Final Information - Lynne and Ken's UK Tour - V7

Thursday 3rd October – Sunday 27th October 2024

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 25 Days / 24 Nights

Itinerary at a Glance

Day by Day

Day 1 - Thursday 3rd October - Welcome to Scotland

On arrival at Inverness 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.

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: 1 x Cedar King & 1 x Laurel King

Day 1 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Delta Airlines | Flight Number: DL 9336
Arrival Airport: Inverness Airport | Arrival Time: 12:40

Day 1 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Inverness City Taxis
Pick Up Location: Inverness Airport | Pick Up Time: 12:50 | Approx Duration: 30 mins
Phone: +44 (0) 1463 222 555

Your private driver will meet you at Arrivals and have a sign with your name.

Day 2 - Friday 4th October - Rest Day

After a long journey, you will have a day to wander and rest today before your Wilderness Outer Hebrides and Skye adventure begins.

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: 1 x Cedar King & 1 x Laurel King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Saturday 5th October - Travel to Skye, afternoon walk in Glen Sligachan

Meeting in Inverness, we travel past Loch Ness and the stunning Eilean Donan Castle in Kintail before arriving on the Isle of Skye. We spend our first afternoon enjoying a wonderful walk in Glen Sligachan beneath the mighty peaks of the Black Cuillin and the Red Cuillin, which flank either side of the glen. Returning to our vehicle we transfer to our accommodation overlooking Uig Bay.

Join your Scheduled trip today, check your confirmed itinerary.

Overnight: Isle of Skye

Day 3 - Transfer Details Read More +

Supplier: Inverness Taxis
Pick Up Location: Ness Walk | Pick Up Time: 10:00 | Approx Duration: 15 mins
Phone: +44(0)1463 222222

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

Day 4 - Sunday 6th October - Quirang and the Old Man of Storr

After enjoying breakfast with views out across the sea, we set out to explore the stark and unusual landscapes of the Quiraing and the Old Man of Storr on foot. We will also visit Kilt Rock and the charming village of Staffin on this relaxing day.

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

Overnight: Isle of Skye

Day 5 - Monday 7th October - Travel to the Isle of Harris

After breakfast, we enjoy a short coastal walk before taking the afternoon ferry from Skye to the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides, looking out for seabirds and dolphins on the 90 minute crossing. Arriving on Harris, we visit the wonderful beaches of Luskentyre and Seileboist before heading to our accommodation in time to freshen up before dinner. 

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

Overnight: Harris

Day 6 - Tuesday 8th October - Glens and Beaches of North Harris

North Harris is one of the most spectacular areas of the Outer Hebrides. We spend the day exploring the glens and beaches, perhaps visiting the white sands of Huisinis or hiking into the glens to see the massive cliffs of Sron Uladal. A wonderful day whichever route we choose!

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

Overnight: Harris

Day 7 - Wednesday 9th October - Walking Circuit of Scalpay

This tiny island is located off the east coast of Harris and is now connected to Harris by a bridge, which opened in 1997, with the first person to cross being 103-year-old Mrs Kirsty Morrison. We’ll enjoy a circumnavigation of the island, exploring its wonderful coastline and visiting the remote lighthouse at Rubh an Eorna. Back in Tarbert, we’ll visit the first legal distillery ever to be built on Harris.

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

Overnight: Harris

Day 8 - Thursday 10th October - The Machair of Harris and the Golden Road

Today we walk on the ‘machair’ of Harris, the Gaelic name for the coastal hinterland which in summer is a carpet of wildflowers. We walk beneath Toe Head out to a ruined chapel. We then complete a circuit of southern Harris as we drive back north via the ’Golden Road’, stopping at 15th century St Clement’s Church and other places along the way.

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

Overnight: Harris

Day 9 - Friday 11th October - Callanish Standing Stones; return to Inverness

After breakfast, we journey north to Lewis, where we visit the 5000 year old Callanish Standing Stones, which date back to 3000BC. Set high on a moor with a backdrop of sea and mountains, this is a moving experience for many and a wonderful place to end this island odyssey. Leaving the stones behind, we continue to Stornoway where we take the ferry back to the mainland and transfer back to Inverness.

Once back in Inverness, relax for the evening, sharing tales from your adventure so far!

