Your Itinerary
Welcome to England and its lively capital, London! One of the world’s most visited cities, London is rich in history and filled with antiquity. From its early days as the Roman settlement of Londinium to the bustling, multicultural metropolis it is today, this city has quite the story to tell. Over the centuries, it’s survived Viking invasions, the Great Fire of 1666, and even the Blitz — yet it’s always managed to rise, rebuild and reinvent itself with resilience and a touch of style.
You’ll notice how history peeks out from every corner, whether it’s an old pub tucked down a cobbled alley or a blue plaque marking where someone fascinating once lived. And the names! Soho, Kensington, Notting Hill — they’re as charming as they sound.
We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5.00pm.
You will meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink this evening.
London is a city where history and innovation dance together, and today, you’ll see this blend come to life as we explore its iconic landmarks. From medieval fortresses to modern marvels, each stop tells a fascinating story of power, culture, and stunning architecture.
We’ll pass by many of the famous buildings and monuments that make London so iconic, including the Big Ben, the Tower of London, and the stunning Tower Bridge. We’ll also pass by Trafalgar Square, where the lions stand proud, and Buckingham Palace, with a photo opportunity. We’ll enjoy a tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral, whose magnificent dome has graced the London skyline for over 300 years, filled with history from Winston Churchill to royal weddings.
This afternoon, enjoy time at your own pace. Perhaps you’ll step into the magical world of Madame Tussauds or explore the wonders of the Natural History Museum. Whether you wander down Oxford Street or take a river cruise along the Thames, London is yours to enjoy.
Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group welcome dinner.
Day 4 - London – Winchester – Exeter
We leave the buzz of London behind this morning and journey southwest through the rolling English countryside. Our first stop is the historic city of Winchester — once the ancient capital of England.
Rich in character, this timeless gem invites us to wander medieval streets and soak in centuries of stories. We’ll enjoy a guided tour of the city as we take in views of Winchester Castle, where tales of King Arthur and his legendary Round Table still capture the imagination. We’ll also step inside the breathtaking Winchester Cathedral, one of Europe’s largest, and the final resting place of beloved author Jane Austen.
After lunch at leisure, we journey on to the sparkling coast and the delightful town of Lyme Regis. Nicknamed the ‘Pearl of Dorset,’ this seaside gem captivates with its fossil-studded cliffs, winding lanes, and timeless harbour wall known as the Cobb.
Later this afternoon, we’ll make our way to Exeter, a historic cathedral city in the heart of Devon. Dating back to Roman times, Exeter offers a rich tapestry of heritage, beauty and warm West Country hospitality.
The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy.
Day 5 - Exeter – Cornwall
With the Devon sunshine on our backs, we’re off on one of England’s most scenic drives through the wild, rugged beauty of Dartmoor National Park. We’ll pass through the village of Princeton before making our way to Merrivale and Yelverton, soaking in the stunning, sweeping views along the way.
We’ll stop at Buckland Abbey, once home to the legendary Sir Francis Drake. Built in 1278, this historic house has a fascinating past, from its time as a monastery to its later role as Drake’s residence. We’ll explore the abbey and discover the adventurous life of the famous explorer — from his epic journey around the world to his key role in defeating the Spanish Armada. Afterwards, we’ll stop for a well-earned break at the Ox Yard Cafe, where you can relax with a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy some delicious refreshments.
Later this afternoon, we’ll arrive in Cornwall, a land famous for its rugged cliffs, stunning beaches, and picturesque seaside villages. Once we’ve checked into our hotel, the rest of the evening is yours to unwind, explore and soak in the charm of this beautiful region at your own pace.
Special Experience
Discover Europe’s largest garden restoration, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a horticultural wonderland.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan were unknown and unseen thirty years ago, lost to the brambles of time since the outbreak of WW1 and restored in the 1990s. Today, The Lost Gardens are regarded to be amongst the most popular in the UK.
Next, we’ll see St Michael’s Mount, an island off the coast of Cornwall, home to a tiny village and castle that rises out of the island.
Our last stop today is St Ives, famous for its surf beaches and art scene. We'll take a guided tour with our Tour Director, walking past the iconic Celtic Cross and St Nicholas Chapel.
Please Note: Today we will be travelling in a small minibus, perfectly suited for navigating the small villages dotting our route.
