Anna went on another trip to Europe with Barnum as her agent. This eight month tour started in Glasgow, after crossing the Atlantic on the steamer Columbia, of the Anchor Line. Again, she visited her ancestors’ homes and toured the larger cities in the region.

In 1871, Judge H.P. Ingalls was organizing entertainers for an extensive three year tour of Europe. Anna felt that she had seen enough of North America and since her contract with Barnum was fulfilled, she decided to join the company.

On April 22, 1871, the company set sail across the Atlantic on The City of Brussels. Anna found the voyage to be particularly pleasant since, to her surprise, she had Martin Bates to keep her company. As the week long journey proceeded, the members of the company got acquainted, particularly Martin and Anna. Before the ship landed in Liverpool, many friendships had been formed, and Anna and Martin announced their engagement. They both had several marriage proposals in the past, but neither had ever accepted feeling the proposals were financially motivated.

When the group arrived in Liverpool on May 2, they spent a week in the Washington Hotel. On May 19, they went to London to give a reception for editors and medical men at the Willis Rooms on King Street. Also at this time, Martin rented and furnished a house at 45 Craven Street in London.

Anna Swan and Martin Bates gave their first public appearance on May 29, 1871. Many people found it hard to believe they had not performed together before and they became an immediate success.

Ordered by Royal Command, the couple appeared before the Queen Victoria at Buckingham Palace. This was Anna’s second visit with the queen who was delighted by the company of the pair; particularly by the charm and grace of Anna. She gave Martin a gold watch, Anna a gold watch and six foot chain, and as wedding gifts, she gave Anna a diamond cluster ring and wedding dress.