Essential Britain

12 Day Tour from London to London


Vacation Overview

Thrones and scones. Hops and scotch. Rock stars and famous rocks. They’re all included on this enthralling and encompassing tour of Britain. Pack your tweed and tartans for the best of London and country, the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands, and the enchanting villages and valleys of Wales, and prepare to be swept away like a runaway bride at the elopement capital of Gretna Green. The castles and cathedrals of London, Edinburgh, and Cardiff, as well as the charming pubs on every corner, will steal your heart away. With visits to the baffling boulders of Stonehenge, the battlefield of Culloden Moor, Shakespeare’s birthplace of Stratford-upon-Avon, and The Beatles’ home city of Liverpool, this tour of Britain promises rocking discovery and enlightenment, not to mention honorary degrees in ancient history, English literature, and music appreciation.

Itinerary

 

Day 1 ARRIVE IN LONDON, ENGLAND

Welcome to London! Uniformed Globus Hosts will be waiting to welcome you. Free time this afternoon.

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Day 2 LONDON–STONEHENGE–ILMINSTER–PLYMOUTH

Secrets of the Stones LONDON Meet your Tour Director and travel companions at 8 am before departing for Stonehenge.
STONEHENGE Visit the prehistoric monument.
ILMINSTER Lunch at a local pub.
219 mi / 352 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Quench your thirst with local ales and ciders while tasting traditional pub fayre prepared following century old recipes. Nothing eases homesickness like hearty cooked food concocted with care and love like grandma used to make. Just like home away from home!


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Breakfast Breakfast
LunchLunch

Day 3 PLYMOUTH. EXCURSION TO CORNWALL

Legends of Land & Sea PLYMOUTH All aboard for a scenic cruise on Plymouth Sound. Enjoy a scenic drive through the West Country to Poldark’s Cornwall.
LOOE Visit the thriving fishing village and former smugglers’ port.
PLYMOUTH Free time this evening.
42 mi / 70 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
EPIC RIDE Stunning views of Cornwall, the setting of Winston Graham's ‘Poldark’ saga of Cornish life in the 18th century, will leave you breathless on a scenic drive through the West Country. Get carried away with a spectacular scenic cruise on Plymouth Sound, a magnificent inlet on the English Channel.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 4 PLYMOUTH–GLASTONBURY–BATH–CARDIFF, WALES

Timeless Kings & Thermal Springs GLASTONBURY Visit the town of the legend of King Arthur and the Holy Grail.
BATH Visit the excavations of the Roman Baths.
184 mi / 295 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDS & LORE The Somerset town of Glastonbury is the site of King Arthur’s legendary quest for the mythical Holy Grail, the cup from which Jesus drank at the Last Supper. Hear how, while Arthur failed in his search, a noble knight named Galahad found the Holy Grail because of his pure heart.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 5 CARDIFF–BUILTH WELLS–LLANGOLLEN–LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND

Moor than Meets the Eye Take a scenic drive along the Taff Valley and through the Brecon Beacons National Park.
BUILTH WELLS Stop at the ancient market town.
LLANGOLLEN Visit the picturesque town.
LIVERPOOL Free time the remainder of the day.
190 mi / 306 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Discover the extraordinary natural beauty of Brecon Beacons National Park while driving through its mountains, moors, and magnificent views. Look out for Welsh mountain ponies and sheep grazing in the wild and red kites gliding gracefully in the sky.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 6 LIVERPOOL–GRASMERE–GRETNA GREEN, SCOTLAND–GLASGOW

Songs, Sonnets & Secret Vows LIVERPOOL Visit The Beatles Story for a fascinating journey into the life and music of the Fab Four.
LAKE DISTRICT Take a scenic drive.
GRASMERE Visit Wordsworth’s beloved village, and sample the original Grasmere gingerbread.
GRETNA GREEN See where a Scottish blacksmith performed weddings for eloping young couples and join in a fun wedding re-enactment.
236 mi / 380 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
TIMELESS TRADITIONS Love will find a way to sweeten the day with classic gingerbread in Grasmere, or by parents hot on the trail of runaway brides and grooms who crossed them (and the Scottish border) to get hitched in 18th-century Gretna Green. Hear how romance was forged by a blacksmith who helped eloping couples hammer out the vows.


