12 Day England & Scotland Uncovered
Experience the very best the destination has to offer at an incredible price: must-see attractions and sightseeing, comfortable accommodation, and optional activities to best suit your travel style and interests.
This tour is either fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader or guided by experienced local guides at each destination. If your itinerary includes local guides, a new guide will meet you in each location, and any internal flights will be unescorted. For further details, please refer to the Essential Information for this tour.
This tour is categorised as 4 out of 5
Packed itinerary with maximum exploration: Embark on a whirlwind sightseeing tour with minimal downtime. This tour maximises your exploration, keeping you on the move and ticking off must-see locations. A good fitness level and mobility are required to keep pace with this action-packed adventure!
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
✓ Explore England and Scotland's highlights, including the Tower of London, Edinburgh Castle, York Minster, and Christ Church College. Enjoy a West End musical, scenic cruises on the Thames and Loch Lomond plus more.
✓ 11 nights in 3 and 4-star hotels
✓ Dedicated coach transportation
✓ Fully Escorted by a dedicated tour Leader
✓ Breakfast daily, 3 lunches, 5 dinners
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
Discover the best of England and Scotland on this immersive tour, featuring iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, York Minster, and Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy scenic cruises on the Thames and Loch Lomond, indulge in whiskey tastings, and explore rich history at castles, colleges, and the legendary Loch Ness.
Welcome to London! Upon arrival, make your own way to your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, the afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure or relax after your journey. Check in to your centrally located hotel and settle in for a restful overnight stay.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
After breakfast, meet your local guide and coach driver for an immersive day in England’s capital. Begin with a panoramic coach tour of London's iconic landmarks with a visit to the historic Tower of London. The UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a rich history stretching back nearly a thousand years. Explore its fascinating past as a royal palace, prison, and home of the Crown Jewels.
Continue with a scenic cruise along the Thames to Greenwich, a charming district known for its maritime heritage and the Prime Meridian. Discover the area with your guide and enjoy free time if the schedule allows.
In the evening, return to central London for a memorable dinner and a dazzling West End musical (allocated on tour). Afterward, retreat to your hotel for the night.
Inspiring Highlights
Journey westward today toward Stratford-upon-Avon, a charming market town and the birthplace of England’s most celebrated playwright, William Shakespeare. As you travel, enjoy the scenic English countryside, with its rolling green fields and picturesque villages, before arriving at your first stop: the historic city of Oxford.
Known as the "City of Dreaming Spires," Oxford is home to the world-renowned University of Oxford, the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Upon arrival, embark on a panoramic tour that showcases the city’s stunning medieval and modern architecture, cobblestone streets, and storied college buildings.
A highlight of your visit is Christ Church College, one of the university's largest and most iconic institutions. This magnificent college has inspired countless visitors with its grand architecture and rich history. Literature enthusiasts will recognize it as a key inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, while film fans may marvel at its links to the Harry Potter series—the college’s Great Hall was the inspiration for Hogwarts' dining hall.
In the afternoon, continue to Stratford-upon-Avon. You’ll have the option to visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace, a beautifully preserved 16th-century home. End the day with a group dinner and relax overnight in the Stratford area.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Shakespeare's Birthplace, located in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, is a charming 16th-century half-timbered house where William Shakespeare was born and spent his early years. Visiting this historic site offers a glimpse into the life and times of the world’s most famous playwright.
Includes: Entrance fee.
Head north today to Liverpool, a city brimming with energy, history, and culture. Known for its rich musical heritage and deep maritime connections, Liverpool offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy.
Upon arrival in Liverpool, enjoy a panoramic tour of the city, where you’ll get a chance to take in its dynamic mix of historic architecture and contemporary flair. As you explore, you’ll witness the city’s transformation over centuries from a major port to a modern cultural hub. The historic waterfront area tells the story of Liverpool’s significant role in global trade, while the vibrant city center showcases its reputation as a leading center of arts, music, and innovation.
In the afternoon, you have the option to visit The Beatles Story Museum, an interactive experience that chronicles the legendary band’s journey. Spend the evening exploring Liverpool at your leisure before an overnight stay in the city.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
The Beatles Museum in Liverpool, officially known as The Beatles Story, is a world-renowned attraction dedicated to the lives, music, and legacy of The Beatles. Located at the Royal Albert Dock, it provides an immersive journey through the history of the Fab Four.
