Itinerary Details
Day 1: Arrive in London
Transfer: London Heathrow Aptto London - Victoria Station
Hotel: Wellington Hotel by Blue Orchid (4 Star Rating)
The Wellington Hotel by Blue Orchid is peacefully situated in Westminster's Vincent Square and offers an oasis of calm in the heart of Central London.
The hotel has 84 guest bedrooms with a stylish interior, modern in-room conveniences, and beautiful bathroom facilities. 5 luxurious discreet apartments provide privacy and the opportunity to dine and entertain to complement the guest bedrooms.
The modern and lively restaurant offers sumptuous Italian cuisine on offer throughout the day, with guests able to sit and enjoy a choice of Continental or Full English breakfast. The bar offers a place to meet in a comfortable yet contemporary atmosphere where you have a range of drinks and light bites to choose from to while away your time.
![]()
Your Registered Taxi driver/guide will escort you around the major sites of London stopping at each landmark for a photograph and a historical explanation. Stand outside of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Kensington Palace, plus a lot more, before heading down to the City. Here the history dates back over 2000, to Roman times and the City is filled with history. Here you will see the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St Paul's Cathedral, and the modern financial district.
You will see Hidden Treasures and unusual places not seen by many tourists! See and hear about many of London's hidden treasures, these are the places that tourists never get to see. You shall wander alleyways and hear the tales of murder and mystery. See the smallest house in London the smallest square in town, wander by the site of Henry VIII's cow shed and tennis court.
We have 300 year old shops to enter and once you know their history you may wish to purchase some of their stock. There are Hidden Tunnels, the oldest Church in London, Victorian Book shops, A street on a river, secret alleys. Visit a church that sold corpses and a dead body that still sits around a table at meetings. This tour takes you to both the landmark sites of London and the unusual. There is a lot more to tell you about but they don't want to spoil the surprises.
Remember, this is your tour so they will tailor make it to your wishes and complete the tour at your pace.
Day 2: Private London's Hidden Treasures and Evening Cruise on ThamesWhat better way to see the highlights of London than from the upper level of a vintage double-decker bus? Take in excellent views of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral and the Tower of London on a meandering route, sweeping through the streets and history of the English capital.
The tour also includes a boat trip on the river Thames as well as a visit to Buckingham Palace, the official Royal residence of His Majesty the King. Following your time at Buckingham, the scene shifts to the river Thames where you'll set off on serene sailing coursing through the central waterway of London, passing sites of interest including Shakespeare's Globe, London Bridge, the Shard and Tower Bridge before arriving at the London Eye pier, where you'll disembark. Shortly after, you'll be returned to the Victoria Coach Station where you'll bid farewell to your guide and enjoy time on your own.
Important note: The Changing of the Guards only takes place in the morning and therefore cannot be seen on this afternoon excursion.Discover the captivating magic of London's renowned River Thames aboard City Cruises' London Evening Cruise with Canapes & Music. This enchanting voyage seamlessly blends breathtaking panoramas, live musical performances, and tantalizing canapes. As daylight fades and the cityscape illuminates, embark on a two-hour journey delving into the heart of London's captivating skyline.
Let the melodious tunes of live music serenade you, crafting the ideal atmosphere against the backdrop of the river's picturesque banks. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this evening cruise promises an unparalleled perspective of London's iconic landmarks, from the grandeur of Tower Bridge to the historic allure of the Houses of Parliament and the shimmering Shard.
Savour a culinary adventure with a delectable assortment of canapés served throughout the cruise, complemented by a well-stocked bar offering an array of beverages. This blend of exquisite flavours, musical entertainment, and the tranquil river setting ensures an unforgettable evening.
Suitable for all, whether it's a special celebration or a leisurely retreat from the urban bustle, City Cruises' evening cruise on the River Thames offers a magical and serene way to experience London by night. Glide along the water, immersing yourself in the capital's elegance, and create lasting memories.
Experience sparkling entertainment, featuring performers from London's esteemed West End, in a bar-like atmosphere where guests are free to roam the boat without fixed seating. Enjoy the upper deck for sweeping vistas or gather with loved ones in the ambient lower deck. For those desiring narration, commentary via app is available in a range of languages, adding another layer to this enchanting journey.
