Edinburgh, Scotland's captivating capital, is a city brimming with history, culture, and architectural beauty. Dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, the city offers sweeping views and a deep dive into Scotland’s royal past. Visitors can explore the castle’s ancient halls, including the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny, before wandering down the historic Royal Mile—a cobbled street that stretches from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. One of Edinburgh's most scenic spots is Calton Hill, where panoramic views of the city's skyline and the Firth of Forth unfold. Art lovers can visit the Scottish National Gallery, home to an impressive collection of European masterpieces, while history buffs will be drawn to the National Museum of Scotland, where diverse exhibits cover everything from Scottish archaeology to natural history. For literary enthusiasts, a stroll through the city's winding streets reveals locations tied to famous authors like J.K. Rowling, whose Harry Potter series was partly inspired by Edinburgh’s enchanting atmosphere. The city’s vibrant festival scene, including the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe, adds a lively cultural layer, making Edinburgh a must-visit destination for history, art, and adventure lovers alike.
Discover Britain: From London to Edinburgh
9 Days
This whirlwind trip offers insights into Britain’s varied history – from Roman cities and gothic cathedrals, to hallowed universities and bustling modern metropolises. The cobblestoned streets of York and tree-laden pathways of Cambridge University offer a charming welcome. Guests then cross into the wild moors of Scotland, and explore Edinburgh’s famed Royal Mile as you visit inside its historic royal residences. England’s serene Lake District has been a source of inspiration for many celebrated writers and artists. There is also time to visit the quaint thatched-roof cottages of Cotswolds country, and admire the enduring traditions of Oxford.
Highlights
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Visit York Minster, England’s Largest Medieval Cathedral
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Explore Shakespeare’s Birthplace at Stratford-Upon-Avon
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Attend the "Anvil Ceremony" in a Blacksmith's shop
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Enjoy a Walking Tour of the World’s Most Famous University, Oxford
Itinerary Details
Day 1 - 2
International Arrival
Transfer to the Hotel by Private Coach With En Route Panoramic Tour of London
1 Night
London
London, a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural treasures, offers an unforgettable journey through time and tradition. From the moment travelers set foot in this iconic metropolis, they are greeted by images of grandeur, from the towering spires of Westminster Abbey to the majestic silhouette of Buckingham Palace. UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Tower of London and the Royal Observatory in Greenwich stand as testaments to the city's rich heritage, inviting visitors to delve into centuries of royal history and scientific discovery. Beyond its historic landmarks, London is known for its energy and diversity. A stroll through Hyde Park or Hampstead Heath provides a welcome respite from the urban hustle, offering a breath of fresh air amidst lush greenery and scenic vistas. Meanwhile, the vibrant streets of Borough Market beckon with a tantalizing array of flavors, showcasing London's multicultural tapestry through its diverse culinary offerings. For those with a penchant for retail therapy, Oxford Street and Knightsbridge offer a shopping extravaganza like no other. From high-end boutiques to luxury brands and department stores, including the iconic Harrods, these bustling thoroughfares cater to every style and taste. London's cultural scene is equally captivating, with world-class museums, theaters, and entertainment venues at every turn. History enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the Tudor era at the Globe Theater, where Shakespeare's timeless plays come to life in an authentic setting. Meanwhile, Harry Potter aficionados can embark on a magical journey behind the scenes at Warner Bros Studio, discovering the wizarding world's secrets and marveling at iconic film sets and props. In every corner of London, from its historic streets to its modern marvels, the city offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that promise to captivate and inspire travelers from around the globe.
Included activities
Day 1: Arrival in London
Upon arrival in London, your group will meet a local guide in the arrivals hall who will lead them on a panoramic tour of London's best sites by private coach. Guests will see Buckingham Palace, the royal seat, the iconic Big Ben clock tower, and the iconic London Eye as they make their way across the city. Also on the itinerary is the stunning Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul's Cathedral, and a drive past the beautiful Hyde Park and the Houses of Parliament. The tour will finish at the hotel, where guests will have time to relax, freshen up, and explore further before their welcome dinner in the hotel's restaurant.
Day 2 - 3
Transfer by private coach to York
1 Night
York
Included activities
Day 2: Arrival in York
In the morning, your group will meet the professional tour escort who will accompany them across Britain over the next few days. Setting out by private coach, the first stop is at Cambridge, where guests will walk by the famous colleges, including the magnificent King's College. Afterward, they will continue their journey north to the historic city of York. Once inside the ancient city walls of York, guests have the time to wander through the charming, narrow cobblestoned streets. They will see the Tudor Shambles and York Minster, England's largest medieval Cathedral. Later, they will check into their hotel and have the rest of the day to explore York as they wish.
Day 3 - 5
Transfer by private coach to Edinburgh
2 Nights
Edinburgh
Included activities
Day 3: Arrival in Edinburgh
This morning, your group continues north through the Yorkshire Moors to visit the Cathedral of Durham, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The journey will take them to the old Roman camp at Corbridge, before they cross the famed Hadrian's Wall into Scotland. The coach will journey north across the wild Northumberland Moors and the rolling Border Country to visit the border abbeys of Jedburgh and Dryburgh. Finally, at Edinburgh in the late afternoon, guests will check in at their hotel and then have some time to explore on their own. In the evening, a typical Scottish dinner will be organized at the hotel's restaurant.
Day 4: Edinburgh
This morning, guests will embark on a sightseeing tour of this classic capital of Scotland, visiting the stately Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and other impressive landmarks. There will be free time for lunch after the morning tour, following which guests could enjoy shopping at the Royal Mile or revisiting one of their favorite sights from the morning. A vibrant, multicultural town, Edinburgh boasts numerous pubs and bars, where guests can sample authentic Scottish fare with ale and soak up the atmosphere.