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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 7 GLASGOW–FORT WILLIAM–INVERNESS

Landmarks, Lochs & Legends GLASGOW Orientation drive to see Glasgow’s landmarks, including the 12th-century cathedral, university buildings, and Georgian squares. Take a scenic drive past Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and Glen Coe.
FORT WILLIAM See the gateway to Ben Nevis, UK’s highest peak.
LOCH NESS Drive the length of the legendary lake en route to Inverness.
178 mi / 286 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDS & LORE Survey the shores of famed Loch Ness for the chance to catch a glimpse of its mysterious Nessie. Hear of the folklore and firm believers in the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, which is said to swim in the shimmering waters.


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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 8 INVERNESS–CULLODEN—PITLOCHRY–ST. ANDREWS–EDINBURGH

Bravery, Birdies & Bagpipes CULLODEN MOOR See the battlefield.
PITLOCHRY Walk through the Victorian mountain resort.
ST. ANDREWS Visit the home of golf and the famous university town.
THE ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO Attend the world-renowned Tattoo performance. (Departures July 26 through August 16 only).
202 mi / 326 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ICONIC FOOTSTEPS See the fairways and greens at the birthplace of golf, where legendary players of the Scottish game made history in the university town of St. Andrews.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 9 EDINBURGH

Crown Jewels & Castle Views EDINBURGH Morning city sightseeing with a Local Guide includes the New Town, the Old Town, and a visit to Edinburgh Castle to see Scotland’s Crown Jewels. Free time.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT Ascend to Castle Rock to explore Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important historical strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, with a 1,100-year history as "the most besieged place in Great Britain.” Here, see the royal regalia and Scotland’s Crown Jewels.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 10 EDINBURGH–ALNWICK, ENGLAND–YORK

Lights, Camera, Alnwick! ALNWICK Visit Alnwick Castle, setting for many film productions. Choose between touring the castle or taking a stroll through the magnificent gardens.
YORK See York Minster and browse the shops of The Shambles.
214 mi / 344 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOTS Visit Alnwick Castle to discover 700 years of English and family history of its owners, the Percy Family. Continuing the lineage of centuries of Dukes, Duchesses, and Earls whom have called the impressive castle home. The castle is a haven for movie and TV buffs as the filming location for many productions, including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. If nature is more to your liking, consider a visit to the splendid 12-acre Alnwick Gardens.


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Breakfast Breakfast
DinnerDinner

Day 11 YORK–STRATFORD-UPON-AVON–LONDON

Mr. & Mrs. Shakespeare STRATFORD-UPON-AVON See Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace.
255 mi / 410 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
A LEGEND SLEPT HERE Ah, young love! Even more true, as young Shakespeare’s fiancée was eight years his senior. See Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the family home where the bard’s wife-to-be was born and courted by young Will. Built more than 500 years ago, much of the original structure remains. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and family home in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. Hear tales of Shakespeare’s family life, marriage, and children with a close look at fascinating artifacts in a world-class collection assembled by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.


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Breakfast Breakfast

Day 12 LONDON

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

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Breakfast Breakfast

Hotels

London

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

Situated opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge places guests at the heart of central London. Dining option include Brasserie Joël, Ichi Sushi & Sashimi, 1WB Lounge & Patisserie, and Primo Bar. The hotel also boasts a fitness center with a 15-meter pool and Mandara Spa. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel.

London

Park Plaza Waterloo

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

The 494-room property is situated within walking distance of top London attractions, including the London Eye, the London Dungeons and the Imperial War Museum. The Florentine Restaurant serves a Brasserie-style menu; the bar features the best of British bubbles and craft beers as well as a range of signature cocktails; and for a relaxing cup of coffee, head to the illy Caffè bar. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre and a heated swimming pool. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel.

