A Scottish and English Adventure - Final Information

Friday 18th April – Thursday 24th April 2025

Number of Travellers: 4
Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 | Friday 18th April | Welcome to Scotland | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 2 | Saturday 19th April | Exploring Edinburgh | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 3 | Sunday 20th April | Discover historic St Andrews | Overnight: Edinburgh

Day 4 | Monday 21st April | A journey to London! | Overnight: London

Day 5 | Tuesday 22nd April | The delights of Oxford | Overnight: London

Day 6 | Wednesday 23rd April | Exploring the Capital & Afternoon Tea | Overnight: London

Day 7 | Thursday 24th April | Depart

Day by Day

Day 1 - Friday 18th April - Welcome to Scotland

On arrival at the airport you will be met by a private driver who will transfer you to your city centre hotel. Depending on your arrival time you can choose to relax at the hotel or head out to start exploring this unique city.

A pre-night in the Junior Suite has been booked so that you can check in and relax as soon as you arrive.  Breakfast is included and served from 7am until 10:30am. 

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: x2 Superior Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Delta Airlines | Flight Number: DL 0208
Departure Airport: JFK Arrival Airport: EDI | Arrival Time: 06:45

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2716709
Pick Up Location: Edinburgh Airport | Pick Up Time: 06:45 | Approx Duration: 30 mins
Phone: (0) 141 883 2111

Your private driver will meet you at arrivals and will have a sign with your name on.  They will take you to your hotel, The Bonham.

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 1 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Kyloe Restaurant & Grill | Location: 1-3 Rutland Street Edinburgh Edinburgh EH1 2AE
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: 6814232
Phone: 0131 229 3402

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly.

Note – There is a £10 per head cancellation / no show fee

Day 2 - Saturday 19th April - Exploring Edinburgh

This morning immerse yourselves in the winding cobbled streets of historic Old Town Edinburgh as you enjoy a private walking tour with an expert local guide. Discover the highlights of this unique capital city from the Palace of Holyroodhouse all the way up the ‘Royal Mile’ to the mighty ancient fortress which is Edinburgh Castle itself. Walk the ramparts atop castle rock and hear the tales of the One O’Clock gun and the stories of locals of times past. Your guide will leave you here so that you can spend as much time in the castle as you wish.

You then have a free afternoon to continue explorations at your own pace, pick up souvenirs or relax as you prefer.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: x2 Superior Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 2 - Guided Explorations Read More +

Activity: Guided Explorations
Expert Local Guide: Alison Motion
Start Location: The Bonham | Start Time: 09:00 | Approx Duration: 4 hrs
Phone: +447906667355

Your expert local guide, Alison will meet you at the reception of your hotel.  She will have everything you need for your morning exploring.

Day 2 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Scran & Scallie | Location: 1 Comely Bank Road Stockbridge Edinburgh EH4 1DT
Reservation Time: 19:15 | Booking Reference: BV2PALJF
Phone: +44 (0) 131 332 6281

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly.

Note – There is a £40 per head cancellation / no show fee

Day 3 - Sunday 20th April - Discover historic St Andrews

After a relaxed breakfast, you will meet your main guide (who will also be your driver) and make your way to St Andrews. Spend your morning on a fascinating walking tour learning about the history of this historic university town. More recently the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge famously met during their studies here but St Andrews is much better known for being the home of golf.  If you have some energy as you head back to Edinburgh, discover the traditional fishing villages of the East Neuk area, now popular with artists and writers.  Sampling traditional fish and chips here is a must!

Your evening is free to rest and relax, perhaps enjoying a warming dram.

Your guide will drop you at St James’ Catholic Church, St Andrews for Mass at 10:30am and meet you after to continue your explorations.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: x2 Superior Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Guide Details - Alison Motion Read More +

Name: Alison Motion
Contact Number: +44 (0)7906 667 355
Meeting Place: The Bonham | Meeting Time: 09:00

Your main guide, Alison (who will also be your driver), will meet you at the reception of your hotel.  Your meeting time may be earlier to get to Mass on time, your guide will discuss this with you the night before.