Day 7 - Cornwall – North Devon
This morning, we trade one postcard for another as we head north to the delightful fishing village of Port Isaac. Tucked into the cliffs, this picturesque spot is well known as the setting for the TV series ‘Doc Martin’ and the film ‘Fisherman’s Friends’. As the coach can’t quite squeeze into the village centre, we’ll enjoy a gentle stroll down into town, giving you the perfect chance to take in the sights at a leisurely pace.
After some free time and a relaxed lunch, we’ll head to the legendary Tintagel Castle, perched on the cliffs and wrapped in the myths of King Arthur. The views are spectacular, and if conditions allow, we might glimpse Merlin’s Cave below. The terrain can be steep and uneven, so we’ll take it easy.
Later this evening, we’ll settle into Barnstaple, North Devon’s largest town. A bustling market hub since Saxon times, it’s among the oldest boroughs in the UK. The evening is yours at leisure, consider a visit to the historic Pannier Market, trading local goods since the 11th century and still buzzing today.
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 8 - North Devon – Bath
A scenic drive awaits today as we journey through the wild, windswept landscapes of Exmoor. Our first stop is Lynton, affectionately known as ‘Little Switzerland of England’ for its dramatic, alpine-style views. We’ll visit the nearby Valley of the Rocks, where towering stone formations meet the sea, and if we’re lucky, we might spot wild goats perched along the cliffs.
We’ll then continue on through Exmoor’s rolling hills and ancient woodlands, making our way to the picturesque village of Dunster. We’ll have time to wander through its cobbled streets, check out the quaint Yarn Market, and maybe even get a glimpse of Dunster Castle up on the hill.
This afternoon, we’ll head to Avebury, home to one of the world’s largest prehistoric stone circles. Unlike its more famous cousin Stonehenge, Avebury’s stone circle is larger and older, and you can walk right through it. The stones stretch through the heart of the village, adding a sense of mystery to everyday life.
We’ll end our day in beautiful Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site recognised for its Roman baths, graceful Georgian terraces and rich literary history, Jane Austen herself once called this elegant city home.
Long before Bath became the fashionable Georgian city it is today, it was known as Aquae Sulis, an important Roman religious centre. Pilgrims travelled from all over Roman Britain to seek healing at the temple complex. Today, we’ll take a guided walking tour to discover the history and beauty of this stunning city.
We’ll stroll across the Pulteney Bridge, one of only four bridges in the world with shops lining both sides. With its graceful arches, the bridge spans the River Avon and often reminds visitors of Venice’s Rialto Bridge. From here, we’ll head to the Royal Crescent, a magnificent row of Georgian townhouses built in a sweeping crescent shape. It’s one of Bath’s most famous landmarks, designed to capture the light in the most flattering way, making it an architectural gem.
Next, we’ll explore the Roman’s Bath, the very heart of the city’s history. Built over 2,000 years ago, these ancient baths were once a hub of Roman life and still draw visitors from around the world. It’s from these baths that Bath got its name, and stepping inside is like stepping back in time.
The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. You might visit the Jane Austen Centre, step into the world of this beloved author, or simply enjoy a leisurely afternoon at one of Bath’s lovely cafés. For a treat, why not head to Landrace Bakery on Walcot Street and indulge in a delicious cardamom bun?
Day 10 - Bath – Cardiff – Llandeilo
This morning, we’ll make our way to Cardiff, the lively capital of Wales. As we cross the striking Severn Bridge, a majestic, suspended structure linking England and Wales, we’ll pause to take in the wide, sweeping river views. It’s the perfect moment to soak up the changing landscape, as the soft English countryside gives way to the wild beauty of the Welsh countryside.
Cardiff, though only officially named the capital in 1955, wears its rich history proudly. We’ll take in a panoramic tour of the city, passing by the stately City Hall, a shining example of Edwardian Baroque architecture, before catching sight of Cardiff Castle, where Roman ruins and medieval towers sit side-by-side like old friends with stories to tell. Down by the revitalized harbour, where coal once bustled through the old docks, we’ll glimpse a new era — cafés, galleries, and the iconic, shimmering façade of the Millennium Centre.
Afterwards, we’ll visit the fairytale forest retreat of Castell Coch, the ‘Red Castle.’ Tucked among lush, leafy hills, this 19th century marvel was the vision of a marquess with a flair for whimsy and grandeur. Inside, it’s all painted ceilings, winding turrets, and imaginative murals.
Then it’s onward to the scenic drive through Brecon Beacons National Park, a tapestry of rugged peaks and peaceful valleys, before we arrive in the colourful market town of Llandeilo.
