion Hunting Relief"
·afternoon
After lunch, there's nothing better than exploring a city on foot. We arrived at City Walk, starting at Trafalgar Square, surrounded by classical architecture and arguably the heart of London. We then visited Big Ben, a symbol of London and a source of pride for the locals. We continued on to Westminster Abbey (exterior), where important ceremonies such as the coronation of the British royal family take place. We then visited Buckingham Palace (exterior), the spiritual center of the British constitutional monarchy and the official residence of the monarch.
After a day of cultural exploration and sightseeing, return to your hotel to rest and prepare for the next journey.
Day 3 London → Cambridge → London
·morning
The UK is a world-renowned university. Today we are in Cambridgeshire, north of London, to visit the world's oldest university, the University of Cambridge. Great scientists such as Newton and Hawking have worked or lived here.
Xu Zhimo once left behind a poem: "Quietly I left, just as quietly I came; quietly I waved goodbye, bidding farewell to the clouds in the western sky." This is exactly the description of Cambridge, the "Cambridge".
Take photos and check in at the Eucharistic Bell. This golden bell was unveiled by physicist Stephen Hawking in 2008. Its "Time-Eating Beast" design symbolizes the passage of time. Visit King's College. Founded in 1441, it is Cambridge's most famous college. Alan Turing, Xu Zhimo and others studied here. The King's College Chapel next to it is also not to be missed.
During the tour, you will be offered a special punting tour on the River Cam. Take a traditional Cambridge wooden boat and visit Trinity College, St. John's College, King's College, etc. along the river, and admire the ancient bridges and lush green lawns between the colleges.
·afternoon
In the afternoon we return to the city of London and arrange for everyone to have free time in the city.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, we recommend checking out Platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station and imagining yourself getting on the train to Hogwarts.
If you plan to go shopping, you can also go to the blocks around Piccadilly Circus, where Regent Street and Oxford Street intersect. You can set aside time to carefully select.
After arriving at the meeting time, we returned to the hotel together.
Day 4 London → Windsor → Oxford
·morning
Today we depart London and travel to Windsor, a small town west of downtown, to visit Windsor Castle (entrance is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays). The castle's history dates back to William the Conqueror, who built it in the suburbs surrounding London to prevent rebellion. Today, it serves as the family seat of the Windsor dynasty, the royal family of the British royal family. The castle boasts numerous magnificent rooms and buildings, including St. George's Chapel, the State Rooms, and Queen Mary's Dolls' House. It is also where the Queen is buried.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, we arrived in Oxford, another university city in the UK, to visit the University of Oxford. This institution of learning, with a history of over 900 years, is one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world and is world-renowned for its profound academic atmosphere, solemn college buildings and cultural influence.
Afterward, visit Trinity College (may be closed for academic activities), renowned for its exquisite quadrangle and expansive lawns. Don't miss Oxford University's Bridge of Sighs. Harry Potter fans shouldn't miss Christ Church, where the College Dining Room is a true replica of the Hogwarts dining hall. Its high ceilings and vaulted ceilings, wall paintings, long dining tables, and exquisite windows create an ambiance of ancient mystery and sacredness.
After finishing our trip to the bookish city of academia, we checked into a hotel near Oxford.
Day 5 Oxford → Cotswolds → Nottingham
·morning
The United Kingdom is one of the most historically and culturally rich countries in the world, and its palaces are world-famous. Today we will visit Blenheim Palace (inside) near Oxfordshire.
This is the birthplace of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, also known as "Churchill House." It is the only non-religious, non-royal building in the UK to hold the title of "palace." Its exceptional blend of rural scenery, gardens, and courtyards is a remarkable achievement. In 1987, the residence was designated a World Heritage Site.
After the tour, we drove into the Cotswolds region of the UK. If you are yearning for pastoral life, this is an ideal place.
Around noon, we'll take you to a British farm, where nature meets British farmland. Furry sheep roam freely across the grass, allowing both adults and children to interact closely with the animals. A farm lunch will be provided at noon.
·afternoon
After lunch, we'll explore the sprawling English countryside. Bibury, a representative village in the Cotswolds, was called "one of the most beautiful villages in England" by the English poet William Morris. It's famous for its row of 17th-century ochre-colored stone houses, Arlington Terrace, which are still inhabited today. This row of houses once graced the cover of British passports, becoming a symbol of the English countryside.