Day 3: Half Day Guided Tour of Westminster AbbeyFirst experience of Westminster Abbey, one of the jewels in London’s crown and a must see for any visitor, is in the 14th century medieval under croft. Originally used by the Benedictine monks to store food and drink - the Cellarium is now a unique restaurant, and we pause here for refreshments.
Following your time enjoying complimentary coffee/tea and pastries, you will then enter the Abbey through the cloisters in Dean's yard. The cloister entrance offers priority access and aims to avoid the queues at the north door, which is the main entrance for visitors. This will be followed by an exclusive tour with your professional qualified guide.
An architectural masterpiece, Westminster Abbey presents a unique pageant of British history - the shrine of St Edward the confessor, the tombs of kings and queens, and countless memorials to the famous and the great. Your guide will help bring to life this remarkable building where 40 English and British coronations have taken place since 1066.
You will hear about the most recent coronation of Charles III that took place on the 6th May, 2023, the marriage of William and Kate - the Prince and Princess of Wales, and also stop briefly to pay our respect and celebrate the life of the late Queen Elizabeth II whose state funeral also took place at the Abbey.
Day 4: London to Oxford and CotswoldsPalaces dripping in historical intrigue. Streets thronged with iconic red buses. A bustling pub on every corner. London couldn't be a more fitting place to embark on tour of Britain! Begin by greeting your expert Tour Leader and the rest of your small group before you dig into your very first meal together. Uncover each other's back stories over the dinner table and say cheers to the adventure ahead!
Hotel: Wellington Hotel by Blue Orchid (4 Star Rating)
The Wellington Hotel by Blue Orchid is peacefully situated in Westminster's Vincent Square and offers an oasis of calm in the heart of Central London.
The hotel has 84 guest bedrooms with a stylish interior, modern in-room conveniences, and beautiful bathroom facilities. 5 luxurious discreet apartments provide privacy and the opportunity to dine and entertain to complement the guest bedrooms.
The modern and lively restaurant offers sumptuous Italian cuisine on offer throughout the day, with guests able to sit and enjoy a choice of Continental or Full English breakfast. The bar offers a place to meet in a comfortable yet contemporary atmosphere where you have a range of drinks and light bites to choose from to while away your time.
![]()
Meal(s): Dinner
Day 5: Cotswolds to Stratford-Upon-Avon and CotswoldsAfter an energy-boosting breakfast with your group, you'll wave goodbye to the Big Smoke as you start your journey north. Your next stop’s skyline is equally as impressive as the capital’s - with twisting spires, majestic domes and more than a few grinning gargoyles.
Did you know that Oxford University is the second oldest university in the world? Or that the city served as the official capital for four years during the English Civil War? You’ll uncover plenty more historical nuggets as you walk in the footsteps of the colleges’ illustrious alumni - think Oscar Wilde and Lewis Carroll - on an orientation tour with our clued-up Tour Leader.
After a little free time to wander and grab some lunch (the city’s historic Covered Market is our top pick!), you’ll continue your journey west. Your path will take you through several of the idyllic old-world villages of the Cotswolds. Marvel at their honey-hued cottages forged from yellow limestone and soak up vistas of the undulating wolds. Then, a free evening awaits in Mickleton, where you'll find a choice of charming local pubs to dine in.
Hotel: Three Ways House Hotel (4 Star Rating)
Located in a charming village in the Cotswolds, close to Broadway and Stratford-upon-Avon, Three Ways House Hotel offers 48 individually styled rooms. The bar-brassiere offers light meals and refreshments throughout the day and the award winning restaurant serves a weekly changing menu utilizing fresh, seasonal produce, locally sourced where possible. The hotel is also the home of the world famous Pudding Club, where traditional British puddings such as Jam Roly Poly, Syrup Sponge, Sticky Toffee Pudding and Spotted Dick are enjoyed.
![]()
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 6: Cotswolds to Worcester and DenbighshireAll the world’s a stage, and all men and women merely players! Today, your stage will be the storied streets of Stratford-Upon-Avon: the esteemed birthplace of William Shakespeare. Revel in remarkable tales of his life, loves and losses on a walking tour with your Tour Leader. If there’s time, you'll pay homage to the playwright with a visit to his grave. Make sure you spare a minute to peruse the epitaph which is supposedly a curse written by Shakespeare himself.
This afternoon, there's more exploring to be done in the delightful Cotswolds. You'll weave effortlessly along the region's narrow lanes, stopping off at a few of your Tour Leader's favourite villages. Broadway, often called the prettiest village in England, will likely be one of them. If the weather's dry, stretch your legs with a walk through its unusually long high street, stopping for coffee and cake breaks along the way.
