Castles and Kilts
Castles and Kilts
$3305
Castles and Kilts
10 Days Starting in London, United Kingdom and ending in Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Visiting: London, England, Bath, Llangollen, Chester, England, Lake District, England, Hadrian's Wall, England, Edinburgh
Tour operator:
Tour code:
FCASZN20
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Castles and Kilts" tour, a captivating journey through England and the United Kingdom, where history and culture come alive. Begin in the vibrant city of London, exploring iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London. Discover the academic charm of Oxford and the Roman elegance of Bath. Experience the medieval allure of Chester and the enchanting landscapes of the Lake District. Stay in the historic Ruthin Castle in Wales and enjoy a traditional English cream tea. As you venture north, visit Hadrian's Wall and the Roman Army Museum before arriving in Edinburgh, where the majestic Edinburgh Castle awaits. With expert guides, luxury accommodations, and unique cultural experiences, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Britain's rich heritage, complete with optional experiences and free time to personalize your adventure. Enjoy the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo on select dates for an added touch of Scottish tradition.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To London
Location: London, England
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Delight in the magic and mystery of an ancient land of kings and queens, knights and magical creatures. Your springboard to an unforgettable Family Experience through Britain is the lively capital of London, which you will have an opportunity to explore with your clan before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a memorable kick-off bash.
Day 2: Discover The Sights Of London Family Fun
Location: London, England
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Meals Included: Breakfast
March down the grand boulevards and secret lanes of London, exploring the city's iconic sights with a Local Specialist. Practice your royal wave at Buckingham Palace, snap a selfie in front of Big Ben and see where Britain's royalty has been crowned since the 11th century. Enjoy some Family Fun and head to platform 9¾ to see if you can catch a glimpse of the Hogwarts Express. Admire the pomp and ceremony of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (subject to the event taking place), before enjoying free time for a leisurely lunch at St. Katherine's Dock near Tower Bridge. Our last stop today is the brooding Tower of London where we'll rub shoulders with the Beefeaters and see the Crown Jewels.
Day 3: London Your Way
Location: London, England
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Meals Included: Breakfast
Soak up the buzzing multicultural atmosphere of London on this full day at leisure. Explore the wonders of science and centuries of natural history at the city's fascinating museums, delve into the dark depths of the London Dungeon or take a spin on the London Eye. Wander through the colorful array of toys at Hamleys on Regent Street or take a day trip to 11th-century Windsor Castle – the choice is yours.
Day 4: Journey To Oxford And On To Elegant Bath Family Fun
Location: Bath
Accommodation: Hampton by Hilton
Accommodation Name: Hampton by Hilton
Meals Included: Breakfast
Imagine yourself as an Oxford scholar as you enjoy a quick visit (as long as students are not sitting exams) to the imposing historic hall of Oxford's Divinity Schools. This was used as the film location for the Hogwarts hospital wing. Later, we continue to the pretty Wiltshire village of Lacock for some Family Fun to see Harry Potter's house. Perhaps visit the 13th-century Lacock Abbey, or devour a traditional afternoon tea and cake in one of the local tea rooms before arriving in Bath for your overnight stay. Gain insights into the elegant city of Bath during Roman times, enjoying an orientation that will include beautiful Pulteney bridge. Admire the honey-hued Georgian architecture of Bath and view such highlights as the 15th-century Bath Abbey before crossing the border into Wales.
Day 5: Onwards To Historic Wales And Ruthin Castle Stays With Stories Make Travel Matter
Location: Llangollen
Accommodation: Ruthin Castle
Accommodation Name: Ruthin Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Stop in the historic town of Llangollen, famous for its annual Eisteddfod, and then cross the Horseshoe Pass to a medieval castle and Stays with Stories experience, where you'll spend the next two nights. Dine like lords and ladies this evening enjoying a delicious Welsh dinner.
Day 6: Exploring North Wales Connect With Locals
Location: Chester, England
Accommodation: Ruthin Castle
Accommodation Name: Ruthin Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin your day exploring the wonders of North Wales. First, we’ll visit Llanberis, the gateway to Mount Snowdon. Here, you can opt for a ride on the famous Snowdon Mountain Railway, take in the legendary Blade of the Giants, soak up the stunning scenery of Snowdonia National Park, or delve into the area’s mining heritage at the National Slate Museum. Next, we head to Caernarfon, home to a majestic medieval castle. Enjoy free time to explore the historic town or join an optional experience for a traditional pub lunch and time to wander the castle grounds. Our journey continues along the coastal road, with views of the Menai Strait and Anglesey – once famed as the stronghold of the ancient Druids. We’ll return to Ruthin Castle in the evening, where you can relax and reflect on a day filled with Welsh legends and breath-taking landscapes.