Alison will have everything that you need for your day.

Day 3 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Broughton | Location: The Broughton 46-48A Broughton Street Edinburgh, EH1 3SA
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BWDLVZMA
Phone: 0131 556 6608

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly

Day 4 - Monday 21st April - A journey to London!

Your guide will meet you this morning and take you to the train station in time to catch your train to London.  Enjoy a relaxing journey as you make your way from the Highlands of Scotland into the bustling city of London.

A private transfer will meet you on arrival and take you to your hotel in the heart of South Kensington.  Your evening is free to rest and relax after your journey or perhaps head out and enjoy a serene stroll in nearby Hyde Park.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before.

Overnight: London | Number Sixteen, Firmdale London
Room Type: x2 Deluxe Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Guide Details - Alison Motion Read More +

Name: Alison Motion
Contact Number: +44 (0)7906 667 355
Meeting Place: The Bonham | Meeting Time: 09:00

Your Guide Alison will meet you at the reception of your hotel and transfer you to the train station in time for your departure.

Day 4 - Train Details Read More +

Travel Date: April 21, 2025 | Rail Operator: Scotrail
Departure Train Station: Edinburgh Waverley | Departure Time: 10:00
Arrival Train Station: London King's Cross | Arrival Time: 14:39

Booking Reference: 129620009647

Your Guide Alison will have your train tickets and assist you to the train.  You will also have special assistance to the train and they will also help you to locate your pick up driver at the other end.

Day 4 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2716711
Pick Up Location: London Kings Cross | Pick Up Time: 14:39 | Approx Duration: 40 mins
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer driver will meet you at the end of your arrival platform and have a sign showing your name.  They will take you to your hotel – The Number Sixteen, Firmdale.

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 4 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Old Bank of England Restaurant | Location: 194 Fleet St, London EC4A 2LT
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: S1N1647769030304
Phone: +44 020 7430 2255

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly

Day 5 - Tuesday 22nd April - The delights of Oxford

Today you will be met by a private transfer driver and venture into Oxford beginning with a scenic drive out of London, passing through the charming English countryside.

An established town since the 9th century, people have inhabited this area for thousands of years. Visit Radcliffe Camera (part of the central Bodleian Library complex) and the hallowed halls of Christ Church College. Weave your way through cobblestone streets – discovering secret spots and hidden gems –  as your guide brings the history of this wonderful city to life with fantastic facts and entertaining stories. This evening, as the sky blushes pink beyond the spires, relax with a cocktail and take in the views.

Your private transfer will meet you when you are ready and whisk you back to your hotel in London.

Overnight: London | Number Sixteen, Firmdale London
Room Type: x2 Deluxe Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2715642
Pick Up Location: Number 16 Firmdale Hotel | Pick Up Time: 08:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs 30 mins
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer driver will meet you at your hotel.

You will be transferred to Oxford where you will meet your expert local guide.  Your driver will agree a place and time to meet with you and return you back to Number 16 Firmdale Hotel in London.

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on 0141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 5 - Guided Explorations Read More +

Activity: Guided Explorations
Isobel Lewis:
Start Location: St Aldate's Church, OX1 1BT | Start Time: 09:30 | Approx Duration: 7 hrs 30 mins

Phone: 07976 246967

Your guide Isobel will meet you St Aldate’s Church, Oxford ready to start your day of explorations.  She will have everything you need for your day.

 

Day 5 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Rules, Covent Garden | Location: 34-35 Maiden Ln London WC2E 7LB
Reservation Time: 19:30 | Booking Reference: 3D4W3N4EA2KS
Phone: +02078365314

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly.

Note – There is a £25 per person cancellation / no show fee.

Day 6 - Wednesday 23rd April - Exploring the Capital & Afternoon Tea

Start your day delving into the most iconic moments in British history as you enjoy a private tour at the Churchill War Rooms, marvelling at the hidden centre of operations which decided the fate of the country.

