England & Scotland | Classic | End London | Summer | 2025
England & Scotland | Classic | End London | Summer | 2025
England & Scotland | Classic | End London | Summer | 2025
11 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom
Visiting: Bristol, Birmingham, Liverpool, York, England, Lake District National Park, England, Carlisle, England, Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Scottish Highlands, Dundreggan, Glasgow
Tour operator:
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through England and Scotland with this classic tour, starting and ending in London. Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of iconic cities like London, Oxford, and Edinburgh, while enjoying guided tours and comfortable coach travel. Discover the royal charm of Windsor, the literary legacy of Stratford-upon-Avon, and the musical heritage of Liverpool. Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands, where you'll learn about wildlife conservation efforts. Stay in comfortable accommodations, including Ibis hotels and the Loch Ness Lodge, and savor daily breakfasts and select dinners. Highlights include a cruise on Loch Ness, a visit to the historic city of York, and the chance to explore the legendary Edinburgh Castle. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty, making it an ideal summer adventure for 2025.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: London To Bristol Via Windsor And Bath
Location: Bristol
Accommodation: Ibis Bristol Centre Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis Bristol Centre Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Good morning dear Londonites! Meet your new crew and hop onto our coach. It’s time to make some moves.Hello Windsor, at the top of our agenda today is obviously, getting a magnificent view of the royal Windsor Castle! Afterwards, you’ve got some free time. So why not strut like a royal around this beautiful town studded with gardens and riverside views. And then it’s back on the coach to our next destination.Ready? We’re going back in time. Because you’ve got some free time to explore this historical town. Visit the Royal Crescent, Roman Baths, the Jane Austen museum or maybe do a canal cruise! (Go on, live your period drama dreams.)Welcome to the sea-side wonder of Bristol. Colourful buildings, crazy cliffs, beautiful bridges - you’re in for a treat. Speaking of treats…you can drop your bags off at our hotel before we feast on some well-deserved dinner. Afterwards, you’re free to roam the streets for a night out with your newly-made friends.
Day 2: Bristol To Birmingham Via Oxford And Stratford-Upon-Avon
Location: Birmingham
Accommodation: Ibis Birmingham New Street Station (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis Birmingham New Street Station (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Time to wake up! We’ve got some more exploration to do. And you’ve got a delicious breakfast waiting for you. Today, you can choose to check out Bristol’s street art with a local guide before we make our way into Oxford!You’ve been dreaming about this. Haven’t you? We’re finally in THE Oxford - with its world-famous museums, libraries, churches and of course, University. You can even choose to roam around the river on a Punt. There's so much to be discovered here. So, it's a good thing you've got some free time in this quaint little town (that's also the home of Shakespeare!). In the evening, we'll head to our stop for the night - Birmingham.Hungry? We'll drop our bags off at the hotel and stroll around in the streets and grab a bite on the way. Get a good night's sleep because tomorrow, we're heading up North!
Day 3: Birmingham To Liverpool
Location: Liverpool
Accommodation: ibis Manchester Centre Princess Street (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis Liverpool Albert Dock (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Birmingham, you’ve been grand. But we’ve got places to be. Grab some breakfast before we hop onto our coach once more.Welcome to Liverpool. Chat all things Beatlemania & football in your best Scouse accent as we take a guided walking tour. Afterwards, we’ll check into our cosy hotel, and then you’re free to do whatever you like. Heads up! Some departures will stay overnight in Manchester instead of Liverpool. Don't worry, you'll still have plenty of time to check out the city on a guided tour. Want more info? This will be confirmed in your travel documents closer to departure.
Day 4: Liverpool To York
Location: York, England
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Wakefield (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Wakefield (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Lap up your last dose of Liverpool before we go back to the time of the Vikings... in the traditional walled city of York. 2,000 years of history will unfold upon us as we amble down narrow lanes of York, exploring the Minster, the Shambles and Clifford’s Tower. For fans of folklore, sign up to a night of ghostly horrors and dark alleyways & prepare to be spooked.