Includes: Entrance fee.
Today, you’ll journey to the historic city of York, a destination renowned for its medieval charm and rich heritage. Steeped in centuries of history, York has been a significant settlement from Roman times through to its Viking occupation, and it has beautifully preserved elements from each era. The city exudes a timeless appeal, offering a window into the past with its well-maintained architecture and narrow, winding streets.
Upon arrival, embark on a guided walking tour through the heart of York. As you stroll through the city's quaint, cobbled streets, you’ll be immersed in its fascinating history. Your guide will weave tales of York’s past, from its early foundations to its growth into a major city of medieval importance.
A highlight of your day is a visit to York Minster, one of the most impressive and majestic cathedrals in Europe. Inside, the cathedral's soaring arches, delicate stained-glass windows, and peaceful ambiance create a profound sense of reverence. For centuries, York Minster has been the spiritual heart of the city, its presence a constant reminder of the enduring faith and history that have shaped York throughout the ages.
In the afternoon, you may opt to explore the Jorvik Viking Centre, which vividly brings York’s Viking past to life. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in York.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
The Jorvik Viking Centre in York, England, is a fascinating museum that transports visitors back to the Viking Age, offering a vivid and immersive experience of life in the 10th century. Built on the site of an actual Viking settlement discovered during excavations, the center combines archaeology, history, and cutting-edge technology.
Includes: Entrance fee.
Begin your exciting journey into Scotland with a scenic drive that takes you through the picturesque landscapes of the Scottish countryside. Along the way, stop in the historic village of Gretna Green, famous for its long-standing tradition of runaway weddings. The village’s romantic reputation has drawn couples from all over the world, and as you visit, you’ll gain insight into the stories of love and commitment that have defined this picturesque stop for centuries.
After a relaxing lunch, continue your journey to Glasgow, Scotland's largest and most vibrant city. Upon arrival, take a panoramic tour of this lively urban center, where modern energy meets a rich cultural heritage.
After a full day of exploration, you’ll have time to unwind in the evening and discover Glasgow at your own pace. The city is known for its rich cultural scene, diverse cuisine, and lively atmosphere, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.
Today, you’ll journey through the stunning Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, where breathtaking landscapes unfold at every turn. This region is known for its tranquil lochs, rolling hills, and dense forests, providing a perfect introduction to Scotland’s natural beauty. Take time to absorb the serenity of the surroundings as you travel through one of the country’s most picturesque areas.
Next, enjoy a peaceful cruise on Loch Lomond, where you can unwind while taking in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and islands. Onboard, indulge in a tipple of whiskey, immersing yourself in some of Scotland’s finest traditions as you glide across the water and appreciate the scenery.
Afterward, continue to Fort William, nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak. Upon arrival, you’ll have free time to explore the town before possibly stopping for a photo at the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, renowned for its appearances in the Harry Potter films. Conclude the day with dinner and a relaxing overnight stay in the Fort William area, surrounded by the beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Today, your journey takes you to Inverness, with a stop en route at the legendary Loch Ness, one of Scotland’s most famous and mysterious landmarks. As you explore the Urquhart Castle ruins, you’ll be treated to dramatic views over the loch, with its deep, dark waters stretching out into the distance. This historic site offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland's past and an ideal spot to reflect on the myths and stories that surround the lake. You’ll also visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, where you can dive into the legend of the Loch Ness Monster and uncover the secrets of this iconic waterway.
After a relaxing lunch, continue on to Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided discovery of this charming city, where history, culture, and scenic beauty blend together.
As you explore Inverness, take in the views of the River Ness, which winds its way through the heart of the city, and experience the welcoming atmosphere of this historic settlement. In the evening, you’ll have time to enjoy the local dining scene before resting for the night in Inverness, surrounded by the beauty of the Highlands.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Today’s journey takes you through the heart of Speyside, a region renowned for its whisky production and breathtaking landscapes. As you travel through the area, you’ll have the opportunity to visit one of its iconic whisky distilleries. Here, you’ll learn about the intricate distillation process, gaining insight into how Scotland’s famous spirit is crafted. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy a tasting session, savoring the distinct flavors of some of the finest whiskies in the world.