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

Overnight: Inverness | Ness Walk
Room Type: 1 x Rowan Suite & 1 x Accessible King

Day 10 - Saturday 12th October - Journey South to the Cairngorm National Park

After a hearty breakfast, meet your knowledgable private guide, who will also be your driver for the next part of your adventure and commence your journey to the Cairngorms National Park. Along the way, enjoy a private boat cruise on Loch Ness and a visit to Urqhart Castle. Embrace the scenic drive, absorbing the breathtaking landscapes en route. If time allows and you’re eager for adventure, your guide can suggest a picturesque walk amidst the stunning countryside.

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: 1 x Scottish Culture & 1 x Nature & Poetry
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Guide Details - John Hamilton Read More +

Name: John Hamilton
Contact Number: +44 (0)7496 554 756
Meeting Place: Ness Walk Hotel | Meeting Time: 09:00

Your guide John will meet you at the reception of your hotel.

Day 10 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Clunie Restaurant | Location: The Fife Arms
Reservation Time: 19:00
Phone: +44(0) 1339 720200

Please note this is a table reservation only.  Please pay directly.

Day 11 - Sunday 13th October - Hiking in Balmoral

This morning, head out with your guide for a stunning hike in the beautiful Balmoral Estate. A Highland residence of the Royal Family since it was bought for Queen Victoria in 1852. Explore the historical cairns erected by the Royal Family on the Estate on a superb circuit, with great views over Deeside and Balmoral Castle itself. Whether you fancy a mellow circular walk or a more demanding high-level stomp, your guide will be able to suggest the perfect option for you. After lunch, enjoy a free afternoon, relaxing or exploring as you wish.

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

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: 1 x Scottish Culture & 1 x Nature & Poetry
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11 - Dinner Details Read More +

Restaurant: Balmoral Arms | Location: 13-15 Victoria Road Ballater Aberdeenshire AB35 5RA
Reservation Time: 19:00 | Booking Reference: BQ6KNVFM
Phone: +44(0)1339 755413

Please note this is a table reservation only.  Please pay directly.

Day 12 - Monday 14th October - The Cairngorms National Park

This morning, enjoy a tour led by your curiosity, explore this one of a kind landscape, from rugged mountains and moorlands to tranquil lochs and glens. With beautiful circular walks, bursting with glorious autumnal colours, there are many chances for photography, so remember your camera! If you would prefer to experience something a little different today, you could add a wide range activities to this day, such as a foraging and cooking workshop or a woodworking experience. Or perhaps a private 4×4 experience. Your guide will leave you in the late afternoon so you can enjoy your last night in the heart of the Cairngorms at your leisure.

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

Overnight: Braemar | The Fife Arms
Room Type: 1 x Scottish Culture & 1 x Nature & Poetry
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - Tuesday 15th October - Transfer to Edinburgh via Stirling

Meet your guide again this morning and head south to the historic city of Edinburgh today with a stop en route to visit Stirling Castle, which is one of the grandest castles in Scotland with an imposing location. And if time allows, visit to the site of The Battle Of Bannockburn. This was the greatest victory of Robert The Bruce and you can experience that day in history in thrilling 3D at the award-winning visitor centre. On arrival in Edinburgh, settle into your hotel.

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

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Castle View & 1 x Classic Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 14 - Wednesday 16th October - Historical Highlights of Edinburgh

This morning immerse yourselves in the winding cobbled streets of historic Old Town Edinburgh as you enjoy a morning with your private city guide. Discover the highlights of this amazing city as well as the long forgotten hidden streets in a tour of Mary King’s Close. Your guide will leave you to enjoy a tour of the castle so that you can spend as much time there 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 Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Castle View & 1 x Classic Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 14 - Expert local guide Read More +

Activity: Expert local guide
Hugh Salvesen:
Start Location: The Balmoral Hotel | Start Time: 09:00
Phone: +44 (0) 752 801 3864

Your Expert local guide will meet you at the reception of your hotel.

Day 14 - Mary Kings Close Tour Read More +

Activity: Mary Kings Close Tour
The Real Mary Kings Close:
Start Location: The Real Mary King’s Close 2 Warriston’s Close High Street Edinburgh EH1 1PG | Start Time: 17:00
Booking Reference: 41834378
Phone: +44 (0) 131 225 0672

Please check in 15 minutes prior to the start of your tour.

Meeting location is on the Royal Mile, across from St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Mercat Cross.

Day 15 - Thursday 17th October - Explore Edinburgh

After breakfast, head out for a day spent exploring the beautiful cobblestone streets of the city independently. Full of history, the capital is very accessible by foot. Wander up the Royal Mile, stopping to visit the architecturally stunning St Giles Cathedral, and enjoy panoramic views from Edinburgh Castle. Pick up a coffee and a pastry from one of the wee artisan shops, dipping into local galleries, cheesemongers and bookshops. This evening enjoy dinner under the twinkling lights of the city.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Castle View & 1 x Classic Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 16 - Friday 18th October - Welcome to England

After a leisurely breakfast, board your train for a relaxing journey South into the heart of the Cotswolds. Alight at Cheltenham, the home of horse racing, and settle into your luxury country house hotel for the evening.

