Pre Cruise London - Southampton package

 

Airport Arrival Transfer

 

When will I meet my driver? 

Your driver will enter the arrivals hall at the airport 30 minutes after your flight has landed, based on the flight details you have given us. Our driver will then wait for you in the arrivals hall for 60 minutes. Please ensure you double check your Welcome Letter when you receive it to ensure the flight details you have given us are correct. 

You do not have to worry if your flight is delayed en route - all flights are monitored by our staff, and the driver will adjust their arrival at the airport to the actual landing time. If you would like to select a later meeting time, please contact us to arrange this, no less than 72 hours prior to your arrival date. 

If you are delayed in immigration, luggage collection or anywhere else in the airport, you must contact us using the emergency number given on your Welcome Letter. Please be aware that emails are not monitored out of hours. 

Where will I meet my driver? 

Your driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall. After you have collected your luggage, you will walk through into the arrivals hall. Your driver will be holding an ‘International Friends’ board with your name on. 

What if I am delayed coming through the airport? 

The driver will arrive at the airport 30 minutes after your landing time and will wait in the arrivals hall for 60 minutes. This gives you a total of 90 minutes to make your way to the arrivals hall, which in our experience, is plenty of time. 

If you are delayed in coming through the airport, please contact us as soon as possible using the emergency telephone number given in your Welcome Letter. Once we have your details, we will liaise with our drivers and do our best to guarantee your pick up. 

If we have not heard from you 60 minutes after the driver has arrived at the airport (90 minutes after your flight has landed), we are no longer able to guarantee your transfer and your driver may be forced to leave. If the driver can wait, additional waiting charges will be applied, which you will be liable for before completing your transfer. We strongly recommend taking out a travel insurance policy to protect you from unforeseen delays or other factors beyond your control. 

What if my flight is cancelled or I miss my flight? 

If your flight is cancelled before take-off or you miss your flight, please contact us with your new flight details as soon as possible, using the emergency number given in your Welcome Letter. Once we have your updated details, we will liaise with our drivers and do our best to accommodate your new pick up time. Please note that additional charges may apply. 

How long will it take to get to my hotel? 

This depends on which airport you are flying into and what hotel you have booked. Due to the nature of road conditions in Central London, we cannot give exact journey times, but approximate travel times into Central London are; 

From Heathrow: 45-60 minutes 

From Gatwick: 75-90 minutes

How much luggage can I bring?

Each person is allowed a maximum of 2 items of hold luggage (23kg each) and 1 items of carry on luggage (10kg each). Should you wish to bring any mobility aids (wheelchairs or walkers) you MUST contact us in advance to let us know. We will require full dimensions and weight. These items must be able to be folded and stored in the luggage hold. Wheelchairs must be counted as 1 item of your hold luggage. Additional charges will be incurred should you bring additional items of luggage or for items weighing more than the maximum weight stated above.

Should we tip our driver?

Tips are entirely at the customer’s discretion and in no way expected. Should you feel inclined to tip your driver would be grateful, but you should not feel obliged.

 

Welcome To London Tour

 

Where is the meeting point for the Welcome to London Tour? 

London Victoria Coach Station, Gate 19. Please ensure you arrive by 07:30 to allow sufficient time to check in ready for a 07:45 departure.

How do I get from my hotel to Victoria Coach Station? 

A transfer to Victoria Coach Station is included from all hotels except the Clermont Hotel Victoria as this is a 2 minute walk away. Your pick up time depends on your hotel, but will be between 6:45am – 7:00am. The exact pick up time will be confirmed in your Welcome Letter. Your transfer will aim to arrive at Victoria Coach Station by 7:15am.

What does the Welcome to London tour include? 

This fully guided tour of London includes a visit to St Paul’s Cathedral, a panoramic drive of London, a cruise along the River Thames, entry to the Tower of London, a photo stop outside Westminster Abbey, and the services of a professional guide. You will also see the Changing of the Guards, but please bear in mind this is subject to operation dates and last minute changes. If you would like to double check that Changing of the Guards is operating on your tour date, please check here - https://changing-guard.com/dates-buckingham-palace.html. 

