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The Bodleian Library in Oxford

Wonders of Britain

England, Wales & Scotland

(12 days / 11 nights)

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Breathtaking beauty and British history

Let an experienced local take the wheel on this guided tour across England, Scotland and Wales. With a group of like-minded travellers, a dedicated driver and a knowledgeable guide, you’ll be immersed in the beauty of Britain. Step back in time on the streets of York, Edinburgh and Bath. Visit ancient history at Vindolanda Roman Fort and the Stonehenge circle. Sail across sparkling waters in the Lake District and visit the home of Beatrix Potter. Then, each night, unwind in local accommodation and feel at home in Great Britain.

Would you like to complete your tour of the UK with a visit to Northern Ireland? Check out our range of Ireland tours, easily combined with any of our Britain trips.

Save up to GBP

12 days / 11 nights

Price p.p. from

4608GBP

You save: 320 GBP per person

The amount will be charged in GBP

Approx 4288 GBP

— Why book with Nordic Visitor

  • Groups limited to 15 travellers
  • 100% guaranteed departures
  • Experienced driver & knowledgeable tour guide with extensive local knowledge
  • Seamless travel experience
  • Handpicked hotels & routes designed by our trusted local experts
  • Quality & value for your money
  • Comprehensive itinerary, personalised map & travel guide
  • Service from trusted UK travel experts
  • 24/7 helpline during your tour
  • 5-star customer reviews
  • Carbon offsetting included

Read more

— Cancellation Protection

  • Rebook your tour on one occasion, or
  • Cancel for any reason and receive a partial refund and travel credit

Terms and conditions apply

Tour Highlights

  • Get a taste of 3 countries in 1 trip: England, Scotland and Wales
  • Discover the famous Stonehenge neolithic stone circle
  • Admire the Georgian grandeur and Roman buildings of Bath
  • Spend free time taking in the atmosphere of the UK’s capital and largest city, London
  • Explore the Viking city of York in England
  • Immerse yourself in the history of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh
  • Experience the picturesque world of Beatrix Potter in the Lake District
  • Walk the cobbled streets of Oxford and step into magnificent colleges
  • Seamless travel experience with a driver and knowledgeable tour guide
  • Take part in immersive included activities and enjoy guided walking tours

Travel style

Guided Small Groups i

Interest

Best Seller i, Castles and Royalty i, Classic i, Culture and History i

Pace level

Level 1/3 (At Leisure) i

Activity level

Level 1/4 (Easy) i

Season

May - Oct

Max group size

15

Departure

See calendar

Interest

Best Seller i, Castles and Royalty i, Classic i, Culture and History i

Itinerary

A day-by-day plan to guide your journey.

  • Day 1: Arrival in England & explore Oxford

    Today, you arrive in England and start your journey around Britain! A private transfer will collect you from the London airport where you'll land.

    You will head directly through the English countryside to your first destination, Oxford. It is famous for being home to Oxford University, one of the best institutions in the world. Walk through the charming city centre and take in the grand university buildings and historic colleges dotted around. You’ll soon see why so many authors, such as J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, chose to live here and took inspiration from this beautiful city.

    Spend the night at voco Oxford Spires or similar.

    Included:
    • Private Transfer from any London airport to Oxford

    Average travel time: 1-2 hours

    Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 2: Highlights of Peak District national park

    This morning, your guide will pick you and your fellow travellers up from your accommodation and you’ll hit the road. For the first leg of the journey, you’ll head north to the Peak District.

    Your group will stop to explore the spa town of Matlock Bath. Here, you will enjoy a cable car ride up the Heights of Abraham, a historic park on Masson Hill. Take in the views of the many surrounding hills. You can also take a tour of 2 incredible caverns, formed by natural springs over 350 million years ago.

    Later, your group will continue to York, where you’ll spend the night. This is a wonderful example of an ancient English walled city. If you have time, walk around the historic centre to see York Minster and the Shambles street.

