Elegant England & Scotland

Arrive independently at London airport and make your own way to your hotel. Take the opportunity to rest and relax after your journey the day before with a completely free day in London! Your day is your own to enjoy as you wish. Here are some recommendations on great ways to spend your time:

Enjoy the best of London shopping - Your hotel is located within walking distance of the world-famous Selfridge’s department story and the boutiques of Bond Street. Primark is also close by!

Take in the Royal Parks - Travel independently by tube or taxi to Green Park and take a walk starting from The Ritz hotel through Green Park, past Buckingham Palace and into St. James’ Park. The Royal Parks are relaxing and beautiful and home to a wide array of waterfowl and wildlife.

Explore historic Covent Garden - Covent Garden dates to 1200 and remains one of the best loved places to meet and socialise. On any given day you can see street performers, unique boutiques, cafes and restaurants and much more. Relax in the Piazza and go bargain hunting in Jubilee market.

Visit one of London’s free museums - Take the underground independently to South Kensington and take some time to visit the Victoria & Albert (V&A) museum, Science Museum or Natural History Museum.

In the early evening, enjoy a Welcome cocktail at your hotel with your Tour Director in the early evening.

After breakfast we depart our hotel for a tour of the City of London. Our first stop is the infamous Tower of London. The Tower of London is historically significant as a nearly 1,000-year-old fortress, royal residence, prison, and execution site that played a central role in the power struggles, politics, and monarchy of England while safeguarding the Crown Jewels. Visiting Tower of London feels like stepping straight into the pages of British history. Walking through the ancient stone walls, you see the dazzling Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom, hear dramatic tales of prisoners and executions on Tower Green, and meet the iconic Yeoman Warders - better known as Beefeaters - who bring centuries of royal intrigue to life with humour and storytelling. The medieval towers, the legendary ravens, and views of the Tower Bridge nearby make it a uniquely British experience that feels both historic and surprisingly vivid. Learn of the highlights of The Tower before visiting independently.

Take a relaxing Thames River Cruise. See London’s most famous landmarks from the unique perspective of the River Thames. As the boat glides past sights like Tower Bridge, the historic Tower of London, the towering London Eye, and the iconic Palace of Westminster, passengers can enjoy open-air views, entertaining commentary from guides, and a unique perspective on the city’s blend of historic and modern architecture.

Travel in comfort by coach through the historic City of Westminster with views of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

In the afternoon choose one of the following two options:

Option 1 - Enjoy Afternoon Tea opposite The Royal Mews. (Extra cost)

Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in style in the sumptuous setting of the Rubens at the Palace hotel. Guests will be served a refined selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and delicate pastries along with tea or coffee, all while taking in views of your regal setting. Please notify us of your dietary requirements at the time of booking. Guests taking the Afternoon Tea option would make their own way back to their London hotel.

Option 2 - Explore London’s historic Old Spitalfields market (no additional cost)

Originally established in 1638 when King Charles I licensed the area to sell "flesh, fowl, and roots", Old Spitalfields market grew alongside waves of silk-weaving French Huguenot and Jewish immigrants who heavily influenced the neighbourhood’s unique heritage. Today, wander through a beautiful, covered Victorian market hall to hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures, vintage clothing, and artisan crafts. Food-lovers can sample an incredible array of global street food at The Kitchens, making it the perfect launchpad for exploring the surrounding cobbled streets. There will be time to take lunch independently at the market. Continue exploring at leisure or take the coach back to your hotel located close by to the market.

On this day take a leisurely day tour to two of England’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.

We begin with beautiful Bath where you will have time to take lunch independently. Bath is a beautiful and elegant city famous for its Roman-built baths and stunning Georgian architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers visitors a unique blend of ancient history and refined charm, with highlights including the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, and the Royal Crescent. Set in a green valley and known for its natural hot springs, Bath is also home to boutique shopping, relaxing spas, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Explore The Roman Baths - England’s best-preserved Roman monument. The Roman Baths in Bath are one of the best-preserved ancient Roman spa complexes in the world, offering a fascinating glimpse into life in Roman Britain. Built around natural hot springs, the site includes the Great Bath, historic temple ruins, and an impressive museum filled with artifacts from the period. Visitors can explore the remarkably well-preserved remains, walk on ancient pavements, and even sample the mineral-rich spring water. Set in the heart of Bath, the Roman Baths are a must-see attraction for anyone interested in history, architecture, or ancient culture.

