Best of Britain

DAY 1: LONDON ARRIVAL

Starting from 3 pm begin your leisurely check-in at the Cumberland Hotel, renowned for its musical legacy, promising to kick-start your journey in style. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Oxford Street & Regent Street, home to iconic stores, conveniently located just steps away.

Early evening (5:30 pm-6:30 pm): Opt for an optional meet-and-greet session with your amiable representative in the lobby. Take this opportunity to address any queries you might have regarding your upcoming adventure.

Accommodation at The Cumberland London, London, or similar

DAY 2: LONDON SIGHTSEEING

Meet your Tour Director in the lobby of your hotel for a 9:00 AM departure.

Your adventure begins with a panoramic tour of London, where your guide will bring the city's stories, myths, and legends to life. Travel comfortably on our executive coaches with stops to experience the city up close. Enjoy the historic Changing of the Guard ceremony, a stirring display of pageantry.

Visit The Tower of London, an awe-inspiring fortress filled with history. After free time for lunch, explore the Tower and see the new display of the Crown Jewels following the coronation of King Charles III and The Queen Consort. Enjoy a guided introduction and time to explore.

Depart the Tower of London for a relaxing River Thames cruise, offering breathtaking views of iconic attractions from a unique perspective.

Conclude your day with a ride on The London Eye, the world's tallest cantilevered observation wheel. Enjoy a 360-degree view of London from 135 meters above the city.

Explore more of London or return to your hotel to relax. Travel back to the hotel is independent on this day. Meals: B

Accommodation at The Cumberland London, London, or similar

DAY 3: LONDON, STONEHENGE & BATH

Meet your Tour Director in the lobby of the Cumberland Hotel. Departure is at 9:00 am. Leave London behind for historic England, beginning with the iconic Stonehenge - a symbol of Britain and one of the world's true wonders.

Explore the monument and visitor center before heading to Bath for the afternoon and evening. Enjoy lunch (not included) and free time, then opt for a walking tour or leisurely exploration of Bath's Georgian architecture. Check into your hotel and relax for the evening, with plenty of dining options to choose from.

Accommodation at The Indigo Hotel, Bath, or similar

DAY 4: BATH, LUDLOW, CHESTER & CONWY

After a delightful breakfast, board a comfortable coach to Ludlow, a charming market town nestled in the Shropshire hills. Enjoy free time to explore its historic market center and majestic castle, before continuing through scenic Shropshire landscapes to Chester. Explore this picturesque city known for its Roman walls, ancient amphitheater, and timber-framed buildings.

Finally, check-in at your North Wales hotel with stunning views of Conwy Castle. Indulge in a three-course Welsh dinner before enjoying the evening at leisure. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at The Quay Hotel & Spa, Conwy, or similar

DAY 5: CONWY, CAERNARFON, SNOWDONIA & LIVERPOOL

Begin your day in North Wales with a delightful breakfast before setting off on a leisurely drive along the Anglesey Coast to Halen Mon, home to an award-winning Saltcote and Visitor Centre. Join a fascinating tour led by knowledgeable staff to discover the intricate process behind crafting Wales' unique sea salt flakes and sample its diverse varieties.

Next, visit the historic Caernarfon Castle, known for Prince Charles' investiture and its rich military museum. Enjoy leisure time for lunch in Betws-y-Coed, nestled amidst Snowdonia's stunning mountains.

End the day in Liverpool, renowned for its musical heritage and maritime history. Check in to your hotel and unwind at your own pace. Meals: B

Accommodation at Hard Day’s Night Liverpool, Liverpool, or similar

DAY 6: LIVERPOOL SIGHTSEEING

Experience a full day in Liverpool, the music capital of the world and the birthplace of The Beatles. After breakfast, meet your Tour Director in the hotel lobby in the morning.

Enjoy a panoramic tour, including sights like the Liverbirds clock towers and Albert Dock, and capture a photo with The Beatles iconic statue.

Visit John Lennon’s childhood home before lunch at Strawberry Field (vegetarian and vegan meals are available), now a world-class visitor attraction. Indulge in Liverpool ‘Scouse’ and dessert.