    Tonight, you will dine with your group and enjoy some local specialities.

    Spend the night at The Churchill Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Entrance to the Heights of Abraham
    • Breakfast at your accommodation
    • Dinner at your accommodation

    Average travel time: 9-10 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 3: Yorkshire & Harrogate spa town

    Today, you will explore the beautiful nature and towns of Yorkshire. You will start by heading to Harrogate, one of Yorkshire’s most elegant destinations. As one of England’s old spa towns, there’s plenty of history to discover here.

    Then, you’ll head back and explore historic York some more. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, with the option of visiting museums in the city such as the iconic JORVIK Centre. This is where the city’s influential Viking history is brought to life.

    Alternatively, you could enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the River Ouse. In between your activities, explore more of the cobbled city streets. You could venture up onto the ancient walls which once defended York from outsiders.

    Spend another night at The Churchill Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your accommodation

    Average travel & exploration time: 6-7 hours

    Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 4: Heading north to Scotland

    This morning, your group starts the drive up to Scotland! You’ll head north until you’ll reach the area along the famous Hadrian's Wall. You’ll make a quick stop in Vindolanda to uncover some of the ruins of this incredible Roman fortification.

    Then, your group will continue north, travelling through the Northumberland National Park & Kielder Forest Park. Kielder is England’s largest forest and is full of local wildlife and impressive art installations.

    Finally, you’ll cross into Scotland and journey through the lush region called the Scottish Borders all the way to the capital city, Edinburgh. On the way, you will enjoy a stop at the stately Abbotsford, the former home of writer Sir Walter Scott.

    Spend the night at Nira Caledonia or similar.

    Included:
    • Entrance to Vindolanda 
    • Entrance to Abbotsford House
    • Breakfast at your accommodation

    Average travel & exploration time: 9-10 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 5: EXPLORING EDINBURGH

    You will spend the first part of the day exploring some of Edinburgh’s highlights with your guide. First, you will take a stroll through the New Town, with its grand Georgian streets lined with shops and restaurants. You will then explore the winding, cobbled streets of Edinburgh’s Old Town on a guided walking tour. Learn about the historic heart of the city and walk the famous Royal Mile.

    Later, you can explore on your own what interests you most. On a sunny day, why not relax in the lush Princes Street Gardens under the magnificent Edinburgh Castle? Tonight, you can enjoy dinner at one of Edinburgh’s many gourmet restaurants and go to a traditional pub to try the local whisky, gin or beer.

    Spend another night at Nira Caledonia or similar.

    Included:
    • Walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town
    • Breakfast at your accommodation

    Average travel & exploration time: 3-4 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details See Activities for this day
  • Day 6: MAGICAL LAKE DISTRICT NATIONAL PARK

    Today, you’ll say goodbye to Scotland and head back south to England. First, you’ll travel through one of Scotland’s hidden gems, the region of Dumfries & Galloway. From the road, you’ll be able to admire the rolling hills and lush landscape. Your guide will make a stop in the historic burgh of Moffat, famous for its toffee.

    Then, you will get back on the road all the way to the Lake District in the north of England. Soak up the breathtaking natural scenery in the place Beatrix Potter called home. Along the way, your guide will take you on a stroll through Keswick sitting on the shores of the Derwentwater. You’ll then head to your accommodation for the night.

    Tonight, you’ll enjoy dinner with your group amongst the charming English atmosphere.

    Spend the night at The Waterhead Inn or similar.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your accommodation
    • Dinner at your accommodation

    Average travel & exploration time: 8-9 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 7: EXPLORING TOWNS & NATURE

    You’ll spend the whole day exploring more of the Lake District.  Start with a leisurely morning enjoying the picturesque surroundings of Lake Windermere or exploring the lakeside village of Bowness.

    Later, you will board a river cruise across the waters of Windermere and take in spectacular views of England’s most picturesque area. At the lake’s southern banks, you’ll leave the boat and board a traditional English steam train. Sit back and relax in your cosy carriage as charming sights of the Leven Valley pass by.

