Delve into the literary heritage of Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon, the mysteries of Stonehenge, the ancient city of Bath and the glittering sophistication of London. In Wales, discover a unique destination with its own complicated language and fierce sense of independence. From great castles and cathedrals to charming cottages and peaceful pastoral scenes, the British Isles will enchant you at every turn.
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Day 1: Arrive Edinburgh
Tour begins: 6:00 PM, Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, Scotland. Welcome to Edinburgh, Scotland's jewel of a capital city. A transfer from the airport to your hotel is included. You'll meet your fellow travelers at a welcome reception and dinner tonight. Lodging: Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, (D)
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Day 2: Castles and Palaces
A sightseeing tour of historic Edinburgh is the perfect place to begin any Scotland travel. Begin at Edinburgh Castle and continue down the famous Royal Mile through old town to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official home in the city (subject to closure when Her Majesty is in residence). There is much more of Edinburgh to explore on your own this afternoon. Tours departing August 3 through 24 will attend an outdoor evening performance of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Lodging: Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh, (B)
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Day 3: Highland Fling
Most visitors to Scotland travel into the wildly beautiful Scottish Highlands, as you will today. En route, visit either Balmoral Castle, the royal family's residence in Scotland, or historic Blair Castle.
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Day 4: Royal Yacht Britannia/ Loch Lomond
Start the day with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia, for a peek at what life was like aboard the Royal Family's private cruise vessel. Continue on to celebrated Loch Lomond for a cruise along its fabled waters and an overnight on its bonnie banks in luxurious accommodations at the baronial De Vere Cameron House. Meals: Breakfast, dinner. Lodging: De Vere Cameron House, Loch Lomond, Scotland
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Day 5: Glasgow, the Lowland, and the Lake District
A visit to Glasgow is a highlight of a Scotland travel experience. A sightseeing tour spotlights Glasgow's delightful Victorian architecture. This afternoon's journey onward into the English Lake District reveals some of the most beautiful scenery in Britain. Lodging: Langdale Hotel & Country Club, Langdale, (B,L,D)
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Day 6: Secrets of the Lakes
In what is considered one of the loveliest parts of England travel to Levens Hall & Gardens, an Elizabethan estate dating back to the 14th century, featuring a celebrated topiary garden begun in the 1690s. Enjoy leisure time in Beatrix Potter country on a visit to Bowness-on-Windermere before continuing on to the eastern shore of Lake Windermere in Cumbria; embark on a cruise on the lake prior to returning to your hotel in Langdale. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Lodging: Langdale Hotel & Country Club, Langdale, England
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Day 7: Chester / Portmeirion / Wales
Explore the medieval town of Chester before continuing through the green hills of North Wales to Bodnant Gardens. Enjoy a two-night stay in picturesque Portmeirion, with its enchanting mix of landscape designs and architecture. Lodging: Hotel Portmeirion, Portmeirion, ( B,D)
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Day 8: Welsh Dragons and Pageantry
The day begins with a visit to the historic town of Caernarfon and the castle where the investiture of the Prince of Wales takes place. Following lunch in Betws-y-Coed, return to Portmeirion. Lodging: Hotel Portmeirion, Portmeirion, (B,L,D)
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Day 9: Wedgewood &Stratford Upon Avon
Enter the British Midlands and journey to delightful Coventry, known for its two famous cathedrals - one old and one new. Visit Wedgewood, before arriving in atmospheric Stratford-upon Avon for a two-night stay. Lodging: Shakespeare Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon, (B,L,D)
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Day 10: The Life and Times of William Shakespeare
Call in at Anne Hathaway's cottage for a visit before setting off to see the quaint villages that dot the peaceful Cotswolds. Walk in the footsteps of the Bard as you explore Stratford-upon-Avon further on your own this afternoon. Lodging: Shakespeare Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon, (B,D)
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Day 11: Georgian Treasures in Bath
Known as one of the architecturally finest and most fascinating cities in all of Britain, Bath invites exploration. At your leisure, enjoy a sightseeing tour of this compact city, including the Circus and the impressive Royal Crescent among other sites. Lodging: Bath Spa Hotel, Bath, (B,D)
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Day 12: Ancient Mysteries and the Best of London
Let your imagination take you back in time 4000 years as you view Stonehenge, the mysterious circle of stones left by the Druids near the Salisbury Plains. Upon arrival in London, a sightseeing tour includes famous sights such as Piccadilly Circus, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament, as well as a visit to majestic Westminster Abbey. (B,L)
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Day 13: West End Theatre
All of London is yours to explore at your leisure today. Your hotel is well located close to major sites on Bond Street, Oxford Street, and Grosvenor Square. Join us at a cocktail reception this evening, and then attend a performance of Wicked in the West End. (B, D)
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Day 14: Journey Home
Tour ends: London, England. A transfer from the Langham Hotel London to London's Heathrow Airport is included. Allow a minimum of 2 hours for flight check-in. (B)