With iconic landmarks just moments away, marvel at the grandeur of Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, where every corner resonates with centuries of British history. The solemn beauty of this place will leave you in awe, as you explore the final resting place of kings, queens, poets, and statesmen. Spot the statue of Nelson Mandela at Parliament Square. Next, visit the Tower of London, a fortress shrouded in mystery and majesty. Led by your knowledgeable guide, traverse its labyrinthine passageways, each echoing with centuries-old stories. Behold the dazzling Crown Jewels, a breathtaking display of royal opulence and tradition and pause to reflect on the enduring legacy of this formidable stronghold, a testament to the triumphs and tribulations of the nation.

End your day enjoying the delights of the quintessentially British Afternoon Tea.  Enjoy music from the resident pianist as you enjoy specially selected sandwiches, scones and handmade pastries.  Raise a toast to a wonderful adventure!

*Your guide will be with you for the day and can tailor the day to suite your requirements depending on how you are feeling and what you would like to visit*

Overnight: London | Number Sixteen, Firmdale London
Room Type: x2 Deluxe Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6 - Private Tour Read More +

Activity: Private Tour
Churchill War Rooms:
Start Location: Imperial War Rooms, Clive Steps, King Charles Street, Westminster, London SW1A 2AQ | Start Time: 08:00 | Approx Duration: 1 hrs
Booking Reference: D68X83WR6
Phone: +020 7416 5000

On arrival please go to the Main Entrance and advise the member of staff you have a Private Tour booked and they will connect you with your guide. Please do not join the general admission queue.  Name on the reservation is Nancy Shea – please quote your booking reference number on arrival.

Your hotel will be able to assist you with a taxi – drive time around 30 mins.

Day 6 - Guided Explorations Read More +

Activity: Guided Explorations
Expert Local Guide - London: Matt Ware
Start Location: London War Museum | Start Time: 09:00
Phone: +0771 567 39 59

Matt will meet you once you have finished your private tour of the Churchill War Rooms at the main entrance.

Day 6 - Afternoon Tea Details Read More +

Restaurant: The Ritz, London | Location: 150 Piccadilly St James London W1J 9BR
Reservation Time: 17:30 | Booking Reference: 5MJHYB33W5JP
Phone: +44 (0)20 7493 8181

Your guide Matt will leave you to enjoy your Afternoon Tea.

Dress code: Ladies dress code is smart elegant (jeans, trainers, and sportswear are not permitted for either ladies or gentlemen).

Day 6 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Cafe Murano, London | Location: 33 St James's St, London SW1A 1HD
Reservation Time: 19:45 | Booking Reference: 746BLM4FP2KY
Phone: 02033715559

Please note that this is a Table Reservation only. Please pay directly.

Cafe Murano is a 2-3 minute walk from The Ritz.

Note – There is a £25 per head cancellation / no show fee

Day 7 - Thursday 24th April - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 7 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Littles Chauffeur Hire
Booking Reference: 2716712
Pick Up Location: Number 16 Firmdale Hotel | Pick Up Time: 11:30
Phone: +44 (0) 141 883 2111

Your private transfer driver will meet you at the reception of your hotel.

Transfer Company system will send contact details for the chauffeur as an SMS 30 minutes prior to the reservation taking place, to the mobile number for the travelling passenger. If the client is unable to locate our chauffeur, they must call the mobile number provided, or call the Little’s Office on +44 (0)141 883 2111, which operates 24/7.

Day 7 - Flight Details Read More +

Travel Date: April 24, 2025 | Flight Number: EI385
Departure Airport: LHR | Departure Time: 14:40

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 6 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide for Day 3
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by your guide on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • Transfer from Edinburgh Hotel to Train Station
  • First Class train tickets from Edinburgh to London
  • Private Transfer from London Kings Cross to City Centre Hotel
  • Private Airport Transfer on Departure Day
  • Expert Local City Guide – Edinburgh (half day), including;
    • Entry to Edinburgh Castle
  • Expert Local City Guide – Oxford (full day), including;
    • Entry to Bodleian Library
    • Private transfer to and from Oxford (wait & return)
  • A private guided tour of Churchill’s War Rooms
  • Expert Local City Guide – London (full day), including;
    • Entry to Westminster Abbey
    • Entry to The Tower of London
  • Champagne Afternoon Tea
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Notes Read More

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather – April in the UK can be a very wide range of weather, and very changeable. Suitable clothing and footwear is essential, as well as a flexible attitude. Plans may have to be changed to accommodate Mother Nature, and your guide will have back-up plans that they will discuss with you if required.