    Next, you will visit Hill Top House, Beatrix Potter’s home when she lived in Hawkshead. Here, you’ll learn more about the life of this beloved children’s author and illustrator and explore her charming gardens.

    Spend another night at The Waterhead Inn or similar.

    Included:
    • Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway Tour
    • Entrance to Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s House 
    • Breakfast at your accommodation

    Average travel & exploration time: 7-8 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 8: NORTH ENGLAND TO WALES

    Today your guide takes you from the Lake District to Wales. You will head directly to Chester, a charming town filled with history. Learn more on a walking tour with your guide and visit some Roman ruins.

    Then, you will cross into the nation of Wales, where you will visit Conwy Castle. This famous fortress has incredibly well-preserved medieval features. Then you will head to your accommodation for the night, located on the charming Barkby Beach with views of the Irish Sea. Here, you'll enjoy dinner as a group.

    Spend the night at The Beaches Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Walking tour of Chester
    • Entrance to Conwy Castle
    • Breakfast at your accommodation
    • Dinner at your accommodation

    Average travel & exploration time: 8-9 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 9: ENGLISH & WELSH HIGHLIGHTS ON THE BORDER

    Ahead of you is a day going back and forth between England and Wales. You’ll see the landscape at the cusp of each country and see first-hand the differences and similarities in towns across the border. Your first stop of the day is the town of Shrewsbury in Shropshire. Your guide will take you through this ancient settlement so you can spot the statues, half-timbered houses, stunning churches and the red-bricked Shrewsbury Castle.

    Further along, you’ll stop in Ludlow for lunch. This is a market town renowned for its foodie scene, so relax and enjoy a local eatery of your choice. As you continue south, you’ll pass Herefordshire as well as the stunning Wye Valley, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). You’ll follow the meandering River Wye south, the natural border between England and Wales in this area.

    Along the way, you will stop by the charming Welsh town Chepstow for a coffee break and to enjoy the scenic surroundings.

    Later, you arrive in Bath, your stop for the night. Enjoy dinner with your group in classic Georgian surroundings. Later, you could choose to take an evening walk around this UNESCO World Heritage city.

    Spend the night at Lansdown Grove Hotel or similar.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your accommodation
    • Dinner at your accommodation

    Average travel & exploration time: 9-10 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 10: STONEHENGE & LONDON

    This morning, you will start by discovering the Roman history of Bath on a walking tour with your guide. Pass by the iconic Roman Baths which gave the city its name.

    Later, you’ll drive south to one of the most famous sites in the country, Stonehenge. This is one of the most iconic sights in Britain!  You’ll soon see why it is part of the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site. With over 4,500 years of history, this site and stone circle is a true wonder to behold. You can also learn more at the exhibition centre nearby.

    You will then head directly to your accommodation in London, where you will say goodbye to your guide. You have the rest of the day and evening at your leisure in London.

    Spend the night at Wilde Aparthotels Paddington or similar.

    Included:
    • Walking tour of Bath
    • Entrance to Stonehenge historical site
    • Breakfast at your accommodation

    Average travel & exploration time: 8-9 hours

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 11: DAY AT LEISURE IN LONDON

    You have a full day to explore London on your own. There are so many museums and attractions to see, so you’ll want to pick a few of your favourites. Make sure not to miss Buckingham Palace and St James’s Park. Then stroll down to the River Thames to spot Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and the London Eye. Further east you could visit the famous Tower of London and see Tower Bridge.

    London is a vibrant city full of diverse cultures, so you could pop by one of its markets to sample the food scene. You might even like to go to the theatre tonight. Whether it's exploring the city's rich history, shopping on trendy streets, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk, you’re sure to have a memorable experience of London.