Hotel: Three Ways House Hotel (4 Star Rating)
Located in a charming village in the Cotswolds, close to Broadway and Stratford-upon-Avon, Three Ways House Hotel offers 48 individually styled rooms. The bar-brassiere offers light meals and refreshments throughout the day and the award winning restaurant serves a weekly changing menu utilizing fresh, seasonal produce, locally sourced where possible. The hotel is also the home of the world famous Pudding Club, where traditional British puddings such as Jam Roly Poly, Syrup Sponge, Sticky Toffee Pudding and Spotted Dick are enjoyed.
![]()
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 7: Denbighshire to Snowdonia National Park and DenbighshireThrilling tales of the crusades fought by saints and kings are on the agenda today as we leave the Cotswolds behind for Worcester. Gaze up in awe at Worcester Cathedral’s intricately painted ceiling and feel the temperature drop as we venture down into its Norman-era Crypt of St Wulfstan: the Bishop of Worcester during the 11th century.
Following your medieval history fix, you'll begin your scenic journey to Denbighshire - rolling through the serene Shropshire Hills where you'll make two memorable stops en route.
Wales's Denbighshire region is known for its tiny, twisting country lanes - but we'll make short work of them in our minicoach. When we do arrive at tonight's hotel, you can expect a very warm welcome from the inn's characterful owner who loves to personally greet every one of his guests.
Hotel: Mulberry Inn (4 Star Rating)
Welcome to The Mulberry Inn in the quiet setting of Llwynmawr village in the beautiful Ceiriog Valley - only five scenic miles from the A5 between Wrexham and Llangollen and tucked in the valley beyond the border town of Chirk. A once discovered, never forgotten' place to stay - a delightful country inn where the warmth and friendliness of your hosts Allan and John is always apparent.
![]()
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: Denbighshire to Liverpool and YorkWarning: not much will prepare you for the jaw-dropping beauty of Snowdonia National Park. This 823-square-mile tapestry of rugged peaks, shimmering lakes (known locally as lynns) and windswept coastline is the setting for today’s adventure and you can expect plenty of imagination-stirring encounters.
Your Tour Leader will decide the specific route you'll take but you can expect it to be steeped in local history and outstanding natural beauty. Cast your eyes across soaring summits in the charming mountain town of Betws-Y-Coed. Challenge yourself to a tongue twister in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll - a village on the lovely Isle of Anglesey that's famed for having Europe's longest place name.
You might also feel your heart race a little while walking across the Pontcysyllte (pronounced Pont - ker - sulth - tay) Aqueduct - a UNESCO World Heritage site that's suspended 40 metres above the tumbling rapids of the River Dee. Then, you'll retrace your steps back to the hotel for another sumptuous group meal and an after-dinner surprise.
Hotel: Mulberry Inn (4 Star Rating)
Welcome to The Mulberry Inn in the quiet setting of Llwynmawr village in the beautiful Ceiriog Valley - only five scenic miles from the A5 between Wrexham and Llangollen and tucked in the valley beyond the border town of Chirk. A once discovered, never forgotten' place to stay - a delightful country inn where the warmth and friendliness of your hosts Allan and John is always apparent.
![]()
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9: Explore YorkYou’ll get a little help from our friends at The Beatles Story Museum today as you swap the picture-perfect Welsh countryside for the hustle and bustle of Liverpool. Get into the Beatlemania spirit while touring the museum’s musical displays, including stepping foot in a recreation of the iconic Abbey Road Studios.
Afterwards, there'll be free time to explore Liverpool's Grade I-listed Royal Albert Docks. Once one of the UK’s busiest dock complexes during Victorian times, it's now a hub of culture and cuisine - complete with its very own Tate art gallery.
This afternoon, your route takes us east to York. But before you immerse yourself in fearsome Viking tales, you'll sweep through the wild moors and rippling hills of the Pennines. Perhaps you’ll hear the whispers of the Bronte sisters' timeless characters as we go.
Hotel: The Churchill Hotel (4 Star Rating)
The Churchill Hotel is a luxury hotel situated in York city centre. The building is a superb example of a late Georgian mansion built around 1827. The Churchill is one of the finest hotels in York. This historic hotel, filled with original features and grandeur, offers visitors to York a unique experience combining luxury accommodation, fine dining and exceptional service.