Plymouth

Crowne Plaza Plymouth

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

A modern hotel with sea views overlooking Plymouth Hoe. Thanks to Sleep Advantage® programme, guests enjoy a good night's rest, with premium bedding, quiet zones and a guaranteed wake up call. There is Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill with sea views and Drakes Bar and Lounge. Guests can workout in the gym or wind down in the heated pool. There's also an outdoor garden for those who prefer to enjoy the fresh air.

Cardiff

Mercure Cardiff Holland House

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel and Spa is a modern hotel situated in the vibrant capital city of Wales, Cardiff, with 165 bedrooms. All of the sights and attractions of Cardiff are within walking distance such as the iconic Millennium Stadium and Cardiff Castle.

Liverpool

Pullman Liverpool

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

Guests will enjoy the conveniences of this central hotel and its bar, lounge, and Marco Pierre White Wheelers of St. James Oyster Bar & Grill Room. All guestrooms are bright, modern, and luxurious, and come with blackout curtains, minibar with complimentary mineral water, 55" TV with SKY TV channels, tea and coffee making facilities, iron and ironing board, robe and slippers, waterfall shower, and luxury toiletries. There is free 5G Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

Glasgow

Clayton Hotel Glasgow

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class

The hotel is situated on Clyde Street overlooking the beautiful River Clyde and just a 10 minutes' walk from George Square, and Glasgow's main shopping streets, art galleries, bars and restaurants. All rooms are air-conditioned and include King Koil mattresses for an enhanced sleep experience, HD TVs with Chromecast, WIFI and complimentary use of fitness suite.

Inverness

Mercure Inverness Hotel

Hotel as shown or similar
First-Class

Enjoy warm Highland hospitality in Old Town Inverness at Mercure Inverness Hotel. Rebuilt on the site of the original Caledonian Hotel, the modern hotel is just 200 meters from Inverness train station and a caber toss from the city's numerous pubs and restaurants. All 121 guest bedrooms have HD TV and complimentary high speed WiFi. Enjoy panoramic views of the River Ness in the hotel's riverside restaurant or explore The 33 Church Street Bar & Brasserie signature menue.

Edinburgh

Mercure Edinburgh Princes Street

Hotel as shown or similar
First-Class

A fine 3 star Edinburgh hotel, ideally located in the city center's popular Princes Street. Mercure Edinburgh City Princes Street Hotel has great views of Edinburgh Castle. The 158 stylish rooms all have internet access and satellite TV. Princes Dining Room and Bar are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as for light snacks and drinks.

York

Mercure York Fairfield Manor

Hotel as shown or similar
First-Class

One of the most tranquil hotels in York, set in 6 acres of private grounds on the outskirts of the historic walled cathedral city and the banks of the River Ouse. All 89 comfortable bedrooms have HD TV, tea and coffee making facilities and complimentary WIFI.

Dates and Prices

View the following dates and prices to find just the right date for your vacation. Below you'll find the date the vacation starts and the date you'll return.  

Once you've selected your date, you'll move to the next step to get an airfare quote and to begin booking your vacation. When you book your flights with us, you'll find we offer competitive and hassle-free airfares, plus you'll receive free airport transfers for flights coordinated with vacation dates and you'll avoid strict Internet terms and conditions.

The price listed does not include your airfare from Canada. Once you click "Book Now", you will be able to receive an air quote.

Departure
Details
Tour
Start Date
Return
Date
Land/Cruise
Price Only
 Status
2025-04-05 2025-04-16
$4,689
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2025-04-12 2025-04-23
$5,499
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2025-04-19 2025-04-30
$5,049
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2025-04-26 2025-05-07
$5,049
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2025-05-03 2025-05-14
$5,049
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2025-05-10 2025-05-21
$5,769
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2025-05-17 2025-05-28
$5,049
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2025-05-24 2025-06-04
$5,049
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2025-05-31 2025-06-11
$5,049
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2025-06-07 2025-06-18
$5,049
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2025-06-14 2025-06-25
$5,209
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2025-06-21 2025-07-02
$5,209
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2025-06-28 2025-07-09
$5,859
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2025-07-05 2025-07-16
$5,129
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2025-07-12 2025-07-23
$5,129
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2025-07-19 2025-07-30
$5,859
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2025-07-26 2025-08-06
$5,369
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2025-08-02 2025-08-13
$5,369
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2025-08-09 2025-08-20
$5,369
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2025-08-16 2025-08-27
$5,369
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2025-08-23 2025-09-03
$5,859
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2025-08-30 2025-09-10
$5,129
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2025-09-06 2025-09-17
$5,209
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2025-09-13 2025-09-24
$5,209
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2025-09-20 2025-10-01
$5,089
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2025-09-27 2025-10-08
$5,499
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2025-10-04 2025-10-15
$4,689
Book Now!



