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Great British Encounters 8D/7N

This short but comprehensive tour of Great Britain packs in all the major sites and includes Cambridge, York, Edinburgh, Loch Ness, Liverpool, Cardiff, Stonehenge, Bath and so much more.

Starting in the world-famous city of London we head north via the University town of Cambridge for a traditional punt on the River Cam, before taking in the architecture of York, including the famous York Minster. Continuing north via Edinburgh this action packed tour explores the scenic highlands of Scotland, including Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle and Whiskey tasting at Fort William.

Returning south we stop off in Liverpool for a taste of Beatles mania and continue on to Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of the most famous bard of all, Shakespeare.

Next stop is Wales and its capital Cardiff before we return to England and the quaint provincial town of Bath with its wonderful architecture and famous abbey. Finally we stop by for a visit to one of England’s most famous landmarks, the enigmatic standing stones at Stonehenge, before heading back to London.

Tour Highlights

  • Punting on the River Cam, Historic York,
  • Edinburgh, Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Whiskey tasting,
  • Liverpool, Birthplace of Shakespeare, Cardiff, Architecture of Bath, Stonehenge
Price from

$2,040.00

Check availability

Tour Information

Inclusions:

  • 6 Nights accommodation in twin rooms
  • Breakfast and dinners included as per itinerary
  • Public transport used during some sightseeing tours
  • Modern air-conditioned luxury motor-coach with reclining seats
  • Local taxes, baggage handling fees, hotel tips & service charges
  • Experienced tour leader & local guides
  • Sightseeing as described

Departures - Small-Group Adventure:

14 Apr, 2019 - 20 Apr, 2019 21 Apr, 2019 - 27 Apr, 2019 12 May, 2019 - 18 May, 2019 26 May, 2019 - 01 Jun, 2019 09 Jun, 2019 - 15 Jun, 2019 16 Jun, 2019 - 22 Jun, 2019

Itinerary

Day 1 : London to Cambridge & York

Depart London and drive to the ancient university city of Cambridge. Enjoy a fun punt along the river and savour the history and views of the town and colleges. Continue north York, a stunning walled city steeped in history and culture.

Day 2 : Hadrian's Wall to Jedburgh to Edinburgh

Prepare yourself for a day of history, scenic views and beautiful countryside with stops at Hadrian’s Wall, the town of Jedburgh famed for its royal and historic warfare links and impressive abbey, and the Scottish border. Arriving in Edinburgh, complete the day with a guided evening city walk.

Day 3 : Edinburgh, free time

Edinburgh is a stunning city, steeped in history, beautiful architecture, lively pubs and loads of shopping. Walk the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile down to the Grass Market, or check out the Botanical Gardens or Edinburgh Castle. The National Gallery of Scotland, Edinburgh Zoo, the National War Museum of Scotland and Holyroodhouse Palace provide other options.

Day 4 : Edinburgh to Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle

Leaving Edinburgh, you can see the National Wallace Monument, commemorating the real story of ‘Braveheart’. Next, prepare to be stunned by the beautiful Scottish highland scenery on a long but rewarding scenic drive. There is free time to stretch your legs and get some Highland fresh air, and to join the optional 1-hour cruise at Loch Ness (look out for the monster!) or see the ruins of Urquhart Castle. The day ends with a whiskey tasting at one of Scotland’s oldest whiskey distilleries in Fort William, before overnighting at a classic Scottish Highland hotel.

Day 5 : Highlands - Loch Lomond - Liverpool

Our scenic Highlands tour continues, passing Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, and Glencoe – a spectacular glen with a fascinating yet tragic historical story. Once back in England, we stop in Keswick in the Lake District, before finishing in Liverpool – a city known for its maritime history, musical heritage, two premier league football teams and of course the Beatles. There are great restaurants, bars and clubs to try this evening, including the Cavern Club, where the Beatles made their name.

Day 6 : Liverpool to Stratford upon Avon to Wales

Start with a ‘Magical Mystery Coach Tour’ of Liverpool, taking in locations significant to the Beatles, including the Albert Dock, Anfield Football Stadium and Penny Lane. Next stop is Stratford-Upon-Avon – the birthplace of William Shakespeare, where you can explore the town and visit major Shakespearean attractions. The day finishes in the capital of Wales, Cardiff, with a short orientation tour of the centre and free evening.

Day 7 : Wales to Bath to Stonehenge to London

Leaving Wales and the sights of Caerphilly, we enjoy a guided walking & coach tour of Bath – a UNESCO World Heritage site with some of the finest architectural sights in Europe. Then continue to Stonehenge, an ancient and awe-inspiring structure, which has mystified scientists, tourists and historians for centuries. Finally we return to London where extra nights are available to explore this amazing city.