England & Scotland - Highlights and Hidden Gems
Betty Craige & Susan Tate
Friday 9th May – Friday 23rd May 2025
Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 15 Days / 14 Nights
Friday 9th May – Friday 23rd May 2025
Departing the bustling metropolis of London in the comfort of a private transfer, embark on a scenic journey through the rolling English countryside to the historic city of Oxford. Upon arrival, drop off your bags and meet a local expert guide, ready to unveil the city’s rich tapestry of history and culture on a captivating walking tour. Wander through the cobbled streets and admire the iconic spires that give Oxford its nickname, the “City of Dreaming Spires.”
Highlights of your exploration include the grand Radcliffe Camera, the tranquil beauty of the Bodleian Library courtyard, and the enchanting colleges of the University of Oxford, each steeped in centuries of academic prestige. Marvel at the intricate architecture of Christ Church, where you might recognise settings from literary works and films, and immerse yourself in the timeless charm of this scholarly haven.
Overnight: Oxford | Old Bank Hotel
Room Type: 1x Superior Deluxe Room
Meals Included: None
Today, meet your local guide and spend a delightful day exploring the grandeur of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Enjoy an exclusive tour as you marvel at the stunning Baroque architecture and stroll through the opulent state rooms, adorned with priceless tapestries, intricate ceilings, and historical artefacts. Wander the expansive grounds, featuring serene lakes, formal gardens, and the captivating Churchill Memorial Garden. Take in the beauty of the majestic Water Terraces and the vibrant blooms of the Rose Garden, or lose yourself in the peaceful tranquility of the surrounding parkland designed by Capability Brown.
As the day draws to a close, retreat to your luxurious hotel in the picturesque Cotswolds, where rolling hills and honey-coloured stone villages provide a serene backdrop for a restful evening.
Overnight: Cheltenham | Ellenborough Park
Room Type: 1x Private Garden Classic (Twin)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Begin your enchanting day in the Cotswolds from the elegant Ellenborough Park, setting out to discover the region’s quintessential charm. Your journey leads to Broadway Tower, a striking hilltop folly offering panoramic views of the rolling countryside. Next, visit the storied Sudeley Castle, steeped in Tudor history, where you can explore beautifully preserved interiors and stroll through award-winning gardens on a privately guided tour.
Continue to the idyllic villages of the Cotswolds, starting with Broadway, often called the “Jewel of the Cotswolds,” with its charming honey-hued cottages and delightful boutiques. End your adventure in Chipping Campden, a town renowned for its historic Market Hall, ancient architecture, and vibrant arts scene. The day is a perfect blend of scenic beauty, history, and the timeless allure of rural England.
Overnight: Cheltenham | Ellenborough Park
Room Type: 1x Private Garden Classic (Twin)
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Spend an enriching day with your guide exploring Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare and a town brimming with literary heritage and charm. Begin at Shakespeare’s Birthplace, a beautifully preserved 16th-century home where the Bard was born, and delve into exhibits showcasing his life and works. Stroll along the picturesque River Avon, perhaps stopping to admire the iconic Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Visit Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, the idyllic childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife, set amidst lush gardens. Discover Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare was baptised and now rests, and enjoy wandering the historic streets lined with Tudor-style buildings, vibrant shops, and quaint tea rooms. The day offers a captivating glimpse into the life of one of history’s greatest playwrights and the town that inspired his legacy.
As the day transitions into night, embark on a picturesque journey with your guide, leaving the gentle hills of the Cotswolds behind as you travel north through England’s charming countryside toward Chatsworth House, nestled in the heart of Derbyshire.
Overnight: Baslow | The Cavendish Hotel
Room Type: 1x Spacious Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
This morning, the grandeur of Chatsworth unfolds before you, its magnificent façade framed by the lush landscapes of the Peak District. Step inside to explore the opulent interiors of this stately home, the ancestral seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. Admire the exquisite art collection, intricately decorated rooms, and masterpieces such as the Painted Hall and the Sculpture Gallery. Outside, stroll through the meticulously landscaped gardens, featuring cascading fountains, a labyrinth, and breathtaking views across the estate. The day combines elegant history, architectural splendour, and the natural beauty of one of England’s most iconic landmarks.
Overnight: Baslow | The Cavendish Hotel
Room Type: 1x Spacious Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Continuing your journey North with your guide, traverse the stunning English countryside to the historic city of York, a place steeped in centuries of history and charm.