After your whisky experience, continue your journey towards Aberdeen, stopping en route at the enchanting Fyvie Castle, a historic site that has stood for centuries and is surrounded by fascinating tales and ghostly legends. The castle’s striking architecture and beautiful grounds offer a glimpse into Scotland’s past, and its mysterious stories add to its allure. Once you arrive in Aberdeen, enjoy a quick city tour, where you’ll get an overview of the city’s highlights and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy dinner with the group, followed by an overnight stay in Aberdeen.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Begin your day with a photo stop at Dunnottar Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic and dramatic sites. Perched atop a rugged cliff overlooking the North Sea, this historic fortress offers panoramic views and a profound sense of history.
Continue your journey to St Andrews, a picturesque town steeped in history and renowned as the birthplace of golf. Known for its historic university—one of the oldest in the world—St Andrews exudes charm with its cobblestone streets, medieval ruins, and welcoming atmosphere. Spend time exploring the town’s many attractions, from its quaint shops and cafes to its scenic coastal views. If you choose, visit St Andrews Castle, where you can delve deeper into the town’s fascinating past and enjoy dramatic views over the North Sea.
In the afternoon, travel onward to Edinburgh, Scotland’s captivating capital city. Once in Edinburgh, settle into your accommodation and take the evening to relax or enjoy a taste of the city’s vibrant nightlife and dining scene.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
St Andrews Castle, located on the east coast of Scotland in the historic town of St Andrews, is a dramatic ruin perched on a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea. It was once the residence of bishops and archbishops, as well as a fortress and prison, playing a significant role in Scotland's tumultuous history.
Includes: Entrance fee.
Today, delve into the rich history and culture of Edinburgh with a panoramic tour that highlights the city’s unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, where centuries of history come alive. Discover its ancient walls, the Crown Jewels, and breathtaking views of the city below. Continue your journey through the cobbled alleys of the Old Town, filled with tales of intrigue and resilience, before strolling the elegant avenues of the New Town, a testament to the city’s Georgian grandeur. Every corner of Edinburgh offers a captivating glimpse into its fascinating past and dynamic present.
Later, immerse yourself in Scotland’s cultural heritage with the option to partake in a Scotch Whisky experience - a celebration of one of the nation’s most cherished traditions.
In the evening, you might choose to participate in a special dinner event featuring local flavors and entertainment, offering a warm and festive farewell to your time in Scotland.
Inspiring Highlights
The Scotch Whisky Experience, located on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, is a must-visit attraction for whisky enthusiasts and anyone curious about Scotland’s national drink. This immersive experience provides an entertaining and educational journey into the world of Scotch whisky, combining history, craftsmanship, and, of course, tasting!
Includes: Entrance fee, whisky tasting.
Experience an unforgettable evening of traditional Scottish entertainment designed to captivate, delight, and inspire! Join us in the heart of Scotland's vibrant capital city for the perfect introduction to Scottish culture.
Prepare for a warm welcome and a lively atmosphere as you indulge in a delicious meal showcasing some of Scotland's finest culinary delights. Sit back and enjoy a feel-good show featuring a talented lineup of Scottish performers, guaranteed to leave you with cherished memories of this cultural celebration.
Meeting Point: The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Nicolson St, Edinburgh EH8 9DW
Includes: eg Hotel Transfers, Entrance fees, Lunch, etc
Start Time: 6:45 PM
End Time: 9:30 PM
After breakfast, your journey through England and Scotland concludes. At the appropriate time please make your own way to the airport for your flight home or embark on your own independent onward journey.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
Starting in 2024, travelers visiting the United Kingdom (including transit passengers) may need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arrival. This requirement applies to visa-exempt nationals, including those from the EU, US, Australia, and more.
To learn more, watch this short video: What is an ETA?
For a step-by-step guide, see: How to apply for an ETA
We recommend checking the official UK government website well in advance of your trip to confirm if you need an ETA and to apply accordingly. Processing times and fees may vary, so be sure to arrange this before departure to avoid any travel disruptions.
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
It is the traveler's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, CLICK HERE.
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a ”4”
Packed itinerary with maximum exploration: Embark on a whirlwind sightseeing tour with minimal downtime. This trip maximises your exploration, keeping you on the move and ticking off must-see locations. A very good fitness level and mobility are required to keep pace with this action-packed adventure!
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $2,200.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Group Size
Maximum: Up to 49
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
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