Overnight: Cheltenham | Ellenborough Park
Room Type: 2x Traditional Double Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 16 - Train Details Read More +

Travel Date: October 18, 2024 | Rail Operator: Cross Country Trains
Departure Train Station: Edinburgh Waverley | Departure Time: 10:07
Arrival Train Station: Cheltenham Spa Train Station | Arrival Time: 15:50

4 x advance single tickets – specified train only.

Booking reference – 009851592781 (FB502159).  Your tickets are attached in the important document section of your final information, please remember to take these with you on the day.

Adult 1 (Coach D, Seat 47), Adult 2 (Coach D, Seat 56), Adult 3 (Coach D, Seat 51), Adult 4 (Coach D, Seat 55).

Day 17 - Saturday 19th October - Blenheim Palace and Quintessential Villages

Head out with your guide for a day starting with a delve into the histories of the magnificent Blenheim Palace, where the splendour of baroque architecture and lush landscapes captivates the senses. Roam through the opulent State Rooms, explore the vast parkland designed by Capability Brown, and absorb the historical richness of this UNESCO World Heritage Site

In the afternoon enjoy visiting Bourton-on-the-Water, which is regularly voted one of the prettiest villages in England. Known for its five stone bridges that arch across the River Windrush, it’s an idyllic place to enjoy a morning meander. Transfer over to Lower Slaughter and enjoy a circular walk that ribbons its way through the countryside. Along with wonderful views, the trail passes a 16th-century Dovecote and through Upper Slaughter, another quintessential Cotswold village home to a beautiful parish church. After the walk, transfer to your award-winning hotel nestled in the Cotswold estate.

Overnight: Cheltenham | Ellenborough Park
Room Type: 2x Traditional Double Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 17 - Guide Details - Astrid Collomon Read More +

Name: Astrid Collomon
Contact Number: +44 (0)7880880335
Meeting Place: Ellenborough Park | Meeting Time: 09:00

Your guide will meet you at the reception of your hotel.

Day 18 - Sunday 20th October - Day at Leisure

Enjoy a day at leisure to relaxing and enjoy The Cotswolds as you please. Take a stroll in the grounds of the estate and soak in the historical manor house that’s been standing for over 500 years. Perhaps later this afternoon, enjoy afternoon tea at your hotel. Fluffy baked scones, dainty finger sandwiches and delectable cakes will make for a wonderful experience of this British past time.

Overnight: Cheltenham | Ellenborough Park
Room Type: 2x Traditional Double Rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 19 - Monday 21st October - Golf Day for Ken and Lynne

Ken and Lynne:
Nestled in the rolling hills of Cheltenham, Cotswold Hills Golf Club is home to historical and spacious grounds. A private transfer will collect you from the hotel and transfer you to the club. Take time to warm up for your game by taking some practice shots in the range before enjoying the two 9-hole looped course at your own pace. This warm and refreshing club will allow you to escape the fast pace of life and saviour the surrounding views of undulating fairways and processions of trees before you.

George and Denise:
Your private transfer will collect you from the hotel and transfer you to the train station where you will embark on your journey to London.

Overnight: Cheltenham | Ellenborough Park
Room Type: Traditional Double Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 19 - Round of Golf Read More +

Activity: Round of Golf
Cotswold Hills Golf Club, Cheltenham:
Start Location: Cotswold Hills Golf Club, Ullenwood, Cheltenham GL53 9QT | Start Time: 10:00
Phone: +44(0) 1242 515264

Ken & Lynne.

Day 20 - Tuesday 22nd October - Transfer to Holland House

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to Holland House. Waving farewell to The Cotswolds for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 21 - Wednesday 23rd October - Holland House

Self-arranged by Ken & Lynne

Day 22 - Thursday 24th October - Holland House

Self-arranged by Ken & Lynne

Day 22 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Virgin Atlantic | Flight Number: VS 0019
Departure Airport: London Heathrow (LHR) | Departure Time: 11:45

George & Denise.

Day 23 - Friday 25th October - Holland House to Coworth Park

This morning your private transfer will meet you at Holland House and whisk you to the rural escape of Coworth Park. Here you will be able to enjoy a final evening in England in this charming rural escape. With over 240 acres of countryside, there are plenty of estate activities to enjoy and appreciate the beautiful nature around you.

