Essential Britain
8 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom
Visiting: London, Edinburgh
Tour operator:
Tour code:
UK1
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
25 - 30
Age range:
18-70
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Essential Britain" tour and experience the best of British culture and history. Begin your journey in London, exploring iconic landmarks like Stonehenge and the Roman Baths in Bath. Discover the medieval charm of Cardiff, Ludlow, and Chester, and immerse yourself in Liverpool's vibrant music scene. Marvel at the serene beauty of the Lake District and the historic allure of Gretna Green. Traverse the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe and the Scottish Highlands, and delve into the rich heritage of Edinburgh. Visit the historic sites of Jedburgh, Hadrian's Wall, and Durham, and conclude your adventure in the literary town of Stratford-upon-Avon before returning to London. Enjoy luxurious accommodations, guided tours, and a taste of traditional British cuisine throughout this unforgettable journey.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: London, Stonehenge, Bath, Cardiff
Location: London
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Cardiff City - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Welcome travellers, your British adventure kicks off in the vibrant city of London! We are heading straight out to the legendary Stonehenge.
Brace yourself for a morning of awe as you stand before one of the world's most iconic ancient sites.
At this world prehistoric site that was once ceremonial grounds for Neolithic people, you'll have time to explore the stone circle and unravel its ancient mysteries.
Snap some photos and let the mystery of Stonehenge sink in.
Next, we're off to the elegant city of Bath.
Explore its stunning Georgian architecture and take a stroll around the famous Roman Baths—a must-see for history lovers.
Enjoy the charming streets, grab a coffee, or simply bask in the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage city.
As the day comes to an end, we drive into Cardiff, the lively capital of Wales.
Expect a mix of medieval charm and modern vibes during our orientation walk, with the city's castle and vibrant nightlife ready to welcome you for an evening of exploration! We will spend the night in our hotel in Cardiff.
Accommodation
Holiday Inn Cardiff City - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Stonehenge Visit
Bath City Tour
Cardiff City Tour
Day 2: Cardiff, Ludlow, Chester, Liverpool
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Liverpool City Centre - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
The day kicks off with a morning in Cardiff with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
We then head north to the charming market town of Ludlow, nestled in the English countryside.
Famous for its medieval streets and half-timbered houses, you'll have the chance to wander through the quaint Ludlow Castle, enjoy a bite to eat, or explore local shops offering artisanal treats and crafts.
Next, we make our way to Chester, known for its Roman walls and stunning Chester Cathedral.
Take a walk along the ancient city walls, visit the impressive cathedral, or simply wander the unique Rows—medieval two-tiered galleries filled with quirky shops and cafés.
The day ends in Liverpool, a city best known for its music, football, and maritime history.
You'll have the evening free to explore the legendary Albert Dock, check out The Beatles Story museum, or soak up the city's energetic nightlife scene!
Accommodation
Holiday Inn Liverpool City Centre - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Ludlow City Tour
Chester City Tour
Liverpool City Tour
Day 3: Liverpool, Lake District, Gretna Green, Glasgow
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast in Liverpool, we head straight to the picturesque Lake District, where you'll be captivated by the serene beauty around Lake Windermere.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lake, take in the stunning views, or explore the charming nearby villages.
Our next stop is Gretna Green, famous for its historic marriage ceremonies.
Discover the fascinating story behind this romantic destination and learn about its role in Scottish marriage history.
In the afternoon, we travel to Glasgow, Scotland's bustling cultural capital.
Start with an orientation walk of the city to get a feel for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic architecture.
Take in key sights like the impressive Glasgow Cathedral, the grand George Square, and the scenic Clyde River.
You'll have the evening free to explore further, whether it's visiting one of its renowned museums, enjoying the local dining scene, or discovering Glasgow's night scenes.
Accommodation
Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Lake District Visit
Gretna Green Visit
Glasgow City Tour
Day 4: Glasgow, Glencoe, Scottish Highlands
Accommodation Name: Highlands Arrochar Bespoke Hotel - or similar - 3 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
We start the day by leaving Glasgow behind and heading towards the majestic Glencoe.
