British Royale
10 Days from $5,195 per person
Uncover the very essence of Britain, as we introduce you to knowledgeable experts and passionate locals who will bring stories from the past and present to life. Meet iconic personalities, such as a Royal Horse Guard in London and a bagpiper in Edinburgh, and go to significant destinations that were once frequented by the likes of Shakespeare and notorious kings.
As you travel in elegant style, stay at the most sought-after addresses in Britain, dine at a Michelin-star restaurant and savor local specialties, such as English cream scones served on a traditional steam train. Enjoy a selection of exclusive VIP experiences, including private visits to royal gardens, Edinburgh Castle and the Tower of London for a private viewing of the Ceremony of the Keys. From the beautiful Georgian city of Bath to the mesmerizing Lake District, this is a journey of a lifetime.
Overview
Uncover the very essence of Britain, as we introduce you to knowledgeable experts and passionate locals who will bring stories from the past and present to life. Meet iconic personalities, such as a Royal Horse Guard in London and a bagpiper in Edinburgh, and go to significant destinations that were once frequented by the likes of Shakespeare and notorious kings.
As you travel in elegant style, stay at the most sought-after addresses in Britain, dine at a Michelin-star restaurant and savor local specialties, such as English cream scones served on a traditional steam train. Enjoy a selection of exclusive VIP experiences, including private visits to royal gardens, Edinburgh Castle and the Tower of London for a private viewing of the Ceremony of the Keys. From the beautiful Georgian city of Bath to the mesmerizing Lake District, this is a journey of a lifetime.
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Day 1: USA - London
Board your overnight flight to London (flight not included).
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Day 2: Welcome to London
Meet your personal chauffeur on arrival at London Heathrow Airport and enjoy an escorted drive in a chic Mercedes Benz to the award-winning Milestone, an exquisite five-star hotel overlooking Kensington Palace and Gardens. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, the Milestone is yours to explore, as you spend the day at leisure. Perhaps enjoy the most quintessential of English rituals, afternoon tea, hosted at the Milestone? At 18:00 meet your Travelling Concierge and travel companions for a grand Welcome Dinner hosted at your hotel. Savor classic British cuisine and take in the old-world ambiance of your surroundings.
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Day 3: Traditions and Treasures of London
A modern-day hub of culture and commerce, and once the center of an empire, London is no doubt one of the world’s greatest cities, teeming with millions of stories. Your Travelling Concierge will introduce you to a Local Expert – a passionate resident who will share fascinating stories about the city, as you explore the city to see Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. You will then continue past Downing Street, Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus. At the Household Cavalry Museum, uncover the secret messages hidden within a cavalryman's uniform and try on the royal uniform for yourself. Meet a serving Royal Horse Guard at the Horse Guards Parade and discover what it takes to be part of HM The Queen's Mounted Bodyguard. Stop at Buckingham Palace to witness the colorful Changing of the Guard ceremony, when available. Spend the afternoon shopping at Harrods, listening to the soapbox orators of Speaker’s Corner or viewing the masterpieces in the National Gallery. Enjoy dinner at your leisure. Should you want to venture beyond your hotel, ask your knowledgeable Travelling Concierge for restaurant recommendations. In the evening, once the crowds have gone home, visit the great Tower of London to witness the Ceremony of the Keys. Join the warden for this ancient gate-closing ritual, carried out every night by the Beefeaters, without fail, for the past 700 years.
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Day 4: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Georgian Bath
Windsor Castle, famous for its long-standing association with the British Royal family, dates back to the 11th century and is a spectacle of period architecture, manicured gardens and rich history. During a private visit to the castle, your Local Expert will describe how knights are appointed, where they live in the Castle and what duties they are required to perform. Your journey then continues to visit mysterious Stonehenge, a prehistoric UNESCO World Heritage burial site, and on to the Georgian city of Bath where people have been indulging in the healing waters for millennia. Enjoy a spectacular Highlight Dinner at a Michelin-star rated restaurant. With each Michelin-star restaurant around the world meticulously selected based on outstanding food quality, you are in for an unrivaled indulgence.
