Departing from London, your journey takes you to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of
William Shakespeare. Explore the charming village, including the beautiful gardens and
thatched Tudor cottage of Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one
of the quaint local restaurants before continuing to the World Heritage site of Ironbridge. Here,
you'll witness the world’s first fully iron bridge, set in a stunning forested gorge along the
River Severn. This iconic site, integral to the rise of Britain’s Industrial Revolution, offers a
wealth of attractions to delve into this fascinating era.
Next, you'll travel to Shrewsbury, a picturesque riverside town nestled on the banks of the
River Severn. As the birthplace of Charles Darwin, Shrewsbury is known for its bustling
market atmosphere and charming timber-framed Tudor buildings. This delightful county town
will be your base for the next two nights

Today, your tour takes you to the heart of North Wales. Begin by exploring the storybook town
of Conwy, home to its striking medieval castle. Built by Edward I in the 13th century, this
estuary fortress offers breathtaking views from its battlements.
Next, journey through the impressive mountains and valleys of Snowdonia National Park,
where you’ll visit the vast Dinorwic slate quarries and the dramatic Pass of Llanberis, all
beneath the towering peak of Snowdon, Wales' highest mountain. Discover the rich history of
Welsh independence, including the rebellious tale of Owain Glyndwr, the last native Prince of
Wales, before crossing back into England for your overnight stay.

Located northeast of Shrewsbury, the Peak District National Park offers a stunning expanse of
rugged moorland, walled pastures, and wooded valleys. As you journey through this unique
landscape, picturesque villages and breathtaking scenery accompany your route.
After a scenic drive, you arrive in the elegant spa town of Buxton, renowned for its natural
thermal springs that have been drawing visitors since Roman times. Here, you can even fill
your bottle with the renowned crystal-clear water from the famous spring.
In the afternoon, visit the grand Chatsworth House, the stately home and gardens of the Duke
of Devonshire. This iconic property is frequently named the UK’s favourite country house,
boasting an impressive collection of fine furniture, priceless paintings, and neoclassical
sculptures.
Heading north, you travel through the historic industrial heartlands of northern England,
eventually reaching the walled city of York, where you'll spend the next three nights.

Today there are two major options for the events of your day. Firstly, you can choose to spend
the day leisurely exploring the medieval heart of York, an ancient city with a colourful history
dating back to the times of the Romans, Vikings and Normans. The towering Gothic spire at
York Minster rises above the city, casting its spirituality across the brilliant museums, narrow
lanes and distinctive stone city walls.
Alternatively, you could journey out with your guide on a half day excursion across the
Yorkshire Dales to the handsome market towns of Knaresborough or Ripon. Take your time
with the beautiful architecture and spa town luxuries on offer before heading to some of the
more remote valleys and formidably impressive scenery of the Eastern Dale, followed by a
free afternoon in York to dine and relax in the city’s plentiful restaurants and shops.
Enjoy a relaxing day exploring the medieval city of York, a Roman settlement with a rich
history shaped by Viking and Norman influences, as well as the turbulent War of the Roses.
Take your time to admire the city's stunning architecture, especially the magnificent York
Minster Cathedral.

Next, depart from York and head towards the North Sea coast of Yorkshire, beginning with the
expansive North Yorkshire Moors National Park. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and
scenery of the park before heading to the bustling fishing port of Whitby. Known for inspiring
Bram Stoker's Dracula, visit the Royal Hotel where he crafted his chilling tale. After some
free time to explore Whitby, continue on to the conservation village of Robin Hood’s Bay, a
beautifully preserved fishing village with winding lanes and narrow alleys. After soaking in the
charm of this unique location, return to York for the evening.
Please note: Due to local restrictions, the minicoach cannot access the main village. You will be dropped at the top of the village and must walk down (and back up) a steep hill to reach the old village center.

Travel west into the stunning landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, a region
teeming with wildlife and rich cultural heritage. This natural haven offers endless
opportunities for both recreation and relaxation, providing unparalleled access to the North's
raw beauty.
As you continue west, you’ll pass through the Northern Dales, an Area of Outstanding Natural
Beauty and a hub for the region's historic cattle trade.
The final stop of the day is the charming market town of Keswick*, where you will be dropped
off at your accommodation, leaving you free to explore the local area at your leisure.
*Note: Please check for any additional local details or restrictions related to your stay.

After breakfast, you’ll discover the mystery of the Castlerigg Standing Stones, dating back
over five thousand years and once the site of many ancient rituals. Continuing on, you’ll arrive
at Ullswater, often considered England’s most beautiful lake. A short walk along the shore and
through a forest leads you to the stunning Aira Force waterfall, a perfect spot for photography
enthusiasts.
Next, you’ll travel south over the winding Kirkstone Pass, making a stop at Windermere. Here,
you can either enjoy a hearty lunch with breathtaking views of the region’s mountains and
lakes or take a leisurely cruise on the lake. Afterward, leave the romantic lakeside behind and
head to the well-preserved conservation village of Hawkshead, home to the school where the
famous poet William Wordsworth attended grammar school.
With some free time to explore the village, you’ll then make your way through the scenic
country lanes to Grasmere, which Wordsworth described as "the loveliest spot that man hath
found." Visit Dove Cottage, where the poet once lived, or unwind in the tranquility of the
Daffodil Garden by the River Rothay before returning to Keswick** for the night.

As you bid farewell to the Lake District, you ascend Hartside Pass, renowned for its
breathtaking view of both the Scottish hills and the English Lake District. At over 1,900 feet,
this is a truly unforgettable experience.
Next, you head to Hadrian’s Wall, the mighty fortification built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian
to keep Scottish tribes out of the Roman Empire. Walk in the footsteps of Roman centurions
who once patrolled this remote frontier, following the ancient Roman road, Dere Street.
Crossing into Scotland, you arrive in the town of Jedburgh, where you can visit the ruins of
Jedburgh Abbey and enjoy a refreshing break.
Your final stop takes you to the stunning Scott’s View, offering sweeping views of the River
Tweed and the Cheviot Hills, which form the natural border between Scotland and England.
After soaking in the scenery, you'll continue on to the vibrant city of Edinburgh, And so
concludes your unforgettable and memorable grand tour of England and Scotland