England, Wales and Scotland: The Great British Adventure

Day 1 - Stonehenge to Bath

Collecting you in London (ask about pre-nights at our preferred luxury hotel), we transfer east to Highclere Castle – instantly recognisable as Downton Abbey. Enjoy a private tour before delving into England’s prehistoric past as we visit Stonehenge, which dates back to 2,500BC. Our destination is the nearby City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its wonderful Georgian architecture, literary connections and, of course, its Roman baths.

Overnight: 5 star | Royal Crescent Hotel | Bath.

Day 2 - Wales

A short transfer takes us across the River Severn to the Wye Valley. We stop here for a riverside walk, leading to Chepstow Railway Bridge, which is now a footpath. In crossing the bridge, we will actually walk from England into Wales! Perhaps most famous for inspiring the great Romantic poet William Wordsworth, we visit the famous 12th-century ruins of Tintern Abbey to learn about its fall from grace. In the afternoon, we return to Bath to enjoy a private tour of the Roman Baths, followed by a visit to a modern spa which uses the same natural thermal waters.

For guests wishing to explore more of Wales, a helicopter flight can offer access to any part of the country along with incredible views. Alternatively, ask us about extending your stay in Wales to spend more time exploring the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast, the mountains of Snowdonia and its rich cultural heritage.

Overnight: 5 star | Royal Crescent Hotel | Bath.

Day 3 - The Cotswolds

Located just north of Bath, the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is perhaps the most classic English landscape, with rolling hills and escarpments dotted with picture-perfect villages. Spend the morning exploring these charming settlements, perhaps hiking between quaint Cotswolds villages  along winding country lanes. Enjoy lunch and a private wine-tasting at a renowned organic gastro-pub before we transfer north to Yorkshire. Arriving at your 17th century Relais & Chateaux hotel, enjoy time to relax at the idyllic Three Graces Spa before dinner at its Michelin-starred restaurant.

An optional helicopter transfer is available to shorten the transfer to Yorkshire.

Overnight: 5 star | Grantley Hall | Yorkshire

Day 4 - York & the Moors

The historic city of York highlights a very different England. Take a walk through the The Shambles, recognised as the best-preserved medieval street in the world, before a private tour of York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals across the globe. After lunch, venture into the wild North York Moors National Park to visit a local blacksmith or glassblower, or perhaps enjoy a hike on the windswept moors. Alternatively, return to the hotel to enjoy a classic English afternoon tea.

Overnight: 5 star | Grantley Hall | Yorkshire

Day 5 - Yorkshire Dales to Scotland

Leaving the hotel, we transfer north into the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Walk in beautiful Swaledale – a favourite of writer Alfred Wainwright – or visit the town of Hawes to see a sheepdog trial and browse the antique stores. Transfer north across the border into Scotland, arriving at the magnificent medieval castle built in 1430. On arrival, enjoy exploring the imposing castle and its grounds before pre-dinner cocktails.

An optional helicopter transfer is available to shorten the transfer to Scotland.

Overnight: 5 star | Borthwick Castle (exclusive use) | Near Edinburgh.

Day 6 - Edinburgh & Highland Games

Venture into Edinburgh for a food-themed walking tour of the city, ending at Edinburgh Castle. Afterwards, experience having a kilt fitted before a delicious lunch in one of the city’s renowned eateries. Return to the castle for a memorable afternoon of traditional activities such as archery, falconry and even a Highland Games experience. Enjoy a whisky-tasting to end the afternoon before a medieval banquet in the Grand Hall, complete with folk musicians and entertainment for a memorable final night in Scotland.

For early-risers, we can arrange a private pre-opening viewing of the Crown Jewels at Edinburgh Castle. Travellers with energy to burn will enjoy road cycling through the countryside surrounding the castle. There is much to see and do in this region so an extra night or two at the castle is highly recommended.

Overnight: 5 star | Borthwick Castle (exclusive use) | Near Edinburgh.

Day 7 - Depart

After a leisurely breakfast, a transfer of just 30 minutes takes you to the private terminal at Edinburgh Airport.

Alternatively, extend your odyssey of the UK and Ireland by catching a short flight to Ireland for a customised extension exploring the Emerald Isle.