Enchanting Eastern England 2025

Enchanting Eastern England 2025

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Enchanting Eastern England 2025

10 Days Starting in Edinburgh and ending in London

Visiting: Scotland, England, United Kingdom

Tour operator:

Back-Roads Touring

Tour code:

BHEEL5

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

Tour Overview

World-famous university cities meet hideaway villages on this enchanting tour of Eastern England. Travelling across the stunning North York Moors and through the Peak District National Park, we’ll follow in the footsteps of Vikings, Romans and royalty – delving deeper into each destination’s fascinating history as we go.

Highlights

  • Delight in a traditional punting experience along the 'Backs' of Cambridge University

  • Admire the rooms of Alnwick Castle featured in Downton Abbey

  • Visit the medieval city of York and explore the Shambles

  • Tour the Captain Cook Museum and Whitby Abbey in Whitby

  • Explore the historic Lincoln Castle, home to an original 1215 Magna Carta

  • Stroll around Chatsworth House, inspiration for Jane Austen's Pemberley in Pride and Prejudice

  • Delight in a traditional punting experience along the ‘Backs’ of Cambridge University

  • Call in at Sandringham Estate, private retreat of The Royal Family

  • Experience a unique behind-the-scenes tour at Newmarket National Stud

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Edinburgh (Scotland)

Accommodation: Malmaison Edinburgh (or similar)

Meals Included: Dinner

The historic Scottish city of Edinburgh is where we'll meet ahead of our incredible journey into Eastern England. Get to know your expert Tour Leader and travel companions better over tonight's delicious welcome meal.

Day 2: Edinburgh – Alnwick – Durham – North York Moors (England)

Accommodation: Gisborough Hall Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, we'll cross over into England to begin our tour of the fascinating and scenic eastern region of this enchanting country. Our first stop? Alnwick Castle - the majestic home of the Duke of Northumberland. Here, we'll admire some of the rooms that took a starring role in Downton Abbey and enjoy some free time to wander the serene gardens. Then, we'll move onto Durham, where we'll step inside the Cathedral: a magnificent Norman-style monument now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following the visit, we drive to North York Moors where tonight, we'll come together for an included group dinner.

Day 3: North York Moors – Whitby – North York Moors

Accommodation: Gisborough Hall Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning our road will carry us to the traditional seaside resort of Whitby - where a guided tour of the fascinating Captain Cook Museum awaits us. After, we'll visit Whitby Abbey, a 7th century Christian monastery that later became a Benedictine abbey. The abbey church claims its place overlooking the North Sea on the East Cliff. Tonight, we'll enjoy a delicious included dinner at our accommodation in the charming North York Moors district.

Day 4: North York Moors – York – Peak District

Accommodation: Buxton Crescent Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We’ll rewind back to the Middle Ages this morning with a visit to the delightful medieval city of York. Here we’ll seek out the mystery-filled narrow streets (known as ‘Snickelways’) and timber-framed buildings of the famed Shambles – where there are plenty of photo opportunities to be claimed! Enjoy some free time to soak up the city’s splendour and settle in for a spot of lunch at a cosy pub or local bistro. Finally, we’ll continue to our accommodation in Buxton in the breathtaking Peak District – where the evening will be yours to enjoy as you please.

Day 5: Peak District – Chatsworth House – Peak District

Accommodation: Buxton Crescent Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, we’ll start with a visit to Eyam, where we’ll learn the tragic story of the villagers who fell victim to the plague in the 1600s. Then, it's time to stretch our legs on a stroll around Chatsworth House, a grand stately home that is said to have inspired Jane Austen with its impressive architecture. In fact, Chatsworth featured in Pride and Prejudice as Pemberley, the home of Mr Darcy. We’ll enjoy an audio tour of the lavish apartments and some free time to wander the exquisite gardens – before returning to the Peak District for an afternoon spent exploring at your leisure.

Day 6: Peak District – Lincoln

Accommodation: The White Hart Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we’ll bid farewell to the picturesque Peak District as we journey onwards to the historic city of Lincoln. When we arrive, we’ll visit Lincoln Castle: the formidable home to an original 1215 Magna Carta. This evening is ours to spend exploring Lincoln’s charming cobbled streets for some local fare or relaxing at our hand-picked accommodation.

