Step into the stories, traditions, and landscapes that define Great Britain on this immersive journey through England and Scotland. From vibrant cities to rolling countryside, you’ll experience the moments that bring this destination to life.
Explore Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and an official residence of the British monarchy for more than 1,000 years. Walk in the footsteps of kings and queens, then continue your journey through Britain’s rich heritage and iconic landmarks.
Follow the legacy of the Beatles in Liverpool, stand before the mystery of Stonehenge, and take in the sweeping beauty of the Scottish Highlands as you cruise on Loch Ness. Along the way, enjoy a visit to a local distillery and share memorable experiences with fellow travelers.
DAYS 1-2: WELCOME TO THE UK!
Begin your journey immersed in Britain’s rich royal heritage. You’ll explore Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and an official residence of the monarchy for more than 1,000 years. As you walk through this remarkable setting, you’ll trace the footsteps of kings and queens and experience a living piece of history.
In London, step inside Westminster Abbey, a defining landmark for nearly 1,000 years. This historic site has hosted every coronation since 1066, along with royal weddings and notable services that have shaped the nation’s story.
This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner and enjoy the start of your shared journey. D
DAY 3: LONDON HIGHLIGHTS/TOWER OF LONDON
Enjoy a panoramic driving tour of London’s landmarks including Big Ben and Buckingham Palace and tour the Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels. B, D
DAY 4: STONEHENGE/HIGHCLERE CASTLE
Mysterious and magical, visit ancient monument Stonehenge. Tour Highclere Castle and Gardens, site of the PBS hit TV series and movie, Downton Abbey. The privately-owned castle is open for tours on a very limited schedule — and we get a look inside! Continue to the Georgian town of Bath for dinner. B, D
DAY 5: ROMAN BATHS/STRATFORD UPON AVON
Explore the Roman Baths and visit Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon. B, D
DAY 6: THE BEATLES
An immersive journey at The Beatles Story Museum and Cavern Club explains how four young lads from Liverpool were propelled to heights of fame and fortune from humble beginnings. Today we also visit the impressive Liverpool Cathedral. B, D
DAY 7: LAKE DISTRICT National Park
Take a scenic drive through England’s Lake District before crossing into Scotland at the lovely, historic Gretna Green. B, D
DAY 8: BLAIR CASTLE
Continue north to the Scottish Highlands with a stop at the imposing Blair Castle Estate. Enjoy a three-night stay at the four-star Kingsmills Hotel located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands surrounded by immaculate gardens with impressive views of Cromdale Hills. B, D
DAY 9: URQUHART/LOCH NESS CRUISE
Tour Urquhart Castle, a taste of Highlands history at their most dramatic chapters dating back over 1,000 years. Then, watch as a shepherd masterfully directs his working Border Collies to herd and round his sheep. Enjoy lunch on your own in Fort Augustus before departing on a Loch Ness cruise where sharp eyes will come in handy to spot the mythical Nessie. B, D
DAY 10: CULLODEN/CAWDOR CASTLE
Discover the historic Culloden Battlefield, tour the famous Cawdor Castle, and sample whisky at a Highland distillery. B, D
DAY 11: FREE TIME/EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO
Spend the afternoon exploring Edinburgh on your own before enjoying the incredible Edinburgh Military Tattoo! Performed by British Armed Forces and international military bands, the Tattoo is televised in over 40 countries and watched by hundreds of millions! B, D
DAY 12: EDINBURGH CASTLE/ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA
Explore the beautiful Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Yacht Britannia before ending the trip with a festive Taste of Scotland dinner show. B, D
DAY 13: FLY HOME FROM EDINBURGH
After breakfast, travel to the airport for your flight home, carrying memories of this unique British adventure. B
Quality Accommodations
Nights 2-3: Holiday Inn Kensington, London, England
Night 4: Hampton by Hilton, Bath City, England
Nights 5-6: Mercure Atlantic Tower Hotel, Liverpool, England
Night 7: Peebles Hydro Hotel, Peebles, Scotland
Nights 8-10: Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness, Scotland
Nights 11-12: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel, Edinburgh, Scotland
Dates:
Aug 9-21, 2026
Price Per Person:
Double $6,597
Single $8,795
Pre-/Post Tour Hotel:
$228/night
Depart/Return:
Chicago, IL
Inclusions:
Round-trip airfare from the U.S.
Professional, English speaking Tour Director
Welcome Reception and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Available about 10 months before departure.
Departure Time
Available about 10 months before departure.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our Pre and Post hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to and from Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Free parking is offered during the tour at our hotel in Chicago with a pre or post night booked.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and European airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate and moveable walkways are not common throughout European Airports as they are in the United States.
Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
We are finding that larger European cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways). In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.
Average Temps
High of 73°, low of 51°
Currency
British Pound
Time Zone
+6 hours from Central Time
Hotel Amenities
Most accommodations arranged by Country Travel Discoveries are equipped with in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker. In addition, some properties may also have a pool, fitness center, spa, or laundry facilities.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
A valid US Passport is required for travel to/from the United States.
Land Tours begin one day later. Airport transfers are not included with Land Only Tours.
Dress on tour is casual. Comfortable walking shoes are needed.
Travel Protection Available
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
