London: Three Day Sir Winston Churchill Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Blenheim Palace and Blandon.
2 stops
1
Blenheim Palace
Few places in the UK are so closely linked to the life & legacy of Sir Winston Churchill & nowhere else in the UK gives you the sense of the family lineage, historical importance & weight of expectation which was marshalled behind Sir Winston during his lifetime. During your visit to Blenheim Palace, you will have the time to immerse yourself in the birthplace of the man who defined a century & whose legacy helped reshape the world, visit the temple where he proposed, & pay your respects at his final resting place. While you explore the grandest private residence in the UK with your knowledgeable & friendly guide, they will explain the history & some behind-the-scenes secrets of this impressive palace. How did the Marlborough family came to own Blenheim? Why was Winston born here? And what are the historical, contemporary, & modern links between the Marlborough family, Blenheim Palace, & Sir Winston Churchill? All will be explained by your expert guide on this tour.
6 hours • Admission ticket included
2
Following your exploration of the palace, your journey concludes with a deeply personal moment at the small local church in Bladon. It is here, in the quiet churchyard of St Martin's, that Sir Winston Churchill was laid to rest. A figure of such immense national importance would typically be entombed within the great monuments of Westminster Abbey or St Paul's Cathedral, but Churchill's own wish was to be buried simply with his family. Here, you can stand before the graves of Sir Winston and his wife Lady Clementine Churchill, a poignant opportunity to pay your respects to one of history's true giants. Before departing, you will have time to admire the stunning stained glass window within the church, a beautiful memorial commissioned to mark the 50th anniversary of his death. Your guide will then ensure a comfortable journey back, dropping you directly at your London accommodation or another central location of your choosing.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Chartwell
1 stop
3
Chartwell
Day two starts with a transfer from your Central London accommodation to Chartwell, the Churchill family home in Kent. As you travel to Chartwell, your driver will explain the history of the ‘Chart Well’, the property’s links to a visit by King Henry VIII, & how Sir Winston Churchill came to purchase the property in 1922, after selling a similar property in 1919 due to financial difficulties. Altered & expanded upon by Phillip Tillden, the rebuilding of Chartwell was not an easy or straightforward affair, and the property had to be abandoned during the Second World War. Many of Sir Winston’s greatest achievements, including the writing of his Nobel Prize-winning memoirs, took place at Chartwell, & the house is crammed full of important documents, paintings, & artefacts from his lifetime here. During your time at Chartwell, which is self-guided, you will also have the chance to explore the stunning gardens and the studio, and to wander the grounds just as Sir Winston used to do.
6 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 3
London
21 stops
4
Bolton Street was home to Churchill's first 'bachelor pad', which, upon his marriage to Clementine, became their first family home. Known for having toy soldiers loitering around the place, a library stocked with £6,000 worth of books, and a bedroom decorated in his mother's taste, Churchill's home life started here. Whilst still in private ownership, the exterior views of Churchill's old home give us the chance to discuss Churchill as a young man, as a new husband, and his relationship with his mother and his wife, both of which could be difficult yet loving.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
5
Churchill's marriage to his wife, Clementine, has often been seen as loving, stable, and faithful. However, recent tapes unearthed at Churchill College, Cambridge, shed some doubt on this view of their relationship. Was Winston having an affair with the woman dubbed 'The Mistress of Mayfair'? Did she, as some suspect, have plans to blackmail Churchill during the country's darkest hour? Uncover all, including the rumours and gossip that surrounded Churchill and his mistress, outside the address where she lived and where Churchill regularly met her.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
6
Churchill And Roosevelt Allies Sculpture
This iconic statue of the two great wartime leaders was designed to capture their intimate friendship. Sat on a bench and was chatting happily, this statue was unveiled by Princess Margaret in 1995 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Now a popular tourist attraction, this is the perfect place to stop, take a photo, and chat about the great men, their friendship, their differences, and some of the outrageous stories that surround them both.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free
7
Savile Row is a world-renowned street located in the Mayfair district of London, England. It is widely recognised as the epitome of bespoke tailoring and is considered the spiritual home of traditional British men's clothing. The street has a long and distinguished history dating back to the 18th century when it first gained prominence as a destination for fashionable attire. Over time, Savile Row became synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the highest standards of tailoring. Known for his love of the finer things in life, Sir Winston shopped at many of these outstanding boutiques throughout the course of his life. Whilst at Savile Row, your guide will explain which shops supplied Sir Winston with which items of clothing and why many shoppers still flock to these stores, thanks to their connection to the Churchill family.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free
8
Royal Academy of Arts
Sir Winston Churchill had a notable connection to the Royal Academy of Arts in London. While primarily known for his political career and leadership during World War II, Churchill had a keen interest in art and was an accomplished amateur painter. Churchill's interest in painting led to a close association with the Royal Academy. He exhibited his works at the academy's Summer Exhibition under the pseudonym David Winters, and his lifelong passion for painting and his dedication to the arts are widely acknowledged even today. In recognition of Churchill's contributions to the arts and his association with the Royal Academy in 1948, he was made an honorary academician, a distinguished title that further solidified his connection to the institution. Whilst at the Royal Academy of Arts, your guide will explain why painting became so important in Sir Winston’s life, how his paintings give us insight into his life, and why his paintings can be so controversial.
