Compare Best of England in 14 Days Tour by Rick Steves vs England & Scotland in 11 days - The Royal Capital and The Highlands - Charm by Exoticca

Day 1: Welcome to England

The beautiful Georgian city of Bath is a 90-minute train ride from central London. We'll meet at 4 p.m. at our hotel for a "Welcome to England" get-together. Then we'll take a short neighborhood walk and get acquainted over a traditional Sunday roast dinner. Sleep in Bath (3 nights). No bus. Walking: light.

Day 2: Roman and Georgian Bath

Our day begins with a walking tour of Bath's charming streets, including its medieval abbey square and the imposing sweep of its Royal Crescent. Next we're off to tour the town's remarkably well-preserved 2,000-year-old Roman Baths, where you'll have a chance to drink from these natural mineral springs in the Pump Room. The rest of the day is free to make your own discoveries in this historic town. You might visit the colorful Fashion Museum or — as Roman travelers did — bathe in a mineral spa. No bus. Walking: moderate.

Day 3: Glastonbury and Wells

Today we'll explore and learn about mystical Glastonbury, the legendary resting place of King Arthur, where we'll also enjoy a picnic in the shadow of the abbey ruins. Later we'll tour England's oldest completely Gothic structure — the graceful Wells Cathedral — before returning to Bath in the late afternoon. Bus: 3 hrs. Walking: moderate.

Day 4: Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds

This morning we'll take a walking tour through Avebury's mysterious, prehistoric stone circle. Then we'll drive north to Blenheim Palace, touring this gilded mini-Versailles that was the birthplace of Winston Churchill. We end our day in the charming, flower-boxed Cotswolds market town of Stow-on-the-Wold, where we'll sleep (2 nights). Bus: 5 hrs. Walking: moderate.

Day 5: Cotswold Villages

Today we'll take a scenic Cotswolds drive, stopping at the ever-so-English Cotswolds village of Stanton. We'll explore the village as well as tour Stanway House, home to the local aristocracy. This afternoon you'll have free time to explore more picturesque market villages on your own — or join your guide for a leisurely country walk past cottages and sheep, through fields and kissing gates. Tonight we'll enjoy dinner together at a country pub with the sounds of local folk musicians, where you can try a sip of scrumpy, the local farmhouse "hard cider." Bus: 2 hrs. Walking: moderate.

Day 6: Wonderful Wales

We'll begin our day visiting Stokesay Castle, a fortified manor house, where we'll learn about the feudal system and the perks of the well-born. After a lovely cream tea we'll bid cheerio to England and drive into neighboring wonderful North Wales to the castle-topped harbor town of Conwy. You'll have time to wander through town and walk the city walls overlooking the Irish Sea, before our dinner together. Sleep in Conwy (2 nights). Bus: 5 hrs. Walking: light.

Day 7: Sheepdogs, Castles, and Highlands

This morning we'll head to the Carneddau Mountains, where we'll visit a working farm and get to know their talented sheepdogs. Then we're off to Caernarfon to tour the impressive Caernarfon Castle, part of the system of English garrison castles that Edward I built to enforce English rule over North Wales 700 years ago. After lunch, we'll drive up into majestic Snowdonia National Park for a walk through some of the most gorgeous scenery North Wales has to offer. The rest of your day is free to roam along Conwy's multi-towered city wall, historic houses, and laid-back harbor. Bus: 3 hrs. Walking: strenuous.

Day 8: Gardens and Lakes

We'll begin our day by exploring the manicured lawns, terraced beds, and extensive botanical collection of Bodnant Gardens. Then we'll cross back into England and make our way to the spectacularly serene Lake District, favorite haunt of poets and painters, exploring a charming village or two that dot the region. We'll end the day feasting on fish and chips together at a traditional English chippy, followed by a walk up to Castlerigg Stone Circle, to watch the sunset. Sleep at a family-run hotel in Keswick (2 nights). Bus: 5 hrs. Walking: light.

