7D6N United Kingdom: England & Scotland Spring & Summer - Join Group Every Saturday

Your journey begins in the vibrant capital of London, one of the world’s most iconic cities. Your first stop is Big Ben, a symbol of London and one of the most recognizable clock towers in the world, located near the Houses of Parliament. As you stroll through the Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll be in awe of its Gothic architecture and centuries of royal history, including its role as the site for royal weddings and coronations. Next, walk through 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the British Prime Minister, before heading towards Whitehall, home to many of the UK government’s most important buildings. St James’ Park offers a tranquil escape with its beautiful gardens, home to many birds, including pelicans. The grand Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarchy, is where you’ll witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Following your exploration of the royal sights, enjoy a scenic view of the River Thames, one of the most historically significant rivers in the world, flowing through the heart of the city. In the afternoon, explore the British Museum, home to priceless artifacts like the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, spanning over 2 million years of human history. If you have time, step inside St Paul’s Cathedral, an architectural marvel with its grand dome. As you continue your sightseeing, you’ll pass by Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, a historic fortress that has served as a royal palace, prison, and treasury. The Crown Jewels are housed here, including the famous Imperial State Crown. In the evening, enjoy the lively atmosphere of London’s West End, or opt for a relaxing Thames Cruise to see the city illuminated by night.

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Thames River Cruise + Transfer: £25
A relaxing Thames River Cruise offers a unique perspective of London’s famous landmarks. Glide along the river and enjoy views of iconic sights like the Tower of London, London Eye, and Big Ben. The cruise includes a transfer to the riverbanks, making it a perfect way to see the city’s highlights from a new angle. This optional activity costs £25 and is an excellent way to spend a leisurely afternoon.

The next stop on your journey is Cambridge, renowned for its prestigious University of Cambridge, one of the oldest and most famous universities in the world. Founded in 1209, the university boasts stunning medieval and Gothic architecture, with landmarks like King’s College and Queens College, both offering panoramic views of the River Cam. Take a peaceful boat ride called punting along the River Cam, an activity where a guide propels a flat-bottomed boat with a long pole, while you relax and enjoy the beauty of the university’s ancient buildings. Cambridge is also famous for its picturesque courtyards and bridges, and you can buy a Cambridge sweater or other souvenirs from the many charming shops in town. The town’s academic atmosphere is complemented by its picturesque surroundings, making it one of the most beautiful cities in the UK.

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Cambridge Punting: £30

Punting in Cambridge is a quintessential experience. Glide along the river in a traditional flat-bottomed boat, pushed along by a punter using a long pole. This peaceful and picturesque activity allows you to see the famous colleges of Cambridge from a different perspective. Enjoy the beauty of the riverbanks, historic bridges, and lush gardens as you are gently steered through the heart of the city. This relaxing activity is available for £30.

On the third day, you will head to York, a city with a rich history dating back to Roman times. York Minster is the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe, famous for its impressive stained-glass windows and towering spires. As you walk along the York City Walls, you’ll trace the remnants of Roman and medieval fortifications that have protected this city for centuries. The charm of York is in its medieval streets, especially The Shambles, a narrow, cobbled street lined with timber-framed houses, which looks straight out of the past. Take time to explore the quaint shops or indulge in a traditional afternoon tea at one of the city’s iconic tea rooms, where you can enjoy scones, clotted cream, and finger sandwiches. Later, you’ll journey to Edinburgh, Scotland’s hilly capital, known for its blend of rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Edinburgh is one of the most scenic cities in Europe, perched on volcanic hills and surrounded by green spaces.

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Howard Castle: £45

Visit the historic Howard Castle, a stately home in North Yorkshire. Known for its grandeur and stunning architecture, Howard Castle is the seat of the Howard family and one of the largest private houses in England. The castle is set in beautiful grounds with lush gardens, and inside, it houses impressive art collections and artifacts. The cost for this optional visit is £45, and it offers an insight into the opulence and history of British aristocracy.

