I'm thinking of visiting England in Oct. 2012. Has anyone taken a guided walking/hiking tour with the English tour company Footpath Holidays? Have looked at their catalog and they seem to offer a lot at a very good price. Also will be spending several days in London, both before and after a hike in the country. Would like to stay in an area good for walking, safety, sights, etc. Anyone have a favorite area (and hotel) where they have stayed and would stay again? Thank you!
Hi Connie - I haven't used Footpath Holidays yet but a good friend of mine did the Cotswolds walk a few years ago and loved it. She highly recommends the company.
Remember that it will probably be raining in October. England has similar climate to Vancouver and Seattle. So bring your waterproof layered clothing and boots.
Look at the National Trust UK site for walking tour suggestions.
Haven't used Footpath Holidays but do recommend David Wenk's Englishcountrywalks website. As far as London accommodation possibilities I suggest these areas: Chelsea, Bloomsbury, Marylebone, Hampstead, even Bayswater. As far as actual spots to stay, the Vancouver Studio Apartments in Bayswater are economical, good transportation options, a variety of restaurants, cafes, pubs and shops. Diverse area and close to Hyde Park for morning strolls after breakfast at the always popular Diana Cafe. London's parks are stellar. Throughly enjoyed wandering around Regent's Park on my last visit. Used Priceline and got a superb rate for the London Marriott Regent's Park. Hotel was fab, much better than I anticipated for the $90/night I was paying. Neighborhood was just okay, although wandering towards the park found the homes and streets extraordinarily beautiful. The cafe upstairs in the library that was across the street was charming. For me London is all about neighborhoods. The aforementioned are those I kept returning to over the years. However, now that I discovered an idyllic flat in the Kentish Town/Camden area on the airbnb.com website THAT will be my home base for any future visits. Remember to layer and enjoy London.