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Day 5: Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon and York
Visit the original Roman Baths and Georgian Pump Room, one of the greatest religious spas of the ancient world, and imagine how Romans once gathered to relish the good life. Continue your journey through the Cotswolds which are among the most quintessential and unspoiled regions of England, famous for gentle, rolling hillsides known as ‘wolds’, green river valleys and historic market towns, where time has stood still for over 300 years. Stop in picture-perfect Bibury, described by the esteemed William Morris as the ‘prettiest village in the Cotswolds.’ Head to Burford nestled on the meandering River Windrush, its high street an eye-pleasing mix of honey-colored stone, chocolate-box cottages and Tudor buildings. After browsing the tea houses and quaint shops, a leisurely drive brings you to the sleepy limestone villages of Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold, two of the most picturesque towns of the northern Cotswolds. Arrive in Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, and continue on to York.
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Day 6: Medieval Wonders of York
Step back in time as you meet the lively characters and explore the medieval streets of York. Once an important center of Roman occupation in England, this is a storybook city surrounded by a large stone wall dating back to the 13th century. You have a choice of two outstanding experiences today. Either join a Local Expert for a pulse-raising walk on the famous city walls - the longest medieval walls in England - and appreciate spectacular views of the river and the Old Town. Alternatively, embark on a leisurely guided tour to the York Minster, the largest medieval cathedral in northern Europe and one of the most outstanding Gothic buildings in the world. Spend free time this afternoon exploring York's many hidden gems. At sunset, join a garden curator for an after-hours VIP tour of the majestic Harlow Carr Gardens, a prestigious member of the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). In the same league as the iconic RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the Harlow Carr Gardens boasts an idyllic stream spanning its length and a wide variety of indigenous plants. Uncover the many hidden gems of the garden, before being treated to a spectacular twilight picnic, harvested from the on-site kitchen garden in Farm-to-Table style.
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Day 7: The Wild and Poetic Lake District
The rugged and dramatic beauty of the English Lake District famously inspired 19th century writers such as Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. Experience the charms of a bygone era, as you step aboard a historic steam train at the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway Station for a short ride along the southern banks of the lake. Wonder at views of soaring mountain ranges, mystical forests and indigo-blue waters, as you journey to vast Windermere for a private cruise along the southern banks of the lake. Disembark to explore the lakeside town of Bowness-on-Windermere. This evening dinner is served at a charming restaurant, Bistro at The Lakes Distillery, located on the picturesque Bassenthwaite Lake.
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Day 8: Alnwick Castle
Journey to majestic Alnwick Castle and explore its magnificent interiors. Join a Local Expert for an in-depth exploration of the 11th Castle, with its striking medieval architecture and see why it was featured in the Harry Potter films. Travel up to the beautiful Scottish capital of Edinburgh where you have an evening to enjoy at your leisure. Your Travelling Concierge is a treasure-trove of knowledge and will happily guide you to the best local restaurants and attractions. During August, you're invited to witness The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of the most spectacular military events on earth and a celebration of the history, heritage and colors of Scotland's regiments both near and far. Hosted every August, this renowned international showcase of military pageantry boasts performers from 48 countries. Enjoy the sounds and sites of bagpipes rising, drums cracking through the night air and performers dressed in tunics, kilts and tartans with Edinburgh Castle, lit up in color, providing a dramatic backdrop.
Chairman's Collection
If you are travelling on a Chairman's Collection departure, you will meet Her Grace The Duchess of Northumberland as she personally welcomes you for a private tour of her beloved garden. You are also introduced to the Head Gardner, Trevor Jones, who will lead you past a labyrinth, the serpent garden and ornate fountains, as you listen to the fascinating story of how The Duchess restored this exquisite garden to its former 18th century glory over the last twenty years. Admire this masterpiece of passion and dedication, which remains a work in progress, before indulging in a seasonal lunch. Join a Local Expert for an in-depth exploration of the 11th Castle, with its striking medieval architecture and see why it was featured in the Harry Potter films. -
Day 9: Highlights of Beautiful Edinburgh
Enjoy a visit to magnificent Edinburgh Castle, the country’s most visited landmark. Skip the queue and join a Local Expert for a guided exploration of the castle grounds. Learn about the castle’s tumultuous history, see its Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny, and appreciate panoramic views of the city below. Travel along Princes Street, past the Gothic Sir Walter Scott Monument, and continue down the Royal Mile to the gates of Palace of Holyroodhouse, the principal residence of Scottish royalty since the 16th century. In true Gaelic style, meet a professional bagpiper, who is said to have been the Queen Mother’s favorite, and be enchanted as you listen to iconic music and fascinating tales about Scottish culture, whilst enjoying tea and scones. Raise a glass this evening to new friendships and a memorable journey, as we celebrate our finale dinner at one of the city’s very best restaurants.