Day 11 - Llandeilo – Liverpool
We cross back into England today, making our way to Liverpool. Located in the northwest of the country, Liverpool was an important seaport between the 18th and 20th centuries. It is perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of the legendary rock band, The Beatles.
Special Experience
Take a steam train on the Vale of Rheidol Railway from Aberystwyth to Devils Bridge, also known as Pontarfynach.
Legend has it that the original bridge was built by the Devil for a woman who lost her cow on the other side of the river. As payment the Devil would take the first soul to cross, so to avoid losing her soul she threw bread over the bridge for her dog to retrieve, leaving the Devil with only the soul of a dog.
We then venture through the idyllic Snowdonia National Park, to the town of Tal-y-cafn. Situated in the northwest region of Wales, Snowdonia National Park mesmerises with its awe-inspiring mountains, glacial formations, sparkling lakes, and majestic rocky summits. As we arrive in Tal-y-cafn, we will have the opportunity to explore the renowned Bodnant Gardens, a horticultural masterpiece that has been nurtured and expanded by five generations of the same family before being entrusted to the care of the National Trust in 1949. Spanning over 80 acres of rolling hillside, the Bodnant Gardens offer a serene sanctuary where nature's beauty is lovingly cultivated and displayed in harmony with the surrounding landscape.
Arriving in Liverpool, we check into our accommodation for the next couple of nights – the Beatles themed Hard Days Night Hotel. Each room in the hotel is individually decorated with exclusive artwork of the band and makes for a unique experience!
Liverpool’s rich history spans centuries, from its pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution to its musical legacy. It was home to the world’s first modern enclosed dock — an innovation that transformed global trade — and also played a key role in the transatlantic slave trade, a chapter the city reflects on today. Then came the 1960s, when Liverpool rose to global fame as the birthplace of the Beatles. Today, we’ll explore the musical magic that began right here.
Special Experience
Explore Liverpool's famous sites on a Beatles tour, including a visit to the iconic museum, The Beatles Story.
We’ll visit the schools and colleges where the Beatles found their rhythm, including Liverpool Art College and LIPA, where Paul McCartney once studied. We’ll also see the childhood homes of all four Beatles, and their early bandmate Stuart Sutcliffe. We’ll take a stroll down Penny Lane, visit the former home and school of their manager Brian Epstein, and stop by St. Peter’s Church Hall, where the Fab Four played one of their first gigs, and where you’ll spot Eleanor Rigby’s grave. We’ll also visit Strawberry Field, to see all the good word done at the Salvation Army Centre and wander Mathew Street to see the legendary Cavern Club.
After some free time for lunch, we’ll head into The Beatles Story Museum, where you’ll discover all the details of their rise to fame, from the early days to worldwide stardom.
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon to further explore Liverpool at leisure. You might enjoy a visit the iconic Beatles Statue, take in sweeping views from the Royal Liver Building’s 360° experience, or step into the British Music Experience, where interactive exhibits bring the story of Britain’s rich musical heritage to life.
Day 13 - Liverpool – York - Leeds
We leave the musical echoes of Liverpool behind and head to York, one of England’s most captivating historic cities. Founded by the Romans in the 1st century, York is beautifully preserved, with ancient city walls, timber-framed buildings, and winding cobbled streets that make it feel like stepping back in time.
Once we arrive, we’ll enjoy a relaxed walking tour through the city’s highlights. We’ll pass by Clifford’s Tower, once a mighty Norman stronghold for William the Conqueror. Then, we’ll wander through the famous Shambles, a crooked little street dating back to the 14th century that’s rumoured to have inspired Diagon Alley in ‘Harry Potter.’ We’ll also meander through the hidden Snickelways — York’s little alleys filled with character and history. Afterwards, we’ll have some free time to grab lunch. Fancy trying a classic Yorkshire pudding or a hearty pie? It’s the perfect chance to sample some local flavours.
Next, we’ll step inside the breathtaking York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe—its stained glass and soaring arches are simply spectacular.
In the afternoon we make our way to Leeds and check in our hotel where the evening free to enjoy at your own pace.
This morning, we’ll depart for Whitby, a coastal town located north of Yorkshire. Upon arrival, you will have ample free time to leisurely explore the town and its picturesque coastline at your own pace. As you stroll through the historic streets, you may like to think about how such a charming town could have served as the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula back in 1897.
Special Experience
Travel along the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, a heritage railway which runs through the North York Moors National Park to Pickering.
After our panoramic train journey our coach will bring us back to the hotel, where the evening is at leisure.