This stunning valley is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and rich history.
As you take in the breathtaking views of the rugged mountains and serene lochs, you'll learn about the area's infamous history, including the Glencoe Massacre of 1692.
The natural beauty and dramatic scenery make Glencoe a highlight of the Scottish Highlands.
From Glencoe, we continue our journey through the spectacular Scottish Highlands, with a final destination in the enchanting Cairngorms National Park.
This vast and varied landscape is home to Scotland's highest peaks, including the Cairngorm Mountains.
Explore the park's diverse scenery, from ancient forests to sparkling lochs.
You might also spot some of the local wildlife, such as red deer or golden eagles.
As we arrive in the Cairngorms, you'll have the evening to relax and absorb the serene beauty of this expansive natural wonderland.
Whether you take a leisurely walk or simply enjoy the tranquillity of the area, the Cairngorms National Park is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Accommodation
Highlands Arrochar Bespoke Hotel - or similar - 3 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Glencoe Visit
Cairngorms National Park Visit
Day 5: Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness, Whiskey Distillery, Inverness, Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Edinburgh - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
We kick off the day with a scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands, soaking up the stunning landscapes before arriving at the legendary Loch Ness.
Famous for its deep, dark waters and the elusive Loch Ness Monster, you'll have the chance to enjoy a scenic boat ride or explore the nearby Urquhart Castle, which offers panoramic views of the loch and a glimpse into Scotland's medieval past.
Next, we visit a traditional whisky distillery.
Here, you'll learn about the time-honoured process of whisky-making, from the careful selection of ingredients to the art of maturation.
Enjoy a guided tour, discover the nuances of different whisky flavours, and perhaps even sample a dram or two.
Continuing on, we head to Inverness, the vibrant capital of the Highlands.
Enjoy a guided orientation walk through the city's charming streets, where you'll visit the historic Inverness Castle and stroll along the picturesque River Ness.
This guided tour will give you a comprehensive introduction to Inverness's key landmarks and vibrant atmosphere.
In the late afternoon, we make our way to Edinburgh, Scotland's capital.
Arrive in this historic city and enjoy your evening free to start exploring its iconic landmarks, or relax at the hotel to recharge for the exciting adventures ahead.
Accommodation
Radisson Blu Edinburgh - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Loch Ness Visit
Whiskey Destillery Visit
Inverness City Tour
Day 6: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Edinburgh - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Immerse yourself in the charm of Edinburgh as you spend the day on a guided tour through one of Britain's most captivating cities.
Start with a ramble down the historic Royal Mile, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and iconic landmarks that line this famous street.
Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, nestled beneath the dramatic peak of Arthur's Seat.
Discover the rich history and opulent rooms of the palace before heading to the Scottish Parliament, a striking modern building with a unique design.
No visit to Edinburgh is complete without exploring Edinburgh Castle, perched high on Castle Rock and offering panoramic views of the city.
Wander through its historic halls and learn about Scotland's royal past.
In the afternoon, take in the graceful Georgian architecture of the New Town and uncover the hidden alleys and historic charm of the Old Town.
After a day of exploration, you'll have the evening free to relax or continue discovering the city at your own pace, whether it's dining in one of Edinburgh's renowned restaurants or enjoying a leisurely stroll through its enchanting streets.
Accommodation
Radisson Blu Edinburgh - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Edinburgh City Tour
Day 7: Edinburgh, Jedburgh, Hadrian'S Wall, Durham, Leeds
Accommodation Name: Novotel Leeds Centre - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day with a departure from Edinburgh as we head to the historic town of Jedburgh.
Here, you'll visit the impressive Jedburgh Abbey, a stunning example of medieval architecture and a key site in Scotland's history.
Explore the abbey's ruins and learn about its significance during Scotland's turbulent past.
Next, journey to the iconic Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire.
Walk along parts of this ancient fortification and take in the sweeping views of the surrounding countryside while learning about its strategic importance and Roman history.
Continue south to Durham, renowned for its stunning Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, both perched on a dramatic hill overlooking the River Wear.
