Elegance of Great Britain - Start London, Classic Group
Follow in the footsteps of historical figures and literary giants on a 13-day guided tour of Scotland and England. In Edinburgh be dazzled by the jewels of Scottish royalty and join a Local Expert as you explore the best the city has to offer. Dine with Sir Ludovic, a Scottish Baronet, on his 10,000-acre coastal home - Ardgowan Castle. He’ll tell you about the castle's history and surrounding area as you enjoy traditional tea and scones. Cruise the English Lake District, and visit William Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-Upon-Avon. Plus, marvel at Stonehenge's monoliths and indulge in a Dine-at-Home Experience at York's Thirsk Hall, an 18th-century town house renovated by English architect John Carr.
Tour Itinerary
Welcome to London. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free to enjoy a city that is famous for its pomp and pageantry. Perhaps relax with a walk along the Serpentine in Hyde Park or window shop in the elegant boutiques of Knightsbridge? Alternatively, you may want to stroll along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.
In the morning, transfer to the train station and take your comfortable, standard-class seats. Your cross-country journey takes you through the green English countryside as you travel to Scotland - land of legends and romance. You are then transferred to your Edinburgh hotel, where the rest of the day is yours to relax before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers.
Join a Local Expert to see the highlights of the city. Enjoy a drive along Princes Street to the ornate Scott Memorial and see the 18th century New Town with its neoclassical Adam facades. Over in the Old Town, see the Palace of Holyroodhouse and visit the castle, home of Mons Meg, the Stone of Destiny and the Honours of Scotland, Scotland's glittering Crown Jewels. With the afternoon at leisure, why not visit the art treasures in the National Gallery? In the evening, you may wish to join an Optional Experience at a traditional Scottish cultural dinner with haggis and a lively ceilidh. On select departures, you will also attend The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo — a colorful mix of pipes and drums, dance and display, set against the floodlit backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Depart the majestic Scottish capital and journey to Ardgowan, set on a stunning 10,000-acre coastal estate. Sir Ludovic Shaw Stewart welcomes you to his family castle. Learn the history of the Shaw Stewart family and the conservation efforts to protect the land on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Continue to Gretna Green to see the famous spot where runaway lovers were married at the blacksmith's shop. Your travels continue to the picturesque English Lake District.
Itinerary Dates & Prices
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