We continue with an expert walking tour of Bath with your Guide: learn of Bath’s influential literary past with links to Jane Austen and Mary Shelley and see locations used in British film and TV productions.

In the afternoon, visit mysterious Stonehenge - an ancient wonder of the world. Stonehenge is one of the world’s most iconic prehistoric monuments, located on the Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England. This mysterious circle of massive standing stones, dating back over 4,500 years, continues to fascinate visitors with its ancient origins and astronomical alignments. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stonehenge offers a captivating visitor experience with an informative exhibition centre, reconstructed Neolithic houses, and a chance to walk in the footsteps of ancient peoples. It's a must-see for history enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the mysteries of the past. Enjoy a guided tour at the Monument as well as time to visit the world class visitor centre. We depart Stonehenge and head back to London for your final night’s stay. On your return to London enjoy an included traditional Fish and Chips Dinner at a renowned restaurant.

On this day we depart London for the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside. Our first stop is Oxford - the City of Dreaming Spires. Stepping onto the cobblestone streets, with your expert guide, you will see landmark highlights like the circular Radcliffe Camera and the historic Bodleian Library, which has served as a centre of global learning for over 400 years. Go behind the heavy wooden gates of legendary university colleges to wander through tranquil medieval cloisters and pristine quadrangles that have routinely starred on screen. Film and TV enthusiasts will immediately recognize the grand architecture from productions like Harry Potter, Inspector Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour, seamlessly connecting Oxford's rich, real-world intellectual history with its iconic status in modern popular culture.

There will be time to take lunch independently on this day.

Our tour continues to magnificent Blenheim Palace, Park & Gardens. Blenheim Palace is a monumental 18th-century country house located in Oxfordshire, England, and the only non-royal country mansion in the country to hold the title of palace. It is celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancestral home of the Dukes of Marlborough, and the iconic birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Garden lovers will enjoy acres of open woodland and the formal gardens including the Rose Garden and Italian Garden. During our special visit we sneak behind the scenes on a tour of the Private Apartments - specially arranged for our guests. The Private Apartments at Blenheim Palace are a series of lavishly decorated state rooms created to impress visiting monarchs, featuring grand ceilings, rich tapestries, and opulent furnishings that reflect the palace’s status and power. Hidden within the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, the Private Apartments offer a fascinating glimpse into the family life of the Dukes of Marlborough. Still used by the Marlborough family today, these elegant rooms provide a more intimate and personal perspective of the Palace, away from the ceremonial splendour of the main palace state rooms.

After the special tour enjoy free time exploring the interior of the Palace and acres of open gardens. We then continue to Stratford-upon-Avon for check in to your hotel. Offering a unique blend of literary history and charming English scenery, Stratford-upon-Avon is best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Explore its traditional streets, unique shops and riverside setting at leisure. Dinner on this day is taken independently at or near your hotel.

Discover ‘chocolate box’ Britain on this relaxing day enjoying the villages of The Cotswolds.

Known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and honey-coloured stone cottages, the Cotswolds is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It offers a quintessential English countryside experience with scenic walking trails, historic market towns and cozy country pubs.

Our first stop is beautiful Stow-on-the Wold - perched on a hill and known for its charming stone buildings, historic market square, and antique shops. Once a bustling wool trading centre, it retains its old-world charm with narrow lanes, traditional inns, and cozy tea rooms. Enjoy some free time to explore the village.

We continue to nearby Broadway with its Tower located nearby the village. Broadway is one of the most picturesque villages in the Cotswolds, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Cotswolds," known for its wide, historic High Street lined with honey-coloured stone buildings, boutique shops and inviting cafés. Surrounded by rolling countryside, it offers a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere, with attractions like the Broadway Tower offering panoramic views and insight into local history.

You will have time to explore and enjoy lunch independently.

Finally enjoy a visit to Chipping Campden. Renowned for its elegant terraced High Street, crafted from golden limestone, and its rich history as a centre of the medieval wool trade, Chipping Camden is a beautifully preserved Cotswolds town. It exudes charm with its mix of historic buildings, traditional inns, art galleries, and independent shops. Surrounded by rolling hills and scenic walking routes, including the start of the Cotswold Way, Chipping Campden is a haven of countryside tranquility.