Day 5: York To Carlisle Via Lake District And Hadrian's Wall
Location: Lake District National Park, England
Accommodation: Ibis Carlisle City Centre Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis Carlisle City Centre Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Even if the ghosts of York kept you awake all night, you're going to need to rise and shine and wave goodbye to the Harry Potter like setting of this ancient city. Whatever you do, don't Google this place before we arrive. It will spoil the surprise of its unfathomable beauty. Endless green hills, 16 serene lakes & streets of stone homes will have you pining for the country life. We'll take a spectacular drive to the Roman Empire’s impressive Hadrian’s Wall as well as English country charm in abundance. End the day in quaint and charming Carlisle, England's northern-most town before Scotland! Nothing like the northern air to cosy up and wake as fresh as a daisy the next morning for all our activities.
Day 6: Carlisle To Edinburgh
Location: Carlisle, England
Accommodation: Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis Edinburgh Center South Bridge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we are in for some border hopping along the English/Scottish border to see the sights on our way to Edinburgh! Back in the 21st Century we'll find ourselves in Edinburgh, a city that, although still simmering in ancient history, comes alive with music festivals, a rousing creative scene & fun bars. Top the day off with a Scottish meal, complete with haggis and a traditional bagpiper.
Day 7: Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation: Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis Edinburgh Center South Bridge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is yours to roam free - but if you want to get the low down on the history of this city why not join our local guide for an optional tour of Edinburgh Castle (which is resting on an extinct volcano!!) to kickstart your love affair with this city. Or maybe you'll do a spot of tartan shopping on Princes Street or indulge in some whisky tasting.
Day 8: Edinburgh To Scottish Highlands
Location: Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Scottish Highlands
Accommodation: Loch Ness Lodge Hotel Drumnadrochit (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Loch Ness Lodge Hotel Drumnadrochit (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It's time to blaze a trail out of Edinburgh & head for the Scottish Highlands. On the way to the main affair of the day we'll stop by St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, would you believe? As well as Scotland’s oldest university town. Already blown away by the beauty of the rugged mountain scenery en route, we'll arrive in the Scottish Highlands amped up for mystical tales.
Day 9: Scottish Highlands To Glasgow Via Loch Ness And Dundreggan
Location: Dundreggan
Accommodation: Ibis Budget Glasgow (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Glasgow (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We might be coming down from a high (geographically speaking) this morning, but as we seek out the stunning Loch Ness, the mood will only be rising. We'll stop to see lovely Loch Ness and hop on board for a cruise of the most voluminous lake in the UK - containing more water than all the lakes of England and Wales combined! It's also rumoured to contain something else, something far more legendary which you're sure to have heard of... Small pitstop! We'll check out the lush, hilly rewilding centre here to learn about how Scotland's native animal species are reintroduced in the wild. We'll arrive into Glasgow tonight, grab a bite to eat and then hit the hay ready for some more exploration in the am!
Day 10: Glasgow
Location: Glasgow
Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Glasgow (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wakey wakey everyone. We're up bright and early this morning. Next stop, Stirling! We make a stop in Stirling, known for its famous Castle nestled right on a hill, and the town where William Wallace took on the English and yelled "Freeeedom!" Get involved with everything great about Glasgow. Live music on every corner, a gothic cathedral & plenty of quirky characters make this city unique.
Day 11: End Glasgow/Train To London
Location: Glasgow
Meals Included: Breakfast
The trip sadly comes to an end after breakfast in Glasgow. It’s time to say bye to your new travel squad and plan the next journey. Or if you've chosen to end in London, catch the train back to London, where the trip ends upon arrival.
What's Included
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Accommodations
Stay in comfortable hotels like Ibis Bristol Centre Hotel, Ibis Birmingham New Street Station, ibis Manchester Centre Princess Street, Holiday Inn Express Wakefield, Ibis Carlisle City Centre Hotel, Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Loch Ness Lodge Hotel Drumnadrochit, and Ibis Budget Glasgow.
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Meals
Enjoy daily breakfasts and some dinners as part of your tour.
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Transportation
Travel comfortably throughout your journey in a coach.