    Spend another night at Wilde Aparthotels Paddington or similar.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your accommodation

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Accommodation details
  • Day 12: DEPARTURE FROM ENGLAND

    Today is the final day of your British adventure. Spend the morning at your leisure in bustling London before departing for the airport in time for your flight home. You could take public transport, like the tube or the Heathrow Express train. Or, for a convenient and comfortable ride, book a private transfer directly from your accommodation.

    Included:
    • Breakfast at your accommodation

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

Map

Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.

Essential information

We recommend that you read carefully through the following information about booking your guided tour of Britain. We’ve included information on what you can expect, what the tour includes, the accommodation, and other useful information for your travels.

Please note that this tour is not recommended for families with children under the age of 12.

On a small guided group tour with Nordic Visitor, you can sit back and enjoy an immersive itinerary alongside a group of like-minded travellers. There will be no more than 15 people in a group, so your guide can get to know you all personally.

Your guide will be an expert in UK history and culture. They’ll share their local knowledge and stories with you and take you to hidden gems across each country. They will also act as the logistical organiser for the group. They’ll ensure everything is running smoothly and that you’re having a good time in the UK.

You’ll also enjoy the service of an experienced driver. They know the roads well and will make sure you’re always comfortable throughout your journey.

Your tour guide will provide you with a high-quality experience throughout your trip. Their in-depth knowledge of the country means you can fully immerse yourself in the local culture and history.

We have built a strong network of trusted suppliers, and we handpick only the guides that meet our high standards.

Due to the nature of this tour and the activities included, it’s not recommended for families with young children. That said, it is suitable for active children aged 12 years or older. If in doubt, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

To make sure you and your fellow travellers have a comfortable journey, we need to limit the size and amount of luggage in the bus.

Each guest can bring one suitcase or large bag that can be stored in the back of the minibus. The guidance size for the larger luggage is that it should not exceed 158 cm (62 in) when adding the length, width and height. It should not weigh more than 20 kg.

You can also bring one smaller item (like a small backpack) inside the van for daily essentials like camera, wallet, medications and so forth. Unfortunately carry-on suitcases (cabin bags) are too large to store in the van’s overhead racks.

If you have more luggage, we ask that you please make arrangements to store it during the guided portion of the tour.

Please note that you should be able to carry your own suitcase at accommodation and between transport.

If you have any questions about luggage your Nordic Visitor travel consultant will be able to assist you.

Yes, when you book your UK group tour with Nordic Visitor, an airport transfer will be included for your arrival. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the airport for your departure. Or you can request an additional transfer with your travel consultant.

If you add extra nights to your stay before your scheduled itinerary, we’ll rearrange your transfers to fit your new itinerary.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with your travel consultant if you have any specific requests about optional activities or services.

As you’ll be travelling as part of a guided group tour, your itinerary for this portion of your trip is set. But you can still customise other parts of your package.

For instance, you could add extra nights in London before or after the guided portion of your trip. This will give you more time to explore the UK capital at your own pace. You can add these additional days while booking your package online.

During your UK tour, you’ll stay in accommodation handpicked by our local travel experts. We’ve partnered with local businesses and selected hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience.

You can view the detailed list of hotels for this trip under the accommodation tab.

When booking your trip, you can choose from single or double rooms. Twin, triple and family rooms are not commonly available in the UK. Please contact your travel consultant if your group contains 3 or more people.

Please also note that in the UK room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America. For example, a double room often consists of 2 single beds pushed together. And single rooms are often smaller than the standard double.

Due to the historic nature of the properties we usually select, most of the rooms are only accessible by stairs. Lifts are not common in hotels in the UK. Please let us know as soon as possible if you are not able to walk up stairs.

This tour includes a few guided walks along the itinerary. This means you must be prepared and able to walk between 1-3 kilometres (0.6–2 miles) daily. You also need to be able to carry your own luggage when boarding the vehicle and at each accommodation.

On your tour of the UK, breakfast at your accommodation is included each day. You will also enjoy some group dinners, included in your package. These meals will usually either be a set dinner menu or a dinner buffet with a variety of local fresh ingredients (drinks not included).

Please notify your travel consultant at the time of booking of any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Other meals are not included and are at your own expense. Your driver and guide will make sure to stop along the way for you to pick up snacks, drinks and lunch.

On your UK road trip, you should budget around £1.60–£2 per litre of petrol.

As for meals, all your UK accommodation include breakfast. For the rest of your food, your spending money will depend on the standard of restaurants you decide to go to.

Budget between £15–£20 per person for each day’s lunch. Dinners at casual restaurants might cost between £20–£25. Meanwhile at upscale restaurants, you can expect to pay £40–£50 or more. This does not include the cost of alcoholic beverages.

There are limited laundry facilities in the countryside, though you’ll find laundrettes in the cities like London, Bath, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Some hotels do offer dry cleaning for an additional cost.

In the UK tipping is not mandatory, but it is welcomed. It’s usually based on the quality of service. Locals often add around 10% or simply round up their bill. At self-service cafés (where you order at the counter) it’s not expected that you’ll tip.

In hotels it’s common to tip concierges for hiring a taxi or making dinner reservations. As for porters, about £1 per bag is standard.

By booking with Nordic Visitor, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that there’s always someone there for you throughout your trip.

For support and advice during the day, you can call our office. And if anything unexpected happens outside working hours, you can reach us on our 24/7 helpline.

During your tour, there will always be an Edinburgh-based travel expert on call to handle any unforeseen situations, such as unusual weather or events.

Whether or not you need a visa to visit the UK depends on your nationality.

From 2025, you need either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the country. This also applies to citizens from countries such as the USA, Canada, Australia and the EU.

You can check if you need a visa or an ETA on the UK government website.

Your passport needs to be valid for the entirety of your stay in the UK. It’s a good idea to check your passport expiry date early, in case you need to renew it.

During your tour of the UK, you could experience a variety of different weather conditions. It’s often said that the UK gets all 4 seasons in a day!

The climate is relatively mild all year round, with the average temperature ranging between 13–19 °C (56–66 °F) across the country. It’s worth noting that it’s not unusual to experience rain in summer, especially as you go further north.

Please note that sightseeing and transport are dependent on weather and road conditions and might need to be altered if conditions are not favourable. This includes ferries and drives. If something unexpected occurs, you can call our 24/7 helpline to speak directly with a Nordic Visitor staff member.

As the weather across the UK can be a little unpredictable, it’s a good idea to pack extra layers just in case. Here is a recommended packing list for a summer trip:

  • Shorts and t-shirts
  • Sun cap and sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Eye mask to sleep
  • Light gloves, hat and a scarf
  • Light waterproof layers
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Good walking shoes or boots (especially if you plan to go on nature walks or hikes)

For more information, check this packing list suggestion.

It’s best to book as soon as you can to secure your preferred travel dates. Once you have picked your tour, check the guaranteed departure calendar to see the availability. Then, select the date you want and complete your booking.

Nordic Visitor offers 10–20% deposits to reserve your tour. The remaining balance is due 30 days before you travel.

Many tours are also open for the following year if you like to plan well in advance. And if you have any questions or need advice, you can always contact us.

After booking your tour package online, you will be contacted within 2 business days by your own dedicated travel consultant. They will be your point of contact for all your travel needs before, during and even after your trip. 

At that time, they’ll confirm the availability of your tour. Then the booking process starts, which may take a few weeks. Once this is done, your travel consultant will provide you with all the details of your trip. You will also receive more information about what to expect during your trip.

After you have booked your tour, it will only take a few days to confirm its availability. But it may take a few weeks to create your itinerary and book everything. Once your trip details are finalised, we’ll send you e-copies of your travel documents.

Upon your arrival in the UK, you’ll receive a welcome bag with hard copies of your itinerary, attraction and tour vouchers, the Nordic Visitor UK Travel Guide and more.

