Plus, personalize your journey with your choice of an included excursion in Alnwick.
Itinerary
Welcome to London!
Uniformed Globus Hosts will be waiting to welcome you. Free time this afternoon.
Secrets of the Stones
Meet your Tour Director and travel companions to depart London at 8 am. First, try to unravel the mystery of prehistoric Stonehenge. Explore the visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions, then take time to view the monument up close. Head to the quaint market town of Ilminster for a welcome lunch at a local pub.
LOCAL FAVORITE - Quench your thirst with local ales and ciders while tasting traditional pub fare prepared following century-old recipes. Nothing eases homesickness like hearty cooked food concocted with care and love like grandma used to make. Just like home away from home!
Legends of Land & Sea
Start the day with a scenic cruise on Plymouth Sound, following in the footsteps of the Pilgrim Fathers, before enjoying a drive through the West Country into Poldark's Cornwall. Visit the thriving fishing village and former smugglers' port of Looe. Head back to Plymouth and enjoy some free time.
LOCAL FAVORITE - Stunning views of Cornwall, the setting of Winston Graham's ‘Poldark' saga of Cornish life in the 18th century, will leave you breathless on a scenic drive through the West Country. Get carried away with a spectacular scenic cruise on Plymouth Sound, a magnificent inlet on the English Channel.
Timeless Kings & Thermal Springs
At Glastonbury, hear about the legend of King Arthur and the Holy Grail. Then head to the Georgian city of Bath, visit the amazing excavations of the Roman Baths, and take time to explore this fascinating city on your own. Stay the night in Cardiff, the Welsh capital.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - The Somerset town of Glastonbury is associated with King Arthur's legendary quest for the mythical Holy Grail, the cup from which Jesus drank at the Last Supper. Hear how, while Arthur failed in his search, according to legend, a noble knight named Galahad found the Holy Grail because of his pure heart.
Moor than Meets the Eye
Your journey through Wales takes you on a scenic drive along the Taff Valley, through the Brecon Beacons National Park, and via the ancient market town of Builth Wells. Take a stroll in picturesque Llangollen, host to one of the world's most colorful annual music festivals. Upon arrival in Liverpool, there's some free time to enjoy this vibrant city.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Discover the extraordinary natural beauty of Brecon Beacons National Park while driving through its mountains, moors, and magnificent views. Look out for Welsh mountain ponies and sheep grazing in the wild and red kites gliding gracefully in the sky.
Songs, Sonnets & Secret Vows
Start the day with a visit to The Beatles Story for a fascinating journey into the life and music of the “Fab Four.” Take a scenic drive through the tranquil Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a break in Wordsworth's beloved Grasmere to try original Grasmere Gingerbread. Head north to the Scottish border and stop at Gretna Green, where the blacksmith witnessed weddings for runaway young couples, and join in a fun wedding re-enactment. Overnight in Glasgow, Scotland's largest city.
LOCAL FAVORITE - Love will find a way to sweeten the day with classic gingerbread in Grasmere, or by parents hot on the trail of runaway brides and grooms who crossed them (and the Scottish border) to get hitched in 18th-century Gretna Green. Hear how romance was forged by a blacksmith who helped eloping couples hammer out the vows.
Landmarks, Lochs & Legends
An orientation drive shows you Glasgow's landmarks, including the 12th-century cathedral, university buildings, and Victorian architecture before heading on a scenic drive past Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and Glen Coe. View Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak, from Fort William before following the length of the legendary Loch Ness, en route to Inverness, the Highland capital.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Survey the shores of famed Loch Ness for the chance to catch a glimpse of its mysterious Nessie. Hear of the folklore and firm believers in the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, which is said to swim in the shimmering waters.
Bravery, Birdies & Bagpipes
View the battlefield of Culloden Moor, scene of the crushing Hanoverian victory over Bonnie Prince Charlie's Scottish clans, before a walk through the Victorian mountain resort of Pitlochry. Visit St. Andrews, the home of golf and famous university town, before a drive over the elegant Forth Road Bridge takes you to Edinburgh.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Unpack your plaid for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo! Edinburgh Military Tattoo performances are included on select departures.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - See the fairways and greens at the birthplace of golf, where legendary players of the Scottish game made history in the university town of St. Andrews.