Start your exploration of Edinburgh with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, which stands majestically on Castle Rock, a volcanic crag that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Inside the castle, you’ll find the Crown Jewels of Scotland, including the Stone of Destiny, used in the coronation of Scottish kings, and the National War Museum. Next, head to Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The palace is surrounded by gardens and provides insight into Scotland’s royal history. Explore Edinburgh’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and if you have time, visit the Royal Mile, a historic street connecting the castle with the palace, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. For Harry Potter fans, Edinburgh has a special connection to the famous series. You can visit the Elephant House Café, where J.K. Rowling wrote parts of her books. In the evening, you’ll travel to Glasgow, a lively and modern city known for its art, music, and nightlife.

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Edinburgh Castle Entrance Fee: £19.50

Explore one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock with breathtaking views of the city. The castle is a historic stronghold, home to the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny. The entrance fee for general visitors is £19.50, but there are discounted rates available for seniors (65+) at £15.50, and children under 16 at £11.40. Children under 7 can enter for free. It’s highly recommended to book tickets online in advance, with suggested visit times between 11:00 and 14:00.

Edinburgh Seafood Hotpot (Local Dinner): £30

Experience a true Scottish culinary delight with a Seafood Hotpot. This local dinner option provides a taste of Edinburgh’s freshest seafood, a specialty of the coastal city. Enjoy a cozy evening filled with delicious seafood dishes, perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in Edinburgh’s gastronomy.

Today, experience the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Glenfinnan Viaduct is an iconic railway bridge that rose to fame as the route for the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. The bridge spans the stunning Glenfinnan Valley and offers breathtaking views, especially during the summer when steam trains pass over it. Continue your journey to Fort Augustus, a village nestled at the southern tip of Loch Ness. Loch Ness is one of the most famous lakes in the world, known for its eerie legend of the Loch Ness Monster. You can take a boat tour on the loch to try to spot this mythical creature. On the way back, stop at Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest freshwater lake and the centerpiece of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. The area is known for its natural beauty, with rugged hills, tranquil waters, and more than 30 small islands scattered across the lake.

Next, head south to Gretna Green, a village famous for its centuries-old tradition of runaway marriages, where couples have been eloping since 1754. From there, travel to the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most visited national park in the UK, famous for its stunning landscapes of lakes, valleys, and mountains. The park is home to Lake Windermere, the largest lake in England, where you can enjoy a boat cruise or visit the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, a delightful exhibition dedicated to the author of the beloved Peter Rabbit stories. Later, journey to Manchester, a vibrant city known for its football culture and industrial history. It is home to Old Trafford, the iconic stadium of Manchester United, one of the most successful football clubs in the world.

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Visit Windermere by Cruise & Train + Reservation: £40

Discover the beauty of Windermere, one of England's most famous lakes in the Lake District. This optional tour combines a cruise on the lake with a train ride, giving you the best of both worlds. The picturesque views of rolling hills, serene waters, and charming villages make it a memorable experience. This tour costs £40 and includes both the boat cruise and the train ride, providing a leisurely exploration of the scenic beauty of the region.

On your final day, visit Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, the world’s greatest playwright. Explore Shakespeare’s Birthplace, a charming house where he was born and raised, and learn about his life and legacy. Afterward, take a shopping break at Bicester Village, an upscale outlet shopping center with discounts of up to 60% on designer brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Burberry. Finally, return to London for your overnight stay or onward journey.

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Shakespeare Birthplace Entrance Fee: £19.50

Visit the Shakespeare Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, where the legendary playwright William Shakespeare was born in 1564. The house has been preserved to reflect the 16th-century period and is a fascinating historical experience for anyone interested in literature and history. Entrance costs £19.50, with discounted tickets available for children under 15 (£9.75) and free entry for children under 3.

Oxford City Tour: £35

Oxford, home to the world-famous University of Oxford, is a city steeped in history and academic excellence. This optional tour takes you through the medieval streets of Oxford, visiting iconic university buildings, historic colleges, and picturesque locations such as the Bodleian Library and the Radcliffe Camera. Learn about the city’s intellectual legacy and the many famous alumni, including C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Stephen Hawking.