Day 1 : London & Medieval York
At 07:15, meet your Travel Director at the trip hotel in London and depart for Stratford-upon-Avon. Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare and admire the architecture of this pretty town nestled beside the River Avon. Head north to historic York and walk inside the city walls see to the topsy-turvy Shambles, a picturesque street with warped overhanging timber-framed houses. Admire the glorious York Minster, which is the largest medieval church in northern Europe. In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner and the chance to get to know your fellow travellers.
Accommodation : Hilton York.
Day 2 : Over the Border to Edinburgh
Pass the ruined Jedburgh Abbey, en route to Edinburgh. Explore Edinburgh with Insight Choice. Choose to join a walking tour with a Local Expert to explore Edinburgh's top sights. Alternatively, join a panoramic driving tour to see the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle an the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of His Majesty the King.In the evening, select departures will attend The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo - a colourful mix of pipes and drums, dance and display, set against the floodlit backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Accommodation : Apex Waterloo Place Hotel, Edinburgh.
Day 3 : The Lake District and Liverpool
Journey via Gretna Green, where many eloping English couples have married, and join in an amusing ceremony. Continue to the beautiful English Lake District where there is time at leisure to explore on your own. Why not choose the Optional Excursion of a cruise on Windermere and steam train ride? There really is no better way to admire the incredible scenery of rugged mountain and secluded bays. Continue to lively Liverpool, home of The Beatles, for an orientation.
Accommodation : Hard Days Night Hotel, Liverpool.
Day 4 : Roman Chester and Cardiff
Visit the former Roman fortress town of Chester. Walk along part of the city walls, see the Eastgate Clock, Chester Cathedral, remains of the Roman Amphitheatre and the unique black and white shopping arcades known as the ‘Rows.’ After time to explore, cross into Wales and head for the capital Cardiff for an orientation of the port city, on the River Taff. This evening indulge in a dinner of local ingredients, produced sustainably.
Accommodation : Clayton Hotel, Cardiff.
Day 5 : Bath, Stonehenge and London
Cross the Severn Bridge back into England and travel to the City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built above one of Britain's thermal, mineral springs. Enjoy a visit to its incredibly well-preserved Roman Baths.Travel across Salisbury Plain to visit the pre-historic and mysterious Stonehenge, where the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths are reputed to be up to 5,000 years old. Your journey concludes upon arrival at the trip hotel in London.