12-Day Elegance of Great Britain - Start Edinburgh, Classic Group 2026
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US$4739 ￥31975 €4100 C$6612 Rs.450859
US$5576 ￥37622 €4824 C$7779 Rs.530489
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Child age: 0-12
Highlights
Follow in the footsteps of historical figures and literary giants on a 12-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.
- Edinburgh: Get to know your fellow travelers over dinner of modern European cuisine, at a quirky bistro tucked away in Leith.
- York: Join your hosts for dinner at the historic Thirsk Hall. The building was extended in 1770 by famous English architect John Carr.
- Bath: Join your Travel Director and fellow travelers at Brasserie Blanc, while enjoying a delicious French-inspired meal.
- Edinburgh: Explore Edinburgh Castle with your Local Expert to see the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Mons Meg up close.
- Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Expert as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
- Edinburgh: A hush descends, and eyes turn to the castle. The skirl of the pipes rises and drums crack the night air as a tide of tunics and tartan flood from the drawbridge. For a limited time in August, witness the incredible spectacle of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
- Gretna Green: Visit the spot where runaway lovers were married.
- Grasmere: Learn about the life of the poet William Wordsworth and visit his grave.
- Bowness-on-Windermere: The best way to enjoy the Lake District is by cruise. Relax as you admire the magnificent views.
- Windermere: Board a steam train and journey along the banks of the beautiful River Leven.
- Haworth: A visit to the Brontë Parsonage Museum provides a fascinating insight into the life of the Brontë family and the inspiration behind their marvelous works of literature.
- York: Walk with your Local Expert to York Minster, then trace the narrow, timber-framed streets known as the Shambles.
- Stratford-upon-Avon: Learn about the life of William Shakespeare, arguably history's most famous writer, when you visit his birthplace. Then enjoy some time to explore this pretty town with its iconic Tudor houses.
- Cardiff: During an orientation with your Travel Director, see the castle and Principality Stadium.
- Cardiff: Enjoy a guided visit through Cardiff Castle, including the stunning apartment rooms showcasing its Victorian Gothic splendor.
- Bath: During an orientation you will see the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey.
- Bath: Visit the Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved ancient bathhouses in Northern Europe whose waters still flow today. Enjoy a personal exploration of the site, including the Sacred Spring, original Great Bath, temple remains and museum displays of artifacts uncovered on site. This complex offers a clear view of public bathing and religious practices during the Roman occupation of Britain nearly 2,000 years ago.
- Stonehenge: Walk around the strange, awe-inspiring megaliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.
- Salisbury: During your free time for lunch, take a moment to explore this historical city. See the tallest spire in England, atop the Medieval cathedral and walk the streets to observe an architectural timeline from the city's medieval walls and half-timbered Tudor town houses to Georgian mansions and Victorian villas.
- Ardgowan House: Join Sir Ludovic for a tour of his family home, Ardgowan Estate. Hear about centuries of history on the beautiful grounds during the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Your visit helps support the estate, helping keep Scottish history alive. The Estate educates its visitors and the local rural community about their sustainability initiatives, reducing food waste and sourcing all ingredients locally to support the local economy. Ardgowan Estate invests in renewable projects including a wood bio mass boiler, a gas plant and wind turbines, to create a greener, more sustainable future. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Affordable and Clean Energy & Responsible Consumption and Production.
- York: Visit the National Railway Museum, housing over 300 years of history, and home to iconic locomotives and an unrivaled collection of engineering brilliance. We celebrate the past, present and future of innovation on the railways.
- York: Delve into the historic and human stories which have shaped the Minster on a visit to York's masterpiece. Explore the cathedral’s rich history, from the Roman Emperor who changed the course of Christianity, to the fires that threatened to destroy the cathedral.
- Blenheim Palace: Witness a masterpiece of the English Baroque, brimming with priceless art and tapestries, and learn more about Churchill's life at Blenheim.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- York: Visit the National Railway Museum, housing over 300 years of history, and home to iconic locomotives and an unrivaled collection of engineering brilliance. We celebrate the past, present and future of innovation on the railways.
- York: Delve into the historic and human stories which have shaped the Minster on a visit to York's masterpiece. Explore the cathedral’s rich history, from the Roman Emperor who changed the course of Christianity, to the fires that threatened to destroy the cathedral.
Dates & Prices
Price in USD (per person, based on double occupancy)
Limited Offer
3% Group Discount: 1. Receive 3% off when you purchase 3+ rooms on the same tour (single order only). 2. Receive 3% off when you book 3+ multi-day tours with minimum order total of $500 at once. Not valid in conjunction with any other discounts or pricing offers.