When and where does this tour finish? 

This tour will finish at approximately 4:00pm at the Southbank Pier after the river cruise, close to the London Eye. A transfer back to your hotel is not included. Southbank is an ideal location to continue exploring from, with fantastic restaurants, just a short journey away from Covent Garden and Leicester Square. 

What day will my tour take place? 

Our dedicated hotel packages team will liaise with you on the exact itinerary of your package prior to your arrival.

Stonehenge, Bath and Windsor Tour (Optional Tour)

 

Where is the meeting point for the Stonehenge, Bath and Windsor tour? 

We have three meeting points across Central London. Pickups take place between 7:15am and 7:45am. You will be allocated the closest meeting point to your hotel. This will be confirmed in your Welcome Letter. 

How do I get from my hotel to the meeting point? 

Our dedicated hotel packages team will be in touch shortly after you book to discuss your options on how to reach the tour starting point. We will offer both private and public transfer options and advise how this can be booked.

What does my day trip include? 

Full inclusions can be found here: https://www.internationalfriends.co.uk/a-harvest-of-history-windsor-bath-stonehenge.html

Please note that Windsor Castle is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, it can also be subject to last minute closures. We will still operate the tour on these dates but will subsitute entry to the Roman Baths instead.

When and where does this tour finish? 

On the return to London your driver will drop you at Victoria Train Station in the city centre. This is one of the largest transport stations in London. A transfer back to your hotel is not included. Due to the changeable nature of road conditions, we cannot guarantee a precise time when you will get back to London, it is usually between 6:00pm-7:00pm. 

What day will my tour take place? 

Our dedicated hotel packages team will liaise with you on the exact itinerary of your package prior to your arrival. 

Oxford, Cotswolds & Country Pub Lunch Tour (Optional Tour)

 

Where is the meeting point for the Oxford, the Cotswolds and Country Pub Lunch tour?

We have three meeting points across Central London. Pickups take place between 7:15am and 7:45am. You will be allocated the closest meeting point to your hotel. This will be confirmed in your Welcome Letter. 

How do I get from my hotel to the meeting point? 

Our dedicated hotel packages team will be in touch shortly after you book to discuss your options on how to reach the tour starting point. We will offer both private and public transfer options and advise how this can be booked.

What does my day trip include? 

Full inclusions can be found here: 

https://www.internationalfriends.co.uk/oxford-cotswolds-pub-lunch.html

When and where does this tour finish? 

On the return to London your driver will drop you at Victoria Train Station in the city centre. This is one of the largest transport stations in London. A transfer back to your hotel is not included. Due to the changeable nature of road conditions, we cannot guarantee a precise time when you will get back to London, it is usually between 6:00pm-7:00pm.

What day will my tour take place? 

Our dedicated hotel packages team will liaise with you on the exact itinerary of your package prior to your arrival.

Departure Transfer

 

How will I get from the hotel to Southampton cruise terminal?

A shared transfer is included as part of this package. You will be collected by our driver and transferred from London to Southampton cruise terminal by luxury minivan. This is a shared transfer service (not a private transfer), with maximum 6 people per vehicle. London city centre pick ups will be completed between 9:45am and 10:45am.

If you have upgraded to include additional sightseeing, your pick up time will be between 7:00am and 8:30am.

For all transfer options, your exact pick up time will depend on the hotel you have selected. All pick up times will be detailed in your Welcome Letter.

I have included additional sightseeing. Will there be enough time?

We offer transfers from London to Southampton via some fantastic locations - these can be added on to your booking using the boxes on the right hand side of this page. On every transfer, we will stop for at least 90 - 120 minutes, which is enough time for a visit.

Where will I meet the driver?

Please be waiting in the hotel reception/lobby area from 10 minutes before your confirmed pick up time. Your driver will collect you from the hotel lobby.

What time will I arrive in Southampton?