On your return, enjoy an included dinner at The Woodsman restaurant at your hotel. Dinner at The Woodsman is as much about the atmosphere as the meal itself. Set within a beautifully restored Grade II listed Tudor building, the restaurant blends centuries-old timber beams, warm lighting and rustic stonework with contemporary design, creating a space that feels both elegant and inviting. The open wood-fired kitchen adds a gentle theatrical element, while the lively yet relaxed ambience and attentive service make it an ideal setting for a memorable evening.

On this day we depart Stratford-upon-Avon and head into the Shropshire countryside.

Our first stop is Ironbridge Gorge. Ironbridge Gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. The dramatic, wooded canyon, carved by the River Severn, is rich in minerals like coal and iron ore, which fuelled early industrial development. The site is named for the world-famous Iron Bridge, the first cast-iron bridge ever built, which was completed in 1779. Today, the gorge is a tranquil setting that features a collection of 10 museums dedicated to preserving the area's history, including the open-air Blists Hill Victorian Town.

Lunch on this day is taken independently around Ironbridge.

In the afternoon we visit historic Chester, famous for its stunning blend of Roman and medieval history, unique architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. From walking along Britain's most complete city walls to exploring the one-of-a-kind two-tiered shopping galleries known as the Rows, the city offers a captivating mix of heritage and modern attractions. You will enjoy an expert guided tour. In the late afternoon we arrive in Liverpool for check in to your hotel. Dinner on this evening is taken independently at or near your hotel.

Enjoy a full day in Liverpool, the birthplace of the most successful band of all time - The Beatles.

Departing the city centre, we pass through Penny Lane, Paul McCartney’s childhood home and John Lennon’s childhood home (exteriors only) before continuing to one of Liverpool’s hidden gems. Strawberry Field - John Lennon’s childhood garden escape Once a Salvation Army home that inspired one of The Beatles biggest hits, Strawberry Field has been transformed into a world-class visitor attraction with a unique, interactive exhibition set in stunning gardens. Step past the famous iconic red gates to explore a peaceful heritage site that deeply inspired John Lennon's childhood and the legendary Beatles song ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’. An immersive multimedia exhibition displays fascinating archival footage, photographs, and the historic Imagine’ piano on which Lennon composed his ultimate peace anthem. Explore the tranquil, wellbeing gardens - the former grounds of the Salvation Army children's home where Lennon used to climb trees and play- complete with a themed bandstand.

We return to the heart of the city to see the beautiful Liverbirds clock towers, Albert Dock and get an all-important photo with The Beatles iconic statue. You will then have free time to take lunch independently and enjoy all it offers. Why not take a Ferry ‘Cross the Mersey, visit the free Maritime Museum or soak up the fantastic shopping? Dinner on this night is taken independently at or near your hotel.

We depart Liverpool for Haverthwaite where we board a traditional British steam train to arrive at the Lake District in style. The Lakeside & Haverthwaite steam railway takes guests back to a bygone era and the golden age of steam. Step back in time as you enjoy the sights, sound and smell of travelling through one of the prettiest parts of the country. On arrival enjoy stunning views of Lake Windermere at Lakeside.

Private lunch at Muncaster Castle. Muncaster Castle is a historic castle on the edge of England’s Lake District, known for its striking architecture, beautiful gardens, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Dating back more than 800 years, the castle combines rich history with legends of hauntings and family heritage, making it both a cultural and atmospheric attraction. Explore the grand interiors, woodland grounds, and popular bird of prey centre while enjoying the dramatic scenery of Lake District. Meet a member of the Pennington family at this historic Castle. Then enjoy a seated lunch in a private area of the Castle.

We proceed to Windermere to check into our hotel. Windermere is a charming town in the heart of the Lake District, popular for its scenic landscapes, cozy atmosphere, and easy access to England’s largest lake. Surrounded by rolling hills and countryside, the town offers a mix of traditional shops, cafés, and outdoor activities that attract visitors year-round. It serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby walking trails, boat cruises, and the natural beauty that makes the Lake District famous. Dinner on this evening is included at your hotel in Windermere in The Lake District.

