Best of Britain - Small Group

Best of Britain - Small Group

Sign post with landmarks in the city of York, with view of York Minster in the background, UK
York

Sign post with landmarks in the city of York, with view of York Minster in the background, UK

Day 1
William Shakespeare's birthplace, Henley street in Stratford upon Avon, UK
Stratford-upon-Avon

William Shakespeare's birthplace, Henley street in Stratford upon Avon, UK

Day 1
Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland
Edinburgh

Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland

Day 2
Mile Castle 39 (Castle Nick), Hadrian's Wall, UK
Hadrian's Wall

Mile Castle 39 (Castle Nick), Hadrian's Wall, UK

Day 2
View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Edinburgh

View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Day 3
George Square, Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow

George Square, Glasgow, Scotland

Day 4
Cardiff

Aerial view of Cardiff Bay, Wales, UK

Day 6
Plymouth, England
Plymouth

Plymouth, England

Day 7
Bath

Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon in Bath, UK

Day 7
Plymouth, England
Plymouth

Plymouth, England

Day 8
London

London's Millennium Bridge with a view to St Paul's Cathedral, UK

Day 9
Stonehenge

Stonehenge at sunset, UK

Day 9

Map
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Best of Britain - Small Group

9 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom

Visiting: Stratford-upon-Avon, York, Hadrian's Wall, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Lake District, Ludlow, Cardiff, Bath, Glastonbury, Plymouth, Dartmoor National Park, Stonehenge, London

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

SB903ZM20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Best of Britain - Small Group" tour, a captivating journey through England and the United Kingdom, where history and culture come alive. Begin in London and explore the birthplace of Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon, then wander the medieval streets of York. Marvel at the ancient Hadrian's Wall and the majestic Edinburgh Castle, and experience the vibrant city life of Glasgow. Discover the poetic beauty of the Lake District and the historic charm of Ludlow. In Cardiff, witness the grandeur of its castle and stadium. Visit the Roman Baths in Bath and the legendary Glastonbury. Choose between a scenic exploration of Dartmoor National Park or a relaxing Plymouth Harbour cruise. Conclude your adventure at the mystical Stonehenge. Enjoy authentic dining experiences, including a farm-to-table dinner at Heskyn Mill, and travel in comfort with luxury coach amenities. This tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Britain's rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Highlights

  • Plymouth: Set sail on a relaxing cruise from Plymouth harbour, where the pilgrims left over 400 years ago.

  • Visit Dartmoor National Park to learn about the history of stone circles and indigenous traditions.

  • Explore Stratford-upon-Avon and learn about the life of William Shakespeare.

  • Discover York Minster, the city walls, and the medieval Shambles in York.

  • See part of Hadrian's Wall, the ancient border of the Roman Empire.

  • Visit Edinburgh Castle to view the Scottish Crown Jewels and other artefacts.

  • Experience the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a spectacular display of pipes, drums, and dance.

  • Walk around the awe-inspiring megaliths of Stonehenge, reputedly standing for 5,000 years.

Places You'll See

Sunrise view of a narrowboat in Stratford upon Avon, UK

Sunrise View Of A Narrowboat In Stratford Upon Avon, Uk

Sign post with landmarks in the city of York, with view of York Minster in the background, UK

Sign Post With Landmarks In The City Of York, With View Of York Minster In The Background, Uk

Beautiful 15th Century almshouses in the historic town of Stratford upon Avon, UK

Beautiful 15Th Century Almshouses In The Historic Town Of Stratford Upon Avon, Uk

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland

Edinburgh City Skyline From Calton Hill, Scotland

Roman for, Hadrian's Wall, Northumbria, UK

Roman For, Hadrian's Wall, Northumbria, Uk

Edinburgh Military Tattoo Celebrations

Edinburgh Military Tattoo Celebrations

Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland

Victoria Street In Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland

View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

View Of Edinburgh And Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Palace Of Holyroodhouse

Clyde Arc Bridge, Glasgow, Scotland

Clyde Arc Bridge, Glasgow, Scotland

The University of Glasgow, Scotland

The University Of Glasgow, Scotland

George Square, Glasgow, Scotland

George Square, Glasgow, Scotland

Cardiff, Wales, UK

Cardiff, Wales, Uk

The Hoe in Plymouth, England

The Hoe In Plymouth, England

The Circus, the historic street of large townhouses in the city of Bath, UK

The Circus, The Historic Street Of Large Townhouses In The City Of Bath, Uk

London's Millennium Bridge with a view to St Paul's Cathedral, UK

London's Millennium Bridge With A View To St Paul's Cathedral, Uk

Stonehenge at sunset, UK

Stonehenge At Sunset, Uk

London's city skyline along the River Thames, UK

London's City Skyline Along The River Thames, Uk

Victoria Embankment with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, London, UK

Victoria Embankment With Big Ben And The Houses Of Parliament, London, Uk

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: London And Medieval York

Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, York

Accommodation: Hilton York.

