Feel the vibrant energy of England, hear the unique sounds of Scotland, and see the rolling countryside of Wales on a trip that combines dramatic history and natural wonders.

Your tour opens in Edinburgh, the historic capital of Scotland, where rocky hills tower in the distance and the shadows of history can be seen around every corner. Discover Scotland's capital and see how medieval crossroads blend seamlessly with a vibrant modern energy. This evening, get a taste of contemporary Scottish fare as you join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner highlighting the flavors of Scotland.

Today, it’s your choice! Get acquainted with this regal city on a locally guided tour of the city via coach -OR- join a local expert and explore the city on foot. Both tours include visits to Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse,* the Queen’s official Edinburgh residence and the former home of Mary, Queen of Scots. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city independently.

Say farewell to the rolling hills of Scotland while travelling south through the Borders Region. Stop to visit the archeological site of Vindolanda, an Ancient Roman fortress built along Hadrian’s Wall in the 2nd century to protect Roman Britain from the tribes of Scotland. Upon arrival in the medieval city of York, enjoy a brief orientation tour to get the lay of the land. Tonight, stay within the historic walled section of the city.

Enjoy a leisurely morning to explore York at your own pace. Meander the labyrinth of quaint, narrow streets the locals call Snickelways or maybe visit the city’s famous Minster. End the day in Chester, your home for the next two nights, where ancient walls enclose charming Tudor and Victorian houses.

Embark on a panoramic city tour and then walk through Chester’s Rows. Here you’ll peer into the city’s hidden secrets, hopping in and out of the iconic 2-tiered shopping galleries with a local guide. Cross over into Wales and discover Llangollen, one of the country’s most picturesque villages. See the area from a different perspective when you sail along the top of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Admire the view from the tall, bridge-like waterway, towering more than 120 feet above the landscape below.

Step back in time on a journey through the English countryside to Stratford-upon-Avon. This afternoon visit the Bard’s birthplace – the childhood home of William Shakespeare. After touring the home, enjoy time at leisure to explore on your own. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a private dinner at Hall’s Croft, a 400-year-old Shakespeare family home, while actors in traditional costume perform some of Shakespeare’s most renowned scenes.

Bid adieu to Stratford and travel to the charming university city of Oxford. Upon arrival, it’s your choice! Glide gently past Oxford’s spires on a traditional punting boat experience -OR- join an expert local guide for a walking tour, including one of the Colleges used as a filming location for Harry Potter. Continue on to London, England’s storied capital city.

Take in the sites of London on a panoramic tour of the city’s quintessential sights, making your way past famous icons including the Tower of London, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and the Royal Buckingham Palace. Today is yours to explore this cosmopolitan and dynamic city at your leisure. Perhaps you will take an optional excursion to infamous Tower of London. This evening, toast the end of a wonderful journey during a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Venture out of London’s city center and travel to Highclere Castle. Home of the Earl of Carnarvon, this popular castle is also known for being the home of the fictional Grantham family on Downton Abbey. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a bygone era and wander through the halls of this opulent estate. As you tour the drawing room, dining room and library, you might recognize filming locations from the TV series and motion picture. Spend time in the castle’s gardens before returning to London in the late afternoon.

Your journey through Britain comes to a close today.