Castles & Kilts

Delight in the magic and mystery of an ancient land of kings and queens, knights and magical creatures. Your springboard to an unforgettable Family Experience through Britain is the lively capital of London, which you will have an opportunity to explore with your clan before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a memorable kick-off bash.

March down the grand boulevards and secret lanes of London, exploring the city's iconic sights with a Local Specialist. Practice your royal wave at Buckingham Palace, snap a selfie in front of Big Ben and see where Britain's royalty has been crowned since the 11th century. Enjoy some Family Fun and head to platform 9¾ to see if you can catch a glimpse of the Hogwarts Express. Admire the pomp and ceremony of the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace (subject to the event taking place), before enjoying free time for a leisurely lunch at St. Katherine's Dock near Tower Bridge. Our last stop today is the brooding Tower of London where we'll rub shoulders with the Beefeaters and see the Crown Jewels.

Soak up the buzzing multicultural atmosphere of London on this full day at leisure. Explore the wonders of science and centuries of natural history at the city's fascinating museums, delve into the dark depths of the London Dungeon or take a spin on the London Eye. Wander through the colourful array of toys at Hamleys on Regent Street or take a day trip to 11th-century Windsor Castle – the choice is yours.

Head to Oxford for an orientation of this historic university city. Walk past college quads, libraries and landmark buildings where generations of students have studied. Later, stop in Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, with free time to visit his childhood home or perhaps the riverside gardens. Explore timber-framed buildings and browse local shops before continuing to Birmingham for your overnight stay.

Stop in the historic town of Llangollen, famous for its annual Eisteddfod, and then cross the Horseshoe Pass to a medieval castle and Stays with Stories experience, where you'll spend the next two nights. Dine like lords and ladies this evening enjoying a delicious Welsh dinner.

Begin your day exploring the wonders of North Wales. First, we’ll visit Llanberis, the gateway to Mount Snowdon. Next, we head to Caernarfon, home to a majestic medieval castle. Enjoy free time to explore the historic town or join an optional experience for a traditional pub lunch and time to wander the castle grounds. Our journey continues along the coastal road, with views of the Menai Strait and Anglesey – once famed as the stronghold of the ancient Druids. We’ll return to Ruthin Castle in the evening, where you can relax and reflect on a day filled with Welsh legends and breath-taking landscapes.

Step into history at Tatton Park, set within a 1,000-acre deer park, for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Transport yourself back to the 1940s as costumed farm workers guide you through life on the Farm. You’ll discover the farm’s significant role in food production, stretching back to the 18th century, meet rare breed animals and soak in the sights and sounds of this historic estate.  

Next, embrace the magic of Strawberry Fields with a Be My Guest experience at this iconic site. Once a Salvation Army children's home and immortalised by The Beatles, it now features restored facilities that preserve its rich history. Enjoy stories, a community welcome and the unique charm of this landmark. 

Explore Liverpool at your own pace or dive deeper with an Optional Experience, discovering the city’s industrial past or its rock-and-roll roots. Later, head north to Lancaster, where you’ll cap off the day with dinner at the hotel.

Journey into the Lake District, whose landscapes have inspired writers and poets for generations. You can explore further with an Optional Experience steam train ride followed by a tranquil cruise across Lake Windermere. 

Then, dive into Roman history as you explore Hadrian's Wall and the Roman Army Museum, getting a glimpse of life as a soldier defending Emperor Hadrian’s northern frontier. 

Continuing north, cross the border into 'Bonnie Scotland' and arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital. The evening is yours to discover the city’s charm and character at your own pace. 

Delve into the magic of Edinburgh's iconic sights and stunning landscapes as you join a sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist. Ramble up the Royal Mile and see the tall spires of the Scott Monument, visit Edinburgh Castle, where you will hear tales of bravery, treason and intrigue. Get lost in 'Auld Reekie', strolling through its secret lanes and past medieval façades or join your Travel Director for an Optional Experience. Our epic family adventure is almost at its end. Celebrate a memorable holiday with new friends and your Travel Director at dinner. Tickets to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that align with performance dates.

It's time to say bye for now, but not goodbye forever, as the curtain falls on an unforgettable Family Experience through Britain.