After leaving Bibury, we headed to Bourton-on-the-Water, where a winding stream runs through the village, crossed by several low-arch stone bridges. The water is crystal clear and surrounded by ancient honey-colored stone houses, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the waterfront scenery.
Day 6 Nottingham → Darcy House/Hike → York
·morning
Leaving the English countryside, we arrived in an area near the Peak District, where there is a manor half the size of London.
When it comes to the grand estates of the British aristocracy, we've undoubtedly seen plenty of them in British television series and films. Many have even seen "Pride and Prejudice," the inspiration for which is Chatsworth House, also known as Darcy House. At half the size of London, it's an ideal place to experience the essence of an English manor.
After 16 generations of inheritance by the Cavendish family, the mansion has become what it is today. There are more than 25 rooms to explore, each of which is magnificent. The owners of each generation are art lovers, and there are special sketch galleries and sculpture halls. Even the fountain in the garden is 300 years old.
The estate is surrounded by vast country parks and forests. We will also arrange for everyone to take a [Manor Light Hiking Experience] here, strolling among the meadows and hills, seeing flocks of sheep and cattle along the way, and feeling the tranquil beauty of the English countryside. On the way, you can look back at the entire estate, which is very magnificent.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, we drove into Yorkshire, known as "God's County." York is the capital of northern England and the second most visited city in England. King George VI once proudly declared that the history of York is the history of England.
Visit York Minster (inside), which took over 200 years to build and is the largest surviving medieval Gothic cathedral in Europe. Then stroll through Butcher's Row. In the Middle Ages, Butcher's Row was the city's main meat market. Many of the shops along the street were once butchers' stalls. Today, Butcher's Row is filled with a variety of small shops and restaurants. This is also the filming location for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. It's like stepping into Harry Potter's magical world, where wizards seem to Apparate around the corner to buy wands.
Day 7 York → Lake District
·morning
Like the Peak District, the Lake District is one of the two major representatives of the British natural landscape. It is a national forest park composed of forests, lakes, mountains and rural villages. It is praised by National Geographic as "one of the 50 places worth visiting in a lifetime."
There are many ways to explore the Lake District. We'll take you on a steam train and boat tour. Riding the steam locomotive is like stepping back in time. The vintage wooden seats and old-fashioned window frames create a nostalgic atmosphere. Arrive at the lakeside town and take a boat tour, drifting across the shimmering waters. Waterfowl flit across the surface, and country houses and docks dot the shoreline.
·afternoon
After getting off the boat, we came to the [Peter Rabbit Museum]. The Lake District is the hometown of the British century-old classic IP "Peter Rabbit". Here, you can find all the beautiful, romantic, dreamy and innocent times.
Afterwards, you can stroll freely in the town of Windermere, where the streets are lined with traditional stone buildings, cozy cafes and exquisite British shops. You can feel the vicissitudes and history of the ancient buildings and savor the unique culture and style of the Lake District.
You will stay near the lake that night.
Day 8 Lake District → Edinburgh
·morning
After breakfast, we will drive into Scotland and arrive at the capital, Edinburgh. This is the birthplace of Rowling's Harry Potter and the world depicted in Jay Chou's "Obviously." The entire city is filled with a medieval atmosphere.
·afternoon
Visit Edinburgh Castle (inside). Visible from every corner of the city center, the castle stands atop an extinct volcano. It served as a stronghold for the Scottish royal family since the 6th century and is a symbol of the Scottish spirit. The castle houses numerous collections and the palaces are home to Scottish treasures. Don't miss the crown and scepter, known as the "Honor of Scotland," and the Stone of Destiny, the coronation seat of successive Scottish monarchs. A cannon salute is fired daily at 1:00 p.m.
We'll then visit the Royal Mile, a historic thoroughfare where Renaissance intricacy, Georgian elegance, and Gothic style intertwine with the medieval yet modern city. Jay Chou's music video for "Obviously" featured several scenes in Edinburgh, and we'll visit one of these locations, Calton Hill, where the hilltop observation deck offers panoramic views of the city.
The day ends with free time on Princes Street. The bustling streets of the old town are bustling and great for strolling and taking photos.
Day 9 Edinburgh → Fort William
·morning
Scotland not only has a rich history and culture, but also magnificent natural scenery, and the Scottish Highlands is one of the representatives.
After breakfast, we'll drive along the Scottish Scenic Highway towards the Highlands. On the way, you'll pass Glencoe, a canyon shrouded in mist year-round, with wild grass covering the mountains and lakes running through it. This is a perfect example of the grandeur and vicissitudes of the Highlands. Both Braveheart and James Bond were filmed here.
