Wednesday 3rd April – Monday 15th April 2024
On arrival at the airport you will be met by your guide who will transfer you to your accommodation for the evening.
Overnight: Stratford-Upon-Avon
This morning, meet your expert guide and uncover the enchanting history of Stratford-upon-Avon as you spend a delightful day exploring the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Wander through the charming streets, where Tudor-style buildings whisper tales of the past. Visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, delve into the history of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and be captivated by the intricacies of Mary Arden’s Farm. Let the town’s rich literary legacy and theatrical ambience envelop you, promising an unforgettable experience in the heart of Shakespearean history.
Overnight: Stratford-Upon-Avon
Meals Included: Lunch
Head out this morning with your guide to enjoy a wonderful walking tour of the city. As the beautiful Georgian architecture presses honey-yellow against the blue sky, soak in the sights and sounds of a city founded by the Romans for well-being and relaxation. Take the opportunity to visit the Roman Baths and see the marvel at the gilt bronze head of Goddess Sulis Minerva. Late afternoon, step back in time to the 1700’s as you enjoy a private tour of No 1 Royal Crescent, a magnificently restored townhouse where you can be immersed in Georgian life through the furnishings, film and sound.
Overnight: Stratford-Upon-Avon
Meals Included: Lunch
This morning, enjoy visiting the iconic Broadway Tower a top the Cotswolds escarpment. Immerse yourself in the story of this eccentric folly and admire in the breathtaking 360 degree views spanning 16 counties at this stunning landmark. Next, you’ll visit Sudley Castle for a private tour and discover it’s 1000 years long history. Learn about the turbulent Tudor era and walk in the footsteps of Katherine Parr, the last of Henry VIII’s six wives. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time exploring nearby 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 an afternoon meander.
Overnight: Stratford-Upon-Avon
Meals Included: Lunch
Spend the day in Oxford, the city of dreaming spires. Enjoy a tour of the Bodlian Library and get behind the scenes in one of the oldest existing working libraries in the world. From spectacular architecture to ancient manuscripts, domed reading rooms and underground tunnels; hear fascinating stories from the history of this university library from your expert guide. This afternoon, drift down the university regatta course on a private river cruise. Experience the serenity of Oxfordshire and enjoy a quintessential afternoon tea as you pass ancient Folly Bridge, Christ Church meadows and local wildlife on the most colourful stretch of the Thames.
Overnight: Stratford-Upon-Avon
Meals Included: Lunch
This morning, meet your expert guide in York, one of England’s most beautiful historic cities. Ribbon your way through the snickelways on your private walking tour, 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. This afternoon, delve deeper into one of the world’s most magnificent cathedrals and explore the magnificent gothic architecture, stunning stained glass windows and brave the tower for panoramic views at Yorks highest point.
Overnight: York
Meals Included: Lunch
This morning visit Newby Hall, one of Britains fine 18th Century Adam Houses for a private pre-opening tour where you’ll experience the splendour of living in a stately home. Afterwards, immerse yourselves in the herbaceous 25 acre gardens and savour the peaceful surroundings together. In the afternoon, embark on a delectable trip to Malton, celebrated as Yorkshire’s Food Capital. Navigate through the bustling market and artisan shops, sampling the finest local produce. The afternoon unfolds as a delightful fusion of culture and gastronomy, as you enjoy an immersive dining experience with a private lunch whilst listening to tales of this historic market town.
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
This morning you will be adventuring outwith the city, starting on the water with a private catamaran cruise with your guide. The boat trip will take you under all three Forth Bridges and down the Forth towards Inchcolm Island. This is by far the best way to view the magnificent engineering of the Forth Bridge, The Forth Road Bridge and the Queensferry Crossing. 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. After a full day, 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 Kingdom of Fife, exploring the charming and picturesque fishing villages along the coast. These harbour houses are now popular with artists and writers but the sea still has a heavy influence on everyday life for most people in the local communities. Indulging in traditional fish and chips for lunch is a must before heading to the world famous university town of St Andrews. Recently remembered as the place in which the Prince and Princess of Wales met during their time studying here. However St Andrews is much better known for being the ‘birthplace of golf’. Enjoy a day of history, coastal views and watch local players tee off on the historic old course before your guide takes you back to your hotel for some rest. This evening you will step on board the Royal Yacht Britannia for a private champagne reception and a tour which will give you a unique insight into the history of the Royal Yacht and how the Royal Family and crew lived and worked on board.
Overnight: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Lunch
After a busy few days of exploring, this morning is your time to immerse yourselves in the winding cobbled streets or relax in the hotel. If you still have the urge to learn more about Edinburgh’s history, you can request a morning with your guide at Holyrood Palace or explore at your own pace, visit the shops and pick up souvenirs. Later in the afternoon, you will journey to Crieff, where you will visit the oldest working whisky distillery in Scotland, Glenturret. Not only will you have a private tour of the distillery, you can also sit down to dinner in their 2 Michelin starred restaurant overlooking the tumbling waters of river Turret. Celebrating your adventures together with one of the finest Scottish culinary experiences on your final evening in Scotland.
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.
Wednesday 3rd April – Monday 15th April 2024