London - professional stay

2.00 pm - Visit to the Royal Courts of Justice

Located on Strand, These impressive neo-Gothic buildings (opened in 1882 by Queen Victoria) house the High Court and Court of Appeal of England and Wales. The architecture is the work of George Edmund Street and symbolises the power of British justice.

Anecdote: Some of the most famous trials are held here, and the lawyers still wear wigs and traditional robes.

Arrival in London - Legal district and Templars

Morning

The group arrives at St Pancras International mid-morning. Your English-speaking guide and private coach will meet you directly at the station for your departure to the heart of London.

Lunch

Lunch in a traditional pub close to the Royal Courts of Justice.

Example: The Old Bank of England, a magnificent pub housed in the former Bank of England, renowned for its Victorian decor and traditional pies.

3.15pm - Visit to the Temple Church

Built in the 12th century by the Knights Templar, it is famous for its circular nave, inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. A place steeped in mystery and history, it served as a place of worship for the Knights Templar and later as the legal centre of the Inns of Court.

Anecdote: The Temple Church appears in the novel The Da Vinci Code, adding to its mysterious aura.

Late afternoon / Evening

Free time and evening in a bar (reservation not required) in Russell Square.

Here are a few suggestions close to your hotel or lively neighbourhoods:

• The Coral Room (Bloomsbury) - a chic bar with an Art Deco decor.
• carfes Bar (Holborn) - elegant and cosy, ideal for a cocktail.
• The Princess Louise (Holborn) - typical Victorian listed pub.

Dinner in a strategic location

Here are some ideas to suit your mood:

• Skylon (Southbank, view of the Thames)
• Dishoom Covent Garden (refined Indian cuisine, friendly atmosphere)
• Rules (London's oldest restaurant, founded in 1798, specialising in game and British cuisine).

Night

Check-in at the Kimpton Fitzroy London, a 5* hotel

Parliament, royalty & London at your own pace

10.00 - Visit to the Houses of Westminster of Parliament)

An emblematic UNESCO World Heritage site. The current neo-Gothic palace dates from the 19th century. (1840-1876), the work of Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin, but the site has been the seat of political power since the 11th century.

The famous CLOCK TOWER, known as Big Ben (actually the nickname for the bell), is one of London's most photographed symbols.

Anecdote: This is where the annual ritual of the State Opening of Parliament takes place, when the monarch delivers his speech from the throne.

Lunch - Afternoon Tea at Kensington Palace, Queen Victoria's former residence and now the official home of several members of the Royal Family (including the Prince and Princess of Wales).

Afternoon Tea, a quintessentially British tradition, is served in the elegant surroundings of the Orangery or the Royal Drawing Rooms. A refined experience with selected teas, sandwiches, cream scones and delicate pastries.

Free afternoon - Visits & shopping (Your guide will suggest a flexible programme to suit your needs)

Cultural visits :

• Victoria & Albert Museum : the world's largest museum of decorative arts.
• Natural History Museum : Ideal for families with children, dinosaurs and interactive galleries.
• Buckingham Palace & St James's Park : A must-see walk past the sovereign's official residence.

Shopping :

• Harrods (Knightsbridge): a legendary department stores', a temple of luxury and excess.
• Regent Street & Oxford Street : perfect for international brands 
• Covent Garden : independent shops, crafts and a festive atmosphere in December.

Dinner Possible strategic locations

• Skylon (Southbank): views of the Thames, modern cuisine.
• The Ivy (Covent Garden): a chic institution and timeless.
• Rules (Covent Garden, 1798): London's oldest restaurant, ideal for an immersion in British tradition.
• Dishoom (Kensington or Covent Garden): Indian cuisine inspired by the cafés of Bombay, very friendly.

An evening in a bar (no reservation required)

Here are a few recommended addresses for the atmosphere:

• American Bar - The Savoy: one of the world's most famous cocktail bars.
• Scarfes Bar (Holborn): cosy, elegant, live jazz.
• The Churchill Arms (Kensington): a flowery and eccentric Victorian pub, known for its decor.
• The Coral Room (Bloomsbury): a bright and chic Art Deco atmosphere.

Morning - Free time on the South Bank

The South Bank is one of London's most pleasant walks along the River Thames, with superb views of Big Ben, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. This lively district combines culture, modern architecture and a lively atmosphere, with numerous cafés, street artists and open spaces.
A number of points of interest can be discovered along the way:

Southbank Centre : a key cultural venue, hosting exhibitions, events and relaxation areas.accessible in just a few minutes, offering magnificent panoramic views over the city.

Leicester Square and Covent Garden: easily accessible on foot or by public transport, perfect for strolling around and enjoying the London atmosphere.

Afternoon - Free time
Last free moments to enjoy London as the group wishes.

Shopping in iconic areas such as Covent Garden and Oxford Street.

Stroll along the Thames or stop off at a café with a view of the city.

You can visit a museum such as the Tate Modern, housed in a former power station and accessible free of charge.

Late afternoon - Departure

Coach transfer to St Pancras International.

Assistance from your English-speaking guide for check-in and departure of the group.