Overnight: Berkshire | Coworth Park
Room Type: Stable Superior Room

Day 23 - Transfer Details Read More +

*No transfer booked*

Day 24 - Saturday 26th October - Day of Leisure at Coworth Park

Spend your final day in England absorbing the tranquil surroundings. Perhaps discover the hotels exclusive experiences or visit the spa for a rejuvenating treatment and refreshing swim in the spa. Draw the curtains to the golden autumn hues on your final evening.

Overnight: Berkshire | Coworth Park
Room Type: Stable Superior Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 25 - Sunday 27th October - 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 25 - Transfer Details Read More +

*transfer not booked*

Day 25 - Flight Details Read More +

Airline: Virgin Atlantic | Flight Number: VS 0019
Departure Airport: London Heathrow (LHR) | Departure Time: 11:40

Lynne & Kenneth.

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 2 and Day 9 to Day 17
  • Most meals as indicated above
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable qualified guide from Day 10 to Day 13 in Scotland and Day 17 in England
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • All activities and entry fees including:
  • Loch Ness Cruise
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Stirling Castle
  • Bannochburn
  • Mary Kings Close Tour
  • Train travel from Edinburgh to Cheltenham
  • Private transfer from the train station to Ellenborough Park
  • Entry to Blenheim Palace
  • Afternoon tea at Ellenborough Park
  • 18 hole Green Fee for Lynne and Ken
  • Private transfer to Holland House for Lynne and Ken
  • Private transfer from Coworth Park to the Airport for Lynne and Ken
  • Private transfer and train travel to London for George and Denise
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • Snacks throughout the trip
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
  • Activities are only private if specifically stated

 

Notes On Weather & Flexibility

Weather – October in Scotland & England 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
  • Sturdy hiking boots/shoes (sneakers or tennis shoes are not suitable for any hiking in the UK)
  • 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

Important Additional Information Read More
  • Train Ticket 1 - Edinburgh to Cheltenham - PDF: View Now
  • Train Ticket 2 - Edinburgh to Cheltenham - PDF: View Now
  • Train Ticket 3 - Edinburgh to Cheltenham - PDF: View Now
  • Train Ticket 4 - Edinburgh to Cheltenham - PDF: View Now
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.


Accommodation

Ness Walk

12 Ness Walk | Inverness |
IV3 5SQ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1463 215 215
Web: nesswalk.com

The Fife Arms

Mar Rd | Braemar | Royal Deeside |
AB35 5YL | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1339 720 200
Web: thefifearms.com

The Balmoral Hotel

1 Princes Street | Edinburgh |
EH2 2EQ | Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)131 556 2414
Web: roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel

Ellenborough Park

Southam Road | Cheltenham | Gloucestershire |
GL523NH | England
Phone: tel:+44 (0) 1242 545454
Web: ellenboroughpark.com

Coworth Park

Coworth Park, Blacknest Road, Ascot | Berkshire |
SL5 7SE | England
Phone: +44 (0)1344 876 600
Web: dorchestercollection.com/ascot


Meet Your Guides

John Hamilton

Contact Number: +44 (0)7496 554 756

I am an individual entirely committed to the outdoors through adventure. I have a passionate appreciation of remote locations via active travel such as kayaking, ski mountaineering, canoeing, mountain biking, walking, etc – especially through sharing experiences with others. I am completely committed to introducing others to the outdoors and all that the outdoors has to offer. I take my partner and two spaniels everywhere I can and take them canoeing and have even taken my 15-year-old spaniel on the ski chair lift often. I play guitar and have supported some of Scotland’s best known traditional musicians. I love Correlejo, Fuerteventura, and have been there 14 times. I love the excitement of paddling white water. I love the snow!

“I am happiest when I have travelled to a remote area, am camping, enveloped in nature and with great company.”

Astrid Callomon

Contact Number: +44 (0) 7880880335

Mini Bio

Originally hailing from the remote mountainous region of Suffolk, I moved South and West some 8 years ago to attempt claims on multiple first ascents in the county of Somerset. Having found them all claimed, I continued my employment in far flung adventures, leading winter and summer expeditions worldwide.  Bears and wolves were tracked, mountains cycled over, seas kayaked, lakes canoed across, rapids were rafted down and many a path was trodden. I thoroughly enjoy walking very long distances and partaking in a well-earned beer afterward.

Places to play

Suffolk, because no one seems to have discovered how stunning it is.

Not a lot of people know this

I’ve been on 3 album covers.