Itinerary
Welcome to Scotland - land of legends and romance, from the great cultural cities in the south, to the dramatic mountains and misty lochs of the Highlands. After a transfer to your Edinburgh hotel, the rest of the day is yours to relax before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers.
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, to the north of England in the United Kingdom. Learn about the area's proud history at the National Museum of Scotland, and tour the Royal Yacht Britannia and Arthur's Seat.
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.
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, to the north of England in the United Kingdom. Learn about the area's proud history at the National Museum of Scotland, and tour the Royal Yacht Britannia and Arthur's Seat.
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.
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, to the north of England in the United Kingdom. Learn about the area's proud history at the National Museum of Scotland, and tour the Royal Yacht Britannia and Arthur's Seat.
Ardgowan House, United Kingdom
Gretna Green, United Kingdom
This Scottish village, right across the border from England, has grown quite a reputation for being a destination of runaway couples trying to get married. There are many lovely historical buildings in town.
Kendal, United Kingdom
Devote the day to a scenic wonderland of rugged mountains and tranquil waters - inspiration to a host of English poets.Visit Wordsworth’s grave in the small churchyard at Grasmere.Appreciate the scenic beauty of the English Lake District on a relaxing cruise admiring the magnificent views of rugged mountains, secluded bays and wooded islands. Then, embark on a nostalgic steam train ride along the banks of the beautiful River Leven.
Windermere
Located in Lake District National Park in the north of England, Windermere is the largest lake in the country. It is classified as a ribbon lake because it is long and narrow, resembling a finger.
Lake District National Park, United Kingdom
Usually simply known as the "Lake District," this park in the northernmost area of the United Kingdom is home to nearly one hundred lakes. Its beauty has made it a popular vacation spot with people across the country.
Windermere
Located in Lake District National Park in the north of England, Windermere is the largest lake in the country. It is classified as a ribbon lake because it is long and narrow, resembling a finger.
Enjoy a morning at leisure before traveling through the Yorkshire Dales to arrive at the charming village of Haworth. Visit the Brontë Parsonage Museum, created within the home of the Brontë family. Learn about the family's literary legacy and what inspired them from the surroundings of their own home. Your journey continues to York, one of the oldest cities in England. In the evening join a family for a Dine-at-Home experience at the historic Thirsk Hall. This grade II* listed three-storey town house was built in 1720 and extended in 1770 by York architect John Carr.
Windermere
Located in Lake District National Park in the north of England, Windermere is the largest lake in the country. It is classified as a ribbon lake because it is long and narrow, resembling a finger.
York, United Kingdom
A historic walled city in North Yorkshire, England. York Minster and a variety of cultural and sporting activities make it a popular tourist destination.
Enjoy an exploration of one of Britain’s most historic cities, controlled by the Vikings during the 9th and 10th centuries and now renowned for its exquisite architecture. Walk within the town walls with a Local Expert to see the York Minster, Britain’s largest medieval cathedral. Explore the tangle of narrow, cobbled streets and see the Shambles. Spend the afternoon with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the National Railway Museum housing over 300 years of history, or the magnificent York Minster, one of the largest in Northern Europe.
York, United Kingdom
A historic walled city in North Yorkshire, England. York Minster and a variety of cultural and sporting activities make it a popular tourist destination.
Begin your day seeing Anne Hathaway’s cottage in Shottery, a 15th-century farmhouse with a timber frame and thatched roof, where Shakespeare is said to have courted his future wife. Surrounded by traditional gardens, the site offers a view into rural Tudor life. Continue into Stratford-upon-Avon to visit the house where Shakespeare was born in 1564. This modest dwelling, now a museum, contains original furnishings and documents that chart his early years. Later, cross into Wales and arrive in Cardiff, declared the nation’s capital in 1955. This evening, you may choose to attend an Optional Experience featuring traditional Welsh music, storytelling and a locally inspired menu.
York, United Kingdom
A historic walled city in North Yorkshire, England. York Minster and a variety of cultural and sporting activities make it a popular tourist destination.
Stratford-Upon-Avon, United Kingdom
Stratford-upon-Avon is a market town and civil parish in the Stratford-on-Avon District.
Cardiff, United Kingdom
The capital of Wales, and its largest city. The eleventh-largest city in the United Kingdom. A small town until the early 19th century, its prominence as a major port for the transport of coal following the arrival of industry in the region contributed to its rise as a major city.
