Truly Great Britain! Scotland, England, and Wales

Day 1 Mon May 10:

We will be transported to Philadelphia Airport for a 7:20 pm flight to London on American Airlines.

Day 2 Tue May 11:

We arrive in London at 7:50 am and leave at 10:00 am on British Airways to Edinburgh, Scotland. On arrival at Edinburgh Airport, your driver and guide will greet you and set the tone for the journey ahead with a warm welcome. From there, we head into the Highlands, our first stop being Loch Lomond, Scotland's largest freshwater loch, cradled by the dramatic peaks of the Trossachs National Park. Enjoy a leisurely cruise across its tranquil waters, with panoramic views of the mist-shrouded mountains and verdant forests. In the late afternoon, we visit the Glengoyne Whisky Distillery, where you'll learn the craft of single malt production and sample some of Scotland's finest. We then return to South Queensferry for an early check-in, a relaxing evening, and a convivial group welcome dinner.

Day 3 Wed May 12:

This morning belongs to the capital of Scotland. We begin at the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock with commanding views over the city. Within its walls, discover the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny, and hear the captivating stories of Scotland's past. Next, wander the Royal Mile - a bustling thoroughfare of charming shops, historic pubs, and hidden closes. Lose yourself in the narrow alleyways and tucked- away courtyards of this UNESCO World Heritage site, where the past blends seamlessly with the present. In the evening, enjoy a spirited traditional Scottish show and a group dinner to round off the day.

Day 4 Thu May 13:

Departing Edinburgh, we travel south through the Scottish Borders and into Cumbria, where the landscape softens into the fells, stone villages, and silver lakes of the Lake District National Park- the country that inspired Wordsworth, Coleridge, Beatrix Potter, and a whole generation of England's Romantic writers. We pause in the storybook village of Grasmere, a place Wordsworth loved above all others and once home to his Dove Cottage. Here we take a traditional afternoon tea at Rydalmere House, a wisteria-clad Lakeland country house overlooking the water. Warm scones, clotted cream, Cumbrian preserves, and freshly brewed tea, served amid gardens and lake views worthy of a poem. Suitably refreshed, we continue west to Liverpool, a city shaped by its maritime heritage and global cultural influence, and known the world over as the birthplace of the Beatles. After hotel check-in, the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Day 5 Fri May 14:

Our Liverpool morning begins at the Beatles Story at Albert Dock, an immersive museum charting the band's rise from their early Liverpool years to international fame. We then make a brief stop at Strawberry Field, the well-known site linked to John Lennon's childhood and later immortalised in song. In the afternoon, we depart Liverpool and cross into Wales, with views of rolling countryside and river valleys along the way. We arrive in Llangollen, a picturesque town set on the River Dee, with time to explore at leisure. This charming spot will be our home for two nights.

Day 6 Sat May 15:

Today, we explore the dramatic landscape of Snowdonia National Park. Our first stop is Conway Castle, one of the finest surviving medieval fortresses in Europe. Built by Edward I, its imposing walls and towers dominate the historic town and estuary below. From here we journey into the heart of Snowdonia aboard the steam-hauled Ffestiniog Railway. This historic narrow gauge line winds through mountain scenery, forest, and river valleys, offering a uniquely relaxed way to experience the national park. In the late afternoon, we return to Lliangollen for the evening and a group dinner.

Day 7 Sun May 16:

Today, our journey carries us into the charming town of Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of William Shakespeare. Explore its quaint streets and historic buildings, where the spirit of the Bard remains alive and well. Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace, where the playwright spent his formative years, and stroll the banks of the River Avon, where swans glide gracefully on tranquil waters. Enjoy free time to wander the delightful town and soak up its medieval Tudor architecture. As the day draws to a close, settle into your hotel or set out for dinner in one af Stratford's acclaimed period establishments.

Day 8 Mon May 17:

This morning we bid farewell to Stratford-upon-Avon and journey onward towards London, with a stop at the iconic Stonehenge along the way. Marvel at the ancient stone circle, whose origins and purpose continue to mystify archaeologists and historians alike. From there, we continue into London. Settle into your accommodations and take a stroll through the city's vibrant streets, where iconic landmarks and hidden gems beckon at every corner. As night falls, treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a local pub, where good food and lively conversation await.

Day 9 Tue May 18:

Today is a classic immersion in the history, culture, and unmistakable icons of London. Begin at the formidable Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Britain's most significant historic places. Step inside these riverside fortresses where nearly a thousand years of royal history unfold. Marvel at the dazzling Crown Jewels, walk the battlements, and uncover stories of monarchy, intrigue, and execution that shaped the nation. From the medieval to the modern, we continue to Abbey Road- made world- famous by the Beatles, this legendary zebra crossing is among the city's most photographed landmarks. Onward to Westminster, the ceremonial heart of the capital, to admire the grand silhouette of the House of Parliament and the exterior of Westminster Abbey. The afternoon is free: ride the London Eye for sweeping views across the Thames, or enjoy a stroll at your own pace. This evening, we gather for a group dinner of classic British cuisine.

Day 10 Wed May 19:

We begin our day inside one of London's most revered landmarks, Westminster Abbey. This Gothic masterpiece has stood at the heart of British history for over a millennium- the coronation church of English and British monarchs and the final resting place of kings, queens, poets, and statesmen. As you explore the nave, chapels, and cloisters, the weight of history is unmistakable. Late morning turn to modern London indulgence with free time at the legendary Harrods- far more than a department store, with opulent interiors, luxury fashion, and the famed Food Halls. Afterwards, explore the elegant Knightsbridge district, with its wide avenues, exclusive boutiques, and grand townhomes. Time permitting, stroll through Hyde Park or admire the exterior of Kensington Place. This evening we come together for a farewell dinner in a traditional London establishment- a warm and fitting toast to the journey as it draws to a close.

Day 11 Thu May 20:

Today marks the close of your unforgettable journey through Scotland, England, and Wales as you bid farewell to Britain and begin your journey home. We will depart London on American Airlines at 12:00 pm for a 3:00 pm arrival to our awaiting bus to finish our journey home.

B=Breakfast, L =Lunch, D =Dinner