Get the Royal Treatment on Best of Britain with Insight Vacations
Price: $4,850CAD Per Person
(Price per person based on double occupancy, based on travel dates indicated.)
Offer: Save 15%
Departure Date: August 22, 2023
Return Date: September 1, 2023
Photo: Dartmoor National Park
See the very best of Britain on this 11-day guided tour that traverses Scotland, Wales and England. At Edinburgh Castle, sit on the Stone of Destiny, the sandstone seat upon which dozens of Scottish monarchs were crowned. Survey the English Lake District, where mountainous peaks give way to expansive lakes and scenery so picturesque it inspired the words of William Wordsworth. Plus, discover the mystery of Stonehenge, where towering prehistoric stones cast shadows on emerald green fields and sail across Plymouth harbor, with views of the city's royal citadel. Finally, indulge in a feast at a historic mill in the English countryside, enjoying organic seasonal produce freshly picked from the fields just outside.
Photo: Hadrians Wall
2 make travel matter ® experience
- Visit the incredibly well-preserved Roman Baths
- Enjoy a Locally Sourced Farm-to-Table Meal at Heskyn Mill Farm in Saltash
Unique Insight Experiences
- Join a local expert for a walk and learn about the history of Dartmoor National Park
- Stylish Hand-Picked Hotels
- Top Rated Highlights
- Local Experts
- Authentic Dining Experiences
- 10 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners with Wine
- Custom Coach with 2x the legroom
- Travel Director
- Smaller Group Options Available
- Private/Personalized Tours Available
Photo: Map of the Best of Britain itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to London
Welcome to London. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free to enjoy a city that is famous for its pomp and pageantry. Perhaps relax with a walk along the Serpentine in Hyde Park or window shop in the elegant boutiques of Knightsbridge? Alternatively, you may want to stroll along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.
Day 2: London and Medieval York
At 07:30, meet your Travel Director to begin your journey north to Stratford-upon-Avon, with its wealth of black-and-white, timber-framed houses. Discover how William Shakespeare and his incredible works continue to shape society today when you visit his birthplace, full of interesting memorabilia and artifacts relating to his life. Continue to historic York to stroll the narrow lanes including the Shambles and view York Minster, England's largest medieval cathedral. Later, join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner and the opportunity to mingle over a pleasant evening.
Day 3: Hadrian's Wall to Edinburgh
See a part of Hadrian's Wall, once spanning 80 miles from coast to coast, marking the northern frontier of the mighty Roman Empire. Continue past Jedburgh Abbey en route to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, for your two-night stay in this stunning city.
Day 4: Edinburgh Sightseeing
In the morning join a Local Expert to explore the Royal Mile. You will see the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of His Majesty the King. Continue past the Sir Walter Scott Monument to the 18th-century New Town with its neoclassical Adam facades. Visit Edinburgh Castle, home of the Honours of Scotland, to view Mons Meg, and see the Stone of Destiny. The afternoon is for leisure. In the evening, select departures will attend the spectacular Military Tattoo - a colorful mix of pipes and drums, dance and display, set against the floodlit backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Photo: Edinburgh Castle
Day 5: Loch Lomond to Glasgow
Drive via historic Bannockburn and Stirling and enjoy the scenery of the Trossachs. Continue along the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, before arriving in Glasgow for an orientation of the city with your Travel Director. See the grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.
Day 6: The Glorious Lake District
Travel via Gretna Green to the English Lake District, with scenery so beautiful it inspired a host of writers. Learn about the life of William Wordsworth and visit his grave in the picturesque, stone-built village of Grasmere.
Day 7: The Welsh Marches and Cardi
Stop in ancient Ludlow, one of England’s most attractive towns, dominated by its castle, rich in tragic royal history. Why not spend time exploring the traditional open-air market, admiring the local crafts, and perhaps sampling the produce? Afterward, cross into southern Wales and head for the capital of Cardi for an orientation of the port city, upon the River Taff. See Cardiff Castle and the impressive Principality Stadium.
Day 8: Georgian Bath and Devon
Cross the Severn Bridge back into England and drive to the Georgian City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, which serves as a hub of culture and education for the local population. Continue to Glastonbury, steeped in legend and reputed to be the final resting place of King Arthur and the Holy Grail. Continue on to your hotel in the heart of Plymouth.
Day 9: Dartmoor National Park
Explore Dartmoor with Insight Choice. Choose to join a scenic exploration of Dartmoor National Park. Spend time reconnecting with nature amidst the stunning landscape of towering granite tors, open moorland, beautiful rivers, and lush, wooded valleys. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing cruise of Plymouth Harbour and see the Mayflower Steps, Barbican, Royal Citadel, and Plymouth Hoe. Later this evening, savor an unforgettable Celebration Dinner at Heskyn Mill during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Join your Travel Director and newfound friends for the ultimate Farm-to-Table dining experience. Enjoy a mouth-watering meal prepared from organic seasonal produce, freshly picked from the surrounding fields, and served with a glass of wine.
Photo: Plymouth Harbour
Day 10: Stonehenge and London
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. Return to London for a final evening at leisure.
Day 11: Travel Ady