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Day 10: Farewell Edinburgh
Bid farewell to your travel companions and continue your onward journey with transfers timed to meet your flight.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
- Edinburgh Tattoo
- Chairman's Collection
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Edinburgh Tattoo Chairman's Collection
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9 Aug 18 | 18 Aug 18 |
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$5,795pp | Request Quote Book Now | ||
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Chairman's Collection
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13 Sep 18 | 22 Sep 18 |
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$5,195pp | Request Quote Book Now |
- Edinburgh Tattoo: This departure includes the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo event.
- Chairman's Collection: This departure includes a special royal dinner as part of Luxury Gold's Chairman Collection.
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $1,460 p.p.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $112 per person.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Cultural Enrichment
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Michelin Dining
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
Included Dining
8 Buffet Breakfasts (BB), 1 Morning Tea (MT) and 5 Dinners with Wine (DW) all with tea or coffee.
Signature Experiences
London
- You're invited to the Tower of London to experience the exclusive Ceremony of the Keys. This ancient gate-closing ritual has been carried out every night by the Beefeaters, without fail, for the last 700 years.
- Meet a passionate resident, your Local Expert, who will share the city's fascinating history, as you see Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.
- See British pageantry at its best, as you witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, when available. It's a great privilege guarding the Sovereign and a quintessential British tradition that dates back to 1660.
Windsor Castle
- Famous for its long-standing association with the British Royal family, Windsor Castle is where you Local Expert will describe how knights are appointed, where they live in the Castle and what duties they are required to perform.
Windermere
- Enjoy a nostalgic ride on a historic steam train along the banks of Windermere.
- Journey across Windermere on a romantic, private cruise.
York
- Gain after-hours, VIP entry to the majestic Harlow Carr Gardens, a member of the Royal Horticultural Society. Join a garden curator to learn about indigenous plant species, before enjoying an exclusive twilight picnic.
- Appreciate the beauty of York. Join a Local Expert for an exploration of the city walls, or embark on a leisurely guided tour of York Minster.
Edinburgh
- Visit magnificent Edinburgh Castle, Scotland's most-visited tourist attraction. Join a Local Expert, who will share tales about the castle's tumultuous past and show you the Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny.
- In true Gaelic style, meet a fabulously entertaining bagpiper and be enchanted as you listen to iconic music and fascinating tales about Scottish culture.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Visas & Passports
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Currency
The currency in the UK is the Pound (£). While it’s a good idea to bring some money for when you first arrive in the UK, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate when you arrive in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks in the UK. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
English specialties include fish and chips, Yorkshire pudding, sausages, stilton cheese, and scones with clotted cream. Culinary experiences to not to miss include a traditional pub meal, afternoon tea, and full English breakfast. In larger cities like London you’ll also find restaurants serving a variety of international cuisine.
Food and drink in Scotland goes far beyond haggis, porridge, and whiskey. Specialties to try include kippers, fish and chips, Scotch broth, smoked salmon, sausages, shortbread, and Dundee cake. For a meal that’s inexpensive and authentic, try a pub meal with a pint of Scottish ale.
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Packing
The climate in the UK is temperate, with regular rainfall throughout the year. We suggest packing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. A few important items to bring include sturdy walking shoes and a waterproof jacket with a hood. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
Tipping is less common in the UK than in the U.S. When dining out, some restaurants will add a service charge of 12.5 percent to your bill, especially for groups. If a service hasn’t been added, it’s appropriate to leave 10 – 15 percent gratuity.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend £2.50 per person/per day for your driver and £4.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 pounds per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health & Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