9
Hatchards
Hatchards is one of the oldest and most famous bookstores in London, England. Hatchards has a rich history that dates back over two centuries, is a popular destination for literary enthusiasts. This stunning store has a reputation for its extensive collection of books and its commitment to quality and excellence in literature. Throughout its long history, Hatchards has catered to the tastes and interests of a wide range of readers, from the general public to royalty and prominent literary figures, including Sir Winston Churchill, who stocked his considerable personal library with books from this store. The store has maintained its status as a literary institution and a haven for book lovers, and no stop at Hatchards would be complete without the chance to purchase one of Sir Winston’s publications or a book about the great man by one of the many great literary and academic figures who have written biographies about the greatest Briton who ever lived.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
10
Fortnum & Mason
Fortnum & Mason is a renowned luxury department store located in Piccadilly, London. Known for supplying the British royal family, the Churchills were also regular shoppers here. The store's iconic branding and packaging, characterized by the signature Fortnum & Mason hampers, and distinctive, teal-coloured packaging, have become synonymous with luxury and elegance. It was these luxurious hampers that Churchill’s mother sent to Winston whilst fighting in the trenches of the First World War. Today, Fortnum & Mason is an iconic destination for locals and tourists alike, known for its exceptional products, luxurious shopping experience, and a sense of timeless elegance. It remains a symbol of British heritage, showcasing the best of British craftsmanship, gastronomy, and style. Whilst here, you will have the chance to shop like the Churchill family, or if you prefer, browse the opulent floors of fashion, food, and finery before continuing with your tour.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
11
Established in 1797, Paxton & Whitfield has one of the most varied selections of Cheese anywhere in London. Sir Winston famously declared that 'a gentleman buys his cheese at Panton & Whitfield' and our stop here is in honour of the great man's declaration. At Paxton & Whitfield, you can take your time sampling and purchasing some cheeses, or just take a moment to enjoy the chance to see a shop that Sir Winston visited and clearly enjoyed.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free
12
Floris was another favourite shop of Sir Winston, and should you wish, you will be able to stop here, just like at Fortnum and Mason, and Paxton & Whitfield, Turnbull and Asser, and purchase the same, or similar items to Sir Winston Churchill. Founded in 1730 and still run by the same family in the same location as when the company was founded, Floris has been a supplier to the British Royal Family since 1820. Known during the early 20th Century for providing fragrances to royalty, aristocrats, and politicians, past and present clients here include Oscar Wilde, Eva Peron, Helena Bonham Carter (who has a surprising link to Sir Winston – ask your guide for details), Marilyn Monroe, Kit Connor, and of course Sir Winston Churchill. Churchill began purchasing his fragrances here in the 1920s, and this stop offers you the chance to purchase the same fragrance as the one worn by Sir Winston during his own lifetime.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
13
James J. Fox & Robert Lewis
Here, clients can see where Sir Winston purchased his cigars and visit the James J. Fox Museum (not open on Sundays or Bank Holidays), which houses a selection of artefacts related to Sir Winston Churchill's smoking habits. Whilst here, your guide will explain Churchill's smoking habits, and how these habits have created problems for the numerous films which have been created about Sir Winston and his life, including the fantastic 'Darkest Hour' starring Garry Oldman. This is also an opportunity to purchase, should you wish, some of the finest cigars in the country.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
14
Lock & Co. Hatters
Lock & Co. Hatters are famous for their handsome hats and for supplying the best of British with their headwear. Part of the Tricentenarian Club of British businesses that have been trading under the same family for over 300 years, a postcard once arrived here addressed to 'The Best Hatter In The World, London'. A favourite shop of Sir Winston's, he purchased the Silk top hat he wore on his wedding day from Lock & Co., as well as numerous other items of headwear throughout his lifetime. Why did Sir Winston shop at Lock & Co? and why is it still such a popular shop after 300 years of business? Find out from your guide as part of this tour.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
15
Berry Bros. & Rudd
We blame Sir Winston for our love of Berry Bros and Rudd. Without him, we would never have entered this historic institution, which values its heritage and history just as much as innovation within the wine and spirits industry. Outside Berry Bros & Rudd your guide will also tell you about Sir Winston's infamous drinking habits, including asking for a glass of white wine for breakfast throughout the Second World War, and his love of Pol Roger Champagne. Once inside you are free to explore the second-to-none collection of wines and spirits which have been specially curated by the wine masters who supply both the public, and the King. Your guide will help you find, should you wish, a bottle of Pol Roger and explain the differences between Non-Vintage, Vintage, and the Sir Winston Churchill Cuvee.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
