This eight-day vacation offers the perfect sampling of London, the English countryside, Edinburgh and the Scottish Lowlands. Sightseeing with a London guide includes all the famous landmarks and a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral. Depart London to see some of England’s highlights including the university city of Cambridge, beautiful Belvoir Castle and the medieval city of York. In Scotland, enjoy visits to Sir Walter Scott’s Abbotsford House; Edinburgh and its mighty castle; and Gretna Green, where the blacksmith used to wed runaway couples. Then journey through the tranquil Lake District and visit the Wedgwood china factory before stopping at Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon to explore the bard’s birthplace. Top off your exciting vacation with a stay in London, and perhaps an evening cruise on the River Thames. So much included in only eight days!                                        

Day 1 - Overnight flight to London

Day 2 -  London

Welcome to London! Spend time relaxing after check-in or take a leisurely stroll and get a feel for this vibrant, fascinating city!

Day 3 - London - Stonehenge - Salisbury - Exeter

This morning visit the ancient, mysterious Stonehenge, site of prehistoric pagan worship. Then travel to Salisbury and visit Salisbury Cathedral to see the Magna Carta which was signed in 1215 by King John and the barons of Medieval England. 2015 marks the 800th anniversary of the founding of this important document. Later, enjoy a Welcome Reception in a traditional English pub before arriving at your hotel.

Day 4 - Exeter - Plymouth - Polperro - Bideford

Enjoy an orientation of Plymouth to see the Hoe and Mayflower Steps where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail. Why not take an optional cruise around famous Plymouth harbour before arriving in Polperro, a picturesque fishing village with its old cottages and narrow streets. This evening relax in the ancient seaport of Bideford. Dine tonight at your hotel.

Day 5 - Bideford - Bath - Stratford Upon Avon 

Visit the world famous Roman Baths, a magnificent temple built around Britain's only hot springs. After a scenic drive through the Cotswold countryside, enjoy a visit to Shakespeare's birthplace and Visitor Centre and see Anne Hathaway's cottage.

Day 6 - Stratford Upon Avon - Chester - Liverpool

See the ancient city walls, famous Tudor ‘Rows' and fascinating Roman ruins in Chester on your orientation walk of the town. Enjoy a Cultural Insight into the life of the local Town Crier – an esteemed position which dates back to medieval times. Later arrive in the exciting and friendly city of Liverpool.

Day 7 - Liverpool - York - Harrogate

Travel across the scenic landscape of the Pennines with views of rolling hills and moorland. Arrive in York and see the famous Minster and walk along the 'Shambles'. Enjoy a memorable Be My Guest dining experience before relaxing at your hotel in the spa town of Harrogate.

Day 8 - Harrogate - Cambridge - London (2 Nights)

See the magnificent architecture of King's College Chapel in the prestigious university city of Cambridge. Enjoy free time for lunch and a walk to the River Cam to see the famous Cambridge ‘backs'. Arrive in London in the early evening.

Day 9 - London Sightseeing & free time

See the famous sights of London including Buckingham Palce and Big Ben during your included half day sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist. Afterwards there will be free time for shopping or exploring on your own.

Day 10 - London - return home

Say goodbye to your companions as you leave London and return home with many special memories of your vacation. 

Sightseeing Highlights:

•   Orientations of Plymouth, Bath, Chester, Liverpool, York and Cambridge
•   See the Mayflower Steps where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail
•   View Tintagel Castle in Cornwall, Anne Hathaway's thatched cottage, York Minster and Kings 
       College Cambridge
• Visit the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge, Salisbury Cathedral and the Magna Carta, 
      picturesque Polperro, the ancient seaport of Bideford, the Roman Baths in Bath and 
      Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon
•   City tour of London.

Dining:

8 full breakfast
2 Dinner (Including Welcome Reception & three course dinner)
1 Lunch