We plan to arrive in Southampton by 1:30pm - 2:00pm on all transfer options. On arrival in Southampton you will be dropped off at your cruise terminal and walk straight to the check in desk. Porters will take care of your luggage, ensuring it is delivered to your cabin. Please make sure you use the luggage label in your cruise pack provided by the cruise line in order to facilitate this. 

We have a great range of 4* and 5* London City Centre hotels, in a variety of locations available for you on this pre cruise hotel package, all on Bed & Breakfast basis:

4* Hotel Options

4* Copthorne Tara

The award-winning service at Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington is friendly without being fawning, and the experienced team will help make your stay extra special. A stylish and contemporary hotel, perfectly located for the museums on Cromwell Road, Hyde Park and Kensington Palace, tucked away behind Kensington High Street.

 

4* St Ermin's

St. Ermin’s, a central london hotel nestled at the end of a tree-lined courtyard in the heart of Westminster is an independent four-star deluxe hotel, offering guests a relaxing environment where they can unwind and be themselves. With the majority of London’s top historical attractions on the doorstep and its close proximity to St. James’s and Victoria stations; St. Ermin’s is the ideal destination for travellers.

 

4* Clermont Victoria

A 4* charming hotel in London, styled in a Victorian design, the property is located in the heart of London, around 700m from Victoria tube station. Previously called the Grosvenor Victoria, this hotel in London is a great location for those wanting to explore London, within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

 

4* Thistle Hotel Marble Arch

The hotel is just a stone’s throw from shopping hotspots such as Oxford Street and Mayfair, as well as a host of famous London landmarks including Madame Tussauds and Hamleys. With outstanding modern facilities, as well as luxurious rooms and expert staff, you’ll love your experience at this hotel near Oxford Street. As a 4* hotel, you can expect absolute comfort and impeccable service.

 

4* Clermont Charing Cross

Just steps from Trafalgar Square, the Clermont Charing Cross is a 4* oasis of calm housed within a beautiful, Grade II listed building. Experience the unique combination of 150 years of British heritage, attentive service and seamless technology, with the personalised service you need to feel at home, indulged and special.

 

4* Thistle Kensington Gardens

This 4-star luxury hotel is set on the tree-lined Bayswater Road, opposite the stunning Hyde Park and just a short stroll from Kensington Palace and the Princess Diana Memorial Garden. Westminster Borough is a great choice for travellers interested in luxury brand shopping, shopping for clothes and theatre.

 

4* The Tower Hotel

A 4* hotel near Tower Bridge, The Tower Hotel delivers the ideal hotel experience, combining convenience and comfort, with rooms designed to reflect the individual style and character of the hotel itself. With the Tower of London UNESCO World Heritage Site on your doorstep, exploring the city starts the moment you set foot outside.

 

4* The Cumberland

Located on the corner of Oxford Street and Park Lane, just steps away from chic boutiques, world famous department stores, historic West End theatres and the glorious green spaces of Hyde Park. The Cumberland hotel, Marble Arch, draws inspiration from the capital’s love of music, with a glorious fusion of comfort and service.

 

4* The Bailey's Hotel

You'll feel at home in the Victorian grandeur of this redbrick townhouse, just moments away from world-renowned museums and the luxurious neighborhood of Knightsbridge. With a history as beguilling as the five-story and impressive decor, this characterful hotel will make you wish walls could talk...

 

4* Copthorne at Chelsea Football Club

Situated within the grounds of Chelsea Football Club, the Millennium Hotel at Chelsea FC is just a short walk from the Kings Road, the heart of fashionable and affluent Chelsea. Just a 5-minute walk from Fulham Broadway underground, meaning London's many attractions are just a short journey away. 

 

4* Millennium Gloucester

Millennium Gloucester Hotel London Kensington blends classic and contemporary styles across all rooms, giving travelers great value for money. The hotel is only a three-minute walk from Gloucester Road underground station – and with local gems such as the Natural History Museum and Kensington Palace just around the corner, you’ll have easy access to some of the best sights in London.

