Compare Churchill’s Finest Hour: A Transatlantic Voyage on QM2 by Road Scholar vs England & Scotland in 11 days - The Royal Capital and The Highlands - Charm by Exoticca

Day 1 Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Reception New York City

Hotel check-in available by 3:00 p.m.

Program Registration: After you have your room assignment, meet your Road Scholar Group Leader in the lobby to register and get your welcome packet containing your name-tag, up-to-date schedule that reflects any last-minute changes, and to learn where the Orientation session will take place at 5:00 p.m. If your arrival is delayed, please ask for your packet when you check in. Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This program is staffed with both a Group Leader, who will accompany us throughout the program and deal primarily with logistics, and a Study Leader who will lecture, conduct field trips, and serve as an information resource on program-related topics. Dining aboard the Queen Mary 2, breakfast and lunch are in the venue of your choosing. Traditional afternoon tea is served each day in the Queens Room. Road Scholars are invited to have dinner together in the Britannia Restaurant. Snacks along with juice, tea, coffee, water are available 24 hours a day at the buffet restaurants; and there is 24-hour room service. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Day 2 Embark Queen Mary 2 At Sea

Embarkation expected by approximately 2:00 p.m.

This morning we will have the opportunity to visit the Ground Zero 9/11 Memorial and Museum, where we will examine authentic artifacts and learn about how people responded in the aftermath of the attack. We will depart for the pier early afternoon, complete embarkation procedures, and board the Queen Mary 2.

After completing boarding procedures and getting your cabin, take some time to freshen up and begin to familiarize yourself with the ship. We will participate with the rest of the passengers in the required Safety Drill before departure, so please listen for the announcement.

At leisure. You might like to see a show in the ballroom, watch a movie in the theatre, have a beverage and a chat in one of the bars, or find a book in the library — one of the best shipboard libraries available — and curl up in that perfect reading chair. The choice is yours.

In the hotel dining room, the breakfast buffet offers a variety of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, potatoes, tomatoes, mushrooms, cereals, toast, pastries, fruit, cold cuts, cheeses, yogurts, juices, tea, coffee, water.

Aboard the Queen Mary 2, we’ll have a late lunch. Meal Service: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in the main restaurants; alternative fine dining options available at additional cost. Water during meals and tea/coffee after meals are complimentary; alcoholic drinks, specialty teas, and coffees available for purchase. Afternoon tea with sandwiches, cakes, and pastries served each day. 24 hour room service.

Aboard the ship in the Britannia Restaurant, choose what you like from the menu with choices of appetizers and soups, salads, entrées, and desserts, plus coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 3 At Sea, Our Lecture Series Begins At Sea

Full day at sea.

We’ll gather with our Study Leader in a private meeting room for our first in a series of on-board lectures. Topics covered throughout the program will include Churchill in the Boer War, the tragedy of Gallipoli, Churchill in the trenches, the First Finest Hour, Churchill and his generals, and the Big Three.

Free Time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. You’ll have a variety of shipboard enrichment activities from which to choose. You might like to take a class such as watercolor painting or ballroom dancing, enjoy one of the ship's swimming pools, take a brisk walk around the decks, or continue reading that book. The history of the Cunard Line is displayed in an exhibition running through the halls of the ship.

At leisure.

In the venue of your choosing. The Britannia Restaurant offers a variety of plated breakfast entrées, pancakes and waffles, hot and cold cereals, cold cuts and cheese, yogurts, and a variety of baked goods, plus milk, juice, coffee, tea, water. The King’s Court has casual breakfast on Deck 7, or relax with breakfast in your room as you watch the televised descriptions of the day’s on-board activities.

In the venue of your choosing. The Britannia Restaurant offers appetizers and soups, salads and sandwiches, main dish entrées, and desserts. The Kings Court has buffet dining, while the Boardwalk Café (weather permitting) has light lunch choices.

Aboard ship.

Day 4 At Sea, Lectures Continue At Sea

Full day at sea.

Our lecture series following a thematic progression will continue with our Study Leader.

Free time to enjoy the variety of shipboard enrichment activities. Later in the afternoon, we’ll gather for an exclusive Road Scholar cocktail party.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Day 5 At Sea, Lectures Continue At Sea

Full day at sea.

Gathering in our lecture room, we’ll continue to explore the life and times of Winston Churchill.

Free time. You may want to take advantage of the many educational, social, and physical activities available on board, or simply relax in one of the deck chairs with a view of the Atlantic, glistening when the sun shines.

At leisure. You may wish to visit the Queen Mary 2’s beautiful theatre, home to nightly productions from stars of stage and screen alike.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Day 6 At Sea, Lectures Continue At Sea

Full day at sea.

We join our Study Leader for today's illuminating lecture.

Free Time. You might grab a ticket for the planetarium show, polish your bridge skills during a tournament, or perhaps retreat to the spa for a massage.

