Devon and Cornwall: 5-Day Tour from London

If you’re pondering a trip to the southwestern corners of England, a 5-day guided tour of Devon and Cornwall might just be the perfect way to soak in the landscapes, history, and coastal charm without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve immersed myself in the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

One thing I love about this tour is how it combines luxury transport with intimate group sizes—meaning you get that personal touch and flexibility, but with all the comfort you’d hope for on a multi-day adventure. Plus, the itinerary hits some of the most iconic sights like Stonehenge, Tintagel Castle, and Lands End, alongside lesser-known gems like Dartmoor and quaint fishing villages.

That said, a potential drawback is the price point—over $1,100 per person—so it’s worth weighing whether the guided experience, included admissions, and cozy accommodations match your travel style and budget. This tour suits travelers who love a good mix of history, nature, and small-group exploration, especially if you prefer having most logistics handled for you.

Key Points

• Small groups make for a more personal and relaxed experience
• The luxury minicoach offers comfort and convenience for long drives
• Highlights include iconic sites like Stonehenge and Tintagel Castle, plus beautiful coastlines
• The tour provides a good balance of guided sightseeing and free time
• Accommodations are in small guesthouses and B&Bs, mostly on the outskirts of towns
• It’s suitable for travelers aged 5 and up who enjoy a blend of history, nature, and scenic drives

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This is a tour designed for travelers who appreciate knowing they’re in good hands—from the well-heeled transport to the knowledgeable guides. It’s an excellent way to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace that includes plenty of scenic stops.

The small group size (limited to 16 participants) means you get a more intimate feel, allowing for better interactions and more personalized attention from your guide. As one reviewer noted, “I really appreciated the smaller group and the care and attention Jack, our tour guide, paid to all of us.” This kind of attention can make all the difference when navigating the busy sights and narrow coastal roads.

Highlights like Stonehenge are of course spectacular, and the inclusion of Tintagel Castle adds that legendary magic, likely the birthplace of King Arthur. You’ll also get to explore Dartmoor, famous for its wild landscapes, and visit charming villages like Port Isaac and Falmouth.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From London to Winchester, Stonehenge, and Exeter

Your adventure begins at the Green Line Coach Station in London, where you’ll hop into a sleek Mercedes minicoach—making the long drive more comfortable than you’d expect. The first stop is Winchester, a city with a grand cathedral and Norman Great Hall, offering a glimpse into Anglo-Saxon England’s past.

Next, the highlight of the day is Stonehenge, the world-famous stone circle that never fails to fascinate. Many reviews mention how meaningful and mystical this site feels, with one reviewer saying, “Having explored this mystical place, your tour will continue to Exeter, the Romans’ most southwesterly fortified settlement and your base for the next two nights.”

Day 2: Dartmoor, Tavistock, and Exeter

On Day 2, you’ll explore Dartmoor, famed for its rugged beauty and legendary moorland. Expect to see the Clapper Bridge at Postbridge—an ancient stone crossing, perfect for photos—and wander through Tavistock, an old market town linked to Francis Drake.

In the afternoon, you’ll return to Exeter, a city bursting with history—think Roman walls, underground passages, and a beautiful Norman cathedral. Multiple reviews praise Exeter for its rich mix of ancient and modern, with one traveler noting, “The Roman town, with its underground passages and walls, is fascinating to explore.”

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Day 3: North Cornwall Coast and Fabled Castles

This day takes you to Boscastle, a tiny fishing village with dramatic coastal views. You can enjoy a cream tea, stroll along the headland, or visit the Museum of Witchcraft—a quirky highlight for those interested in local legends.

Then it’s on to Tintagel Castle, perched atop dramatic cliffs, where you’ll learn about the legendary birthplace of King Arthur. After a hearty lunch, the tour continues to Port Isaac, famous as the filming location for Doc Martin, and then heads to Falmouth, your base for the next two nights.

Day 4: Land’s End, Porthcurno, and St. Ives

This is a spectacular day along Cornwall’s rugged coast. You’ll see Land’s End, the iconic westernmost point of England, and St. Michael’s Mount, a tidal island with a striking castle and gardens.

You’ll also visit the Minack Theatre, an open-air amphitheater built into the cliffs, and relax on the sands of Porthcurno Beach. The day ends in the artist town of St. Ives, famed for its galleries and creative vibe.