Essential Packing List

  • Waterproof jacket with hood
  • Waterproof over-pants
  • Day pack 20-30 litre for carrying water and extra layers
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Warm layers
  • Warm hat, gloves and a neck gaiter
  • Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Smart casual attire for dinners

Note: If you would like us to provide trekking poles for your use then please just let us know and we will ensure these are available for you.

Tipping Guidelines

For tipping our guides – We don’t generally recommend a set amount as tipping is not expected in the same way that it is in North America. However, similar North American travel companies generally suggest something along the lines of £10-30 per person per day for your guide, which is a wide range to choose from. Generally, we would encourage you to ask yourself what you were expecting from your guide, and then think about how they have exceeded those expectations and choose an amount you are comfortable with.

For local services such as restaurants again tipping is not expected but if you receive great service then 10-15% of the bill is normal.

Luggage Notes

Please note that we expect travellers to bring an average of One Large Holdall or Suitcase and up to Two smaller day-bags or hand-luggage sized pieces. If you expect to bring more than this then please let us know well in advance of arrival so that we can ensure there is capacity for this (additional charges will apply if separate luggage transfers are required).

Important Contact Numbers Read More
Wilderness Scotland Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

UK: +44 (0)1479 420 020
US: 866 740 3890

Wilderness Scotland Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

+44 (0)7766 794 640

Wilderness England Office | 9:00am – 5:30pm

UK: +44 (0)1768 721 210
US: 833 574 0690

Wilderness England Out of Office Hours | 5:30pm – 9:00am

+44 (0)7482 170 401

Emergency Services

999

Optional Upgrades Read More
  • Room Upgrades are available in some locations, subject to availability. Pricing on request.
Important Additional Information Read More
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Accommodation

The Bonham

35 Drumsheugh Gardens | Edinburgh | Midlothian |
EH3 7RN | Scotland
Phone: 0131 226 6050
Web: thebonham.com

Number Sixteen, Firmdale London

16 Sumner Place | London |
SW7 3EG | England
Phone: +44 (0)20 7589 5232
Web: firmdalehotels.com/hotels/london/number-sixteen

View More

View More

View More

View More

View More

View More

Meet Your Guide

Alison Motion

Contact Number: +44 (0)7906 667 355

Its always been about the outdoors. As a teacher, I was forever taking my class outside to learn. This led to being involved in food and farming education, taking teachers and pupils out to learn about our great Scottish food, and our farmers and crofters. Working as part of the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) meant I got involved with fabulous people from all over the farming world.

From there I moved to promoting, encouraging and embedding outdoor learning via my role with Grounds for Learning/Learning through Landscapes. I jumped ship when I realised I was spending more time encouraging others to get out from behind the desk rather than getting out there myself. I became a STGA Blue badge (accredited tourist guide in Scotland) and am having a complete blast doing that. Taking people out and about in Scotland doesn’t feel like a job, and I wonder why I didn’t do it sooner.

My favourite thing is hillwalking, with over 70 munros under my belt, but I also sea kayak in fair seas, and I am a sometime MTB trails cyclist, and a gardener. I love being in forests, on rivers and coasts. The health and wellbeing aspect of being outdoors is also my bag. For me, it’s not always about the big hills and the long paths, but more about the smaller routes, the history and interesting stuff to look at along the way. I’m also keenly interested in the land use debates ongoing in Scotland just now – its present iteration and its historical roots.

Virtuoso

A Scottish and English Adventure – Final Information

Friday 18th April – Thursday 24th April 2025