Take a guided tour of these historic sites and marvel at their remarkable architecture and medieval heritage.
Next up is Leeds, a vibrant city known for its lively atmosphere and rich industrial heritage.
Embark on a guided city tour to uncover its fascinating history and dynamic culture.
Highlights will include the impressive Leeds Town Hall, the bustling Kirkgate Market, and other key landmarks that showcase the city's unique character.
Accommodation
Novotel Leeds Centre - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Jedburgh City Tour
Hadrian's Wall Visit
Durham City Tour
Leeds City Tour
Day 8: Leeds, Stratford-Upon-Avon, London
Location: London
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we set off for the enchanting town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare.
Discover the rich literary history of this charming town with a visit to Shakespeare's Birthplace, where you can explore the house where the Bard was born and gain insight into his early life.
You'll also have the chance to visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the picturesque home of Shakespeare's wife, and stroll through the beautiful gardens.
In the afternoon, we journey back to London.
Upon arrival, you'll have the rest of the day free to soak up the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Whether you choose to revisit favourite spots, explore new corners of the capital, or simply unwind and reflect on your journey, London awaits with endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
As your tour comes to a close, take with you many stories of the remarkable land of Britain.
Bid farewell to your fellow travellers until next time!
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Stratford-upon-Avon Tour
What's Included
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Accommodation
8 Nights in 4 & 5 Star Hotels. 3 Nights in Traditional Turkish Gulet.
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Meals
10 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners.
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Transportation
Modern Air-conditioned Coaches with Wi-Fi, Traditional Turkish Gulet.
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Airport Transfer(s)
Arrival Airport transfer on first day of the tour.
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Tour Guiding
Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.
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Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary hotel and coach Wi-Fi (where available).
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Included Activities
Stonehenge Visit, Bath City Tour, Cardiff City Tour, Ludlow City Tour, Chester City Tour, Liverpool City Tour, Lake District Visit, Gretna Green Visit, Glasgow City Tour, Glencoe Visit, Cairngorms National Park Visit, Loch Ness Visit, Whiskey Distillery Visit, Inverness City Tour, Edinburgh City Tour, Jedburgh City Tour, Hadrian's Wall Visit, Durham City Tour, Leeds City Tour, Stratford-upon-Avon Tour.
What's Not Included
Local Payment: £
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with modern air-conditioned coaches equipped with Wi-Fi, and experience the charm of a traditional Turkish Gulet for part of your journey.
Accommodation
Enjoy 8 nights in luxurious 4 and 5-star hotels, complemented by 3 nights aboard a traditional Turkish Gulet, ensuring a comfortable and unique stay throughout your journey.
Add Ons
Local Payment: £
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 8 nights in 4 and 5-star hotels and 3 nights in a traditional Turkish Gulet.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses modern air-conditioned coaches with Wi-Fi and a traditional Turkish Gulet for transportation.
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Is airport transfer included in the tour package?
Yes, an arrival airport transfer on the first day of the tour is included.
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Are there any guided tours included in the itinerary?
Yes, the tour includes services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.
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Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in hotels and coaches where available.
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What activities are included on the first day of the tour?
On the first day, you will visit Stonehenge, take a city tour of Bath, and have an orientation walk in Cardiff.
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What can I expect to see in Liverpool?
In Liverpool, you can explore the Albert Dock, visit The Beatles Story museum, and enjoy the city's nightlife.
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What highlights are included in the visit to the Scottish Highlands?
In the Scottish Highlands, you will visit Glencoe, Cairngorms National Park, and Loch Ness, including a scenic boat ride or exploration of Urquhart Castle.
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What are the key attractions in Edinburgh?
In Edinburgh, you will visit the Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh Castle, and explore both the New Town and Old Town.
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What historical sites are visited on the way to Leeds?
On the way to Leeds, you will visit Jedburgh Abbey, Hadrian's Wall, Durham Cathedral, and Durham Castle.
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What can I expect to see in Stratford-upon-Avon?
In Stratford-upon-Avon, you will visit Shakespeare's Birthplace and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Over 20 years
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Free Date Changes
Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.