Best of Britain - Small Group

Best of Britain - Small Group

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11 Days From

$4875

Best of Britain - Small Group

11 Days Starting and ending in London

Visiting: London, Stratford-upon-Avon, York, Hadrians Wall Path, Jedburgh, Edinburgh, Stirling, Loch Lomond, Glasgow, Gretna Green, Windermere, Ludlow, Cardiff, Severn Bridge, Bath, Glastonbury, Plymouth, Saltash, Dartmoor National Park, Stonehenge

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

SB903ZN19

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Trip Styles:

Luxury, Small Group

Interests:

Cultural, History

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From:
$4875 (USD)

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

See the very best of Britain on this 9-day guided tour that traverses Scotland, Wales and England. At Edinburgh Castle, sit on the Stone of Destiny, the sandstone seat upon which dozens of Scottish monarchs were crowned. Survey the English Lake District, where mountainous peaks give way to expansive lakes and scenery so picturesque it inspired the words of William Wordsworth. Plus, discover the mystery of Stonehenge, where towering prehistoric stones cast shadows on emerald green fields and sail across Plymouth harbor, with views of the city's royal citadel. Finally, indulge in a feast at a historic mill in the English countryside, enjoying organic seasonal produce freshly picked from the fields just outside.

Highlights

  • Stratford-upon-Avon: Learn about the life of William Shakespeare, arguably history's most famous writer, when you visit his birthplace. Then enjoy some time to explore this pretty town with its iconic Tudor houses.

  • York: Your Travel Director will show you the York Minster, the city walls and the medieval Shambles during your orientation of the city.

  • Hadrian's Wall: Stop to see part of the ancient wall that once marked the border of the Roman Empire.

  • Jedburgh: See the impressive 12th century Jedburgh Abbey, dominating the centre of town. Even though it is now in ruins it is still a magnificent structure and you can climb a spiral staircase to view the spectacular architecture from a balcony. Built by King David I of Scotland for Augustinian monks, Jedburgh is one of four major Abbeys of the Borders between England and Scotland, and was damaged and rebuilt several times during the Wars of Independence in the late 13th and early 14th centuries.

  • Edinburgh: Your Local Expert walks with you inside the walls of the Edinburgh Castle to view the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg.

  • Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Expert as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the Queen, Palace of Holyroodhouse.

  • Edinburgh: A hush descends and eyes turn to the castle. The skirl of the pipes rises and drums crack the night air as a tide of tunics and tartan flood from the drawbridge. For a limited time in August, witness the incredible spectacle of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

  • Glasgow: See the grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.

  • Stirling: Travel via the historic site of Bannockburn and view Stirling Castle.

  • Grasmere: Learn about the life of the poet William Wordsworth and visit his grave.

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Itinerary

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Day 1 : London And Medieval York

Location: London, Stratford-upon-Avon, York

Accommodation: Hilton York.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine

At 07:30, meet your Travel Director to begin your journey north to Stratford-upon-Avon, with its wealth of black-and-white, timber-framed houses. Discover how William Shakespeare and his incredible works continue to shape society today when you visit his birthplace, full of interesting memorabilia and artefacts relating to his life. Continue to historic York to stroll the narrow lanes including the Shambles and view York Minster, England's largest medieval cathedral. Later, join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner and the opportunity to mingle over a pleasant evening.

Day 2 : Hadrian's Wall To Edinburgh

Location: Hadrians Wall Path, Jedburgh

Accommodation: Hotel, Sheraton Grand & Spa Edinburgh.

Meals Included: Breakfast

See a part of Hadrian's Wall, once spanning 80 miles from coast to coast, marking the northern frontier of the mighty Roman Empire. Continue past Jedburgh Abbey en route to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, for your two-night stay in this stunning city.

Day 3 : Edinburgh Sightseeing

Location: Edinburgh

Accommodation: Hotel, Sheraton Grand & Spa Edinburgh.

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning join a Local Expert to explore the Royal Mile. You will see the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of His Majesty the King. Continue past the Sir Walter Scott Monument to the 18th century New Town with its neoclassical Adam facades. Visit Edinburgh Castle, home of the Honours of Scotland, to view Mons Meg, and see the Stone of Destiny. The afternoon is at leisure. In the evening, select departures will attend the spectacular Military Tattoo - a colourful mix of pipes and drums, dance and display, set against the floodlit backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

Day 4 : Loch Lomond To Glasgow

Location: Edinburgh, Stirling, Loch Lomond, Glasgow

Accommodation: Hotel, Radisson Blu Glasgow.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Drive via historic Bannockburn and Stirling and enjoy the scenery of the Trossachs. Continue along the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, before arriving in Glasgow for an orientation of the city with your Travel Director. See the grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.

