Magna Carta barge

Hotel barge Magna Carta will take you on a slow, meandering journey along the prettiest stretches of England’s River Thames, past Royal Palaces, quaint riverside towns and villages – a captivating mixture of olde worlde England and the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. From Henry VIII’s Hampton Court past Windsor Castle to Henley, with frequent stops allowing plenty of time to wander and explore as we follow this old Viking trading route through some of England’s prettiest counties. During the cruise aboard hotel barge Magna Carta, there is a diverse programme of escorted visits along the way – art galleries, stately homes including the real “Downton Abbey”, even a boatyard that has been building traditional river craft for centuries. There are also good cycling and walking opportunities along the ever-present Thames Towpath. Hotel barge Magna Carta accommodates 8 guests and is one of the finest vessels cruising the waters of the British Isles today. Originally built in the 1930’s, today she is a luxurious and spacious ‘floating country hotel’ boasting a combination of traditional and contemporary features that create a very inviting ambience on board. There is great attention to detail with the use of fine mahogany, teak and oak woods throughout, complemented by modern amenities such as under floor heating and TV/DVD players in the cabin suites. The large saloon and dining area feature picture windows and stylish furnishings, and the sense of refined space continues in the four very generous, air-conditioned twin/double suites, with their combination of period furniture and contemporary en-suite shower rooms. Outside you can unwind in the heated spa pool, or enjoy a mouth-watering alfresco lunch prepared by your onboard master chef as you get admiring glances from passers-by. Cruise Highlights Explore Henry VIII’s Hampton Court Palace Moor beneath and visit Windsor Castle Moor at the Cliveden estate and tour its gardens Tour the Stanley Spencer Gallery at Cookham Great walking and bicycling opportunities along the Thames Footpath Tour of Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey) on selected departures English cream tea at the Stafford Hotel, London