Guided Sightseeing Tour of Edinburgh
There is much to see and do in the Scottish university town of Edinburgh, as guests will discover this morning. The capital of Scotland is overlooked by the imposing Edinburgh Castle, which has been continuously occupied since the Iron Age! As guests wander down the streets of the Royal Mile, which form the center of Edinburgh Old Town, they will learn more about the history and culture of the city from their guide. Also on the itinerary, are visit to the Queen's residence at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the ornate St. Giles Cathedral. There will be free time for lunch, and afterward, guests will have the opportunity to explore the city on their own.
Day 5 - 6
Transfer by Private Coach to the Lake District
1 Night
Lake District
Included activities
Day 5: Arrival in the Lake District
This morning, your group will drive southwest by private coach to the border town of Gretna Green, a Scottish village historically known as a wedding destination for eloping English couples! At this historic location, they will attend the "Anvil Ceremony" in the Blacksmith's shop, an enduring symbol of romance and Gretna Green weddings. Afterward, they will cross back into England and continue to the spectacular Lake District, a source of inspiration for many English poets. Having checked in at the hotel, your group will have time to freshen up and explore the surroundings on their own before their group dinner at the hotel's restaurant.
Day 6 - 7
Transfer in a Private Coach to Stratford via Coventry
1 Night
Stratford
Included activities
Day 6: Arrival in Stratford
This morning, your group will drive south to the Roman city of Chester with its unique black and white Rows, shopping arcades and encircling Roman walls. The famous "Rows", or two-tiered shopping arcades, were built in the Middle Ages! Later, guests will continue via Coventry to Stratford-upon-Avon, where they will enjoy lunch and a visit to the birthplace of Shakespeare. This little market town also houses Anne Hathaway's cottage, beautiful gardens, and a promenade by the river Avon. After checking in at the hotel, the evening is at leisure, and guests could choose to attend a play at the famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Day 7 - 9
Transfer by Private Coach to London. En Route Visit to Blenheim Palace and Oxford
2 Nights
London
London, a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural treasures, offers an unforgettable journey through time and tradition. From the moment travelers set foot in this iconic metropolis, they are greeted by images of grandeur, from the towering spires of Westminster Abbey to the majestic silhouette of Buckingham Palace. UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Tower of London and the Royal Observatory in Greenwich stand as testaments to the city's rich heritage, inviting visitors to delve into centuries of royal history and scientific discovery. Beyond its historic landmarks, London is known for its energy and diversity. A stroll through Hyde Park or Hampstead Heath provides a welcome respite from the urban hustle, offering a breath of fresh air amidst lush greenery and scenic vistas. Meanwhile, the vibrant streets of Borough Market beckon with a tantalizing array of flavors, showcasing London's multicultural tapestry through its diverse culinary offerings. For those with a penchant for retail therapy, Oxford Street and Knightsbridge offer a shopping extravaganza like no other. From high-end boutiques to luxury brands and department stores, including the iconic Harrods, these bustling thoroughfares cater to every style and taste. London's cultural scene is equally captivating, with world-class museums, theaters, and entertainment venues at every turn. History enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the Tudor era at the Globe Theater, where Shakespeare's timeless plays come to life in an authentic setting. Meanwhile, Harry Potter aficionados can embark on a magical journey behind the scenes at Warner Bros Studio, discovering the wizarding world's secrets and marveling at iconic film sets and props. In every corner of London, from its historic streets to its modern marvels, the city offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that promise to captivate and inspire travelers from around the globe.
Included activities
Day 7: Arrival in London
This morning, your group will drive further south through the beautiful Cotswold countryside via Broadway and Morton-on-Marsh to Woodstock. Their first destination is Blenheim Palace, one of the largest houses in England. This 18th-century, UNESCO World Heritage Site was the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. In addition to the estate's English Baroque manor house, guests will see what many consider the palace's best feature: its gardens. These gardens are largely the result of the vision of Lancelot "Capability" Brown, an 18th century landscape architecture, who is often referred to as England's greatest gardener. Afterward, the journey continues to the university city of Oxford, where guests will enjoy a walking tour of one of the many colleges. From Oxford, a short drive will take guests back into London and to their hotel for the next few days. The evening is at leisure for guests to relax or venture out and explore some of London's many highlights on their own.
Day 8: London
This day is completely free for guests to enjoy the sights and sounds as they please. The city is replete with incredible attractions - from iconic museums like the Victoria & Albert, British Museum and the Tate Modern, to theater houses, shopping streets and vibrant neighborhoods like Camden Town and Shoreditch. Guests could choose to walk by the Thames River or take a river cruise down to Greenwich. In the afternoon, they could relax in the lush green gardens of Hyde Park, or soak up the lively atmosphere around Oxford Street or Portobello Road. To dive into London's fantastic food scene, guests can make their way to the Borough Market in Bermondsey, or visit one of the famous bars or clubs in Soho.
Day 9: London
After checking out of the hotel, your group will travel by private coach to one of London's airports for the return flight back home.
Transfer by Private Coach to the Airport
International Departure
Inclusions
Includes
- Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
- Accommodations: London (3 nights) - Edinburgh (2 nights) - Lake District (1 night) - Stratford (1 night) - York (1 night)
- Meals: Daily breakfast, and lunch and dinner as specified
- Ground transportation via air conditioned luxury coach
- English speaking assistants and guides
- Admission tickets as specified in the itinerary
Not Included
- Tips and personal expenses
- Visa and tourism charges
- Travel, health, and cancellation insurance