At leisure. You may wish to visit The Golden Lion, a traditional English pub, as it runs a competitive pub quiz each evening.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Day 7 At Sea, Lectures Continue At Sea

Full day at sea.

Joining our Study Leader, we’ll engage in another lively discussion.

Free Time. When not performing, members of the Royal Academy of the Dramatic Arts host daily acting workshops that give passengers the opportunity to flex their acting muscles.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Day 8 At Sea, Final Onboard Lecture At Sea

Full day at sea.

Gathering with our Study Leader, we’ll settle in for the final lecture before we dock at our destination tomorrow.

Free Time. You may wish to explore the history of the Cunard Line at a unique exhibition running through the halls of the ship.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out, disembarkation, and transfer in the morning.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Day 9 Disembarkation, Blenheim Palace, Transfer to London London, England

Disembarkation by approximately 9:00 a.m. Getting on/off motorcoach; total driving about 141 miles, approximately 3.5 hours with stops for field trips. Minimal walking for group activities, more dependent on personal interest; some periods of standing; seating available at Blenheim Palace.

After completing disembarkation procedures, we’ll make our way onto the motorcoach for transfer onwards to Blenheim Palace, where we’ll enjoy an expert-led field trip through the estate and its remarkable gardens that were designed by the famous landscape gardener, Lancelot “Capability” Brown. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace, just outside of Oxford, was initially a gift given to the first Duke of Marlborough, John Churchill. Queen Anne recognized him thusly for his triumph in battle over French and Bavarian forces in 1704, and the palace was built between 1705 and 1722. Eventually, Blenheim’s recognition grew further when Winston Churchill was born there in 1874.

Following Blenheim Palace, we'll continue the transfer to our London hotel, but not before making a stop at Bladon – the burial place of Winston Churchill. Once off the motorcoach, we’ll have a look around with our Study Leader as they illuminate the significance of the churchyard and surrounding area.

At leisure.

Early aboard the ship.

At Blenheim Palace we'll have a 2-course plated and served meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

In the hotel, we’ll have a 3-course plated and served dinner including coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 10 The Imperial War Museum London, England

We’ll board a motorcoach and ride to the Imperial War Museum. The vast museum chronicles Britain’s involvement in wars from 1914 to the present day, keeping a very human perspective on the immense turmoil that both Britain and the wider world as a whole have endured over the last century. Of particular importance are its First World War galleries, and its new Witnesses to War exhibition. Presented in a state-of-the-art atrium, the exhibition includes a Harrier Jet, a Spitfire, and a V2 rocket.

The afternoon is free for you to explore the delights of London.

At leisure.

In the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers choices such as eggs, breakfast meats and potatoes, mushrooms, tomatoes, baked beans, cereals, pastries, toast, jams and marmalade, juices, milk, tea, coffee, water.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Day 11 Chartwell London, England

Getting on/off motorcoach; total driving about 86 miles, approximately 2.5 hours. Walking approximately 2 miles total throughout the day; about 6 hours on our feet; paved pathways, some inclines and steps; welcome map shows step-free routes. Wheelchair access only to sitting room, hall, and library; electric wheelchairs not suitable for house.

We’ll begin the morning with some free time, to relax or explore the area near the hotel. Mid-morning, we’ll board a motorcoach and ride to Westerham for our afternoon field trip.

Chartwell, the adult home of Sir Winston Churchill, is located just outside Westerham. Our Study Leader will lead us on a field trip through its rooms and corridors while explaining the significance of each. On-site volunteers will also be available to answer any questions. Chartwell has been preserved to appear exactly as it would have when Churchill lived there, and houses a great number of his personal effects including paintings, books, honors, and medals. It is also home to some beautifully landscaped gardens, which provided inspiration for many of Churchill’s paintings.

At leisure.

Hotel buffet.

At Chartwell we’ll have a 2-course plated and served meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

At a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy a plated 3-course meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 12 Houses of Parliament, Churchill War Rooms London, England

Please note that access to the Houses of Parliament is subject to availability, as they are a working place of government.

This morning we’ll ride to the Houses of Parliament, the site of some of Churchill's greatest victories. An expert will take us through the corridors of power, including the Queen's Robing Room, the Members' Lobby, Westminster Hall, the Lords' Chamber and the Commons' Chamber.

Following our visit, we'll walk iconic Horseguards Parade before visiting the Churchill War Rooms. It was here that Churchill’s government sheltered during the worst of the bombing, and the conditions of the time are faithfully recreated in this subterranean maze. The facility also houses the Churchill Museum, which brings to life the exciting story of Churchill’s life – from his childhood to his “finest hour”.

At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.

Hotel buffet.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

At the hotel, we’ll have a 3-course plated and served farewell dinner including coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase. Share some of your favorite experiences from the program with new Road Scholar friends.

Day 13 Program Concludes In Flight

Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.

If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Hotel buffet, depending on departure times. This concludes our program.