Depart the Lake District for historic Alnwick. On the way stop at Hadrian’s wall and learn of its incredible past. Visiting Housesteads Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall offers a striking journey into Roman Britain, with remarkably preserved ruins set high on a windswept ridge in Northumberland. As you explore the fort’s streets, barracks, and commanding views across the rugged countryside, you gain a vivid sense of daily life on the edge of the Roman Empire and the dramatic landscape that made this frontier both strategic and awe-inspiring.

Our tour continues to Alnwick where we will stop to visit its magical Castle. Discover the wizard in you at this stunning Castle with its impressive architecture and extensive history. Used as the filming location for ‘Hogwarts’ in the first two Harry Potter films, fans will recognise many areas including the outdoor areas where Harry had his first flying lesson. Alnwick Castle was first built shortly after the Norman Conquest and still home to the Duke of Northumberland. Renowned for its dramatic towers and rich history, the castle has played key roles in centuries of border conflicts with Scotland and is now widely recognized as a filming location for productions such as the Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey. Enjoy a guided tour with your Tour Director.

Lunch is taken independently at Alnwick Castle.

We depart Alnwick for Edinburgh. Dinner on this day is taken independently.

After a leisurely breakfast take an expert guided walking tour of the highlights of Edinburgh’s capital - including Princes Street, The Royal Mile and some favourite back street walks enjoyed by those who live in Edinburgh. Highland Tartan experience, during your tour, we will discover how the tartan patterns used in kilt making relate back to the Clans of Scotland in a Highland Tartan experience arranged for our group. Your local expert will explain the ancestral heritage and significance behind the patterns used and how they relate to some of Scotland’s historic events. Which side of the battle of Culloden would your family have fought on?

Following this bespoke experience, take a back street walking tour to discover some of the secluded and historic neighbourhoods of this charming city including Dean Village. There will be free time to take lunch independently before continuing your walking tour down towards Edinburgh Castle. In the afternoon enjoy a relaxed visit of this iconic castle and home to the Scottish Crown Jewels. Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress perched atop Castle Rock, a volcanic crag in the heart of Scotland's capital. Dominating the city skyline, the castle has served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and symbol of Scottish heritage for over a thousand years. It houses the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, and offers sweeping views of Edinburgh below. With its dramatic setting and rich history, it remains one of the most iconic landmarks in the United Kingdom. The Scottish Crown Jewels, known as the Honours of Scotland, feature the crown, sceptre, and sword of state used by Scottish monarchs since the 15th and 16th centuries. Housed in the castle’s Crown Room, they are the oldest surviving crown jewels in Britain and were famously rediscovered by Sir Walter Scott in 1818 after being hidden away for more than a century.

There will be the option to take your coach back to the hotel after the Castle visit if desired. Dinner on this night is taken independently.

On this day either enjoy a free day in Edinburgh or take our optional guided tour to the Royal Kingdom of Fife - visit historic St. Andrews and relax in a picture-perfect fishing village. The Royal Kingdom of Fife Day tour.

We depart Edinburgh heading north, pausing first to admire the engineering marvel of the iconic, UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge spanning the Firth of Forth. Our journey continues along the picturesque coastal fringe of the Kingdom of Fife to the historic fishing village of Anstruther. This picturesque harbour town is where colourful fishing boats, waterfront cafes, and winding lanes combine to capture the timeless charm of Scotland's East Neuk coastline. Renowned for its rich maritime heritage and outstanding seafood, it's the perfect place to soak up coastal scenery, explore local history, and experience authentic Scottish village life.

Reaching the tour's crown jewel, St. Andrews, visitors spend the afternoon immersed in a town of immense historical, academic, and sporting prestige.

Lunch on this day is taken independently.

Explore the hauntingly beautiful cliffside ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral - once the centre of medieval Catholic Scotland, and visit the 13th-century St. Andrews Castle, complete with its subterranean siege mines and bottle dungeon. As the home of the third-oldest university in the English-speaking world, the town charms visitors with its pristine collegiate courtyards and cobblestone streets. Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, met in St. Andrews while studying at the university.

Golf enthusiasts can make a pilgrimage to the legendary Old Course to stand on the iconic Swilcan Bridge on the 18th fairway or enjoy a bracing walk along the sweeping sands of West Sands Beach. We conclude with a relaxing drive back south across the Firth of Forth into Edinburgh. Dinner on this night is taken independently.

On this day check out from your Edinburgh hotel for your onward journey.