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Insight Vacations
OFFER ID 1517222
Best Of Britain - Small Group
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.
Dining Summary
10 nights from $4,850 per person
Insight Vacations: Best of Britain - Small Group
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.
Accommodations: Thistle Marble Arch, London
Day 2 - London and Medieval York
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 artefacts 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 dinner and the opportunity to mingle over a pleasant evening.
Accommodations: Hilton, York
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3 - Hadrian's Wall to Edinburgh
See a part of Hadrian's Wall, an impressive Roman construction that once spanned 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. This evening, perhaps partake in a traditional optional dinner at Ghillie Dhu.
Accommodations: Malmaison, Edinburgh
Meals: Breakfast
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. The afternoon is at 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.
Accommodations: Edinburgh Marriott Holyrood
Meals: Breakfast
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.
Accommodations: Radisson Blu, Glasgow
Meals: Breakfast
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.
Accommodations: Castle Green, Kendal
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7 - The Welsh Marches and Cardiff
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? Afterwards, cross into southern Wales and head for the capital of Cardiff for an orientation of the port city, upon the River Taff. See Cardiff Castle and the impressive Principality Stadium.
Accommodations: Clayton, Cardiff
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 - Georgian Bath and Devon
Cross the Severn Bridge back into England and drive to the golden Georgian City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, which serve 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. View the ruined monastery before continuing to your hotel in the heart of Plymouth.
Accommodations: Leonardo, Plymouth
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9 - Dartmoor National Park Relaxed Start
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 Harbor and see the Mayflower Steps, Barbican, Royal Citadel and Plymouth Hoe. Later this evening, savor an unforgettable 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, served with a glass of wine.
Accommodations: Leonardo, Plymouth
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10 - Stonehenge and London
Travel across Salisbury Plain to visit the pre-historic and mysterious Stonehenge, where the strange and awe-inspiring megaliths are reputed to be up to 5,000 years old. Explore this fascinating site and learn about its historic and modern interpretations before returning to London for a final evening at leisure.
Accommodations: Thistle Marble Arch, London
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11 - Homeward Bound
Bid farewell to England and Wales as your journey ends this morning.
Meals: Breakfast
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
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