We then arrived at Fort William, a small, narrow city named after the stone fortress built here by William III.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, experience a Loch Linne Seal Cruise. Departing from the pier, you'll pass picturesque villages with the towering Ben Nevis behind them. Beyond that, you'll see ancient Caledonian forests, salmon and mussel farms, and keep your eyes peeled for otters, porpoises, and even seals. Afterward, return to Fort William.
Day 10 Fort William → Glasgow
·morning
Remember the steam train that the young wizards rode in the Harry Potter movies? As the iron steam train belched white smoke and whizzed by, it felt like stepping into a movie.
After breakfast, we'll head to Glenfinnan, located west of Fort William. Climb to the observation deck to watch the steam train pass by. The Glenfinnan Viaduct, also steeped in history, was completed in 1898. The entire railway line has been recognized as one of Europe's best railways for many years. It was also the setting for the scene in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" where the Ford sedan flies over the viaduct.
Then visit the small town of Glenfinnan, which is backed by mountains and faces the narrow Lake Hill, and check in the town's church and Lake Hill.
Warm reminder: The viewing platform where you can watch the steam train speeding is a "wild viewing platform" halfway up the mountain. If it rains, it will be muddy and difficult to walk on, so be sure to pay attention to safety.
·afternoon
Return in time and continue south along the scenic highway. Along the way, you'll pass Loch Lomond, Britain's largest freshwater lake, and the lakeside town of Lass, a town steeped in romance and mystery. Walking along the lakeside path, watching swans play and pigeons preening their feathers, and slowly wandering into the woods by the lake, you'll lose track of time.
In the afternoon, we'll arrive in Glasgow, a quintessential Scottish city. In the 19th century, it was a center of the textile, shipbuilding, coal, and steel industries. We'll admire the exterior of Glasgow Cathedral, the second-largest example of Gothic Revival architecture in the UK, second only to Westminster Abbey. We'll then have some free time in George Square, surrounded by many Victorian-era buildings, which are well worth exploring.
Day 11 Glasgow → Cairnryan → Belfast → Dark Hedges/Giant's Causeway
·morning
Today we'll depart Great Britain and head to the port to board a ferry, arriving at another island within the British Empire and exploring Northern Ireland. Known as the Green Kingdom, Northern Ireland's vast green grasslands and countless mountain peaks create a unique, green-themed natural landscape.
·afternoon
Upon arrival in Northern Ireland, we'll first visit the Giant's Causeway. Local legend holds that it was built by giants, but volcanic activity actually created the unique and spectacular hexagonal columns. Approximately 40,000 interlocking columns form a magnificent 8-kilometer coastline, earning it a World Heritage status for its unique structure.
Then, visit the Dark Hedges, a path lined with approximately 150 beech trees over 300 years old. The trees have grown in unique and varied shapes, creating a tranquil and secluded path. This landscape was also used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Return to Belfast that evening and check into the hotel to rest.
Day 12 Belfast → Dublin → Shanghai
·morning
Friendly, affordable and safe are just three of the things Belfast has to offer. Belfast was once ranked one of the 15 friendliest cities in Europe.
After breakfast, visit the Titanic Museum (inside). This museum was built next to the dock where the Titanic was first built. The exhibition inside the museum vividly reproduces the entire process of this world-famous cruise ship from its design, construction, maiden voyage to sinking.
·afternoon
After the tour, we left Northern Ireland and headed to Dublin, the capital of Ireland.
Upon arrival, you'll have some free time to explore this artistic city and finally be dropped off at the airport at a convenient time, concluding your trip to Great Britain.
EK 164 Dublin-Dubai 22:05 - 08:30, flight time 7 hours 30 minutes, transfer time approximately 1 hour 05 minutes
Day 13 Dubai → Shanghai
All day
Reference flights:
EK304, Dubai DXB - Shanghai Pudong PVG, 09:35-22:20
We are expected to arrive in Shanghai Pudong around 22:20, ending our Three Kingdoms trip. I look forward to your travel notes.
Due to regulations, all European embassies have a (though not very) chance of requiring applicants to attend an interview at the embassy after their return. If this happens, please understand and cooperate, and attend the interview within the designated timeframe to avoid impacting future visa applications. Travel and accommodation expenses incurred during the interview are the responsibility of the applicant.
The visa cancellation time for relevant European countries is usually around 15 working days. When you sign up for a tour, please pay attention to your other exit arrangements after returning to China.
