Day 1: England’s eastern gems: Cambridge to York

We depart for this 7-day journey through the rich tapestry of England and Scotland. Leaving London, we travel via Letchworth Garden City into the historic city of Cambridge, home of the renowned University of Cambridge and its colleges. You will have the chance to visit King’s College and King’s College Chapel (included attraction) to build up your appetite for lunch.

Create lasting memories exploring idyllic Cambridge - get into hustle and bustle of the city’s ever-changing market stalls, pick up tasty international street food, and time permitting, climb 123 steps up Great St. Mary’s Church for panoramic 360-degree views of Cambridge and beyond.

After lunch, we continue northbound via Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire countryside and arrive at the medieval walled city of York. Here you have time at leisure to explore medieval lanes, and The Shambles, ridiculously pretty 13th century timbered streets.

Head to your hotel in city centre of York for an overnight stay. (D)

D = Dinner

Day 2: From York Minster bells to Edinburgh Castle spells

After a good night’s sleep and a traditional English or vegetarian breakfast, you day starts with a visit to York Minster (included attraction). It is the largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe. Taking over 250 years to build, its Central Tower can easily fit the Leaning Tower of Pisa inside.

You have time to refresh and get your mid-morning coffee or tea and a quick snack before we depart for Edinburgh. Enroute, we stop at Alnwick Castle that stands as a captivating destination for history enthusiasts, families, and fans of both medieval architecture and magical tales. The castle's impressive exterior has served as a backdrop for various films and TV series, most notably as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the first two Harry Potter films.

Late afternoon, we arrive in Edinburgh. We will stop at the footsteps of Calton Hill situated in the heart of Edinburgh. Renowned for its commanding position, it serves as a popular vantage point from which visitors can marvel at the city's historic architecture, including the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scott Monument and the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscapes. With its combination of natural beauty and architectural splendour, Calton Hill is a must-visit destination for those seeking both cultural enrichment and breathtaking vistas.

You have evening at leisure in Edinburgh as we stay for two nights in the centre of Edinburgh. (B, D)

B = Breakfast, D = Dinner

Day 3: Edinburgh – A historic soul of Scotland

After breakfast, put on your most comfortable clothes and walking shoes as you explore this jewel of Scotland on foot at leisure.

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city steeped in history and charm. Nestled between the looming Edinburgh Castle (included attraction) and the picturesque Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile winds through the heart of the Old Town, adorned with cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. The city’s rich cultural tapestry unfolds in its vibrant festivals, including the renowned Edinburgh Tattoo Festival and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Overlooking the city, Arthurs’ Seat at the top of Holyrood Park offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the landscape. Museums like the National Museum of Scotland showcase the nation’s heritage, while the dynamic nightlife in places like the Grassmarket adds a modern flair to this timeless destination. Edinburgh truly captivates visitors with its blend of ancient allure and contemporary energy.

As twilight descends, the city lights up, casting a magical glow over both the Scott Monument and Princes Street, creating an enchanting atmosphere that lingers in the memories of all who explore this captivating Scottish capital. (B, D)

B = Breakfast, D = Dinner

Day 4: From Scottish firths to Lakeland waters

After a restful sleep and a hearty Scottish breakfast, it’s time to check out and head towards Queensferry. The Forth Bridges are an engineering marvel set against a scenic backdrop. The iconic trio, including the historic Forth Rail Bridge, the elegant Forth Road Bridge, and the modern Queensferry Crossing, span the Firth of Forth.

We head down to England, passing Moffat and Scotland’s first village Gretna Green, and arrive in Penrith. Its historic town centre with ancient yards and streets is home to many independent shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. You have time for lunch in this bustling market town.

Ullswater will be the entry point and first stop of our visit to the enchanting Lake District. Surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, this glacial lake offers a serene escape with its tranquil beauty.

We travel along the breathtaking and most picturesque Kirkstone pass that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding fells and a scenic route. In the afternoon Cruise on Lake Windermere (included attraction) awaits. Enjoy sublime views of the surrounding scenery from your cruise. You have time to explore Cockshott Point, a short walking distance from Bowness Bay.

Later we visit Ambleside at leisure. The town is full of interesting shops, activities and eateries as well as beautiful scenery, which makes it the perfect location for families to spend their time. After dinner, you head to your Lake District hotel accommodation for 2 nights’ stay. (B, D)

B = Breakfast, D = Dinner

Day 5: The enchanting loops of the Lake District

After breakfast, it is time to travel north via Rydal Water, Grasmere, and Thirlmere lakes to Keswick. There will be an opportunity to stop at Stepping Stones and Rydal Cave that is manmade on the site of a former slate quarry.

You have time to stroll around the streets and explore Keswick on foot as you build up an appetite for lunch or opt for a full Afternoon Tea in Lake District or Oxford (1 Full Afternoon Tea is included). There are many eateries in this famous market town nestled between two mountains and Derwentwater.

Post lunch, we journey along the Derwentwater lake to arrive at a Surprise View that offers panoramic views of Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite lakes from a clifftop. We continue our journey south passing Lodore Falls along River Derwent to arrive at Borrowdale.

Borrowdale valley is one of the most idyllic places on earth. From here, your journey of Lake District continues via Honister Pass that forms part of a circular scenic drive to Buttermere, Crummock Water and Newlands Pass. One of Cumbria’s highest passes, it is not as dominated by visitors as other parts of Lake District.