Explore Cardiff Castle with your Local Expert. Built on Roman foundations and transformed in the 19th century, the castle reveals layers of Welsh heritage and national identity. Join your Travel Director for an orientation to see the city’s landmarks, including the Principality Stadium, Wales Millennium Center, Pierhead Building and The Senedd, home to the Welsh Parliament. Discover how Cardiff developed from a coal-exporting port into a modern capital. You’ll have time to explore further at your own pace — visit a museum, stroll along the bay or pause at a local cafe.
Cardiff, United Kingdom
The capital of Wales, and its largest city. The eleventh-largest city in the United Kingdom. A small town until the early 19th century, its prominence as a major port for the transport of coal following the arrival of industry in the region contributed to its rise as a major city.
An enchanting day awaits this morning. Cross the beautiful Cotswold hills, a chocolate box scene of golden stone villages with roses around the doors. Visit the magnificent stately home and gardens of Blenheim Palace, the greatest building of the English Baroque, and learn more about Churchill's life at Blenheim. Continue to the elegant Georgian city of Bath, built in amphitheater style on the surrounding hills. Your Travel Director introduces you to the Pulteney Bridge, built in mellow local stone.
Cardiff, United Kingdom
The capital of Wales, and its largest city. The eleventh-largest city in the United Kingdom. A small town until the early 19th century, its prominence as a major port for the transport of coal following the arrival of industry in the region contributed to its rise as a major city.
Cotswolds, United Kingdom
Blenheim, United Kingdom
Bath, United Kingdom
Bath is the largest city in the ceremonial county of Somerset, England, known for its Roman-built baths.
The City of Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built above one of Britain's thermal, mineral springs. Enjoy a visit to its incredibly well-preserved Roman Baths. With the rest of the day at leisure, why not soak and relax with a visit to Thermae Spa? In the evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers as you raise a glass over your dinner to commend your wonderful journey.
Bath, United Kingdom
Bath is the largest city in the ceremonial county of Somerset, England, known for its Roman-built baths.
Travel across Salisbury Plain to visit the prehistoric and mysterious Stonehenge, where the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths are reputed to be up to 5,000 years old. Continue into the heart of Wiltshire to the city of Salisbury where you have time at leisure to enjoy lunch and explore. See the tallest spire in England, atop the medieval cathedral, and observe an architectural timeline from the city's medieval walls and half-timbered Tudor town houses to Georgian mansions and Victorian villas. Upon arrival in London you are at leisure for the rest of the afternoon.
Bath, United Kingdom
Bath is the largest city in the ceremonial county of Somerset, England, known for its Roman-built baths.
Stonehenge
This world-famous prehistoric monument dates to between 3000 and 2000 BC. It is a UNESCO National Historic Site and one of the most recognizable icons of Britain in the world. It is thought to have been a burial site.
Salisbury, United Kingdom
This cathedral city in Wiltshere, England is best known for its large, historic cathedral, which is most famous for housing the Magna Carta, a critical document in English history.
London, United Kingdom
The capital city of both England and the United Kingdom has been a focal point of Western civilization for centuries. This amazing city in the British Isles is famous for places like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey.
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.
London, United Kingdom
The capital city of both England and the United Kingdom has been a focal point of Western civilization for centuries. This amazing city in the British Isles is famous for places like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey.
Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
Additional Notes
- UNITED KINGDOM: Traveling to the UK & Northern Ireland after January 8, 2025? A new Electronic Travel Authorization ETA is required for entry and transit, if you need to go through border control. For more details & to apply for the ETA visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.
- DAY 1: Complimentary arrival transfers depart Edinburgh Airport (EDI) at 09:00, 11:00 and 13:00 on the first day of the tour. Guests should arrive at least 2 hours before the last transfer time. Please be aware when booking your flights.
- DAY 12 LONDON TRANSFER: Book air with Insight Vacations and you will receive a complimentary transfer from the Insight Vacations tour hotel to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) in the last day of the itinerary or in conjunction with post-trip accommodation booked through Insight Vacations. Guests who have made their own flight arrangements may purchase a transfer at our specially negotiated group transfer rates.
- CHARGEABLE TRANSFERS: Chargeable transfers available in Edinburgh. Guests who have booked their extra hotel nights with Insight Vacations, or whose flight times do not coincide with the shuttle coach timings may purchase a chargeable transfer. However, guests booking independent hotel nights should make their own transfer arrangements.
- ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO: Insight includes tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo on departures that only coincide with performance dates which run from August 7 to August 29, 2026.
Policies
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Complete operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, is included on your e-ticket. You must print the e-tickets and take them along on your trip; they are your proof of purchase.
Travel Documents
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Cancellation penalties per person (request day and departure day are not counted)
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
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