Crown Jewels & Castle Views
Morning city sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town” and the famous scientists, inventors, and novelists who lived there. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland's Crown Jewels. The afternoon is free to enjoy the Scottish capital at your own pace.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Ascend to Castle Rock to explore Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important historical strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, with a 1,100-year history as "the most besieged place in Great Britain.” Here, see the royal regalia and Scotland's Crown Jewels.
Spend your day your way in Alnwick
This morning, head to Alnwick Castle, ancestral home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, and more recently featured in the Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey.
Explore more of Alnwick with your choice of an included Globus Choice Excursion.
- BLOOMING MARVELOUS - See the vision of the Duchess of Northumberland blooming as a true 21st century experience full of imagination, inspiration and fun. Stroll the Alnwick Garden for an eye-popping experience in one of the world's most ambitious new gardens.
- CAPTURE THE CASTLE - The second largest inhabited castle in England, Alnwick Castle has been home to the Duke of Northumberland's family, the Percys, for over 700 years. Explore the castle and its grounds, featured in historical films, Shakespeare productions, and Harry Potter movies.
Next, make your way to York, England's most complete medieval city. Admire the great structure of York Minster and follow your Tour Director through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles.
Mr. & Mrs. Shakespeare
Head back to London via historic Stratford-upon-Avon, take pictures of Anne Hathaway's Cottage and enjoy a visit to Shakespeare's Birthplace. You will return to London at about 3.30 pm.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Ah, young love! Even more true, as young Shakespeare's fiancée was eight years his senior. See Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the family home where the bard's wife-to-be was born and courted by young Will. Built more than 500 years ago, much of the original structure remains. Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace and family home in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. Hear tales of Shakespeare's family life, marriage, and children with a close look at fascinating artifacts in a world-class collection assembled by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
Trip Inclusions
- Visit to Stonehenge, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's most mysterious prehistoric monuments
- Visit to Bath, featuring the Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved ancient spa complexes in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visit to The Beatles Story in Liverpool, tracing the remarkable journey of the world's most legendary rock band in their hometown
- Grasmere Gingerbead tasting, savoring the Lake District's famous sweet treat made from a closely guarded 19th-century recipe
- Join in a wedding re-enactment in Gretna Green, discovering the romantic Scottish village renowned for its runaway wedding tradition
- Guided sightseeing in Edinburgh with visit to Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Crown Jewels, exploring Scotland's iconic hilltop fortress and the Honours of Scotland
- Admission to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, an unforgettable spectacle of massed pipes and drums set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle (2027: August 7 and 21 departures)
- Globus Choice Excursion in Alnwick – included in your tour with your choice of an inside visit to Alnwick Castle, famed for its appearances in the Harry Potter films, or a visit to Alnwick Garden, renowned for its spectacular landscapes and Grand Cascade
- Lunch in a local pub in Ilminster, enjoying traditional British hospitality and regional flavors
- Scenic cruise on the Plymouth Sound, taking in the historic harbor, dramatic coastline, and sweeping sea views
- Visit to Glastonbury, a town steeped in Arthurian legend and renowned for its historic abbey
- Guided walking tour of medieval York, including The Shambles, one of Europe's best-preserved medieval streets
- Visit to Stratford-upon-Avon – Shakespeare's Birthplace, where the life and legacy of England's legendary playwright come to life
- Orientation drive in Glasgow, discovering Scotland's largest city, celebrated for its Victorian architecture and vibrant cultural scene
- Visit to Llangollen, a picturesque Welsh town nestled in the scenic Dee Valley
- 11 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinner
- London: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge (Superior First-Class):
