My First Trip to England

(16 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Patrick McGill

Jamestown, NC

Europe and United Kingdom Travel Specialist

Welcome! I'm Patrick McGill, your dedicated travel expert specializing in custom-crafted journeys across Europe and the United Kingdom. My unwavering passion for exploration and deep appreciation for the rich and diverse cultures of these magnific...

My Mission:

My mission is to craft bespoke journeys that allow discerning adventurers to truly connect with the heart and soul of Europe. I believe travel is a transformative experience, and my role is to unlock the hidden wonders that ignite the passion and curiosity of each individual traveler.

My Vision:

I strive to be best known for curating life-enriching explorations across the UK and the Continent. By seamlessly blending guided experiences with independent discovery, I aspire to deliver unforgettable memories that foster lasting bonds between you and your immersive experiences in the historic, scenic, artistic and cultural aspects of Europe.

My Values:

Personalization: I see each traveler as a unique individual, and meticulously tailor every element of the journey to align with their distinct interests, desires, and aspirations. No two trips are identical.
Discovery: Travel is an opportunity to venture beyond the obvious, to learn new things and broaden our perspective.
Connection: My role is to facilitate profound encounters - whether with places, people, or one's inner self - that cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world.
Integrity: Honesty, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to excellence guide every interaction, ensuring my clients can entrust me with crafting their most cherished travel memories.
Passion: I approach my work with an unwavering enthusiasm, driven by a genuine love for travel and a desire to share its transformative power with each and every guest.

My Services:

Tailored Itineraries: Each journey is expertly designed to suit your unique interests and desires. I invest time in understanding what inspires you, ensuring your travel itinerary is a true reflection of your aspirations—from tranquil countryside escapes to vibrant city adventures.
Cultural Immersion Experiences: I provide access to hidden gems, rare historical sites, and unique cultural activities. There's nothing quite like a cooking class in Tuscany or a private tour of a Scottish castle to enhance your appreciation of a destination's history and traditions.
Personal Connections and Insights: I focus on Europe and the United Kingdom because of my extensive time living, working and traveling through this part of the world, and I am happy to share my experiences with you.
Seamless Travel Planning: From the moment you dream of departure to the day you return home, I manage every facet of your travel experience. This includes bookings, transportation, and accommodation, ensuring your journey is as smooth and carefree as possible. Your peace of mind is my top priority.
Supportive Travel Partner: My commitment doesn't end the moment you book your trip. I see to it that you have ongoing support while you are traveling.

A Unique Perspective on European Travel:

Traveling to Europe is not merely about "getting away"— it's about "getting in touch" with the world and the people around us. Connecting with different cultures helps us better understand ourselves and enriches our lives. This is the true essence of European travel: making meaningful connections that leave a lasting impact.

The Where and Why will determine the "How":

I believe that what you want to experience will have a large impact on how you travel. So whether your travel plans include a river cruise, ocean cruise, escorted tour, or a custom independent travel, I will create the itinerary that best meets your needs and desires.

Let’s Make Your Travel Dreams a Reality:

My goal is to help you make meaningful connections and ensure your European adventure is everything you've imagined and more. Let’s create priceless memories and enrich your life through extraordinary travel experiences.

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The Mall at Buckingham Palace

Making our first trip to England was a journey that left a lasting impact on my life, sparking a passion that would eventually lead me to consider a career as a travel agent.

Our adventure began early in the morning at Heathrow Airport. Getting from Heathrow to the heart of London is easy, with various options available, including taxis, the Tube (London’s subway system), buses, or private transfers. For first-time visitors, I highly recommend opting for a private transfer – it’s a hassle-free way to start your journey.

Our hotel was located in the Charing Cross area, just steps away from the train station and a short walk from the Thames River. After checking in and freshening up, we crossed the river the Jubilee Walkway at the Hungerford Bridge and made our way to the Globe Theater for a fascinating tour. The day was capped off with a delightful afternoon tea at a riverside restaurant, offering stunning views of St. Paul’s Cathedral.

London is a city rich in history, and our visit was filled with explorations of its most iconic sites. One day, we began with a tour of Westminster Abbey, followed by the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. A traditional lunch of Fish and Chips at a pub was the perfect break before visiting the Churchill War Rooms on Downing Street. In the evening, we took a “Jack the Ripper” tour, visiting the sites where Jack was said to operate, and then had a traditional English meal in a pub near Parliament.

The evenings were just as memorable, with a night out in the West End Theater District and a dinner cruise along the Thames. On a more relaxed day, we walked through Piccadilly Circus, explored Harrod’s Department Store, strolled through Hyde Park, and visited the London Natural History Museum.

Using the Tube, we easily reached the Tower of London, where we witnessed the opening ceremony and saw the Crown Jewels, the historic prison cells, and the armory museum. A visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral was the perfect way to round off the day.

Our trip also included several guided tours that took us beyond London. We visited the ancient monument of Stonehenge, the town of Bath, and Stratford-on-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare. Another tour led us to the town of Oxford, followed by a visit to Highclere Castle and the town of Bampton, famous for being the backdrop of the “Downton Abbey” series.

This trip was special for another reason – it coincided with my milestone birthday, and as a Formula 1 fan, I couldn’t miss the British Grand Prix at Silverstone Raceway near Milton Keynes. We took the Tube to Euston Train Station and then a train through the English countryside to Milton Keynes. A shuttle bus from the station brought us to the racetrack, and after a day of racing, we reversed the journey. All these arrangements, including the race tickets, were made in advance.

Our nine-day adventure, including two travel days, took place in July, with mild weather that made every outing a pleasure. However, it’s always wise to be prepared for England’s unpredictable climate.This trip was more than just a vacation; it was an experience that ignited a passion for travel and exploration, and I hope it inspires you to embark on your own unforgettable journey to England.