![]()
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 10: York to Castle Howard and Lake DistrictTreat yourself to a full English breakfast this morning - you'll need the extra energy for a busy day of exploring extraordinary York. History echoes off every cobblestone of this incredible city. Soak up stirring stories of old during an orientation walk with your Tour Leader, slipping down enchantingly narrow Snickleways, past the crooked 13th-century cottages of the Shambles and emerging in the shadow of the monumental York Minster.
The rest of the day is free for you to dive further into the city’s many allures. Experience Viking tales come to life in the interactive Jorvik Centre museum. Walk in the footsteps of medieval sentries on the impeccably preserved York City Walls. Or sink your teeth into a fat rascal - a traditional scone bursting with juicy currants and zesty citrus - at the quintessentially Yorkshire tearoom, Bettys.
Your final night in York is yours to do with as you wish. The city has a fantastic independent food scene - just ask your Tour Leader for suggestions for tonight's dinner.
Hotel: The Churchill Hotel (4 Star Rating)
The Churchill Hotel is a luxury hotel situated in York city centre. The building is a superb example of a late Georgian mansion built around 1827. The Churchill is one of the finest hotels in York. This historic hotel, filled with original features and grandeur, offers visitors to York a unique experience combining luxury accommodation, fine dining and exceptional service.
![]()
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 11: Discover Lake DistrictYou’ll leave medieval York behind this morning and jump forward a few hundred years at Castle Howard. This glorious 17th-century English estate has some serious curb appeal, with its Baroque-style frontage embellished with exquisitely carved coronets, cyphers and cherubs a true feast for the eyes.
Wander the castle's grand rooms and gaze up at the whimsically painted ceiling of its 70-foot dome before riding the free road train through the splendid grounds. Keep your eyes peeled for the tinkling Atlas Fountain and the Temple of the Four Winds - a hilltop folly originally built as a reading and writing nook.
Next, your path will take us through the Yorkshire Dales National Park, winding us past tumbling rivers, through lush valleys and into tiny villages that appear trapped in time. Cricket fans will strike lucky with a stop in Thirsk - the birthplace of Thomas Lord, founder of Lord's Cricket Ground. And if there's time, you'll also make a small detour to the Ribble Valley to witness the Grade II Ribblehead Viaduct snaking its way across the heather-dusted moors.
The final chapter of today’s adventure sees you entering the legendary Lake District. Marvel at the verdant scenery as you glide effortlessly down twisting country lanes towards our hotel. Tonight, you'll settle in for a delicious group dinner with a lovely view of Lake Windermere - England's largest lake.
Hotel: Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa (4 Star Rating)
With a breathtaking lakeshore setting with lawns leading down to the water's edge and one of the finest views in the whole of the Lake District, this is a four star family-friendly hotel that offers everything you could wish for. In addition, the Low Wood Leisure Club is relaxation heaven boasting a large heated pool, fully equipped gym and beauty salons look-good, feel good treatments. All of the 110 en suite rooms are of a medium size, tastefully decorated with up to date comforts and many rooms boasting lake views.
![]()
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12: Lake District to Scottish Borders (Scotland)Rugged mountain fells, tarns that sparkle in the sun and forests that hum with birdsong...it's no surprise that this spectacular region has been a muse for so many literary geniuses over the centuries!
With that in mind, it’s only fitting to start our day at Hill Top - the idyllic former holiday home of Beatrix Potter. Feel your inner child squeal with delight in the flower-filled gardens where miniature scenes from some of her most famous books nestle amongst the greenery. You can even flick through a few books (or buy some as souvenirs) in the house’s second-hand book nook.
More inspiring vistas await us this afternoon as you explore the heart of the Lake District - allowing your Tour Leader to personalise the route with their most beloved stops. Finally, you'll end the day soaring across Windermere on a tranquil boat cruise. Soak up the serenity of the region as dusk settles over the soaring peaks, casting fantastical shadows on the water. Is this "the loveliest spot that man hath found" as William Wordsworth wrote? We certainly think so.
Hotel: Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa (4 Star Rating)
With a breathtaking lakeshore setting with lawns leading down to the water's edge and one of the finest views in the whole of the Lake District, this is a four star family-friendly hotel that offers everything you could wish for. In addition, the Low Wood Leisure Club is relaxation heaven boasting a large heated pool, fully equipped gym and beauty salons look-good, feel good treatments. All of the 110 en suite rooms are of a medium size, tastefully decorated with up to date comforts and many rooms boasting lake views.