Day 15 - Leeds – Windermere - Glasgow
Today we say, ‘Hello Glasgow!’ as we cross the border into Scotland. While it isn’t the country’s capital, it is the biggest city and is home to more than 600,000 people. Famous for its Victorian and art nouveau architecture, you’ll also find a buzzing nightlife here.
Special Experience
Visit Wensleydale Creamery to taste the iconic cheese that was a favourite of famous clay animation characters Wallace and Gromit.
Next, we head to the Lake District where it’s time to set sail and enjoy a cruise on Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England. We'll cruise the calm waters and take in the expansive English countryside views, including mountain peaks and villages along the way. Disembarking in the town of Ambleside, you’ll have some free time for lunch.
Crossing the Anglo-Scottish border into Scotland, we stop at Gretna Green, thought to be the UK’s most popular wedding destination. In the 1700s many young people from England would elope here as different laws applied to those who wed in Scotland and the tradition is still alive today.
We proceed to Glasgow, where you can enjoy the evening at your own pace.
Good morning, Glasgow! This vibrant city is alive with creativity and steeped in rich history. From its role in the rise of punk rock in the 1970s to its current status as a UNESCO City of Music, Glasgow continues to pulse with a delightful mix of traditional Scottish folk and modern beats.
Today, we’ll set off on a walking tour to explore the city’s highlights. We’ll wander through the Merchant City district, once the heart of Glasgow’s bustling trade, and now a lively blend of grand architecture, chic boutiques, and cozy cafés. It’s where old-world charm meets modern flair.
We’ll also see George Square, Glasgow’s grand civic centre, surrounded by iconic buildings and statues of famous Scots like Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns. It’s a wonderful spot to pause and take in the city’s history. As we wander, we’ll also pass by Royal Exchange Square, home to the Gallery of Modern Art — an absolute must for art lovers.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You can dive into Glasgow’s culture at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, stroll through the West End, or indulge in some shopping along Buchanan Street.
Day 17 - Glasgow – Inverness
Inverness is the largest city in the Scottish Highlands, located on Scotland's northeast coast. An ancient cathedral city, it was built on the banks of River Ness, and is often bustling with tourists keen to spot the legendary monster in nearby Loch Ness.
Making our way through the Scottish countryside this morning, we'll pass through Trossachs National Park, home to bonny Loch Lomond. Enjoy some free time to explore Fort William after a quick photo stop in Scotland's most famous glen, Glencoe.
Special Experience
Have a wee dram of single malt scotch whisky and discover the production process at the Ben Nevis Distillery.
As we make our way to Inverness, we will travel along the edge of Loch Ness. Make sure you keep your eyes out for Nessy! Supposedly, she’s long and thin, green in colour with black humps, has a long tail and a snake like head.
Day 18 - Inverness – Edinburgh
This morning, we’ll journey through the beautiful Scottish countryside on our way to Culloden. Known for its rich history, Culloden is a place that deeply resonates with Scotland’s past. Here, we’ll visit the Culloden Battlefields, where the Jacobite Rising came to a tragic end in 1746. This decisive battle marked a turning point in Scottish history, and the site is filled with moving memorials to the brave souls who fought and fell that day. It’s a powerful experience that connects us to the very heart of Scotland’s story.
After soaking in the history of Culloden, we continue south through the stunning Cairngorms National Park, known for its rugged mountains, peaceful valleys and abundant wildlife. The beauty of this region will leave you in awe as we make our way to Edinburgh.
Once we arrive in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, we’ll take a brief panoramic tour to see the city’s famous landmarks before checking into our hotel for the evening.
Edinburgh is a city as captivating as it is beautiful. With dramatic peaks, sweeping sea views, and streets that seem to rise from the rocky landscape, there’s truly no place like it. Today, we’ll embark on a walking tour to uncover the magic hidden in every corner of this historic city.
We’ll explore the medieval Old Town and stroll along the famous Royal Mile, passing hidden closes, charming courtyards, and the striking St. Giles’ Cathedral, a true Gothic gem that’s stood tall since the 14th century. We’ll also pass the peaceful Princes Street Gardens and marvel at the towering Scott Monument, built in honour of beloved author Sir Walter Scott.
From here, we’ll make our way to Edinburgh Castle, perched proudly atop Castle Rock. As we explore inside, we’ll uncover the Crown Jewels and centuries of royal history, all while taking in sweeping views over the city.
Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 20 - Depart Edinburgh
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Day 21 - Arrive Australia
Day 21 - Arrive Australia