Day 7: Lincoln

Accommodation: The White Hart Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning will see us touring the spectacular Lincoln Cathedral – one of the best examples of medieval architecture in England. After that, the afternoon will be yours to seek out a quaint tea room for lunch, stroll the array of vintage boutiques and continue your discovery of the city’s rich history. For dinner tonight, choose from one of the many cosy pubs in the city’s old centre for a hearty English meal.

Day 8: Lincoln – Sandringham Estate – Cambridge

Accommodation: Clayton Hotel Cambridge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We've a date with royalty today: Sandringham House is our first stop. The private residence of King Charles III, Sandringham is a magnificent stately home with picturesque gardens - and even a museum. After our insightful visit we'll move on to Cambridge: an iconic city filled with history and tradition. This evening, why not relax in one of its centuries-old pubs and soak up the old-world atmosphere.

Day 9: Cambridge

Accommodation: Clayton Hotel Cambridge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It’s time to take to the water! This morning we’ll enjoy an iconic punting experience along the ‘Backs’ of Cambridge University. Back on dry land, we’ll embark on a guided walking tour with a local – spotting world-famous buildings such as The Wren Library and the Bridge of Sighs. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city further. Step inside colleges and chapels, museums and galleries – or simply indulge in a little retail therapy. Later, we’ll look back on our magnificent journey and clink glasses over tonight’s farewell dinner.

Day 10: Cambridge – Newmarket – London

Meals Included: Breakfast

There's time for one more behind-the-scenes tour today: prepare to delve into England's sporting heritage at Newmarket National Stud. On a guided tour of this working Thoroughbred stud farm, we'll gain a unique insight into Thoroughbred breeding and may have the opportunity to view some of the Stud's robust stallions in the paddocks. After that, we'll make tracks to London - where we'll say our final goodbyes.

What's Included

  • Meals
    9 breakfasts, 5 dinner

  • Transport

    Premium mini-coach transportation

  • Guide

    Experienced Tour Leader and Driver

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with premium mini-coach transportation, ensuring a comfortable and scenic journey through Eastern England.

Accommodation

Stay in charming accommodations such as Malmaison Edinburgh, Gisborough Hall Hotel, Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa, The Lincoln Hotel, and Clayton Hotel Cambridge, offering comfort and local charm throughout your journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides premium mini-coach transportation.

  • Who will be guiding the tour?

    An experienced Tour Leader and Driver will be guiding the tour.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    The tour includes stays at various hotels such as Malmaison Edinburgh, Gisborough Hall Hotel, Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa, The Lincoln Hotel, and Clayton Hotel Cambridge, or similar accommodations.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes several meals such as welcome dinners, group dinners, and farewell dinners.

  • What are some of the key highlights of the tour?

    Key highlights include visiting Sandringham Estate, a behind-the-scenes tour at Newmarket National Stud, and a traditional punting experience along the 'Backs' of Cambridge University.

  • What activities are planned for the visit to Whitby?

    In Whitby, the tour includes a guided visit to the Captain Cook Museum and a visit to Whitby Abbey.

  • What can I expect during the visit to York?

    In York, you will explore the medieval city, including the narrow streets known as 'Snickelways' and the timber-framed buildings of the Shambles. You will also have free time to enjoy lunch and explore the city.

  • What will we do at Chatsworth House?

    At Chatsworth House, you will have an audio tour of the lavish apartments and free time to wander the exquisite gardens.

  • What is planned for the visit to Lincoln?

    In Lincoln, you will visit Lincoln Castle, home to an original 1215 Magna Carta, and tour the spectacular Lincoln Cathedral. You will also have free time to explore the city's cobbled streets and enjoy local fare.

  • What will we do in Cambridge?

    In Cambridge, you will enjoy a punting experience along the 'Backs' of Cambridge University and have free time to explore the city's famous buildings, colleges, chapels, museums, and galleries.