Enjoy free time in the city center for activities like a Ferry ‘Across the Mersey or visiting the Maritime Museum. Your second night in Liverpool is yours to enjoy at leisure. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at Hard Day’s Night Liverpool, Liverpool, or similar

DAY 7: LIVERPOOL, THE LAKE DISTRICT, GRETNA GREEN & GLASGOW

Meet your Tour Director in the hotel lobby for a 9 am departure. Embark on a comfortable panoramic ride to the stunning Lake District. Experience a nostalgic journey on a 1950s steam train from Haverthwaite to Lakeside, where you'll alight beside tranquil Lake Windermere.

Board a modern ferry for a scenic glide across the water, surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of Britain. Disembark in Bowness-on-Windermere, offering stunning views of the lake and mountains. Enjoy free time for lunch and exploration amidst the charming streets lined with unique shops.

En route to Scotland, pause at Gretna Green and visit the famous Blacksmith’s Shop, central to countless elopement stories over 265 years. Learn about the intriguing history behind this iconic location. Upon arrival in Glasgow, check into your hotel and unwind for the evening at your leisure. Meals: B

Accommodation at AC Hotel by Marriott Glasgow, Glasgow, or similar

DAY 8: GLASGOW, LOCH LOMOND, TROSSACHS & EDINBURGH

Begin your morning with a short stroll to the remarkable National Piping Centre. Welcomed by a Piper in full attire playing a traditional Scottish melody, delve into the unique Bagpipes museum before embarking on an unforgettable experience – learning to play the bagpipes with an expert instructor. Capture the moment on your phones as you create intriguing melodies!

The breathtaking vistas of Scotland’s Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park set the stage for your next adventure. Enjoy free time for lunch in the charming village of Aberfoyle, where you can witness the remarkable skill of local shepherds in the time-honored tradition of sheep herding.

No trip to Scotland would be complete without a taste of the 'Water of Life' at a traditional distillery. Learn about whisky production before savoring up to three varieties of the finest single-malt whiskies. Conclude your day with the arrival in Edinburgh, Scotland's hilly capital known for its walkability. Meals: B

Accommodation at Doubletree Edinburgh City Centre or Virgin Hotel Edinburgh, Edinburgh, or similar

DAY 9: EDINBURGH SIGHTSEEING

Experience a beautiful, relaxed day in Edinburgh, with a half-day free for leisure activities. Explore the Scottish National Gallery, stroll along Victoria Street reminiscent of Diagon Alley, browse whisky shops, or unwind in the Botanic Gardens just a mile from the city center.

Join an included walking tour of the Royal Mile, concluding at Edinburgh Castle for a full, leisurely visit. Highlights include St. Margaret’s Chapel, dating back to medieval times. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Meals: B

Accommodation at Doubletree Edinburgh City Centre or Virgin Hotel Edinburgh, Edinburgh, or similar

DAY 10: EDINBURGH, ALNWICK CASTLE & YORK

Join your Tour Director in the lobby of your Edinburgh Hotel at 8:00 am for the start of our adventure. Our journey begins by bidding farewell to Edinburgh as we head towards the magnificent Alnwick Castle. Instantly recognizable to Harry Potter fans as Hogwarts from the first two movies, this castle has also graced the screens of Downton Abbey and numerous other productions. Explore its grand State Rooms and lush gardens, with ample time for a delightful lunch break.

Next, we venture to York, where we conclude our tour with an overnight stay. Embark on a scenic stroll to witness The Shambles, a picturesque street often likened to 'Diagon Alley', before marveling at the majestic York Minster. A marvel of stained glass and stone, this cathedral has been a spiritual hub since the 7th century.

Upon check-in at your hotel, indulge in a delectable three-course English dinner, conveniently located within walking distance of the hotel. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at Doubletree by Hilton York, York, or similar

DAY 11: YORK, SHERWOOD FOREST, CAMBRIDGE & LONDON

After a delicious breakfast, we'll journey to Sherwood Forest, home to the legendary Robin Hood. Explore the ancient oak trees, including the famous Major Oak, and enjoy the visitor centre's café and shop.

Our final stop is Cambridge, a charming university town. Spend a leisurely half-day admiring its architecture, watching punts glide along the river, and exploring its historic colleges.

Upon arrival, your evening is free to relax and enjoy the comfort of your hotel. Meals: B

Accommodation at The Cumberland London, London, or similar

DAY 12: LONDON DEPARTURE

Your tour concludes after a delicious breakfast and check-out at 11 am from the hotel. We bid you a fond farewell and hope to welcome you back on your next trip to the UK. Meals: B