Day 7: Explore A Manor Farm And Continue To Lancaster Make Travel Matter
Location: Lake District, England
Accommodation: Lancaster House
Accommodation Name: Lancaster House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The highlight of today will undoubtedly be the opportunity to Connect With Locals at an exclusive Be My Guest experience featuring an English cream tea at the renowned Cotebrook Shire Horse Center. Discover centuries of history at Tatton Park, set within a 1,000 acre (400 ha) deer park. We'll join the butler and housekeeper of this elegant medieval manor house and Dive Into Culture, gaining insights into the day-to-day of English aristocrats once upon a time. We continue north to the Lake District, whose enchanting landscapes have inspired poets and writers for centuries. Consider boarding a steam train for a brief journey, then cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Windermere before arriving at your hotel.
Day 8: Admire Hadrian’S Wall And On To Edinburgh Family Fun
Location: Hadrian's Wall, England
Accommodation: Marriott
Accommodation Name: Delta by Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start today with some Family Fun to experience life as a brave Roman soldier on Emperor Hadrian's northern frontier, exploring the treasures of the Roman Army Museum and Hadrian's Wall. We cross into 'Bonnie Scotland' and arrive in the charismatic capital of Edinburgh where we'll have an opportunity to explore tonight at leisure.
Day 9: Uncover Edinburgh’S Treasures
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation: Marriott
Accommodation Name: Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Delve into the magic of Edinburgh's iconic sights and stunning landscapes as you join a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist. Ramble up the Royal Mile and see the tall spires of the Scott Monument, visit Edinburgh Castle, where you will hear tales of bravery, treason and intrigue. Get lost in 'Auld Reekie', strolling through its secret lanes and past medieval façades or join your Travel Director for an Optional Experience. Our epic family adventure is almost at its end. Celebrate a memorable holiday with new friends and your Travel Director at dinner. Tickets to see the spectacular Edinburgh Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates.
Day 10: Journey Home
Location: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's time to say bye for now, but not goodbye forever, as the curtain falls on an unforgettable Family Experience through Britain.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional driver.
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London: The services of a Trafalgar Local Host
The services of a Trafalgar Local Host are included when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel.
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Cherry-picked hotels
Accommodation in cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted, is included.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered.
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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
The tour includes breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are part of the tour package.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Optional Experiences and free time
The tour includes optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.
What's Not Included
Travel insurance is not included in the tour package.
Dining Summary
- 1 Kickoff Party (KP)
- 9 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Dinner (D)
Family Fun
- London: Let your inner magician loose as you visit Harry Potter highlights such as Platform 9 ¾ and the red telephone box gateway to the Ministry of Magic.
- Lacock: See the charming Lacock Village, where famous scenes of Harry Potter were filmed and explore Lacock Abbey where you’ll recognise some of the corridors and classrooms of Hogwarts.
- Hexham: Experience life as a brave Roman soldier on Emperor Hadrian's northern frontier, exploring the treasures of the Roman Army Museum and Hadrian's Wall.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with luxury air-conditioned coaches equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey through England and Scotland. Enjoy the flexibility of audio headsets for sightseeing and optional rail journeys for a unique travel experience.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of modern comfort and historical charm with stays at the Crowne Plaza Kings Cross in London, Hampton by Hilton in Bath, the 13th-century Ruthin Castle in North Wales, Lancaster House, and Delta by Marriott in Edinburgh.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the Castles and Kilts tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as an exclusive Be My Guest English cream tea in Chester, a stay at the 13th-century Ruthin Castle in North Wales, and a visit to the Cotebrook Shire Horse Center for an English cream tea. Additionally, there are opportunities to explore Harry Potter filming locations in Lacock and experience life as a Roman soldier at Hadrian's Wall.
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Will I have free time during the tour to explore on my own?
Yes, the tour provides free time for personal exploration. For example, on Day 3, you have a full day at leisure in London to explore museums, the London Dungeon, or take a spin on the London Eye. There is also free time in Edinburgh on Day 8 to explore the city at your own pace.
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Are meals included in the Castles and Kilts tour?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals. Additionally, there is a kickoff party and several dinners included throughout the tour.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries. There may also be alternative transportation options such as rail journeys.
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Is there a special event included in the tour if it coincides with certain dates?
Yes, if your tour dates coincide with the performance dates, tickets to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions