Gluten Free Family Trip to London -- Either as a Group or On Your Own
January 18, 2020
Speaking from experience, London is one of the most fun -- and most gluten-free friendly -- cities for families. Our own family visited there over Christmas 2013. Even though our boys were only 10 and 12 years old at the time, they really got a lot out of the experience and still talk about the things we did while there.
So I was especially excited to hear that one of our travel partners -- Ellen Morse of Gluten Free Travel-Us -- was planning a 6-day small group tour of London in July 2020, especially geared to gluten free families. She handles all the details, so you won't have to stress about planning anything -- either before the trip or while you're there. And if for some reason you aren't interested in traveling with a group (or the date doesn't work for you), Ellen can certainly plan the same trip for you at another time of your choosing. As with any of her itineraries, you can customize it according to your family's interests and preferences, budget, and time frame. If you plan to go on your own (not the group trip), you will have your choice of either a high-end hotel or one that is less expensive. (The group tour outlined here is based on the more affordable option.)
This itinerary will please both adults and kids and includes a ride on the London Eye, a theatrical performance of Matilda, a tour of the Harry Potter studio, and a visit to the Tower of London. There will also be plenty of time to explore London as a family -- either visiting more sites or doing some shopping. The trip is the perfect length -- you'll have enough time to see highlights of London, while not being overwhelmed with an exhausting itinerary. While on your trip, you'll have 24/7 support and expert local guidance.
Here is the group tour itinerary for the July 2020 Family Trip:
Day 1 - Sunday, July 5
Arrive at London's Heathrow Airport and be greeted at the airport by a local Meet and Great representative. You'll receive a welcome package with a city map and other useful information. A private vehicle will transport you to your hotel.
Day 2 - Monday, July 6
Explore London, a city of contrasts, starting with a private central London walking tour for your group (4 hours). You'll see Trafalgar Square, Soho, Covent Garden Market, Buckingham Palace, and have an opportunity to take photos of the iconic clock tower Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Enjoy fast track passes for the London Eye for magnificent aerial views of London, followed by a full afternoon tea at Harrods (gluten free, of course!).
Day 3 - Tuesday, July 7
Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the Tower of London, including the Crown Jewels exhibit, and tickets to the award-winning Royal Shakespeare Company musical Matilda, sure to be a hit for the whole family.
Day 4 - Wednesday, July 8
On this very special day, you will embark on a 6-7 hour journey to the Warner Brother's Studio to experience the Making of Harry Potter exhibit. You'll hear anecdotes from the expert staff members before setting off on your own self-guided behind-the-scenes discovery of sets, costumes, and props. Plus, you'll actually visit the Great Hall, Dumbledore's office, and the cobblestone streets of Diagon Alley with its many storefronts. This is a perfect day for Harry Potter fans of any age!
Day 5 - Thursday, July 9
You'll enjoy a private 4-hour tour of the famous Windsor Castle, home of the Queen and the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Visit the State Apartments, St. George's Chapel, and the beautiful grounds. When you return to London, you'll have an afternoon at leisure.
Day 6 - Friday, July 10
Depart for home, with fantastic family memories!
If this trip (either as a group or on your own) sounds enticing for you and your family, contact Ellen soon for pricing at either 312-337-9235 or [email protected]. Airfare is separate and will be determined by your city of departure. So what IS included on this trip? First off, all accommodations, tours, and transfers. Plus, you'll get breakfast in your hotel each morning, with plenty of gluten free options...along with some other meals throughout the trip. (And no worries...Ellen can recommend plenty of other restaurants for when you are on your own.)
Photos courtesy of Pixabay.