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Guided Tours
Benefit from guided tours in major cities and attractions, including London, Windsor, Bath, Oxford, Liverpool, Edinburgh, the Scottish Highlands, and more.
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Admissions
Gain entry to select attractions and landmarks as per the itinerary.
What's Not Included
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Some Meals
Not all meals are covered.
Some lunches and dinners will be at your own expense. -
Personal Expenses
Expenses for personal nature like souvenirs, laundry, and tips are not included.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities mentioned in the itinerary are not included in the tour price.
Dining Summary
- 2 Dinner (D)
- 10 Breakfast (B)
Included Experience
- Windsor: Walk the iconic tree-lined 'Long Walk' and take in the fantastic views of Windsor Castle. Keep your eyes peeled! You might even spot a royal if you're lucky.
- Bath: Live out your Bridgerton dreams as you wander around Bath's historic and regal architecture.
- Oxford: Wander around the quaint canals and streets of Oxford. And also the grounds of one of the most famous universities in the world!
- Stratford-upon-Avon: Explore the town that this legendary literature writer once called home. From Shakespeare's birthplace to where we he was buried - you'll find clues about his life scattered everywhere in this town.
- Liverpool: One for fans of The Beatles. Walk in the footsteps of the Fab Four and see all the iconic landmarks on this jaunt around Liverpool.
- York Minster: Explore this historic city and get to know its Viking and Roman roots. Check out highlights such as Clifford's Tower and York Minster.
- Edinburgh: Holyrood Palace. The Royal Mile. Edinburgh Castle. They’re all here to fill up your memory and Insta feed.
- St. Andrews: If you like golf, you’ll love St Andrews. But if you think it spoils a nice walk in the park, there’s also Swilcan Bridge.
- Loch Ness: Sit back, relax and cruise along the loch with your Contiki crew. But keep your eyes peeled and camera ready for mythical ‘Nessie’.
- Scottish Highlands: Ever wondered how native animal species - like the Scottish Red Squirrel, Lynx and Beavers - are reintroduced into the wild? Come learn about it all from an expert (who'll also tell you how the Caledonian pine forest is being reforested too!). Every penny you spend here will directly support Trees for Life, a TreadRight supported project.
- Stirling: Explore the sights of Stirling and get a selfie with the memorial to the iconic Scottish knight.
Mode of Transport
Travel comfortably throughout your journey in a coach.
Accommodation
Stay in comfortable hotels like Ibis Bristol Centre Hotel, Ibis Birmingham New Street Station, ibis Manchester Centre Princess Street, Holiday Inn Express Wakefield, Ibis Carlisle City Centre Hotel, Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Loch Ness Lodge Hotel Drumnadrochit, and Ibis Budget Glasgow.
FAQs
- London: Travelling to (and through) the UK & Northern Ireland? You’ll need Essential Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)From January 8, 2025, UK law means that if you’re entering/transiting through the United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before you travel. Confused? Don’t be – just read on here.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in comfortable hotels such as Ibis Bristol Centre Hotel, Ibis Birmingham New Street Station, ibis Manchester Centre Princess Street, Holiday Inn Express Wakefield, Ibis Carlisle City Centre Hotel, Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Loch Ness Lodge Hotel Drumnadrochit, and Ibis Budget Glasgow.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes daily breakfasts and some dinners. However, not all meals are covered, and some lunches and dinners will be at your own expense.
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What transportation is provided during the tour?
You will travel comfortably throughout your journey in a coach.
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Will there be guided tours during the trip?
Yes, the tour includes guided tours in major cities and attractions, including London, Windsor, Bath, Oxford, Liverpool, Edinburgh, the Scottish Highlands, and more.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional activities mentioned in the itinerary, but they are not included in the tour price.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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What unique experiences are included in the Scottish Highlands?
In the Scottish Highlands, you will learn from an expert about the reintroduction of native animal species like the Scottish Red Squirrel, Lynx, and Beavers into the wild, as well as the reforestation of the Caledonian pine forest. This experience supports Trees for Life, a TreadRight supported project.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions