England, Scotland & Wales - 14 Days
14 Days
Edinburgh
London
*****
Tauck
Pageantry and poetry are forever intertwined in all that is Great Britain... timeless traditions have been a hallmark of the cultural landscapes of England, Scotland and Wales for millennia – and on this journey, you are part of the story.
Explore the best that the British Isles have to offer: Scottish castles; tastings of regional food and drink; Stratford-upon-Avon & Oxford; lunch at The Pump Room in Bath's Roman-era baths complex; 3 nights at London's stylish The Savoy and a choice of live theatre performances... just a few of the fabulous experiences you'll enjoy when you explore the British Isles. Discover royal history & architectural treasures in Edinburgh, Stirling, Caernarfon, Blenheim & Hampton Court... literary history and learned traditions in Chester, Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon... and multiple-night stays in each destination. On select small group departures, specially priced, you'll enjoy an exclusive farewell evening presentation in London by Carolyn Robb, co-founder of The Royal Touch and former Executive Chef to the royal household of TRH Prince Charles and Princess Diana
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Edinburgh
A transfer from Edinburgh Airport to the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, is included. Your journey starts with a guided visit to Stirling Castle, where memories of the historic struggle between the Scots and the English for control of the kingdom live on. Inside, you'll find elaborately restored colour and craftsmanship, reflecting the importance of the arts to its Renaissance-era royal occupants. Join us for a welcome reception and dinner tonight.
Day 2: Private visit to Holyroodhouse
A sightseeing tour of historic Edinburgh with a local guide is the perfect place to begin any Scotland and England travel; enjoy an introductory tour to this city of cobbled streets, Georgian architecture and trendy lifestyles. Your tour includes a private visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the King's official residence in Scotland (if he is not in residence), and a tour of famed Edinburgh Castle, built into rugged rock above the city skyline. The remainder of your day is free; select August departure dates will attend an outdoor evening performance of the annual Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Day 3: Travel to England's Lake District
Visit Hadrian's Wall this morning en route to England's Lake District and stop for lunch in a manor house. Living sculpture inspires the imagination today at Levens Hall, a manor house on the banks of the River Kent located at the gateway to the Lake District National Park. Fine furnishings and paintings adorn this stately home, a family residence throughout its history and one of the best preserved Elizabethan interiors in the UK. Best known for its gardens, Levens Hall is surrounded by an orchard, hedges, a pond, a willow maze, rose and herb gardens, and thousands of flowers – plus the most extensive topiary garden in the world. Over 100 sculpted pieces, some several hundred years old, date back to their original planting in the 1690s, when this Dutch-style garden was all the rage (closed on Saturdays; alternate property is visited). Continue on to Swan Hotel & Spa, where the remainder of the day is free for you to spend as you please in the hotel's cozy atmosphere.
Day 4: A day in the Lake District
Cumbria is England's northwestern-most county – a place of peaceful natural beauty. Sparsely populated, it is best known as the home of England's Lake District and many a charming town and village; enjoy lunch in a grand manor house surrounded by gracious gardens. Travelling on through landscapes of woods, hills and tranquil fields, you'll have time for a brief stop in the village of Grasmere. As you please, enjoy the sights of this pretty village of pubs, cafes and the churchyard where England's poet laureate, William Wordsworth, was laid to rest. Or visit tiny Wordsworth Grasmere, where Wordsworth wrote some of his most famous poems. Mid-afternoon, take a cruise on lovely Lake Windermere; if you wish, travel aboard a steam train for the return to your hotel and time as you please; your hotel is known for a cozy atmosphere along with its unique style of decor.
Day 5: Walled city of Chester and on to Wales
Huge, strong and first built by the Romans, discover the power of walls built to keep ancient invaders out on a visit to the small city of Chester, England. Strategically close to Wales and the Irish Sea, Chester is one of England's best preserved walled cities. The town is nearly completely encircled by broad walls which still offer grand views from atop. Head to Colwyn Bay, a seaside resort town on the north coast of Wales where you'll have time to get settled in at your hotel and take in the idyllic views. Enjoy a Welsh-themed dinner at the hotel this evening.
Day 6: Mighty Caernarfon & medieval Conwy
Mighty Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the setting for the investiture of Prince Charles as Prince of Wales in 1969, sets a remarkable scale this morning. Constructed to endure, the palace was begun circa 1283 by Edward I as a symbol of English power over the Welsh. Enjoy a privately guided tour of the castle and then time for lunch on your own in the adjacent town. En route back to your hotel, you may choose to stop to explore the walled city of Conwy, an earlier stronghold of Edward I, on your own. Or return to the hotel for relaxation and spectacular views. Enjoy dinner at your hotel this evening, where optional outdoor dining includes a view of Conwy Castle and the beauty of the bay.
Day 7: Shakespeare's Stratford & the spires of Oxford
In the village of Shottery, you'll visit the restored, timber-framed farmhouse and childhood home of Anne Hathaway, wife of William Shakespeare. Back in the Bard's day, it was known as Newlands Farm and had more than 90 acres of attached land; today it's a museum surrounded by gardens. From here, it's a short distance to Stratford-upon-Avon, where Shakespeare was born and raised. You'll visit his birthplace and have time to browse exhibits that tell the story of how his name came to be known around the world, as well as check out the surrounding town at leisure; Stratford-upon-Avon's favourite son is buried in the town's Holy Trinity Church. Late afternoon, it's off to the bookish world of Oxford, one of the world's most famous university towns. A guided orientation walk introduces its cobbled streets, guarded quadrangles, celebrated libraries and archaic traditions of learning. Continue to Oxford, where you'll have a guided orientation walk followed by the remainder of the day spent as you please.
Day 8: Blenheim Palace and Oxford
Today begins with a presentation by Carolyn Robb, the former personal executive chef to Princess Diana and King Charles, sharing stories (and recipes). Her travels with the Royal Family took her to many far flung and intriguing locations, and she is the author of several books including "The Royal Touch: Simply Stunning Home Cooking from a Royal Chef." Next, explore a world of Baroque architecture at Winston Churchill's birthplace, Blenheim Palace and Park. The 18th-century palace was built as a celebration of the English victory over Louis XIV's French troops at the Battle of Blenheim. Since the early 1700s, it's been a home to 11 Dukes of Marlborough (Churchill was the grandson of the seventh). Your private guide will share the history and beauty of the palace and its extensive grounds. Spend some time in Oxford exploring as you please, returning to Oxford early afternoon. Tonight, you'll attend a special hosted dinner at Oxford University.
Day 9: Ancient savvy at Stonehenge & Bath
At Stonehenge, this morning's self-guided walk around the famous ring of stone (bluestones from Wales and sarsens thought to be from the Avon River, some weighing as much as 50 tons) shares the mystery of its origins. Purposefully put into place some 5,000 years ago, Stonehenge was a massive undertaking requiring the labour of thousands. Bath, one of Britain's most beautiful cities, is your next destination. Arrive for lunch at the stylish Pump Room Restaurant, set within the city's ancient Roman Baths complex. Founded upon natural hot springs, the baths were built for bathing and socialising around 70 AD; they are among the world's best preserved – as you'll see on your included tour. Afterward, check in to your tastefully restored hotel located near Bath city center. Dinner this evening is your choice from a selection of restaurants.
Day 10: Georgian Bath: early urban elegance
Founded by the Romans as a thermal spa and developed more than a thousand years later into a lavish resort by the 18th-century British aristocracy, Bath today reigns as a magnificent Georgian townscape crafted from native limestone. Architecturally, it ranks among Britain's finest cities and enjoys UNESCO World Heritage status. You'll learn why on a city tour with a local guide that takes in the 18th-century terraced houses known as the Royal Crescent and the Circus, distinctive elements of British urban planning that were later incorporated in the city of London. View the elegant Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey, where the first king of England was crowned. The remainder of the day is free to enjoy the city of Bath as you choose.
Day 11: Hampton Court Palace and on to London
On a morning's drive toward London, stop for a visit to Hampton Court Palace, set in London's borough of Richmond upon Thames. Grand in every way, during the 16th century Hampton Court Palace first caught the eye of King Henry VIII... and a legacy of monarchs in ensuing centuries contributed to the palace's rich history – and amazing artworks. Arrive in London mid-afternoon for an introductory sightseeing tour featuring some of the British capital's most iconic sights, including Big Ben, the famed clock face and bell atop Parliament's Elizabeth Tower; Buckingham Palace, housing the offices of those who manage the Queen's affairs; Hyde Park, one of the city's Royal Parks and home to the Memorial to Diana, Princess of Wales; and historic St. Paul's Cathedral, the masterpiece of the great British architect Sir Christopher Wren. Check in for a three-night stay at your iconic hotel, The Savoy. The remainder of the day and evening are free to spend in London as you please.
Day 12: Westminster Abbey and West End theatre
Visit Westminster Abbey this morning on a guided tour; the final resting place of 17 kings and queens, this esteemed city landmark is the site of some of England's most famous stories. The afternoon is free for you to explore London's key sights as you wish before joining us for dinner at The Savoy followed by your choice from a selection of theatre performances in the West End theatre district.
Day 13: A day in London
You have an opportunity to join us today for a walking tour of key London sites; following the tour, your afternoon is free to pursue what interests you most in London. Join us the evening for a farewell reception and dinner at the hotel. Note: Select small group departures, specially priced, include an exclusive presentation by Carolyn Robb, former Executive Chef to the royal household of HRH Prince Charles and Princess Diana.
Day 14: Journey Home
A transfer is included to London's Heathrow Airport or Gatwick Airport. Fly home anytime; please allow a minimum of three hours for flight check-in. You can, of course, extend your stay.
Includes
- 13 nights in handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels
- Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
- Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour
Choose a Group Size / Service or Room Level
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can we book flights through you ?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines. When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL Bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind. You are of course are welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can I add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
Can i book twin beds or triple and quad rooms
Yes, We have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
Tauck offer up to 3 different group sizes on some tours.
Classic group departures have an average of 35 - 44 Guests.
For small group departures these average 24 guest and then some tours also offer smaller group departures which average around 15 guests.
How much walking with be on this tour?
With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.
Leisurely: Tours will typically have minimal to 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.
Do the coaches have on-board Wi-Fi and bathroom facilities
Tauck coaches are modern, well-appointed buses with comfortable seating, large windows for viewing, and on-board amenities like Wi-Fi and bathrooms.
While the specific coach model may vary by tour and region, guests can expect an upgrade from standard coaches, reflecting Tauck's commitment to luxury and an elevated travel experience.
The coaches are equipped to provide a high level of comfort and convenience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenery during their travels.
The coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure has reached the minimum number of guests for the tour to operate or will depart no matter how many people are booked to travel.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure has to be withdrawn that you are booked on due to a unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.