Castles and Kilts
Castles and Kilts
Big Ben, London
Buckingham Palace
Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon in Bath, UK
Mile Castle 39 (Castle Nick), Hadrian's Wall, UK
View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
$3305
Castles and Kilts
10 Days Starting in London, United Kingdom and ending in Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Visiting: London, England, Bath, Llangollen, Chester, England, Lake District, England, Hadrian's Wall, Edinburgh
Tour operator:
Tour code:
FCASZM20
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Britain with the "Castles and Kilts" tour, exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of England and Scotland. Begin your adventure in the bustling city of London, where you'll marvel at iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London. Discover the academic charm of Oxford and the Roman elegance of Bath, before crossing into Wales to stay at the enchanting Ruthin Castle. Experience the medieval allure of Chester and the scenic beauty of the Lake District. As you journey north, explore Hadrian's Wall and the Roman Army Museum, culminating in the historic city of Edinburgh. With luxury transportation, expert guides, and cherry-picked accommodations, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Britain's storied past and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy exclusive experiences, including a traditional English cream tea and the chance to witness the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo on select dates.
Must-see Highlights
- Explore London, Chester and Edinburgh
- Discover Oxford and Bath
- Visit the Tower of London, Divinity School in Oxford, Lacock village, Llangollen, Tatton Park to meet the butler and housekeeper, England's Lake District, the Roman Army Museum in Brampton, Hadrian's Wall and Edinburgh Castle
- View the scenic Lake District
- The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is included for you on departures that coincide with performance dates.
Make Travel Matter®
Tatton Park: Tatton Park, a cherished gem co-managed by the National Trust, stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication to safeguarding the historical and natural wonders of the UK. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 11 & 15: Sustainable Cities, and Life on Land.
Be My Guest
Liverpool: Step through the red gates of Strawberry Field in Woolton, Liverpool, and into a world filled with music, history and inspiration. Your Be My Guest experience begins with a welcome from your hosts, who’ll share the story of the original Salvation Army children’s home forever linked to John Lennon. Explore the exhibition, hear heartfelt recollections from those who lived it and admire the iconic Steinway piano, on loan from the Estate of George Michael, and famously used to compose "Imagine." Stroll through the gardens where John Lennon played as a child, inspiring "Strawberry Fields Forever." Discover features like the Peace Monument to Ukraine and the new bandstand, then wrap up your visit with an afternoon tea overlooking the gardens. You’ll leave feeling inspired and connected to the stories that shaped this legendary place.
Trafalgar Difference
Ruthin: Stay in the 13th-century Ruthin Castle in North Wales with its original moat and acres of parkland.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to London
Location: London, England
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Delight in the magic and mystery of an ancient land of kings and queens, knights and magical creatures. Your springboard to an unforgettable Family Experience through Britain is the lively capital of London, which you will have an opportunity to explore with your clan before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a memorable kick-off bash.
Day 2: Discover the Sights of London Family Fun
Location: London, England
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Meals Included: Breakfast
March down the grand boulevards and secret lanes of London, exploring the city's iconic sights with a Local Specialist. Practice your royal wave at Buckingham Palace, snap a selfie in front of Big Ben and see where Britain's royalty has been crowned since the 11th century. Enjoy some Family Fun and head to platform 9¾ to see if you can catch a glimpse of the Hogwarts Express. Admire the pomp and ceremony of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (subject to the event taking place), before enjoying free time for a leisurely lunch at St. Katherine's Dock near Tower Bridge. Our last stop today is the brooding Tower of London where we'll rub shoulders with the Beefeaters and see the Crown Jewels.
Day 3: London Your Way
Location: London, England
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Kings Cross
Meals Included: Breakfast
Soak up the buzzing multicultural atmosphere of London on this full day at leisure. Explore the wonders of science and centuries of natural history at the city's fascinating museums, delve into the dark depths of the London Dungeon or take a spin on the London Eye. Wander through the colourful array of toys at Hamleys on Regent Street or take a day trip to 11th-century Windsor Castle – the choice is yours.
Day 4: Journey to Oxford and on to Elegant Bath Family Fun
Location: Bath
Accommodation: Hampton by Hilton
Accommodation Name: Hampton by Hilton
Meals Included: Breakfast
Imagine yourself as an Oxford scholar as you enjoy a quick visit (as long as students are not sitting exams) to the imposing historic hall of Oxford's Divinity Schools. This was used as the film location for the Hogwarts hospital wing. Later, we continue to the pretty Wiltshire village of Lacock for some Family Fun to see Harry Potter's house. Perhaps visit the 13th-century Lacock Abbey, or devour a traditional afternoon tea and cake in one of the local tea rooms before arriving in Bath for your overnight stay. Gain insights into the elegant city of Bath during Roman times, enjoying an orientation that will include beautiful Pulteney bridge. Admire the honey-hued Georgian architecture of Bath and view such highlights as the 15th-century Bath Abbey before crossing the border into Wales.
Day 5: Onwards to Historic Wales and Ruthin Castle Stays With Stories Make Travel Matter
Location: Llangollen
Accommodation: Ruthin Castle
Accommodation Name: Ruthin Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Stop in the historic town of Llangollen, famous for its annual Eisteddfod, and then cross the Horseshoe Pass to a medieval castle and Stays with Stories experience, where you'll spend the next two nights. Dine like lords and ladies this evening enjoying a delicious Welsh dinner.