  • What is included in the visit to Newmarket National Stud?

    The visit to Newmarket National Stud includes a guided tour of the Thoroughbred stud farm, providing insights into Thoroughbred breeding and the opportunity to view some of the Stud's stallions in the paddocks.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    We have solo capacity, however no single share.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Upon final payments, we will distribute E-Documentation to all of our guests. Dont forget we also have our App to download as an added feature.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Like-minded travellers awaiting the opportunity to explore the less explored regions. Interests in food, wine, history, art as well as wartimes there will be a great mix of people to connect with on tour.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We have our COVID Assurance Policy, Book now and relax knowing you are covered under our new COVID-19 Assurance Policy. At no additional cost to you, new bookings are now 100% refundable in the unfortunate event you are diagnosed with COVID-19 or unable to travel due to government-enforced lock downs prior to your scheduled departure date.

  • What level of mobility do I need?

    You need to be fit enough to get on and off the vehicle on a regular basis, and to walk both to attractions and around towns and villages. You also need to be able to walk up and down stairs in the hotels and use a shower over the bath. We frequently use traditional style hotels and the majority will not have lifts or ground floor rooms.

  • Who goes on Back-Roads tours?

    The majority of our guests come from Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. All tour commentaries are in English. Our tours appeal to those looking for a more relaxing style of travel, and who enjoy culture, good food, meeting like-minded people and exploring destinations in depth.

  • What is the minimum age for any Back-Roads Touring trip?

    The minimum age on all of our trips is 18 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All Hotels in line with protocols following the World Health Organisation meet and exceed requirements for all Touring with us.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Back-Roads Touring has been operating from the UK for over 30 years.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Inline with our booking flexibility policy, you are able to make as many changes as required up to 60 days from departue - with 1 last included up until 30 days out.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Generally no, but in extraordinary circumstances it can be looked at.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Anonymous  

Enchanting Eastern England 2025

08-Sep-2024

Adequate number of days. Excellent tour leader in Charlie. Provided wonderful regional treats throughout the tour.

Anonymous  

Enchanting Eastern England 2025

02-Jun-2024

Allan was a lay back, relaxed tour guide and the itinerary was just what I wanted to see. I was delighted that we visited Newgate Stud. Amazing!

Anonymous  

Enchanting Eastern England 2025

13-May-2024

Could not have asked for a better, more competent tour guide and driver. They exceded expectations. I have seen eastern Britain in all its glory.

Jean Di  

Enchanting Eastern England 2025

21-Aug-2023

Loved the fact that we were the only ones on some of the back roads in England.

Anonymous  

Enchanting Eastern England 2025

06-Oct-2024

Giovanni and Ash were great. I was amazed at Gio’s preparation and narration and “Ash’s” driving skills especially the many tight, “backroads” situations. My wife and I had a couple of hotel issues that Gio was very helpful in resolving.

Anonymous  

Enchanting Eastern England 2025

11-Aug-2024

We enjoyed this tour. The places chose for us to visit ranged from very to not so interesting to us such as the National Horse Stud at Newmarket. The coach was a Mercedes Sprinter which was disappointing in that it was very cramped with narrow seats and not recommended for anyone with other than small to medium build. The coach did not have Wifi which I found very disappointing and inconvenient. Our driver was excellent and our tour director was very good but I strongly suggest that a person who is familiar with familiar with English culture and history from personal experience such as an English person would improve the experience.

Anonymous  

Enchanting Eastern England 2025

29-Sep-2022

see above................

Anonymous  

Enchanting Eastern England 2025

09-Oct-2024

Anonymous  

Enchanting Eastern England 2025

02-Jun-2024

Was tired of seeing cathedrals and manor houses. Felt an overnight stay in Lincoln and Cambridge was unnecessary. Accommodation was of a very poor standard. Tour leader’s attitude was a little abrupt.

Anonymous  

Enchanting Eastern England 2025

02-Jun-2024

Read all 44 reviews

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Back-Roads Touring allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Back-Roads Touring allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform back-roads touring, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Back-Roads Touring requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of back-roads touring charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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