Day 9: The Lake District

Today we'll explore the natural beauty of the Lake District. You can join your guide for a leisurely boat cruise on the island-studded Derwentwater — or strike out on a little expedition of your own 'twixt lakes and mountains, thanks to a wealth of hiking opportunities along well-marked trails. Boat: ½ hr. No bus. Walking: light to strenuous (your choice).

Day 10: Hadrian's Wall

We'll travel back in time today with a walk along Hadrian's ancient Roman wall, once considered the boundary dividing civilization and barbarity (though the Scots might disagree), followed by a tour of the Roman auxiliary fort, Vindolanda. We'll then stop for lunch before winding our way through the moors and dales of North Yorkshire — James Herriot country — to the bustling cathedral city of York. Upon arrival, we'll take a walking tour beneath the leaning, half-timbered houses of The Shambles in the city's marvelous medieval center. Tonight we'll indulge in England's favorite ethnic food with a tasty Indian dinner together. Sleep in York (2 nights). Bus: 5 hrs. Walking: strenuous.

Day 11: York Minster and the Medieval City

We'll begin our day marveling at York Minster's stained glass windows on our tour of the largest Gothic church north of the Alps. You'll have the rest of the day free to enjoy more of this enchanting city. It's a great night to enjoy an ethereal evensong choir performance in the Minster. No bus. Walking: moderate.

Day 12: Westminster Abbey and Regal London

Today we'll board a train and make a beeline past the Midlands for London. Upon arrival, we'll enjoy an entertaining guided bus tour, hearing tales about Big Ben, the river Thames, St. Paul's Cathedral, and more. Then we'll visit Westminster Abbey with a local guide, where England's kings and queens have been crowned and buried since 1066. A thousand years of English history lie within its stained-glass splendor and under its stone slabs. Later this afternoon, we'll check into our hotel and get oriented to our neighborhood and London's Tube. Tonight is a perfect evening for the theater (book something in advance from the Colonies or pick up a ticket in London). Sleep in central London (2 nights). Train: 2 hrs. Bus: 2 hrs. Walking: moderate.

Day 13: Tower of London

This morning we'll begin our day of sightseeing with the medieval Tower of London (the first "skyscraper" of its time), where you can join a tour with a witty Beefeater, and get a close-up look at the UK's majestic collection of crown jewels. Then we'll take a panoramic cruise on the river Thames. We'll disembark at Westminster, where you'll be free to explore the Churchill War Rooms, tour the British Museum, or take a walk through one of the city's wonderful parks. Tonight we'll meet for a final group dinner together, where we'll share travel memories and toast new friends. Cheers! Boat: ½ hr. No bus. Walking: moderate.

Day 14: Tour Over After Breakfast

Breakfast is provided, but there are no group activities today. Heathrow and Gatwick airports can be easily reached by Tube, train, or bus from our London neighborhood. For those not ready to return home yet, London is a great jumping off point to Paris, Dublin, Amsterdam, and many other exciting destinations. Cheerio!

Day 1: US - Night on board

Arrive at your US departure airport ready to board a flight to London. Night on board.* * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2: London

Arrive in London and self-transfer to the hotel*. London is the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom. Located on the banks of the River Thames, London has been an important human settlement since it was founded by the Romans originally named Londinium almost two millennia ago. London is a global city, one of the nerve centers in the arts, commerce, education, maintenance, fashion, finance, media, research, tourism and transport. Rest of the day at your leisure to explore the city. Overnight stay in London. * You will have the option to add a transfer from the airport to your hotel in the next step of the booking process. Please contact our customer service if you require a transfer from an airport other than LGW or LHR.

Day 3: London

Breakfast at the hotel. See London from a different perspective today, with a sightseeing cruise along the River Thames! Take in the views of several of the capital's most emblematic riverside landmarks, such as Tower Bridge, Southbank and the London Eye and enjoy the fully-stocked bar to buy drinks and snacks as you listen to the entertaining onboard commentary! Afternoon free to enjoy the capital at your leisure. Overnight stay in London.