 

4* Millennium Knightsbridge

Nestled on Sloane Street, Millennium Hotel London Knightsbridge is a 4-star cosmopolitan hotel in the heart of the luxury fashion district. Situated next to Hyde Park, this hotel is close to Harrods, Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Offering a contemporary take on modern hospitality, this hotel is a favorite for the style-conscious and culture-lovers alike.

 

4* The Queen's Gate Hotel

Located in the centre of London, in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea; a few minutes walk from Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens and Knightsbridge. Close to Gloucester Road and South Kensington Tube stations. 

 

4* The Bloomsbury Hotel

The Bloomsbury is an iconic hotel in London, housed in a historic and beautifully restored Lutyens’ 1930s’ neo-Georgian building and located only moments from Covent Garden, Soho, Theatreland and Oxford 

 

4* St James' Court - A Taj Hotel

Located in the very heart of central London, this hotel is just footsteps from Buckingham Palace and St James’ Park, and also conveniently close to Westminster Cathedral, Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament. Theatreland and the shops and restaurants of Mayfair are all within walking and cycling distance. St James' Court is therefore perfectly positioned to explore London.

 

5* Hotel Options

5* Kimpton Fitzroy

A 19th-century beauty meets the London of today: that’s what you’ll find at Kimpton Fitzroy London Hotel. From the outside, the landmark building, which occupies a full block along the eastern side of Russell Square in Bloomsbury, looks every bit the part of grande dame. With one foot in the city’s past and another in its present, our Bloomsbury location combines British creative heritage with modern amenities.

 

5* Biltmore Mayfair

Located in the prestigious Grosvenor Square, The Biltmore Mayfair offers opulent accommodations and a prime location for exploring the capital. Discover London’s top shopping destinations with Oxford Street and New Bond Street within walking distance. Take an enchanting walk through Regency London or sample our delightful dining options designed by their Executive chef.

 

5* Millennium at Chelsea Football Club

Situated within the grounds of Chelsea Football Club, the Millennium Hotel at Chelsea FC is just a short walk from the Kings Road, the heart of fashionable and affluent Chelsea. While the hotel is right next to Stamford Bridge on Fulham Road – a dream come true for any Chelsea Football Club fan – the hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Fulham Broadway underground, with London's many attractions a short journey away. 

 

5* Great Scotland Yard Hotel - In the Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Five star luxury hotel, located a stone’s throw from Covent Garden. Great Scotland Yard is one of London’s most historic and cherished buildings that holds more hidden stories than any other kind in London. Where tradition meets modern luxury.

 

5* The Chelsea Harbour Hotel & Spa

Experience 5-star luxury in one of London's most prestigious areas. With breath-taking panoramic views over Chelsea Harbour Marina and the River Thames, The Chelsea Harbour Hotel & Spa comes with everything you need for complete relaxation - attentive service, spa and health club facilities, and 158 luxury suites and penthouses that offer the perfect stay in Chelsea.

 

5* The Royal Horseguards 

The Royal Horseguards is a 5* hotel in the heart of London edging onto Covent Garden and Theatreland, and overlooking the London Eye. A luxury hotel in a Grade I listed building with bedrooms that offer Victorian elegance and modern features, including free Wi-Fi, Elemis toiletries, and a free minibar. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is breakfast included?

Yes - All hotel rooms are booked on a bed and breakfast basis.

What time is check in?

Most hotels offer check in from 14:00. If you arrive earlier than this every effort will be made to have your room made available as quickly as possible. All hotels offer luggage storage facilities should you wish to store your luggage while you head out and explore.

What time is breakfast available?

Breakfast times will be confirmed upon check in at your hotel. Please note that parts of your itinerary may require you to depart the hotel before breakfast is served. In these circumstances please speak to the hotel reception who may be able to assist you with a ‘breakfast to go’.

What if I have concerns about food allergies?

Full allergen information is available to guests on request. Please speak to the hotel reception who will be happy to help.

Do you offer rooms that are adapted for people with reduced mobility?

Most hotels offer adapted rooms. Should you require an adapted room or have any other requirements please contact us at [email protected] where we will be happy to assist you.