Our first stop today is in the ancient port city of Plymouth, where we’ll delve into the history of the brave Pilgrim Fathers who set sail for an unknown New World from its shores. See the Royal Citadel overlooking Plymouth Sound and consider an optional cruise around the dramatic coastline. We take a step back in time at our next stop – the delightful village of Polperro. Continuing along the brooding moorland of Dartmoor, we arrive at Buckfast Abbey, where we’ll Dive Into Culture and discover how Benedictine monks have lived and prayed here for over 1,000 years.
Take in the rolling green countryside of Devon and Somerset en route to a true highlight—your Be My Guest experience on a working dairy farm. You’ll meet Ian and Ann Dyer, whose families have farmed this land for generations. Hear the stories of their manor home, mentioned in the Domesday Book, and learn how modern farming meets centuries of tradition. Over a hearty farmhouse meal prepared by Ann, enjoy local flavours and warm hospitality. Then it’s on to Cardiff. This dynamic Welsh capital is full of pride and culture. You’ll enjoy an orientation that reveals city icons like the Principality Stadium and introduces you to the rich heritage of Wales through its modern cityscape.
Explore England’s Tudor past in Ludlow and Chester, where black-and-white timber-framed buildings line the streets. In Chester, join your Travel Director for an orientation walk along the Tudor Rows and admire the red sandstone city walls. Step into Chester Cathedral to uncover over 1,000 years of layered history, from medieval carvings to the soaring Gothic nave. Then it’s on to Liverpool, a city that changed the sound of music forever. Join a Local Specialist for insight into the legacy of the Beatles, walking in the footsteps of the Fab Four. The evening is yours to grab dinner and soak up the city’s charm.
Rolling Lancashire pastures give way to the soul-stirring Lake District, whose beautiful scenery has inspired poets and writers for centuries. We travel along the shores of Lake Windermere, through countryside made famous by the poet William Wordsworth. Stop in Gretna Green on the Scottish border, where many eloping couples have tied the knot. We arrive in Glasgow later for an orientation tour, including views of the Cathedral, magnificent George Square and the Clyde River, the former heart of the shipbuilding industry. This evening, enjoy locally-sourced flavours at Mharsanta restaurant during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience.
Journey along Loch Lomond, whose Bonnie Banks were immortalised in the well-known Scottish song. We arrive in Glencoe and remember the MacDonald clansmen who died tragically in the 1692 massacre which led this place to be called the ‘Glen of Weeping’. At the World War II Commando Memorial near Fort William, we admire views of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Our day in beautiful surrounds comes to an end with a cosy dinner at our hotel located within the Cairngorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands.
Travel to the Isle of Skye, where a Local Specialist takes you to visit Portree where you can admire the backdrop of the Cuillin Mountains. Later, cross back to the mainland to view scenic Eilean Donan Castle. Travel through the Scottish Highlands past its picturesque lochs and glens, keeping your camera at the ready to capture ‘Nessie’ if you can.
Heading back to the lowlands of Scotland, we stop in Pitlochry before heading to the historic home of golf, St. Andrews. Here, the first games were played during the 1400s. See its famous 18th hole before crossing the Firth of Forth to Scotland’s enchanting capital, Edinburgh. Tickets to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that align with performance dates.
Ramble up the Royal Mile today and see the iconic sights of one of Britain’s most enchanting cities. The elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse, in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat, and the Scottish Parliament feature on your sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist. Visit Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city. Admire the elegant Georgian architecture in the New Town and amble through the hidden passages of the Old Town before enjoying an evening at leisure. Consider an Optional Experience including traditional song, dance and Scottish fare.
We travel to the medieval market town of Alnwick this morning, where we’ll see the impressive castle home to the Duke of Northumberland and the Tenantry Column, upon which the Percy Lion sits and surveys the town. Journey through Northumberland to the cathedral city of York. We’ll embark an orientation walk past its cobblestone Shambles and see the inspiring Minster with its ‘heart of Yorkshire’ before joining our newfound friends for dinner.
Shakespeare’s legacy and life are celebrated in his home town of Stratford-upon-Avon, which you will have an opportunity to visit today. See Anne Hathaway’s thatched cottage and visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Visitor Centre. Later, travel back to London where your amazing holiday comes to an end.