FAQs
For customers from the United States of America or Canada wanting to read FAQs, please read below:
How can I make a booking?
You can book via our website, www.albionjourneys.com/ or over the telephone on our toll-free number 1-866-834-8358. Our offices are open 10:00am - 4:00pm EST Monday to Friday. If you have any questions or queries you can also email us at info@albionjourneys.com
When are payments due?
When you confirm your booking with us, a non-refundable deposit of $1000 (USD) per person is required to secure your place. The final balance payment must be paid to us no later than 120 days prior to the tour departure date. Of course, full payment can be made at the time of booking if you prefer and for bookings made less than 8 weeks before the tour departs this will be a requirement.
How can I pay?
We accept debit and credit cards for deposits and full payment.
What paperwork will I receive?
When your booking is confirmed, we will email you a booking confirmation document along with a copy of our full Terms and Conditions. 28 days prior to the tour, we will prepare and send you our Travel Pack with your finalised information, reading list and tour itinerary details.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, this is essential; we can only accept a booking on the basis that you have taken out a full and comprehensive travel insurance policy to cover the full duration of your trip. We will ask you to confirm this to us. If you choose not to take out travel insurance, this is done so against our advice and at your own risk; we will ask you to sign a declination form indemnifying us from any responsibility or cost in the event of medical emergency or repatriation.
Do I need a passport and Visa?
Important UK Entry requirements
It is your responsibility to ensure you have a full passport that is valid for 6 months after the return date of your trip. Tourist visas are not required for US citizens visiting the UK however an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is now required for all non-British and Irish citizens. They are digitally linked to a traveler’s passport
Apply for an ETA
Applications can be done via a smartphone app - UK ETA app or online at Apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• An ETA costs USD$16 and permits multiple journeys to the UK for stays of up to 6 months at a time and is valid for 2 years or until the holders passport expires – whichever is sooner.
• An ETA does not permit entry to the UK – it authorises an individual to travel to the UK.
• British & Irish citizens do not need an ETA.
This is a simple process, and decisions are usually communicated within 3 days. It remains your responsibility to ensure you have the correct travel documentation for your trip.
Are there single traveler room supplements?
We have negotiated a small number of rooms on each tour that are sold with no single supplement; once these are sold out, the majority of hotels unfortunately charge a supplement for any additional single rooms, which varies for each tour. Please contact us to enquire about single supplement prices. We therefore recommend you book early as single rooms sell fast.
Can you arrange extra hotel nights?
Yes, if you decide to arrive a few days before the start of the tour or leave a few days after the end of the tour, we will be happy to arrange extra nights’ accommodation. However, this service is only available at hotels that feature in the tour on which you are travelling.
Are meals included?
All breakfasts are included on all tours. Certain lunches and dinners are also included and you should study the tour itinerary in this brochure to determine what meals are included on your chosen tour. Meals not mentioned are not included and all beverages are at your own expense throughout the tour.
What do I do about any dietary requirements?
Please inform us at the time of booking, we will pass your information on to the hotel who will do their best to accommodate your requirements.
How many passengers will be in the Albion Journeys tour group?
Typically, between 10 and 30.
What is the role of the Tour Director?
Our friendly Tour Director will meet you for a welcome dinner at the beginning of each tour. Their role is to facilitate the smooth organization of all operational aspects of the tour. If you have any queries or experience any issues during the tour, they are there to assist you.
Will the excursions change?
Please note that we plan our tours far in advance and the order and availability of excursions is subject to change. In the event of a property not being available to visit, we will substitute with a similar visit, and you will be informed of the full details.
How much walking will there be on these tours?
As much or as little as you like. Any included guided tours will operate at a fairly relaxed pace, as with many historic houses and gardens, you may experience some uneven flooring and steps along the way. Of course, you will always have the option to explore any venue by yourself at your own pace. Any specific tour in this brochure with more than an average amount of walking will be clearly noted in the itinerary. If you have any specific concerns, please contact us.
What are the arrangements for luggage?
The standard luggage allowance is one item of hand luggage and one suitcase per person restricted to a maximum weight of 20kgs (44 pounds). We do provide porterage at each of the hotels used on our tours, however, as with all things of a personal nature, please always ensure your suitcase is loaded onto the vehicles we use throughout the tour.
What clothing should I bring?
Comfortable leisurewear is recommended for the daytime. In the evening many participants prefer to wear smarter dress for dining. Whilst gentlemen may choose to wear a jacket in the restaurant in the evening, at most hotels this is not obligatory, we will of course inform you if any hotel does have a dress code. It is advisable to bring layered clothing and a light waterproof jacket. We recommend sturdy footwear when visiting gardens as the ground may be soft underfoot. Many historic properties request ladies do not wear high heels which may damage flooring.
Can you arrange my flights to the UK?
Albion Journeys do not arrange your air travel for our tours; this gives you the flexibility to decide on your own routing. We request that you do not book your flights without checking with us that we have sufficient numbers to operate the departure, usually 16 weeks before departure.
What should I budget for tipping?
Gratuities are not included in the tour cost. It is, however, customary to show your appreciation for your Tour Director and Driver.
All tours offered subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. Errors and omissions excepted.
