Elegance of Great Britain - Start Edinburgh, Classic Group

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Great Britain with the "Elegance of Great Britain - Start Edinburgh, Classic Group" tour. This immersive experience begins in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, where you'll explore iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Travel through the picturesque landscapes of Scotland and England, visiting historic sites such as the romantic Gretna Green, the serene Lake District, and the literary haven of Haworth. Discover the rich history of York, the architectural marvels of Lincoln, and the birthplace of Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon. Delight in authentic dining experiences and enjoy a traditional Scottish tea at Ardgowan House. Conclude your adventure with visits to the majestic Stonehenge and the elegant city of Bath, before arriving in the bustling metropolis of London. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and historical insights, ensuring an unforgettable British adventure.

Choice Highlights

• Choose between two carefully selected activities
• York: Visit the National Railway Museum, housing over 300 years of history, and home to iconic locomotives and an unrivaled collection of engineering brilliance. We celebrate the past, present and future of innovation on the railways.
• York: Delve into the historic and human stories which have shaped the Minster on a visit to York's masterpiece. Explore the cathedral’s rich history, from the Roman Emperor who changed the course of Christianity, to the fires that threatened to destroy the cathedral.

Top Rated Highlights

• Edinburgh: Visit Edinburgh Castle to view the Scottish Crown Jewels, Mons Meg and other artefacts with your Local Expert.
• Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Expert as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
• Edinburgh: A hush descends and eyes turn to the castle. The skirl of the pipes rises and drums crack the night air as a tide of tunics and tartan flood from the drawbridge. For a limited time in August, witness the incredible spectacle of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
• Gretna Green: Visit the spot where runaway lovers were married.
• Grasmere: Learn about the life of the poet William Wordsworth and visit his grave.
• Bowness-on-Windermere: The best way to enjoy the Lake District is by cruise, relax as you admire the magnificent views.
• Windermere: Board a steam train and journey along the banks of the beautiful River Leven.
• Haworth: A visit to the Brontë Parsonage Museum provides a fascinating insight into the life of the Brontë family and the inspiration behind their marvelous works of literature.
• York: Walk with your Local Expert to see the majestic York Minster and wander the maze of cobbled streets to see the Shambles.
• Lincoln: Visit Lincoln Castle and admire one of the four remaining copies of the Magna Carta, which is over 800 years old.
• Stratford-upon-Avon: Learn about the life of William Shakespeare, arguably history's most famous writer, when you visit his birthplace. Then enjoy some time to explore this pretty town with its iconic Tudor houses.
• Bath: During an orientation you will see the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey.
• Bath: Visit the Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved ancient bathhouses in Northern Europe whose waters still flow today. Enjoy a personal exploration of the site, including the Sacred Spring, original Great Bath, temple remains and museum displays of artefacts uncovered on site. This complex offers a clear view of public bathing and religious practices during the Roman occupation of Britain nearly 2,000 years ago.
• Stonehenge: Walk around the strange and awe-inspiring megaliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.
• Salisbury: During your free time for lunch, take a moment to explore this historical city. See the tallest spire in England, atop the Medieval cathedral and walk the streets to observe an architectural timeline from the city's medieval walls and half-timbered Tudor town houses to Georgian mansions and Victorian villas.

Make Travel Matter

Ardgowan House: Join Sir Ludovic for a tour of his family home, Ardgowan Estate, and savor a traditional Scottish tea made from local ingredients. Hear more about centuries of history on the beautiful grounds during the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Your visit helps support the estate, helping keep Scottish history alive.  The Estate educates its visitors and the local rural community about their sustainability initiatives, reducing food waste and sourcing all ingredients locally to support the local economy. Ardgowan Estate invests in renewable projects including a wood bio mass boiler, a gas plant and wind turbines, to create a greener, more sustainable future. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 12: Affordable and Clean Energy & Responsible Consumption and Production.

Authentic Dining

Edinburgh: Get to know your fellow travelers over dinner of modern European cuisine, at a quirky bistro tucked away in Leith.

York: Join your hosts for dinner at the historic Thirsk Hall. The building was extended in 1770 by famous English architect John Carr.

Bath: Join your Travel Director and fellow travelers at Brasserie Blanc, while enjoying a delicious French-inspired meal.

Insight Choice

York: Visit the National Railway Museum, housing over 300 years of history, and home to iconic locomotives and an unrivaled collection of engineering brilliance. We celebrate the past, present and future of innovation on the railways.

York: Delve into the historic and human stories which have shaped the Minster on a visit to York's masterpiece. Explore the cathedral’s rich history, from the Roman Emperor who changed the course of Christianity, to the fires that threatened to destroy the cathedral.