Lisa & Katie Highlights of the UK
Monday 21st July – Wednesday 30th July 2025
Number of Travellers:
2
Duration:
10 Days /
9 Nights
Overview
v2 – 20th May 2025
Monday 21st July – Wednesday 30th July 2025
v2 – 20th May 2025
Upon arrival in London, settle into a centrally located hotel and enjoy time to unwind after your journey. England’s vibrant capital offers a compelling blend of history, culture, and world-famous landmarks—an essential stop on any visit.
This evening, delve into the city’s celebrated culinary scene, where an array of globally inspired restaurants and refined British classics await. As night falls, the soft glow of London’s skyline sets a memorable scene before the adventure to come.
Overnight: London | Firmdale Charlotte Street
Room Type: 1x Deluxe Room as Twin
Meals Included: None
The morning begins at Buckingham Palace, where you’ll explore the State Rooms. These opulent rooms, still used by the Royal Family for ceremonial occasions, offer a rare glimpse into royal life. Marvel at lavishly furnished spaces adorned with exquisite artworks from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt and Canaletto.
Next, head to Westminster Abbey, a magnificent Gothic cathedral with deep Christian roots, founded by Benedictine monks over a thousand years ago. As you walk beneath its soaring vaulted ceilings, you’re immersed in a sacred space that has witnessed countless royal coronations, including that of William the Conqueror in 1066, and grand weddings such as that of Prince William and Catherine Middleton. Pause in the Lady Chapel, a masterpiece of architectural grace, and trace the spiritual and historical lineage of Britain through the tombs of monarchs, poets, and scientists.
Later, step into the Tower of London, a brooding riverside fortress that echoes with dramatic tales of power and betrayal. Once a royal palace and infamous prison, it now invites reflection as you gaze upon the glittering Crown Jewels and tread paths once walked by Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes. The weight of history and majesty lingers in every stone, making this a profound journey into the heart of England’s past.
Overnight: London | Firmdale Charlotte Street
Room Type: 1x Deluxe Room as Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning a private transfer will collect you from your hotel and take you to the train station to start your journey north. Sit back and relax as you enjoy the varied scenery as you travel to the unique capital city of Edinburgh. On arrival in Edinburgh train station you will be met by a private driver who will take you to your city centre hotel to drop off your luggage.
Depending on your time of arrival you may be able to check in (Check In is from 3pm), or you can drop your luggage safely before heading out to explore.
Overnight: Edinburgh | Gleneagles Townhouse
Room Type: Nook Room as TWIN
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning an expert local city guide will meet you at your hotel, and together you will head into the historic centre of the Old Town. Here you will meet a medieval monk, who will bring to life the Christian history of The Royal Mile. The many layers of Christian influences which have shaped the most important street in Edinburgh are fascinating, and you will hear the stories associated with key locations as you visit St Giles Cathedral, Magdalen Chapel and Greyfriar’s Kirk among others.
You will spend around 2 hours with the monk before they depart, and your private city guide will share some more highlights and hidden gems with you during the rest of the day. Visit the mighty Edinburgh Castle and discover the high points of the varied skyline, as well as the elegant Georgian New Town with its regimented street layout. Maybe visit St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral or some of the religious art in the National Galleries of Scotland. The choice is yours, as this afternoon is flexible and your guide will personalise the day to your interests.
Overnight: Edinburgh | Gleneagles Townhouse
Room Type: Nook Room as TWIN
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning your Private Guide (who will also act as your driver) will meet you at your hotel and together you will head north with some explorations along the way.
Start your adventures by visiting the enigma that is Rosslyn Chapel, originally built as a Catholic Church but made even more famous by the book ‘The Da Vinci Code’. Dan Brown called this chapel “the most mysterious and magical chapel on earth” and there are certainly lots of unanswered questions about this unique building. Originally founded in 1446, the chapel features intricate carvings and decorations which have prompted many different theories connected with the Knights Templar and the Freemasons amongst others.
Then head into the Kingdom of Fife. Depending on time, you can choose to stop visit a couple of locations on the Fife Pilgrim Way. These include Dunfermline Abbey, where St Margaret’s Shrine is found, and St Andrews Cathedral. There are several lovely coastal walks and the wonderful sandy sweep of the West Beach here too. Your guide will then take you onwards to your welcoming and unique hotel.
Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: Lochside Lodge as TWIN
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Start your day by getting your aprons on for a fun private baking class with an experienced chef. Creating special memories together as well as a delicious treat. Then discover another reason why people travel for miles to this foodie destination with a tasting of award-winning chocolates just next door. Savour the different flavours as they melt in your mouth. We also highly recommend the hot chocolate here, pick your favourite flavour combination and enjoy.
This afternoon is flexible, so you could choose head out into the countryside for a gentle hike with your guide. Keep your eyes open for the local wildlife just off these quiet paths too. Or head back to your hotel to relax in the spa and enjoy the views. See how you feel.
Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: Lochside Lodge as TWIN
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
As this is Sunday, you may wish to attend a service at one of the local churches today. Or you can head out with your guide to enjoy the beautiful landscape with a hike. Perhaps head up to a smaller summit, or enjoy the quiet glens. There is also the option to visit a nearby castle, full of history and stories, before heading back to your hotel.
Overnight: Pitlochry | Fonab Castle Hotel
Room Type: Lochside Lodge as TWIN
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
This morning take to the sparkling waters of a local loch in open canoes. Your experienced instructor will ensure that you have fun as you learn the basics and explore the loch. Paddle your way to a lovely picnic spot and enjoy the beautiful views with your food.
Back on dry land your guide will take you to a traditional working farm where you will have the chance to tour the farm and experience Scottish farming and local food production first hand. Meet the Highland Coos and walk in the footsteps of Bonnie Prince Charlie who has links to the Old Leckie House here.
After a wonderfully immersive day, your guide will take you to Scotland’s Glorious Playground – Gleneagles – where they will bid you farewell and leave you to enjoy your time here indulging in all the activities they have to offer.
Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: Country Double Room as TWIN
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
After a good nights sleep and a delicious breakfast, you have a free day to make the most of the offering of your luxurious resort hotel.
You could choose to spend the morning fly-fishing, and head out on horseback in the afternoon. Or just relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The choice is yours. Tonight, raise a glass to your Scottish adventure before you head home tomorrow.
Note: We are more than happy to help arrange the activities here at Gleneagles, but they are not included. Please pay directly.
Overnight: Auchterarder | Gleneagles Hotel
Room Type: Country Double Room as TWIN
Meals Included: Breakfast
A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to Edinburgh 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
For England:
For Scotland:
The NET price for this itinerary, based on 2 clients on a twin-share basis, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:
Conservation Contribution
This voluntary donation of £12 per person goes towards conservation projects in the locations in which we operate. If you would like to opt out, just let your trip designer know. Click here for more information.
Please see our booking terms here.
Monday 21st July – Wednesday 30th July 2025