Real Britain

Brightly coloured Union Jacks pave your way to an unforgettable journey through Britain, which kicks off in London. Visit 'The City' and see the imposing dome of Christopher Wren's St. Pauls and the Tower of London, or admire the pageantry of royal palaces, cathedrals and parks, exploring the city on your own terms.

Join a Local Specialist today for a grand exploration of the vibrant British capital, including such sights as Big Ben and the imposing Houses of Parliament on the banks of the Thames, then Buckingham Palace, the official UK residence of the UK's sovereigns since 1837. Spend the rest of the day on your own, exploring the centuries-old heritage and modern sophistication of London.

This morning meet your Travel Director before embarking on a journey to discover what's "great" about Great Britain, on this mesmerising sojourn past the peaks of Wales and the rolling hills and lush farmlands of England to "bonnie" Scotland. We kick-start our adventure in the cosmopolitan capital of London, heading west to Stonehenge's stone monoliths, whose centuries-old myths have yet to be fully revealed. The elegant Georgian architecture of Bath takes centre stage during our visit to this famous spa town. Here, we'll see the Abbey and visit the Roman baths, before crossing the Severn Estuary to Cardiff. Delve into the proud culture and heritage of the Welsh as you embark on an orientation of the city to see the Principality Stadium and Cardiff Castle, in the heart of the city. Tonight, we celebrate the beginning of an epic adventure through Britain at a Welcome Reception.

The half-timbered Tudor houses of Ludlow feature today on our exploration of this market town with its medieval walls and historic castle. We journey north through the Shropshire Hills and Cheshire landscapes to the bold British city of Liverpool, hometown of the 'Fab Four'. Saunter through its edgy Scouse streets and perhaps visit The Cavern Club where The Beatles once played on your evening at leisure.

The enchanting views of Britain's Lake District provide a scenic backdrop for our leisurely drive north to Scotland. Skirt the romantic shores of Lake Windermere and enjoy views that inspired literary greats like William Wordsworth. We stop at the runaway wedding capital that is Gretna Green where "Blacksmith Priests" would marry couples over the Marriage Anvil. Later, we arrive in enchanting Edinburgh - our home for the next two nights. If your visit coincides with the Edinburgh Festival, enjoy rousing performances at the spectacular Edinburgh Tattoo in the city's striking castle grounds.

Ramble up the Royal Mile in the mesmerising medieval city of Edinburgh, where you'll join a Local Specialist on an included city sightseeing tour. Stroll through the Old Town and view Arthur's Seat and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, for centuries the seat of the kings and queens of the Scots. Visit Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city. Spend the rest of the day exploring Auld Reekie's medieval relics and elegant Georgian and Gothic façades on your own, or join your Travel Director on an Optional Experience to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia. This evening, consider attending a lively Scottish banquet with traditional haggis and bagpipes.

Trace the northern frontier of the Roman Empire at Hadrian's Wall before crossing the River Tyne and venturing south to the ancient cathedral city of York, whose origins hark back to Roman times. Walk along the famous Shambles and view the York Minster, one of the greatest cathedrals in the world. This evening we 'Connect With Locals', joining a family in York for a home-cooked Be My Guest Farewell Dinner and some hearty British hospitality.

Delve into the story of Shakespeare's life at his Birthplace and Visitor Centre in Stratford-upon-Avon, and view Anne Hathaway's thatched cottage. We return to London this afternoon.

Say farewell to London today as you return home with magical memories.