British Landscapes

Feel the vibrant energy of England, hear the unique sounds of Scotland, and see the rolling countryside of Wales on a trip that combines dramatic history and an array of fascinating landscapes.

Arrive in Edinburgh, the historic capital of Scotland, where rocky hills tower in the distance and the shadows of history can be seen around every corner. Discover Scotland's capital and see how medieval crossroads blend seamlessly with a vibrant modern energy. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.

Today visit Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels. Your panoramic and walking tour of old and new Edinburgh combines Georgian architecture, writers and monuments, alleyways and hidden passages, and a thoroughly modern museum. Enjoy time to explore the city as you wish this afternoon and evening. Perhaps you will choose to join an optional night of Scottish food, song and dance.

Say goodbye to the rolling hills of Scotland while travelling south through the Borders Region, stopping at Jedburgh, a historic royal burgh dating back to the 17th century. Visit the archeological site of Vindolanda, an Ancient Roman fortress built along Hadrian’s Wall in the 2nd century to protect Roman Britain from the tribes of Scotland. Arrive in the medieval city of York, surrounded by historical city walls. This evening you may wish to join an optional tour to a Yorkshire vineyard and sample a selection of English wines over dinner.

Enjoy a leisurely morning to explore York at your own pace. Meander the labyrinth of quaint, narrow streets known as “snickelways” or maybe visit the city’s famous Minster. End the day in Chester, your home for the next two nights, where ancient walls enclose charming Tudor and Victorian houses. Discover the charms of the city with your local guide. Tonight, meet a local with many tales about life in Chester past and present.

Today, visit a royal town in Wales, where it’s your choice! Visit Caernarfon Castle to discover the history behind one of Edward I’s most imposing castles -OR- take a leisurely stroll around the town with your Tour Manager, seeking out local shops, cafes, and markets. Then take a scenic drive through the best of the Welsh landscape over the mountain pass to the quaint and picturesque village of Betws-y-Coed. This magical landscape holds a distinctly alpine feel and breathtaking natural beauty.

Step back in time on a journey through the English countryside to Stratford-upon-Avon – the Bard’s birthplace. After touring the childhood home of William Shakespeare, take time to explore this historic market town on your own. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for dinner.

Bid farewell to Stratford and travel to the charming university city of Oxford. Upon arrival, it’s your choice! Visit the Ashmolean Museum, opened in 1682 as Britain’s first public museum, with collections ranging from Egyptian mummies to contemporary art -OR- join an expert local guide for a walking tour, including one of the colleges used as a filming location for Harry Potter. Enjoy lunch on your own before continuing on to London, England’s storied capital city.

Take in the sites of London on a tour of the city’s quintessential sights. Begin with a walking tour of Westminster, where you see Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Continue to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of His Majesty The King, and make your way to Trafalgar Square, one of London’s most vibrant spaces in the heart of the city. This afternoon is yours to discover more of London independently and make memories to treasure. This evening, join your fellow travelers to toast the end of your journey through Britain’s scenic and storied landscapes.

Your journey through Britain comes to a close today.