Later this morning, meet a local expert guide who will lead you on a fascinating walking tour through York’s highlights. Begin at the majestic York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, adorned with intricate stained-glass windows and soaring spires. Wander along the ancient city walls for panoramic views, and explore The Shambles, a picturesque medieval street with overhanging timber-framed buildings. Perhaps take the opportunity to pause and enjoy a quintessential English treat at Betty’s Tea Room, savouring their renowned tea blends and indulgent cakes in a refined, historic setting. If there’s time, end the tour with tales of York’s Viking heritage or a visit to Clifford’s Tower, a historic stronghold offering sweeping vistas over the city, providing an unforgettable glimpse into York’s rich tapestry of history and culture.
Overnight: York | The Grand, York
Room Type: 1x Executive Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
This morning, bid a fond farewell to your guide as you depart York and board the train bound for Scotland. Settle into your comfortable seat and watch as the picturesque English countryside gives way to the rugged beauty of Scotland’s landscapes, heralding the next chapter of your journey.
On arrival in Scotland, a private transfer driver will meet you at the train station and escort you to your luxurious hotel in the centre of the city. You are free to relax and settle in, or head out and start exploring this unique city.
Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Castle View - Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Late afternoon you will discover yet another side of Edinburgh as you adventure down underneath Edinburgh on a private underground tour of a warren of tiny fascinating streets dating from the 17th century.
Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Castle View - Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leaving the bustling City behind you will make your way into the heart of the Perthshire today. Together with your main guide (who will also act as your driver) enjoy a stop en route at historic Stirling Castle, one of the grandest castles in Scotland with an imposing location overlooking the city of Stirling. You will feel the history come to life as you explore this unique castle.
Arriving in Perthshire, you are free to relax and settle in to your luxurious accommodation or head out and explore the surrounding area.
Overnight: Dunkeld | Dunkeld House Hotel
Room Type: Classic Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
This morning enjoy a stroll in the Perthshire countryside, from sparkling lochs to ancient pine forests, there is plenty to explore and your guide will be on hand to help you decide, depending on how you are feeling and weather conditions.
Later on explore the historic Blair Castle; home to the Atholl family for over seven centuries. The family history is brought to life against a backdrop of fine 18th century interiors and Scottish baronial architecture. If time allows head to the Highland Chocolatier and try some his world famous chocolate truffles!
Overnight: Dunkeld | Dunkeld House Hotel
Room Type: Classic Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Begin your journey into the heart of the majestic Scottish Highlands today, where a wealth of captivating stops and breathtaking scenery await you at every turn. En route, you’ll be treated to incredible views, with rugged mountain landscapes, sparkling lochs, and rolling hills creating a picture-perfect backdrop. Stop en-route at one of Scotland’s most charming and picturesque distilleries, nestled in a quaint and remote village between two towering mountain ranges. Despite being located in one of the coldest regions of the UK, this distillery has earned a reputation for crafting some of Scotland’s smoothest and most refined whiskies—a true testament to Highland craftsmanship.
Arrive at your castle home in the Highlands, relax and take in the stunning views.
Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: Large Double - Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Your main guide will meet you at your hotel this morning and will guide you through the stunning scenery of Glencoe. These dramatic mountains and ridges have featured as the backdrop in many films and once you are looking up at these summits it is easy to see why! Today you will explore this famous valley with your guide, there are plenty of options to suit every level of energy and challenge. After your hike settle down with a celebratory beverage in a traditional climbers pub and listen to local legends and fascinating tales of the dark past of Glencoe told by a local storyteller.
Overnight: Near Fort William | Inverlochy Castle Hotel
Room Type: Large Double - Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Bidding farewell to the mysterious peaks of Glencoe, you will make your way to your luxurious hotel on the banks of Loch Lomond. On the way, you will have some time to explore some of the many walking trails in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Your guide will be on hand to discuss options with you depending on how you are feeling and the weather conditions.
You will bid farewell to your guide this evening and you are free to relax and enjoy the lovely facilities at your hotel.
Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: Loch View - Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
This morning head out onto the tranquil waters of Loch Ness as you enjoy a relaxing cruise. Enjoy the spectacular scenery go by as you hear stories of the history in this area. You will have time to refresh and relax before indulging in an afternoon tea with champagne. Savour quality time together with a quintessentially British experience, indulging in an exquisite blend of traditional afternoon tea favourites and Scottish delicacies. The perfect way to end your adventure!
Overnight: Loch Lomond | Cameron House
Room Type: Loch View - Twin
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
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
England Portion:
Scotland Portion:
Please see our booking terms here.
Friday 9th May – Friday 23rd May 2025