Monday 8th April – Monday 15th April 2024
This morning, board your train to transport you North through the heart of England to the historic town of York. You’ll then meet your private transfer and journey to the Thornborough Henges and marvel at this unique Neolithic Site of three huge circular henges dubbed ‘the Stonehenge of the North’. Many people have gathered here for over 2,000 years as a place of pilgrimage, an iconic site since the Bronze Ages. To end the day, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation in York.
Overnight: York
This morning, meet your expert guide in York, one of England’s most beautiful historic cities. Ribbon your way through the snickelways , admiring the stunning medieval architecture and magnificent Georgian townhouses. Hear fascinating tales about the past inhabitants from your guide as you stroll down Shambles Street, considered one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval shopping streets, and admire the breathtaking stained glass windows of York Minster Cathedral. Explore the magnificent gothic architecture, stunning stained glass windows and take a rare opportunity to delve behind the walls of the present-day Crypt, where your expert guide will reveal the foundations of three spectacular cathedrals, built on this site over nearly 1,000 years.
In the afternoon, stand on the incredible excavation site of Vikings and learn about the fascinating legacies left by the Vikings during the 10th Century. Continue your historical journey at the British Railway Museum, home of iconic locomotives, and marvel at the collection of engineering brilliance. End the day with tea at the famous Betty’s Tea Room and admire the Queen Mary ocean liner inspired interior whilst you sip on British speciality tea’s.
Overnight: York
Meals Included: Lunch
After breakfast your guide will meet you and transfer you North as you embark on your Scottish explorations to Edinburgh. Along the way stop to explore Durham Castle, a World Heritage Site occupied since the 11th Century. Built on the order of William the Conqueror, experience the history and tales of how this became a palace to showcase the wealth of Prince-Bishops and is now home to a Durham University college. As you journey closer to the border, stretch your legs at Chesters Roman Fort. Enjoy a picnic lunch as you admire this fine view of Hadrian’s Wall. Onwards to Edinburgh to arrive at the grand Balmoral hotel, this evening, relax and settle into before your Scottish Adventures begin!
Overnight: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Lunch
After breakfast, meet your private guide in the foyer of your hotel and head out for a day spent exploring the beautiful cobblestone streets of the city. Full of history, the capital is very accessible by foot. Wander up the Royal Mile, stopping to visit the architecturally stunning St Giles Cathedral. Pick up a coffee and a pastry from one of the wee artisan shops before enjoying a private tour of Kings Close, one of Edinburgh’s hidden streets. the tour will take you on a stroll through the underground alleyways, where you’ll get to know the everyday lives of the people who once called these streets home. After some lunch, enjoy a private tour of Edinburgh Castle, learn the gory and fascinating past of the city and it’s iconic castle. This evening enjoy dinner at the Witchery, one of Edinburgh’s most famous and historic restaurants.
Overnight: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Lunch
Your next stop is Stirling, a small city packed full of Scottish history. Take a tour of Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle which is steeped in royal tales. Final stop on your tour of Stirling, visit the site of the Battle of Bannockburn to walk in the footsteps of Robert the Bruce. On the way back to Edinburgh, you will stop in Falkirk, the home of The Kelpies – the largest equine sculptures in the world. After a full day of exploration, head back to the city for dinner and a restful evening.
Overnight: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Lunch
Today your guide will take your on a journey to the the city of Glasgow, you will be lead on a fascinating walking tour of some of the key highlights of ‘Scotland’s friendliest city’. Discover layers of history in the Cathedral and maze of the Necropolis, as well as varied and elegant architecture at every turn. Keep your eyes open for the vibrant street art too, it’s a flourishing and ever-changing theme of this bustling city.
Overnight: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Lunch
After a busy few days of exploring, today is your time to immerse yourselves in the winding cobbled streets or relax in the hotel, giving you plenty time to shop for souvenirs and sample local cafes. Your guide will be on hand to assist you with any sightseeing or tips of where to go. Later in the evening, join a tour of Holyrood Palace where you will learn about some of Scotland’s most well-known historic figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Finish your trip with a special meal to celebrate your wonderful adventure together.
Overnight: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Lunch
A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell to the UK for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.
Please see our booking terms here.
Monday 8th April – Monday 15th April 2024