Day 1: US - Night on board

Arrive at your US departure airport ready to board a flight to London. Night on board.* * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2: London

Arrive in London and self-transfer to the hotel*. London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom. Located on the banks of the River Thames, London has been an important human settlement since it was founded by the Romans originally named Londinium almost two millennia ago. London is a global city, one of the nerve centers in the arts, commerce, education, maintenance, fashion, finance, media, research, tourism and transport. Rest of the day at your leisure to explore the city. Overnight stay in London. * You will have the option to add a transfer from the airport to your hotel in the next step of the booking process. Please contact our customer service if you require a transfer from an airport other than LGW or LHR.

Day 3: London

Breakfast at the hotel. See London from a different perspective today, with a sightseeing cruise along the River Thames! Take in the views of several of the capital's most emblematic riverside landmarks, such as Tower Bridge, Southbank and the London Eye and enjoy the fully-stocked bar to buy drinks and snacks as you listen to the entertaining onboard commentary! Afternoon free to enjoy the capital at your leisure. Overnight stay in London.

Day 4: London

Breakfast at the hotel. Free day to continue exploring the wonderful city of London. Overnight stay in London.

Day 5: London - Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, self-transfer* to the London Kings Cross Station to take the train to Edinburgh. Arrive in Edinburgh and self-transfer to the hotel. The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is famed for its charming medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town with neoclassical gardens and buildings. The rest of the day is free at your leisure to explore the city. Overnight stay in Edinburgh. Please note: During the winter season, the itinerary may be affected. In this case, it is important to review the notes section before your departure. * You will have the option to add a transfer from your hotel to the station and from the station to the hotel in the next step of the booking process.

Day 6: Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. Discover the city’s most famous tourist sights and monuments on a panoramic walking tour of Edinburgh with a professional English-speaking guide, visiting the Grassmarket area of the city, the elegant Georgian New Town and the historic Old Town. Among its main attractions, there is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, St Giles Cathedral and The National Gallery of Scotland. Stroll along the majestic Royal Mile and visit Canongate. Take some free time in the afternoon to wander through the city's atmospheric streets at your leisure, browsing the shops or stopping for a warming 'dram' of whiskey in one of the local bars. We recommend an optional visit to legendary Edinburgh Castle*. Overnight stay in Edinburgh. * Optional Edinburgh Castle visit: Edinburgh Castle is an ancient fortress built on a volcanic rock located in the centre of the city. It has been used for military purposes since the 12th century, being used for civil uses only in very recent times. Enter it and explore all the corners of this wonderful castle!

Day 7: Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a full day at your leisure to continue discovering this amazing city. Why not take in the views from Carlton Hill or, if the weather is good, take a hike up Arthur's Seat for an unforgettable panorama of Edinburgh and beyond. Alternatively, Edinburgh is a paradise for shoppers, with plenty of quirky boutiques to explore. Overnight stay in Edinburgh.

Day 8: Edinburgh - Stirling - St Andrews - Aberdeen

After breakfast, meet your guide and depart towards Stirling. The castle played an important role during the Scottish independence wars and many will recognise it as it is featured in the 1995 film, Braveheart. Continue to St Andrews where to visit this picturesque town, known as the home of golf. Enjoy some free time to take in the sea views before continuing towards Aberdeen, stopping on the way to take pictures of beautiful Dunnottar Castle. Overnight stay in Aberdeen.

Day 9: Aberdeen - Castle Fraser - Cairngorms National Park - Aberdeen

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore the city of Aberdeen on a guided Panoramic coach tour. Visit the area surrounding the Cairngorm Mountains, home to breathtaking scenery, typical of the Scottish Highlands. Enjoy some free time at your disposal at lunchtime. In the afternoon, head to Speyside, famous for the whisky distilleries. Here, pay a visit to a local whisky distillery for a fascinating tour and tasting session. Afterwards, return to Aberdeen for an overnight stay.

Day 10: Aberdeen - Inverness - Aviemore

Breakfast at the hotel. Head west today as you depart on a guided coach journey towards Inverness. Along the route, admire the wild nature of the Highlands as you pass by spectacular landscapes of moorlands and glens. Arrive in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, and enjoy a city tour. Afterwards, leave the city behind as you head to your hotel in the beautiful area of Aviemore, within the Cairngorms National Park. Overnight stay in the Aviemore area.

Day 11: Aviemore - Trossachs - Glasgow - Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, depart south towards Glasgow via the beautiful Trossachs where you can admire the scenery and see the largest Loch in Scotland, Loch Lomond. On arrival in Glasgow, the second most important and largest city in Scotland, enjoy a panoramic tour and some free time to explore the city at your leisure. In the evening, return to Edinburgh to enjoy your final night in Scotland at your leisure. Overnight stay in Edinburgh.

Day 12: Edinburgh - US

Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, self-transfer** to the airport for a flight back to the US. Arrive in the US and end your trip. * Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day. ** You will have the option to add the airport transfer in the next step of the booking process.