16
St. James's
St James's Place is where Churchill's parents lived during his childhood. It is possibly here (although no one can be certain) where Churchill's mother introduced the Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, to his favourite cook, Rosa Lewis, who famously chased the young Winston out of her Kitchen with a ladle! Whilst here, you will have the chance to talk about Churchill's father, Lord Randolph Churchill and how Winston's upbringing made him the man that we all recognise today.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free
17
Buckingham Palace
Stopping on the Mall, you will learn about Sir Winston Churchill's relationships with the monarchy, including Edward VIII, whom he supported during the abdication crisis; George VI, whom he initially terrified; and Elizabeth II, whose first and last Prime Ministers were born 100 years apart. Whilst outside Buckingham Palace, we will also discuss Churchill's plans for the royal family if the invasion of England had taken place, and give you the chance to grab as many photos as you would like.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
18
Whitehall
As you drive down Whitehall, the home of the British government, your guide will point out the government ministries in which Winston Churchill worked during his illustrious political career. You will also discover how London changed during Churchill's two terms as Prime Minister, & how, during his second term in office, his Private Secretary refused to wake him after Britain's first A-bomb test, but did wake him to warn of an impending political scandal. Sadly, we are unable to stop outside Downing Street due to the security arrangements, but as you drive past, your guide will explain the key moments of Churchill's two terms as Prime Minister, his role as the leader of the opposition between 1945 & 1951, & how Churchill's shadow still looms large over British politicians today. During your drive down Whitehall, your guide will show you the building where Churchill addressed the crowds on VE Day & explain how the greatest Britain managed to lose the first election after the war.
19
Parliament Square
See one of the many statues of Sir Winston Churchill and learn about his role in the reconstruction of the Houses of Parliament after the Second World War. You will also discover how Churchill was honoured by having his coffin lie in state at Westminster Hall, why his memorial was at St Paul's Cathedral rather than Westminster Abbey, and why his statue in Parliament Square faces Parliament rather than into the Square.
20
Hyde Park Gate was the Churchill's last home together in London. Purchased in 1945 after the Second World War, numbers 27 and 28 were combined to suit the needs of the great wartime Prime Minister. How were these properties altered? Your guide will explain everything and give you time to take photos of the famous Blue Plaque commemorating Sir Winston's time living here. Before you leave, Hyde Park Gate, your guide will explain Sir Winston's last months living here, and how his lifelong friend Lord Moran announced his death to the world once the Queen and Prime Minister had been informed that the 'Greatest Englishman of his Time' had passed away.
21
As we head towards the final stop on our tour (The Churchill War Rooms), your driver/guide will quickly stop outside the final London home of Lady Clementine Churchill and explain how the last 12 years of her life were spent. Elevated to the Peerage (something that Winston had rejected), Baroness Churchill frequently attended the House of Lords until her failing health forced her to no longer attend sessions of the House of Lords. Whilst here, your guide will also explain how Clementine was forced to sell some of her husband's paintings in order to support herself and how her final years contrasted with the glitz, glamour, and glory of her and her husband's heydays.
22
As we make our way to the Churchill War Rooms, we will briefly pass 33 Eccleston Square, the property in London where Diana and Randolph Churchill were born. Here, your guide will explain why this property was originally rented rather than bought and how the name 'Churchill' is used every time this property comes onto the market.
23
Mount Street was Winston's first London home. The rooms here were rented from his cousin, the Duke of Marlborough, and there are numerous stories of Churchill ordering 'room service' to his apartment from a nearby hotel. As you pass Winston's 'Bachelor Pad', you will hear how quickly Churchill's fortunes changed when he went from a bachelor to a husband and then a father within the space of just over a year!
24
Churchill War Rooms
Our final stop on our three-day Churchill Tour is the Churchill War Rooms. This former underground headquarters was where Churchill met his senior commanders, held Cabinet meetings during air raids, and spoke via a secure telephone link to the US President. Abandoned after the Second World War, the building is a time capsule which has barely changed since 1945. As you explore the War Rooms, you will also have a chance to visit the Churchill Museum, which includes a range of objects associated with Sir Winston Churchill, including the original door to Number 10 Downing Street!
3 minutes • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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