Day 6: Exploring North Wales Connect with Locals
Location: Chester, England
Accommodation: Ruthin Castle
Accommodation Name: Ruthin Castle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin your day exploring the wonders of North Wales. First, we’ll visit Llanberis, the gateway to Mount Snowdon. Here, you can opt for a ride on the famous Snowdon Mountain Railway, take in the legendary Blade of the Giants, soak up the stunning scenery of Snowdonia National Park, or delve into the area’s mining heritage at the National Slate Museum. Next, we head to Caernarfon, home to a majestic medieval castle. Enjoy free time to explore the historic town or join an optional experience for a traditional pub lunch and time to wander the castle grounds. Our journey continues along the coastal road, with views of the Menai Strait and Anglesey – once famed as the stronghold of the ancient Druids. We’ll return to Ruthin Castle in the evening, where you can relax and reflect on a day filled with Welsh legends and breath-taking landscapes.
Day 7: Explore a Manor Farm and Continue to Lancaster Make Travel Matter
Location: Lake District, England
Accommodation: Lancaster House
Accommodation Name: Lancaster House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Step into history at Tatton Park, set within a 1,000-acre deer park, for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Transport yourself back to the 1940s as costumed farm workers guide you through life on the Farm. You’ll discover the farm’s significant role in food production, stretching back  to the 18th century, meet rare breed animals and soak in the sights and sounds of this historic estate.  Next, embrace the magic of Strawberry Fields with a Be My Guest experience at this iconic site. Once a Salvation Army children's home and immortalised by The Beatles, it now features restored facilities that preserve its rich history. Enjoy stories, a community welcome and the unique charm of this landmark. Explore Liverpool at your own pace or dive deeper with an Optional Experience, discovering the city’s industrial past or its rock-and-roll roots. Later, head north to Lancaster, where you’ll cap off the day with dinner at the hotel.
Day 8: Admire Hadrian’s Wall and on to Edinburgh Family Fun
Location: Hadrian's Wall
Accommodation: Marriott
Accommodation Name: Delta by Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey into the Lake District, whose landscapes have inspired writers and poets for generations. You can explore further with an Optional Experience steam train ride followed by a tranquil cruise across Lake Windermere. Then, dive into Roman history as you explore Hadrian's Wall and the Roman Army Museum, getting a glimpse of life as a soldier defending Emperor Hadrian’s northern frontier. Continuing north, cross the border into 'Bonnie Scotland' and arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital. The evening is yours to discover the city’s charm and character at your own pace.
Day 9: Uncover Edinburgh’s Treasures
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation: Marriott
Accommodation Name: Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Delve into the magic of Edinburgh's iconic sights and stunning landscapes as you join a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist. Ramble up the Royal Mile and see the tall spires of the Scott Monument, visit Edinburgh Castle, where you will hear tales of bravery, treason and intrigue. Get lost in 'Auld Reekie', strolling through its secret lanes and past medieval façades or join your Travel Director for an Optional Experience. Our epic family adventure is almost at its end. Celebrate a memorable holiday with new friends and your Travel Director at dinner. Tickets to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that align with performance dates.
Day 10: Journey Home
Location: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's time to say bye for now, but not goodbye forever, as the curtain falls on an unforgettable Family Experience through Britain.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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London: The services of a Trafalgar Local Host
The services of a Trafalgar Local Host are included when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel.
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Cherry-picked hotels
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted, are included in the tour.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are included in the tour.
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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals are included in the tour.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are included in the tour.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing are included in the tour.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys) is included in the tour.
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Optional Experiences and free time
Optional Experiences and free time are included in the tour.
What's Not Included
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Airfare
International airfare to/from the start/end of your tour is not included in the tour cost.
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Visas
Visas are not included and may be required for travel.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for coverage.
Dining Summary
- 1 Kickoff Party (KP)
- 9 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Dinner (D)
Family Fun
- London: Let your inner magician loose as you visit Harry Potter highlights such as Platform 9 ¾ and the red telephone box gateway to the Ministry of Magic.
- Lacock: See the charming Lacock Village, where famous scenes of Harry Potter were filmed and explore Lacock Abbey where you’ll recognise some of the corridors and classrooms of Hogwarts.
- Hexham: Experience life as a brave Roman soldier on Emperor Hadrian's northern frontier, exploring the treasures of the Roman Army Museum and Hadrian's Wall.
Iconic Experience
- London: See London's iconic sites with a Local Specialist.
- Oxford: See an imposing and historic hall of one of Oxford's Schools.
- Bath: Admire UNESCO-listed Bath, with its elegant Georgian facades and the bimillennial Roman Baths from which the city takes its name.
- Lake District: Drive through the hauntingly beautiful Lakes District, immortalised by literary greats of the Romantic Movement.
- Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Specialist 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.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the Castles and Kilts tour?
The tour includes a 'Be My Guest' experience with an English cream tea in Chester, a stay at the 13th-century Ruthin Castle in North Wales, and a visit to the Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre for an exclusive English cream tea. Additionally, there is a chance to meet the butler and housekeeper at Tatton Park and explore the Roman Army Museum and Hadrian's Wall.
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Are there any special events included in the tour?
Yes, tickets to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included for departures that coincide with performance dates.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides luxury air-conditioned coach transportation with Wi-Fi in most countries, and there may be alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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What type of accommodation can I expect on the tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted, including a unique stay at the 13th-century Ruthin Castle in North Wales.
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What meals are included in the Castles and Kilts tour?
The tour includes breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals, along with a kickoff party and four dinners.
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What is the starting and ending point of the tour?
The tour starts in London and ends in Edinburgh.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
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