Day 2 - York – Hadrian’s Wall - Edinburgh

After breakfast, we leave York behind and journey north. We will stop to admire the striking Angel of the North, one of northern England’s most iconic modern landmarks. This vast steel sculpture spreads its 54m (177 ft) wings dramatically across the landscape, making a stunning photo opportunity.

Next is Hadrian’s Wall, the remarkable Roman frontier built in AD 122 under Emperor Hadrian. Stretching across northern England, this defensive barrier once marked the north-west boundary of the Roman Empire for nearly three centuries.

Crossing the border into Scotland, the tour arrives in Jedburgh, a historic Royal Burgh that has experienced centuries of cross-border conflict. With time to explore, we can wander the quiet streets and visit the impressive ruins of Jedburgh Abbey, which dates from 1100s. 

The day ends in Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic Capital City. 

Tonight, visit a local distillery for a wee taste of whisky, followed by a relaxed group dinner.

Overnight: Novotel Edinburgh Park Hotel (or similar) (2 nights)

Day 3 - Exploring Edinburgh

Today is free to explore Edinburgh at your own pace. This remarkable city blends medieval charm with elegant Georgian architecture and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Old Town is dominated by the famous Royal Mile, the historic street that stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, which is lined with many notable buildings and atmospheric alleyways.

By contrast, the New Town boasts grand squares, wide streets and impressive Georgian architecture.  

If you wish, you can head out of the city on the optional half-day trip to Stirling. This historic city played an important role during Scotland’s Wars of Independence. During your visit, soak up the atmosphere of the city’s historic Old Town and explore the impressive castle that was once home to the Scottish Kings and Queens.

Tonight, you can enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner experience, complete with local dishes, lively music and dancing. It’s an entertaining and atmospheric way to celebrate your Scottish visit.

Day 4 - Edinburgh - Loch Ness - Arrochar

Today, our journey leads us deep into the dramatic scenery of the Scottish Highlands, a region famed for its wild beauty and powerful history.

Travelling through Highland Perthshire and the scenic Cairngorms National Park, we reach Culloden Battlefield. Here, in 1746, the Jacobite forces of Bonnie Prince Charlie were decisively defeated by government troops, marking a tragic turning point in Scottish history which brought the traditional Highland clan system to an end.

From here, the tour continues to the shores of the legendary Loch Ness, Scotland’s most famous loch. Take time to admire the vast sweep of dark water stretching for 36 km (around 23 miles), and if you wish, join an optional boat cruise across the deep waters of the loch while keeping watch for the elusive Nessie, the mysterious creature said to inhabit the depths.

Returning to the road, the journey passes the soaring peak of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain, before travelling through the breathtaking valley of Glen Coe.

Surrounded by steep mountains, this dramatic valley is also remembered for the tragic Massacre of Glencoe in 1692. Our journey continues across the wilds of Rannoch Moor to reach our hotel on the banks of Loch Long for the evening.

Overnight: Arrochar Hotel, Arrochar (or similar)

Day 5 - Arrochar - Lake District - Liverpool

Our day starts with a scenic drive along the “bonnie, bonnie” banks of Loch Lomond. We’ll see some of the many islands scattered across the loch, which marks the boundary between the Highlands and Lowlands.

Crossing the border into England, there is a stop at the historic village of Gretna Green, long known as a romantic refuge where young couples eloped to be married by the Blacksmiths, who became known as “The Anvil Priests”.

The journey then continues into the English Lake District, one of Britain’s most picturesque regions. Surrounded by rolling fells, tranquil lakes and charming villages, there is time to pause for lunch while enjoying the landscapes that inspired literary greats such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.

Later, we arrive in Liverpool, our home for tonight. This lively city is rich in maritime, musical and sporting heritage. A short driving tour introduces some of the city’s highlights, including the famous Anfield football stadium, magnificent Liverpool Cathedral and the historic Albert Dock waterfront.

In the evening, enjoy free time to explore the city’s upbeat atmosphere, with plenty of excellent restaurants and traditional pubs to choose from for dinner.

Overnight: ibis Liverpool Centre Albert Dock (or similar)

Day 6 - Liverpool - Stratford-upon-Avon - Cardiff

The day begins with a tour visiting key locations connected to The Beatles, also known as The “Fab Four”. On your Magical Mystery Tour, you’ll see many landmarks and neighbourhoods that influenced the band’s early years.

Leaving Liverpool behind, the journey continues to Stratford-upon-Avon, the charming market town known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. During our free time, we can wander along streets steeped in history and see the 16th-century house where the celebrated playwright was born.

Those wishing to learn more about Shakespeare’s life can join an optional tour of his childhood home, followed by a traditional afternoon tea at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

The tour then heads westwards into Wales, pausing for a photo stop at the impressive ruins of Raglan Castle, a striking medieval fortress set amid rolling countryside.

Arrival in Cardiff reveals the lively Welsh capital, where an orientation tour introduces some of the city’s many landmarks.

Tonight, join your fellow passengers for a memorable farewell dinner.

Overnight: Mercure Cardiff North Hotel, Cardiff (or similar)

Day 7 - Cardiff - Stonehenge - London

The final day of the tour is filled with memorable sights as the journey back to London begins.

The first stop is the elegant city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is famed for its beautifully preserved Georgian architecture and rich Roman history.

On arrival, enjoy an orientation tour that will introduce you to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the impressive Bath Abbey, sweeping Royal Crescent and the picturesque Pulteney Bridge, which spans the River Avon.

There is also the option to visit the famous Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved ancient spa complexes in Europe, where you can explore the steaming pools and learn about the city’s origins as a Roman spa nearly two thousand years ago.

Our tour ends on a high note as we cross the vast Salisbury Plain to visit the prehistoric site of Stonehenge. You’ll have the opportunity to view the iconic circle of standing stones that has fascinated historians, archaeologists and travellers for centuries. Those who wish can join an optional excursion for a closer look and deeper insight into the myths and theories surrounding this remarkable site.

Afterwards, the tour returns to London, bringing this memorable journey through Great Britain to a close.