England in a very short timespan.

I would add a trip on the canal: http://londonwaterbus.co.uk/ or http://www.jasons.co.uk/ while in London.

The Changing of the Guard is not worth the effort unless you arrive very early and secure a spot at the fence. Instead, go to St. James Palace and watch the guard leave to head to Buckingham Palace. You wait on the sidewalk across the street. Before the ceremony gets underway, the traffic is stopped, so it becomes a bit safer. If you can manage to stand within earshot of one of the walking tours guides, you'll hear some great narrative about the guards themselves. Then, skip the mad rush to the palace and go do something else!

Wouldn't it be easier to see a production of Shakespeare at the Globe - very close to Camberwell - about a couple of miles away, should be easy to get to by bus. The Globe is a much more interesting theatre than the theatre in Stratford on Avon. Have to admit, not a fan of Stratford on Avon (nor Stonehenge for that matter).

Agree with a couple of things. If you want to see the Changing of the Guards and have a view of it, not the backs of people, going very early is the best option. However, unless it's an absolute MUST then spend the time doing something far more interesting. The Horse Guards option is a good option though. Absolutely get tickets to the Ceremony of the Keys! Know right up front it's serious business and the Yeomen Warders have no problem kicking out anyone who doesn't show respect and pay attention to the 700 year old ceremony. Witnessed a loud mouth yank trying to impress his girl friend and mouthed off when asked to be quiet. Guy was all attitude and to the enjoyment of all of us summarily escorted away. The girlfriend stayed. Attending this will also allow you a great POV of the Tower Bridge at night. Personally, I love Stonehenge and have visited it more than once but always in the late Fall when crowds were nearly non existent. Others can't understand why anyone would enjoy looking at rocks. Simply a matter of perspective so it would be best if you and the family chatted about it. Must see? Maybe? Who cares? Also yes to seeing a production at the Shakespeare Globe. Saw As You Like It a couple of years ago and it was great fun. Booked seats online from the states and tickets were waiting at will call. I'd consider adding the following to your London itinerary. Camden Lock Market and Borough Market. Museum of London. A picnic and a bike ride in Hyde or Regents park.

I have gone to Stratford-upon-Avon a few times for theater, since that's one of my big interests and the quality is very good, but make my decision dependent on what's playing. If you choose an evening show, then how would you feel about driving back to the Cotswolds in the dark? There are also matinees. I've never considered the other town sights to be must-sees.

Shakespeare's Globe is a more authentic, traditional experience and a London highlight that's only available in summer.

Must agree with the others re: The Globe. You can take the tube to The City and cross the Thames over the Millennium Bridge. I also would consider cruising up to Greenwich on the Thames, the Churchill War Rooms and a visit to the famed Abbey Road zebra crossing.