No need! Nordic Visitor is already working on offsetting the estimated carbon footprint of your package. We’ve partnered with an environmental fund in Iceland to carbon offset all our tours.

Carbon offsetting your international flights is not included, but we highly recommend you look into possibilities with your airline or directly through a local environment fund. 

After picking up your luggage and your rental car, make your way to your accommodation in Oxford.

Check-in times vary between hotels and guesthouses, but it normally starts between 2–4 PM.

You are welcome to request an early check-in if you are arriving earlier in the day. Although this isn’t always available, you’ll be able to store your luggage at the hotel if you have to wait. Please contact your travel consultant well in advance of your arrival if you’d like an early check-in.

When you depart may depend on the time of your return flight. Check out early if you’re heading to the airport for a morning flight. On the other hand, if you’re flying home later in the day, you might like to enjoy a leisurely day or visit one more attraction.

You will need to check out from your room, but will be able to store your luggage at the hotel reception. Simply return later to collect your bags before catching public transport or a taxi to the airport.

All UK bookings are billed in British Pounds (GBP).

Prices displayed in other currencies are indicative only and based on the daily exchange rate. This means conversions from GBP to other currencies will fluctuate from day to day.

Accommodation

Sleep soundly, in the accommodation type of your choice, and wake up ready to enjoy another day of exploration.

Just south of the River Thames as it runs through Oxford’s city centre, the voco Oxford Spires hotel is the perfect base for your stay. This hotel is set in a renovated building wi...

The Churchill Hotel is located just outside the ancient walls of York, an easy walk from the city centre. Situated in a protected Georgian era mansion you’ll be able to totally relax...

The Churchill Hotel is located just outside the ancient walls of York, an easy walk from the city centre. Situated in a protected Georgian era mansion you’ll be able to totally relax...

Leith is Edinburgh’s coolest district, and you’ll be staying in a hotel right on its famous waterfront. The Malmaison is conveniently located only a short taxi, tram or bus-rid...

Leith is Edinburgh’s coolest district, and you’ll be staying in a hotel right on its famous waterfront. The Malmaison is conveniently located only a short taxi, tram or bus-rid...

The recently refurbished Waterhead Inn in Ambleside is the perfect place to relax after your days exploring the vivid Lake District. In the main area, you’ll find a traditionally E...

The recently refurbished Waterhead Inn in Ambleside is the perfect place to relax after your days exploring the vivid Lake District. In the main area, you’ll find a traditionally E...

The Beaches Hotel in the quaint Prestatyn village will let you feel totally immersed in Welsh seaside life. Situated right on the coast of the Irish Sea, you can enjoy beautiful ocean view...

Immerse yourself in Bath’s Georgian-era splendour at the Lansdown Grove Hotel. Originally built as a grand residence in 1770, the 61 rooms have been refurbished with modern amenities...

Just northwest of London’s bustling city centre, near the iconic Mayfair district, enjoy an authentically English stay at the Wilde Aparthotel. Its décor and atmosphere are in...

Just northwest of London’s bustling city centre, near the iconic Mayfair district, enjoy an authentically English stay at the Wilde Aparthotel. Its décor and atmosphere are in...

The hotels mentioned are our first priority for this tour. Please note that although we have included specific accommodations in the tour, these are subject to change in some cases. We reserve the right to substitute a named property in the same locality for one of a similar standard. We will send you the final list of hotels before you arrive for your tour.

Guaranteed departures

Group size is limited to a maximum of 16 people

Price p.p. from

Approx 4288 GBP

The amount will be charged in GBP

  • Arrival
    Price
    Availability
  • Sunday 4 May 2025
    4608 GBP 4288 GBP
    Available
  • Sunday 18 May 2025
    4608 GBP 4288 GBP
    Available
  • Sunday 7 September 2025
    4696 GBP 4376 GBP
    Available
  • Sunday 21 September 2025
    4696 GBP 4376 GBP
    Available

Monthly price comparison

Our best price per person when booking for two.

2025
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