Day 5 : The Glorious Lake District

Location: Glasgow, Gretna Green, Windermere

Accommodation: Hotel, Castle Green Kendal.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine

Travel via Gretna Green to the English Lake District, with scenery so beautiful it inspired a host of writers. Learn about the life of William Wordsworth and visit his grave in the picturesque, stone-built village of Grasmere.

Day 6 : The Welsh Marches And Cardiff

Sun Travels And Resorts (Sun travels)
Val Rossi

Location: Windermere, Ludlow, Cardiff

Accommodation: Hotel, Clayton Cardiff.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Stop in ancient Ludlow, one of England’s most attractive towns, dominated by its castle, rich in tragic royal history. Why not spend time exploring the traditional open-air market, admiring the local crafts and perhaps sampling the produce? Afterwards, cross into southern Wales and head for the capital of Cardiff for an orientation of the port city, upon the River Taff. See Cardiff Castle and the impressive Principality Stadium.

Day 7 : Georgian Bath And Devon

Sun Travels And Resorts (Sun travels)
Val Rossi
Randolfo Santos
Steven Eastham
Diego Alberto Etchevarne

Location: Cardiff, Severn Bridge, Bath, Glastonbury, Plymouth

Accommodation: Jurys Inn Plymouth.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cross the Severn Bridge back into England and drive to the Georgian City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, which serve as a hub of culture and education for the local population. Continue to Glastonbury, steeped in legend and reputed to be the final resting place of King Arthur and the Holy Grail. Continue on to your hotel in the heart of Plymouth.

Day 8 : Dartmoor National Park Relaxed Start

Location: Saltash, Dartmoor National Park

Accommodation: Jurys Inn Plymouth.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner, with Wine

Explore Dartmoor with Insight Choice. Choose to join a scenic exploration of Dartmoor National Park. Spend time reconnecting with nature amidst the stunning landscape of towering granite tors, open moorland, beautiful rivers and lush, wooded valleys. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing cruise of Plymouth Harbour and see the Mayflower Steps, Barbican, Royal Citadel and Plymouth Hoe.Later this evening, savour an unforgettable Celebration Dinner at Heskyn Mill during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Join your Travel Director and newfound friends for the ultimate Farm-to-Table dining experience. Enjoy a mouth-watering meal prepared from organic seasonal produce, freshly picked from the surrounding fields, served with a glass of wine.

Day 9 : Stonehenge And London

Location: Saltash, Stonehenge, London

Accommodation: Thistle Marble Arch London.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel across Salisbury Plain to visit the pre-historic and mysterious Stonehenge, where the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths are reputed to be up to 5,000 years old. Return to London for a final evening at leisure.

Day 10 : Stonehenge And London

Location: Stonehenge, London

Accommodation Name: Thistle Marble Arch

Travel across Salisbury Plain to visit the pre-historic and mysterious Stonehenge, where the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths are reputed to be up to 5,000 years old. Explore this fascinating site and learn about its historic and modern interpretations before returning to London for a final evening at leisure.

Day 11 : Homeward Bound

Location: London

Bid farewell to England and Wales as your journey ends this morning.

What's Included

  • Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.

  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.

  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.

  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.

  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.

  • You may purchase transfers from/to London Heathrow and Gatwick airports on arrival and departure days, or when additional night accommodation has been booked through Insight Vacations. Alternatively, please make your own way from/to the airport.

Check out our Q&As

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

Reviews of this Operator

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Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily is a delightful trip and our travel guides and driver, Enzo, Chris and Greg were amazing and made the trip very memorable. We saw so many places and had great experiences along the way! Thanks to them for such a wonderful vacation.!

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Trusted Customer  

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Great itinerary, good pace, tour director was friendly and very knowledgeable and organised. Bus was very spacious and driver was great. Yes would recommend insight to friends and families

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Dates & Availability

Instant Booking Available

Tuesday - Friday

Apr 22, 2025 - May 02, 2025
$4875 (USD)
Instant Booking Available

Tuesday - Friday

Jun 24, 2025 - Jul 04, 2025
$5050 (USD)
Instant Booking Available

Tuesday - Friday

Jul 29, 2025 - Aug 08, 2025
$5750 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations 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.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations 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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