In the evening you return back to your hotel to freshen up and enjoy the relaxing dinner before retiring for the night. (B, L, D)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Day 6: City vibes and Peak District grandeur

We check out of the hotel after breakfast and head southbound to Manchester, third largest city in the UK. Once the world’s manufacturing powerhouse, this vibrant city is full of life. There is so much to love about Manchester, the Media City, the Trafford Centre and renowned art galleries.

After spending the morning in Manchester and building up appetite, you have time to discover hip new restaurants, diverse food halls and markets. The cuisine in Manchester is as diverse as it’s people.

After lunch, we depart for the scenic drive through Winnats Pass in Peak District. It unveils a mesmerising spectacle of nature's artistry. Carved by ancient geological forces, the limestone gorge features soaring cliffs that gracefully frame a winding road, creating an ethereal pathway through a landscape that oscillates between dramatic grandeur and serene beauty.

Hope Valley is surrounded by rolling hills, green meadows, and picturesque villages, creating a quintessential English countryside experience. The landscape is particularly enchanting during spring when wildflowers bloom and in autumn when the foliage transforms into vibrant hues.

Time for a final refreshment break before we journey towards Birmingham for your overnight stay in this lively city. (B, D)

B = Breakfast, D = Dinner

Day 7: Cotswold charm, Oxford’s legacy and retail therapy

Today is the last day of our trip. After breakfast, we depart for the whole day visit to the Cotswolds, Oxford and Bicester.

Your first destination is Stow-on-the-Wold. Here, you have time for some sightseeing, do not miss the little independent stores in the market square. Our next stop is a tiny riverside village of Lower Slaughter. Marvel at the beautiful cottages & stunning old water mill.

Next, we visit the most famous village in the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water. Wander along the river, crossing little stone bridges. This is the perfect stop for mid-morning coffee where you can spend time watching the world go by or visit the famous Model Village.

Having built up an appetite, we travel to Oxford. You are spoilt for food choices as there are many eateries from Michelin star restaurants to market stalls in the Covered Market. If you have opted to have your Full Afternoon Tea in Oxford, relax and see the world passing by while you enjoy the Afternoon Tea. After lunch, wonder around this college town that is steeped in history and renowned the world over.

Your journey back to London is packed full of luxury shopping extravaganza but at discounted prices at the Bicester Village. Here you will have a couple of hours to shop for your favourite luxury brands and time for a final refreshment break before we journey along Oxfordshire countryside and Chiltern Hills back into London. (B)

B = Breakfast

Any day departure from London.

Starts: 08:00 from your London location.

Finishes (approx.): 19:30 at your London location.

Luggage: Restricted to one 10-14 kg travel bag and one small rucksack for onboard personal items.

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• All our trips are private. We guarantee privacy, offer comfort and peace of mind of door-to-door transport with your family, friends and group.
• We do not offer seat-in-coach (SIC) tours.
• Prices are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• Please complete the Guest information form (opens in new tab) to help us plan your smooth, stress-free luxury trip to the UK and Ireland.

• Your exclusive personal transport in a Mercedes-Benz or similar executive class vehicle (5 seat executive to a 16-seat minibus).
• The stories and services of an English-speaking driver-guide.
• 6 nights city centre hotel stay on twin/double sharing basis with dinners and full breakfasts.
• Full Afternoon Tea experience either in Lake District (day 5) or Oxford (day 7).
• Paid attractions: King’s College and King’s College Chapel, York Minster, Edinburgh Castle, Windermere Lake Cruise.
• Driver-guide meals and accommodation throughout the trip.
• Driver-guide gratuity for the trip.
• COMPLIMENTARY: One 500ml bottle of water per person per day.

• Anything that is not mentioned under “Inclusions” section.

• 24/7 UK emergency helpline for a worry-free trip.
• Room assignments/early check-in prior to 15:00 is subject to availability and may be subject to additional cost by the hotel. Check-out is generally at 11:00. Late check-out is subject to availability and may be subject to additional cost by the hotel.
• All our trips are private, providing ample opportunities for photo opportunities. We can make stops at your discretion, ensuring it is done safely.
• Adjustments can be made to the itinerary based on your specific interests and preferences.
• Entrance tickets, that are not included, can be pre-purchased during your trip booking. In the event of the attraction being closed on the scheduled day of visit, a refund will be processed back to the original payment method.
• We offer the option to arrange a driver-guide fluent in Hindi, Chinese, and several other languages for your trip, subject to an additional cost. Kindly inquire about this service at the time of booking.
• Children must be seated in their own seats on the vehicle and must be supervised by an adult at all times.
• Your driver-guide will not accompany you inside any attractions.
• Don’t drop litter, not even fruit peel and skins.
• Carry your waterproof clothing, comfortable walking shoes and mountain gear.
• B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Porterage and room drops

• At cost

• Don’t wear flip flops, sandals or sports trainers. Wear ankle supporting boots or hiking shoes.
• Don’t move rocks and stones around.
• Don’t drop litter, not even fruit peel and skins.
• Always go with a walking buddy.
• Make sure you read any warning notices and only follow hiking tracks.
• Walking waterproof trousers. Zip offs are good in the summer, and in colder months go for insulated ones.
• Hat and sunglasses for sunny days, waterproof jackets, base layers, warm hat, gloves and a scarf/chute in colder months.
• Spare socks and a clean t-shirt.
• Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
• Equipment: Rucksack, First aid kit, including an insulated foil blanket and any medication you might need, Trekking poles, Whistle, Charged torch, Charged phone, High energy snacks, Plenty to drink, Map (you can download local maps in your mobile app for offline use).