![]()
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 13: Scottish Borders to EdinburghYou’ll hit the road early this morning - heading north through Northumbria towards bonnie Scotland. Before you cross the border though, it's time to hunt for treasure in The Bowes Museum. This palatial art gallery sits on the fringes of Barnard Castle and its halls are stuffed with an eclectic collection of priceless art and antiques. And its crowning glory? A life-size silver clockwork swan that you won't believe dates to the 18th century!
As you creep ever closer to Scotland, you'll stumble across one of the most northerly frontiers of the mighty Roman empire: Hadrian’s Wall. Hop off the minicoach at Lanercost Priory to explore a duo of historical architectural gems, unearthing stories of old as you wander between eerie yet beautiful ruins dating back as far as the 2nd century.
Then, one last group dinner awaits at your hotel in the rugged Scottish Borders. On tonight’s menu? A traditional Scottish feast of haggis, neeps and tatties, of course! Before you tuck in, your ears will be treated to the moving notes of the bagpipes - a fitting end to our very British romp.
Hotel: Friars Carse Country House Hotel (4 Star Rating)
Set in a 45 acre Dumfriesshire estate including woodland extending down to the banks of the River Nith, this country house hotel offers guests a warm welcome.
It has a magnificent panelled entrance hall and elegant staircase, a well-furnished spacious lounge with views over the garden and river, a comfortable bar and a panelled snooker room with full sized table.
The hotel's riverside setting and historic atmosphere make it a truly memorable wedding venue and its private fishing beat provides angling in season. In fact, Friars Carse is a great place for a leisure break for anyone who likes the outdoors in friendly surroundings. There are also self catering cottages within its grounds.
![]()
Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14: Half Day Private Edinburgh Tour with LunchWe’ve got two more highlights in store for you before we round off our tour in the history-rich Scottish capital. First up is an artistic masterpiece in the form of The Great Tapestry of Scotland. Situated within its own dedicated visitors centre near the Borders, this immense tapestry (that's made up of a whopping 160 linen panels) is one of the world’s largest community art projects. Countless tales from ancient times to the present day have been adorned upon it - making it a true saga of Scottish history.
With our creative juices flowing, you'll move onto the intriguing Rosslyn Chapel. The eagle eyed among you might recognise it from the Da Vinci Code (both the novel and the film). We’ll inspect its intricately carved interiors, whose mysterious patterns and symbols have long baffled historians, before we board our luxury minicoach one last time.
Edinburgh might be our tour’s final stop - but where will your journey take you next? You could continue your Gaelic chapter on our Scottish Journey tour. Or why not unlock more unexpected British experiences on our Enchanting Eastern England escape?
Meal(s): Breakfast
Hotel: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel (4 Star Rating)
Perched on the edge of a picturesque private garden in the New Town, Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel blends traditional glamour with the Scotland of today. Outside, a classical Georgian exterior stands as an ode to the past while inside, past the lobby, a glass-topped central courtyard is abuzz with activity as travellers unwind over gin & tonics, local professionals do business, and friends toast special occasions. The energy is so fresh and effervescent that you’ll want to bottle it and bring it home - but then again, it feels too distinctly Edinburgh to make sense anywhere else.
![]()
Edinburgh is an incredibly historic city, and you will have an exciting and unique experience while in town. Appreciating that you may be short on time to see and do everything Edinburgh has to offer, this Mini Mack adventure visits a host of notable UNESCO sites and hidden gems while you snap away on your cameras and phones. Led by one of two local brothers, Rowan and Andy Mackie, you will have the opportunity to see and do more than what is listed in guide books. While Rowan and Andy may not be licensed historians, their local knowledge of Edinburgh and inside scoops on what's fun and interesting to do in the city is second-to-none, making for the perfect day out. After discovering a range of Edinburgh's top highlights including Calton Hill and Arthurs Seat - among many others - you will then settle in for a tasty meal in a charming local pub that features fresh, locally-sourced cuisine before being returned to your hotel. The perfect half-day sightseeing experience in Edinburgh, an additional treat is that your transportation between sites is in a well-maintained and comfortable Mini Cooper.
Day 15: Depart from EdinburghTransfer: Edinburgh - City Centre to Edinburgh Airport