Accommodation Name: Hilton, York

Meals Included: Dinner

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.

Day 2: Hadrian's Wall To Edinburgh

Location: Hadrian's Wall, Edinburgh

Accommodation: Edinburgh Hotel Holyrood By Marriott

Accommodation Name: Malmaison, Edinburgh

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 3: Edinburgh Sightseeing

Location: Edinburgh

Accommodation: Edinburgh Hotel Holyrood By Marriott

Accommodation Name: Edinburgh Marriott Holyrood

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 colourful mix of pipes and drums, dance and display, set against the floodlit backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

Day 4: Loch Lomond To Glasgow

Location: Glasgow

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow.

Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu, Glasgow

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 5: The Glorious Lake District

Location: Lake District

Accommodation: Castle Green Hotel, Kendal.

Accommodation Name: Castle Green, Kendal

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 6: The Welsh Marches And Cardiff

Location: Ludlow, Cardiff

Accommodation: Clayton Hotel, Cardiff.

Accommodation Name: Clayton, Cardiff

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 7: Georgian Bath And Devon

Location: Bath, Glastonbury, Plymouth

Accommodation: Leonardo Hotel

Accommodation Name: Leonardo, Plymouth

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 8: Dartmoor National Park Relaxed Start

Location: Dartmoor National Park, Plymouth

Accommodation: Leonardo Hotel

Accommodation Name: Leonardo, Plymouth

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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 Harbour and see the Mayflower Steps, Barbican, Royal Citadel and Plymouth Hoe. Later this evening, savour 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.

Day 9: Stonehenge And London

Location: Stonehenge, London

Meals Included: Breakfast

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. Your journey concludes upon arrival at the hotel in London.

What's Included

  • Meals

    Enjoy 3 dinners with wine and 8 breakfasts during the tour.

  • Activities

    Choose between two carefully selected activities during your visit to Dartmoor National Park.

  • Plymouth Harbour Cruise

    Set sail on a relaxing cruise from Plymouth harbour, where the pilgrims left over 400 years ago.

  • Local Expert Guidance

    Visit Dartmoor to learn about the history of stone circles and indigenous traditions from your knowledgeable Local Expert.

  • Personal Radio Headsets

    Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.

  • Hotel and Restaurant Tips

    Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you’ll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency.

  • Baggage Handling

    We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.

  • Insight Flourish

    From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.

  • Wi-Fi

    Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

  • Transfers

    If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times.

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What's Not Included

  • Optional Dinner

    A traditional optional dinner at Ghillie Dhu in Edinburgh is not included.

  • Transfers for Flights Outside Scheduled Times

    Transfers for flights outside the scheduled times or for additional nights' accommodation are not included and may be purchased separately.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style and comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, ensuring a relaxing journey across the scenic landscapes of Britain.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at the Hilton York, Malmaison Edinburgh, Radisson Blu Glasgow, Castle Green Kendal, Clayton Cardiff, and Leonardo Plymouth, offering a blend of modern amenities and local charm throughout your journey.

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 8 Breakfast (B)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Well-being

  • Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a visit to the Roman Baths in Bath, which supports local education and cultural heritage. In Saltash, you will enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at Heskyn Mill, where ingredients are responsibly sourced from local producers to reduce waste.

  • What are the dining arrangements during the tour?

    The tour includes 3 dinners with wine and 8 breakfasts. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Yorkshire dinner in York and a farm-to-table dining experience at Heskyn Mill in Saltash.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there is an optional traditional dinner at Ghillie Dhu in Edinburgh. Additionally, during your visit to Dartmoor National Park, you can choose between a scenic exploration or a relaxing cruise of Plymouth Harbour.

  • What kind of transportation is provided on the tour?

    The tour provides transportation in a luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. Transfers are available at scheduled times for flights that match the itinerary start and end dates.

  • What measures are in place for well-being and safety during the tour?

    The luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of the tour and maintained to high standards. Physical distancing measures are implemented, and hand sanitizer is freely available on board for use throughout the day.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

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

    Yes

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

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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