Day 5: Bodmin Moor and Glastonbury

The final day begins with a drive across Bodmin Moor, a wild landscape full of myth and beauty, before heading to Glastonbury. Here, you can visit the ruins of a 7th-century abbey, enjoy lunch, or climb Glastonbury Tor for sweeping views that cover five counties.

Afterward, you’ll begin your journey back to London, leaving behind the wild coastlines and storied towns with plenty of memories—and photos—to last.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour’s inclusion of 4 nights’ accommodation in small, locally owned guesthouses and B&Bs means you’ll get a cozy, authentic experience, even if some locations are a bit out of town. Rooms are en suite, but expect a walk of about 20-30 minutes to restaurants or pubs, as most accommodations are on the outskirts.

Transportation is by luxurious Mercedes minicoach, which means comfort during those scenic drives. The guides, described as knowledgeable and entertaining, truly elevate the experience—they’re the ones who bring the stories and history alive. Entry to Stonehenge and Tintagel Castle is included, ensuring you don’t have to worry about extra costs for these highlights.

However, lunches and dinners are not included, so you’ll want to budget for meals. Some reviews mention that the accommodations vary in quality, with a few traveler comments about less desirable guest houses, but overall, the experience seems well-organized and enjoyable.

The Experience From Travelers’ Perspectives

One of the best indicators of this tour’s quality is the glowing feedback on guides. Many mention how knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful guides like David, Jack, and Dan made the trip special. As one reviewer summarized, “Our guide was focused, full of information, and had fantastic recommendations,” which suggests you’ll learn a lot without feeling overwhelmed.

The stunning scenery and iconic landmarks get rave reviews, with visitors loving the way the itinerary balances guided tours with free time. Several reviews appreciate the flexibility, stating, “We loved the amount of freedom to explore on our own after sightseeing,” which makes the trip feel less rigid and more personal.

Some comments mention the accommodation quality varies, especially in terms of location and amenities. If you’re used to high-end hotels, you might find some guesthouses a bit basic or a bit far from town centers. Still, most agree the value for the sights and experiences outweighs this.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who enjoys small-group tours with an emphasis on history, scenery, and cultural spots, this could be a great fit. You’ll appreciate having most logistics sorted, including transportation and key site admissions, while still getting some time on your own to explore.

It’s especially suited for travelers comfortable with multiple long drives—since much of the day is spent in the minicoach—who want to see the highlights of both Devon and Cornwall in a relatively short period. The tour’s pace is relaxed enough for those who want to take their time at each stop but efficient enough to cover a lot of ground.

While the price might seem high, you’re paying for comfort, convenience, and expert guidance—not just the sights. If you’re eager to learn about the stories behind the landmarks and enjoy picturesque landscapes with a small, friendly group, this trip offers good value.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the minimum age is 5, making it accessible for families with children of that age and older. However, keep in mind the long drives and some walking involved.

What is the group size?
Limited to 16 participants, which helps create a more intimate and less crowded experience.

Are meals included?
No, lunches and dinners are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those. Breakfasts are provided at the accommodations.

What kind of transportation is used?
Transport is in a top-of-the-range 16-seat Mercedes minicoach, offering a comfortable ride for the scenic drives.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Most are small, locally owned guesthouses and B&Bs with en suite rooms. Some reviews note variability in quality and location, so it’s worth being flexible.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Lifts are not available in the guesthouses, and there’s some walking involved, so please mention any mobility concerns when booking.

What sites are included in the price?
Admissions to Stonehenge and Tintagel Castle are included, which are major highlights.

Can I expect free time at destinations?
Yes, the itinerary offers some free time to explore sights like St. Ives or Falmouth on your own.

How knowledgeable are the guides?
Guests consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Check the availability for starting times, but the experience is designed for good weather and daylight, so late spring through early fall might be ideal.

This 5-day Devon and Cornwall tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of England’s most beautiful and storied landscapes. You’ll get to walk among ancient stones, marvel at rugged coastlines, and visit legendary castles—all with the comfort of small-group touring and expert guides.

The trip is particularly suited for those who appreciate rich history, scenic drives, and small-scale exploration. While it isn’t the cheapest option, the blend of comfort, in-depth storytelling, and iconic sights makes it a compelling choice for travelers eager to experience the southwest in a manageable, friendly setting.

For anyone looking to combine a sense of adventure with a touch of luxury, this tour could be just the ticket for your next getaway.

You can check availability for your dates here: