Day Three: Historic Philadelphia

We begin the day with a photo stop in front of the Hall of Independence. Dating back to 1732, this is where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States were signed. Nearby, we’ll see the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence. Embarking on a walking tour of the area, we’ll visit Carpenter’s Hall, where the first Continental Congress convened. We’ll pass the Arch Street Meeting House, the Betsy Ross Home, and Elfreth’s Alley - one of the oldest residential streets in the United States. After the walking tour, we enjoy some leisure time for lunch (at your own expense) and the opportunity to explore one of the morning's attractions in more detail.

Day Four: Valley Forge National Historic Park

Today's itinerary includes a visit to Valley Forge National Historic Park - a significant site from the American Revolutionary War, and the place General George Washington's Continental Army encamped during the harsh winter of 1777-1778. Just a day's march from the occupied city of Philadelphia (although we’ll be taking a more comfortable journey in our air-conditioned bus), Valley Forge is often considered the birthplace of the American army, where key military concepts like basic training and the professionalisation of officers corps, and the development of the army’s distinctive branches began.

Day Five: Lancaster County – Amish Country

Today we venture out to Lancaster County, home to America's oldest Amish settlement, where tens of thousands still live a centuries-old ‘plain’ lifestyle. The Pennsylvania Amish are involved in agriculture as well as an array of businesses and cottage industries. Our visit to the Amish Country will allow us to step back in time and enjoy a slower, more tranquil pace – one where the horse and buggy remains a primary form of transportation, and where windmills dot the landscape, providing power harnessed from nature. We’ll take a guided tour of an Amish farm and farmhouses that will enable you to sensitively understand the lifestyle and history of the Amish community.

Day Six: Brandywine Valley

Today we will head out to the Brandywine Valley for a visit of the Longwood Gardens. A sanctuary for both flora and the human spirit, it's a testament to the timeless beauty and calming influence of nature. Spanning nearly 1,100 acres of lush formal gardens, open meadows, and winding paths with breathtaking Brandywine Valley vistas, Longwood is one of the world’s greatest gardens. With mesmerising displays, feats of engineering, and science-based research and conservation work, Longwood Gardens will delight nature lovers.

Day Seven: Philadelphia at leisure

Our final day will be spent at leisure in the city. Philadelphia has a thriving food scene with some must-try specialties. Alongside the famous Philly cheesesteak, the flavour-packed Hoagie with a crusty roll, and parmesan-topped tomato pie should also make your list of local tastes to try. Although not specifically included in our itinerary, we would recommend a visit to the Eastern State Penitentiary. Take the audio tour and explore what was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, home to 85,000 prisoners over its long history, including the infamous ‘Scarface’, Al Capone.

Day Eight: Departure Day

With the morning free to do some final sightseeing or shopping, we meet back at the hotel before our transfer to the airport and our flight home.

• Breakfast Included