Day 4: London

Breakfast at the hotel. Free day to continue exploring the wonderful city of London. Overnight stay in London.

Day 5: London - Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, self-transfer* to the London Kings Cross Station to take the train to Edinburgh. Arrive in Edinburgh and self-transfer to the hotel. The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is famed for its charming medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town with neoclassical gardens and buildings. The rest of the day is free at your leisure to explore the city. Overnight stay in Edinburgh. Please note: During the winter season, the itinerary may be affected. In this case, it is important to review the notes section before your departure. * You will have the option to add a transfer from your hotel to the station and from the station to the hotel in the next step of the booking process.

Day 6: Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. Discover the city’s most famous tourist sights and monuments on a panoramic walking tour of Edinburgh with a professional English-speaking guide, visiting the Grassmarket area of the city, the elegant Georgian New Town and the historic Old Town. Among its main attractions, there is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, St Giles Cathedral and The National Gallery of Scotland. Stroll along the majestic Royal Mile and visit Canongate. Take some free time in the afternoon to wander through the city's atmospheric streets at your leisure, browsing the shops or stopping for a warming 'dram' of whiskey in one of the local bars. We recommend an optional visit to legendary Edinburgh Castle*. Overnight stay in Edinburgh. * Optional Edinburgh Castle visit: Edinburgh Castle is an ancient fortress built on a volcanic rock located in the centre of the city. It has been used for military purposes since the 12th century, being used for civil uses only in very recent times. Enter it and explore all the corners of this wonderful castle!

Day 7: Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a full day at your leisure to continue discovering this amazing city. Why not take in the views from Carlton Hill or, if the weather is good, take a hike up Arthur's Seat for an unforgettable panorama of Edinburgh and beyond. Alternatively, Edinburgh is a paradise for shoppers, with plenty of quirky boutiques to explore. Overnight stay in Edinburgh.

Day 8: Edinburgh - Stirling - St Andrews - Aberdeen

After breakfast, meet your guide and depart towards Stirling. The castle played an important role during the Scottish independence wars and many will recognise it as it is featured in the 1995 film, Braveheart. Continue to St Andrews where to visit this picturesque town, known as the home of golf. Enjoy some free time to take in the sea views before continuing towards Aberdeen, stopping on the way to take pictures of beautiful Dunnottar Castle. Overnight stay in Aberdeen.

Day 9: Aberdeen - Castle Fraser - Cairngorms National Park - Aberdeen

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore the city of Aberdeen on a guided Panoramic coach tour. Visit the area surrounding the Cairngorm Mountains, home to breathtaking scenery, typical of the Scottish Highlands. Enjoy some free time at your disposal at lunchtime. In the afternoon, head to Speyside, famous for the whisky distilleries. Here, pay a visit to a local whisky distillery for a fascinating tour and tasting session. Afterwards, return to Aberdeen for an overnight stay.

Day 10: Aberdeen - Inverness - Aviemore

Breakfast at the hotel. Head west today as you depart on a guided coach journey towards Inverness. Along the route, admire the wild nature of the Highlands as you pass by spectacular landscapes of moorlands and glens. Arrive in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, and enjoy a city tour. Afterwards, leave the city behind as you head to your hotel in the beautiful area of Aviemore, within the Cairngorms National Park. Overnight stay in the Aviemore area.

Day 11: Aviemore - Trossachs - Glasgow - Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, depart south towards Glasgow via the beautiful Trossachs where you can admire the scenery and see the largest Loch in Scotland, Loch Lomond. On arrival in Glasgow, the second most important and largest city in Scotland, enjoy a panoramic tour and some free time to explore the city at your leisure. In the evening, return to Edinburgh to enjoy your final night in Scotland at your leisure. Overnight stay in Edinburgh.

Day 12: Edinburgh - US

Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, self-transfer** to the airport for a flight back to the US. Arrive in the US and end your trip. * Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day. ** You will have the option to add the airport transfer in the next step of the booking process.