Real Britain

Brightly colored Union Flags pave your way to an unforgettable journey through Britain, which kicks off in London. Visit 'The City' and see the imposing dome of Sir Christopher Wren's St. Paul's and the Tower of London, or admire the pageantry of royal palaces, cathedrals and parks, exploring the city on your own terms. Stay: Hilton Kensington

Join a Local Specialist today for a grand exploration of the vibrant British capital, including such sights as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament on the banks of the Thames, then Buckingham Palace, the official UK residence of British sovereigns since 1837. Spend the rest of the day on your own, exploring the centuries-old heritage and modern sophistication of London. (B)

Embark on a mesmerizing sojourn past rolling hills and farmlands of England. Head west to Stonehenge's megaliths, whose centuries-old mysteries have yet to be fully revealed. The elegant Georgian architecture of Bath takes center stage during your visit to this famous spa town. See the Abbey and visit the Roman Baths, before crossing the Severn Estuary to Cardiff.

Tonight, celebrate the beginning of an epic adventure through Great Britain over dinner. (B/D) Stay: Clayton

Delve into the proud culture and heritage of the Welsh as you embark on an orientation of the city. Journey to Ludlow to see its half-timbered Tudor houses, medieval walls and historic castle. Continue north through the Shropshire Hills and Cheshire landscapes to Liverpool, hometown of the Fab Four, for an opportunity to join an Optional Experience to see the sights of the city with a Local Expert. (B) Stay: Atlantic Tower Hotel Liverpool by Sunday

The enchanting views of Britain's Lake District provide a scenic backdrop for our drive north to Scotland. Skirt the romantic shores of Lake Windermere and enjoy views that inspired literary greats like William Wordsworth. We stop at the runaway wedding capital that is Gretna Green where 'Blacksmith Priests' would marry couples over the Marriage Anvil.

Later, we arrive in enchanting Edinburgh – our home for the next two nights. This evening, consider attending a lively Scottish cèilidh with traditional haggis and bagpipes. Tickets to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that align with performance dates. (B) Stay: Holiday Inn

Ramble up the Royal Mile in the mesmerizing medieval city of Edinburgh, where you'll join a Local Specialist on an included city sightseeing tour. See the Old Town and view Arthur's Seat and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, for centuries the seat of the kings and queens of the Scots. Visit Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city. Spend the rest of the day exploring Auld Reekie's medieval relics and elegant Georgian and Gothic facades on your own, or join your Travel Director on an Optional Experience to visit Rosslyn Chapel. (B)

Trace the northern frontier of the Roman Empire at Hadrian's Wall before crossing the River Tyne and venturing south to York. Walk along The Shambles and view York Minster, one of the greatest cathedrals in the world.

This evening join a family at their stately home in York for a Be My Guest experience and some hearty British home-cooked hospitality. (B/D) Stay: Novotel Center

Learn about Shakespeare's life at his Birthplace and Visitor Center in Stratford-upon-Avon, and view Anne Hathaway's thatched cottage before returning to London. (B) Stay: Hilton Kensington

Say farewell to your fellow travelers and Travel Director as you return home with magical memories. (B)