Situated opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge places guests at the heart of central London. Dining option include Brasserie Joël, Ichi Sushi & Sashimi, 1WB Lounge & Patisserie, and Primo Bar. The hotel also boasts a fitness center with a 15-meter pool and Mandara Spa. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel. - London: Park Plaza Waterloo (Superior First-Class):
The 494-room property is situated within walking distance of top London attractions, including the London Eye, the London Dungeons and the Imperial War Museum. The Florentine Restaurant serves a Brasserie-style menu; the bar features the best of British bubbles and craft beers as well as a range of signature cocktails; and for a relaxing cup of coffee, head to the illy Caffè bar. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre and a heated swimming pool. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel. - Plymouth: Crowne Plaza Plymouth (Superior First-Class):
A modern hotel with sea views overlooking Plymouth Hoe. Thanks to Sleep Advantage® programme, guests enjoy a good night's rest, with premium bedding, quiet zones and a guaranteed wake up call. There is Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill with sea views and Drakes Bar and Lounge. Guests can workout in the gym or wind down in the heated pool. There's also an outdoor garden for those who prefer to enjoy the fresh air. - Cardiff: Holland House hotel Cardiff by Sunday (Superior First-Class):
Holland House Hotel Cardiff by Sunday is a modern hotel situated in the vibrant capital city of Wales, Cardiff, with 165 bedrooms. All of the sights and attractions of Cardiff are within walking distance such as the iconic Millennium Stadium and Cardiff Castle. - Liverpool: Pullman Liverpool (Superior First-Class):
Guests will enjoy the conveniences of this central hotel and its bar, lounge, and Marco Pierre White Wheelers of St. James Oyster Bar & Grill Room. All guestrooms are bright, modern, and luxurious, and come with blackout curtains, minibar with complimentary mineral water, 55" TV with SKY TV channels, tea and coffee making facilities, iron and ironing board, robe and slippers, waterfall shower, and luxury toiletries. There is free 5G Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. - Glasgow: Clayton Hotel Glasgow (Superior First-Class):
The hotel is situated on Clyde Street overlooking the beautiful River Clyde and just a 10 minutes' walk from George Square, and Glasgow's main shopping streets, art galleries, bars and restaurants. All rooms are air-conditioned and include King Koil mattresses for an enhanced sleep experience, HD TVs with Chromecast, WIFI and complimentary use of fitness suite. - Inverness: AC Hotel by Marriott Inverness (Superior First-Class):
Where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth, AC Hotel Inverness, the largest hotel in the city, offers modern accommodation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. This perfectly positioned hotel is only a short walk from Inverness Railway Station and the finest shopping and sightseeing spots. Our thoughtfully designed guest rooms offer modern decor, flexible workspace, free Wi-Fi, a smart TV and plenty of space to unwind or focus before your meeting in a calm environment. The perfect blend of form and functions for a stay in Inverness. Start the day with a European-style breakfast and end it with hand crafted cocktails at the AC Lounge. The restaurant completes the offer with tapas-style bites and local flavors, perfectly paired with iconic views across the river. After a long day of exploring the legend of Loch Ness, let us pour you a glass of our signature gin tonic whilst you welcome a moment of tranquility on our riverside terrace. Unfold an enriching stay in one of Scotland's most picturesque cities. - Edinburgh: Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh (First-Class):
Situated on the iconic Princes Street, the Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh by The Unlimited Collection boasts an unbeatable location in the heart of Scotland's vibrant capital Just a 4-minute stroll from Edinburgh Waverley station and a 30-minute drive from Edinburgh Airport, you're steps away from cultural treasures like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. Following a recent renovation, our 169 air-conditioned rooms span 7 unique categories, thoughtfully designed for every kind of traveller for both corporate and leisure. - York: Mercure York Fairfield Manor (First-Class):
One of the most tranquil hotels in York, set in 6 acres of private grounds on the outskirts of the historic walled cathedral city and the banks of the River Ouse. All 89 comfortable bedrooms have HD TV, tea and coffee making facilities and complimentary WIFI.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- This tour requires some uphill walking on rough terrain at Edinburgh Castle, which may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or those reliant on mobility devices, such as wheelchairs. Some walking is involved back to the hotel after the Edinburgh Tattoo for departures that include the Tattoo.
- Headsets available on tour except for London.
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