Greenwich, a borough of London, is home to the Royal Observatory. From here, the world’s longitude is measured from the prime meridian, and Greenwich Mean Time sets the global time standard. At the port, the clipper ship Cutty Sark, one of Greenwich’s renowned historic landmarks, is preserved as a fascinating museum. Upriver, London is home to Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. In addition, this major economic and cultural hub boasts a long tradition of arts and architectural innovation—from Shakespeare’s Globe Theater to West End musicals.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
Royal Greenwich by Foot
Discover Greenwich’s maritime and royal history by foot.
Classic Monuments of London
Take a classic tour by some of London’s most famous landmarks, accompanied by a renowned Blue Badge licensed guide.
The Tower of London
Explore the intriguing past of one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks.
Ceremony of the Keys at the London Tower
Enjoy a very special after-hours visit of the Tower of London and experience a unique, centuries-old tradition.
Imperial War Museum & Churchill’s War Rooms
Discover the undercover work of Britain’s Special Forces and the Allies, from World War I to conflicts of today.
The Royal Households of London
Explore the households of England’s royal family during a scenic drive and tour of Buckingham Palace.
The World of Shakespeare
Immerse yourself in the world of William Shakespeare during a private tour of the reconstructed Globe Theater.
Southwark & the Mayflower Trail
Discover the London Borough of Southwark’s maritime tradition and ties to the Pilgrims and the Mayflower.
Thames River Cruise
Witness one of the world’s most iconic skylines during an evening cruise along the River Thames.
Greenwich Gin
Delve into the world of gin production and enjoy a tasting of celebrated flavors during a visit to Greenwich Gin.
Eltham Palace House & Gardens
See a fascinating blend of medieval architecture and Art Deco interiors during a guided visit to Eltham Palace.
London Panoramic & London Eye
See London’s signature sights during a panoramic drive, and enjoy a different perspective from atop the London Eye.
Videos
Highclere Behind the Scenes: Gwyn, “The Butterfly Lady”
Join Karine to meet one of the longest serving residents on the Highclere Castle estate. And join them on a journey of joy and firsts, taking delight in the smaller things in life.
Explore Britain’s Great Homes, Gardens and Gin
Step inside the iconic British estates well known to PBS viewers, including Highclere Castle, the “real Downton Abbey”; Wolf Hall’s Broughton Castle; and Chavenage House, better known as Trenwith in Poldark. Beyond these impressive homes, learn the story behind the legendary Bombay Sapphire gin at its historic distillery.
Highclere Behind the Scenes: Pat the Painter
Meet Pat Withers, one of the castle’s favorite, most colorful characters, who came to Highclere as a teenager and never left. As the longest serving staff member at Highclere, she’s worked for three generations of the Carnarvon family.
Tutankhamen and Highclere Castle
Uncover the fascinating history behind the discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb by archaeologist Howard Carter and George Herbert, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, and get an exclusive look at Highclere Castle’s collection of Egyptian relics.
Highclere Behind the Scenes: Mike the Beekeeper
Join Karine and Finse as they explore the world of bees with Mike Withers, a thirty-year member of the Highclere staff, whose passion for these hard-working, misunderstood insects spans 60 years.
Churchill’s Britain
Discover the remarkable life and times of revered British statesman Sir Winston Churchill. During this 5-night London extension with Viking, gain Privileged Access to Cabinet War Rooms; visit Churchill’s private Chartwell estate and his birthplace at Blenheim Palace; learn how the British broke the Nazis’ secret code at Bletchley Park and much more.