Dates & Prices do not include international air travel.

Travel Terms & Conditions

The purchase of any travel services offered by Globus, constitutes a contractual arrangement between you and Globus, and represents your acceptance of the Terms & Conditions. Please ensure that you read carefully and understand the Terms & Conditions prior to booking. These Terms & Conditions cover Deposit & Final Payment information, Air-Inclusive Deposits & Final Payment, Revisions & Revision Fees, Air Arrangements, Participation, Travellers Who Need Special Assistance, Young Travellers, Smoking, Price Policy, Visas and Passports, Hotels & Accommodations, Baggage Allowance, Travel Documents, Not Included in the Land Price, Refunds, Service Inquires After the Vacation, Holidays, Safety, Photos & Pictures, Optional Excursions, and Responsibility.
View full Terms & Conditions


Important Notes

  • The “Starting at” or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per person based on twin occupancy and any applicable port charges, non-commissionable taxes and fees and intra-vacation flight are included in the price shown. Any included overnight stay in Canada, applicable GST/HST is also included in the price shown. International airfare, however, is not included. If price is crossed out, the new price shown includes a limited time promotional offer(s). Please review current promotions or deals for additional information.
  • Vacation departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change.
  • A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $250 per person per vacation is required for Globus to reserve space for you. View full Terms & Conditions for limited exceptions.
  • Charges not included in the land vacation price: airfare to/from the start/end of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal Customs and Immigrations; agricultural tax; GST/HST/PST or other per person taxes imposed by government entities; passports; visas and vaccinations; transfers; tips to your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ships' crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); additional excursions and activities not listed as 'included' in the itinerary; porterage at airports or train stations; Travel Insurance premiums; and all other items of a personal nature.

Booking your Vacation with Air

For air departure dates within 331 days, you'll be offered a choice of carriers and flight schedules as well as price points to choose from when selecting your flights. Your schedule will be provided to you at the time of booking (schedules are subject to change by carriers). Globus offers 2 air options: Flex Air and Instant Purchase Air. Flex Air allows flexibility if you want to make changes to your vacation schedule. Instant Purchase Air may offer additional airline options but has more restrictions. Some vacations may only offer one Air type option.

Guaranteed air-inclusive prices: air is only available to passengers travelling from Canada (with some exceptions from the United States, depending on the selected itinerary). An additional $300 per person non-refundable air deposit is required for Flex Air booked in conjunction with any land vacation (i.e. air-inclusive vacation). Air can only be booked by Globus in conjunction with a vacation package. Instant Purchase Air requires air payment in full at time of booking (i.e. air-inclusive vacation) plus a non-refundable service fee of $80 per person. Once booked, Instant Purchase Air is non-refundable, and non-changeable. Once your airfare is confirmed and Globus has received your full air and land deposit, your air-inclusive vacation price is guaranteed.

Air-Inclusive Vacations — Applicable Taxes & Fees

Air inclusive price quotes will include all government-imposed taxes and fees applicable at the time of booking and will be shown as a Total Amount. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply. At the time of booking your air-inclusive vacation online, carrier Websites will be provided to check baggage fees, or you can visit www.iflybags.com for up-to-date baggage pricing/restrictions. The total airfare price, the base airfare price, and the applicable government taxes and fees are broken-out line-by-line and shown while booking online and on the invoice after your travel is booked. For return travel from some countries, international travellers are required to pay entry and/or exit fees at the airport. These fees will be collected by the local government and are payable by the traveller at time of travel. Your confirmation booking information will contain information about these fees.