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8-Nights Best of Britain from $3,295

CIE Tours

OFFER ID 1615511

This fast-paced tour is the perfect introduction to England, Scotland and Wales, showcasing the very best historical and scenic spots, alongside vibrant cities.

Authentic Local Experiences:

  • August 9 – 25 departures will have reserved seats for the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. All other departures will have a special storytelling and whisky-tasting evening at the Scotch Whisky Experience. 
  • Discover the rich history of Windsor and York on walking tours around these charming old towns. 
  • Visit the medieval Bamburgh Castle and enjoy views of the beach below.

Dining Experiences:

  • 8 hot breakfasts (B) and 5 dinners (D) 
  • *Meal counts vary on Tattoo departures, as the Scottish Evening is replaced with the Tattoo and an independent dinner.

Trip Highlights:

  • Blenheim Palace
  • Cardiff Castle
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Roman Baths
  • Scottish Evening* 
  • Stonehenge 
  • Tower of London
  • Windsor Castle

Hotels:

  • Castle Hotel Windsor, Windsor (1)
  • Delta Hotels by Marriott York, York (1)
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh – Queensferry Crossing, near Edinburgh (2) 
  • Malmaison Liverpool, Liverpool (1)
  • Hilton Cardiff, Cardiff (1)
  • 100 Queen’s Gate Hotel London, Curio Collection, London (2)


8 nights from $3,295 per person

Itinerary
Click here for Full Itinerary Details
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Itinerary Details

Day 1: Windsor Castle, Walking Tour & Welcome Drink
Depart from your hotel at 2:00 PM for a visit to Windsor Castle, residence of the King and the largest inhabited castle in the world. Next, take a walking tour around this compact and historic town. In the evening, join your group for a welcome drink, then dine independently.

Hotel: Castle Hotel Windsor

Day 2: Blenheim Palace, Cotswolds Drive & York
Travel to Blenheim Palace, a monumental country house and home to the Dukes of Marlborough. Enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque Cotswolds, passing through quaint towns and villages nestled in distinctive rolling hills and valleys. Travel on to York and take a walking tour around the medieval streets. See Gothic York Minster before dining at your hotel.

Hotel: Delta Hotels by Marriott York
Meals: (B, D)

Day 3: Northumberland & Bamburgh Castle
Travel through Northumberland’s rolling countryside and Roman ruins. Stop for lunch in one of the region’s many quaint market towns. Visit Bamburgh Castle, an imposing medieval fortress that is one of the largest inhabited castles in Britain. This magical castle is set high on a rocky plateau affording wonderful views along the coast. Continue to your hotel near Edinburgh, where you will dine with your group.

Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh - Queensferry Crossing
Meals: (B, D)

Day 4: Edinburgh City Tour, Edinburgh Castle & Scottish Evening
*Explore central Edinburgh starting in the 200-year-old “New Town” with its planned streets and elegant Georgian houses. See Princes Street, the city’s premier shopping district, and the medieval Royal Mile, overlooked by the imposing Edinburgh Castle. Tour the castle to see the Crown Jewels of Scotland. The afternoon is free to explore on your own. Enjoy a lively Scottish evening with dinner and entertainment. (August 9 – 23 departures instead experience the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with free time for dinner on your own prior to the event.)(B, D*)

Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh - Queensferry Crossing

Day 5: Lake District & Liverpool
Travel through the lush hilly countryside of the Lake District; the beauty of this region has inspired many writers and poets. Visit Grasmere, a picturesque village that native William Wordsworth once called, “the most loveliest spot that man hath found.” Head to Liverpool, a city that once dominated global trade and is now better known as the home of the Beatles. Take a walking tour of the docks before free time for dinner. Later, meet your group to experience live music at the world-famous Cavern Club, where the Fab Four got their start.

Hotel: Malmaison Liverpool
Meals: (B)

Day 6: Ludlow, Tintern Abbey & Cardiff Castle
Travel through scenic Shropshire, one of the most unspoiled parts of rural England. Stop in Ludlow, a quintessentially English town, to see the castle and quaint old black-and-white houses. Continue through the lovely Welsh countryside to visit the picturesque ruins of Tintern Abbey. In Cardiff, tour the splendid Cardiff Castle, which was magnificently restored in the Victorian era. Dine at your hotel.

Hotel: Hilton Cardiff Hotel
Meals: (B, D)

Day 7: Roman Baths & Stonehenge
Cross the border from Wales to England to the spa town of Bath, where you’ll visit the Roman Baths, hot mineral-rich springs that have been popular since ancient Roman times. Continue on to the prehistoric circle of vast monoliths of Stonehenge at Salisbury Plain and learn about the primitive building methods used to create such an enduring monument. Arrive in London and savor dinner with your group at your hotel.

Hotel: 100 Queen's Gate Hotel London, Curio Collection by Hilton
Meals: (B, D)

Day 8: London Tour, Tower of London & Independent Sightseeing
Set out on a panoramic tour of central London to see famous landmarks including Piccadilly Circus with its statue of Eros, Nelson’s Column flanked by huge lions in Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament. Visit the mighty Tower of London to see the many fortresses, ravens, Beefeaters in their distinctive uniforms, and the priceless Crown Jewels. The rest of the day is free for further exploration.

Hotel: 100 Queen's Gate Hotel London, Curio Collection by Hilton
Meals: (B)

Day 9: Tour Ends in London
Your tour ends after breakfast.

Meals: (B)

Meal Abbreviations: B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner

Featured Destinations
Liverpool
Liverpool – just saying the name automatically brings the world’s most famous group to mind – The Beatles. Liverpool however has more to offer visitors though than just Beatles memorabilia. Located on the Irish Sea on the mouth of the Mersey River, Liverpool is one of England’s most important seaports, second only to London. A bustling port for the exchanging of goods, it is also a passenger port for those traveling to Ireland. Several churches in the city are notable; among them is the Anglican Cathedral, built in 1904 which is one of the largest ecclesiastical structures in the world. There are several museums in the city as well, the Walker Art Gallery and the Merseyside County Museum.

Excursions

Liverpool: Explore Liverpool - 8 hours

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Liverpool: Explore Liverpool - 8 hours

This morning, you are met as you disembark your cruise ship by your driver-guide. Begin your full day private sightseeing tour of Liverpool, once the most important centre of maritime trade in the world.

Liverpool was the European capital of Culture in 2008 as is also the birthplace of Beatles. You may like to walk through the Mathew Street to the Cavern Club, following in the footsteps of the Beatles. See the buildings known as the ‘Three Graces’, and the impressive civic buildings that were constructed as a result of the mercantile wealth. The most important of these is St. George’s Hall, that interestingly claims to be the world’s first air-conditioned building. The Walker Art Gallery houses one of the finest collections of paintings in the UK outside of London. However the two most magnificent buildings from the 20th-century in Liverpool are the cathedrals. The Anglican Cathedral built in traditional gothic style is the largest church in the UK; the Roman Catholic cathedral is a fine example of contemporary modernist architecture.

Time permitting you may also pass under the River Mersey to Port Sunlight, one of the first planned industrial villages in the world that was opened by the Lever Brothers to house their workers in better conditions. The focal point of the village is the Lady Lever Art Gallery that houses a large collection of Wedgwood Jasperware. You could also visit Speke Hall (closed Monday and Tuesday), a fine example of a Tudor half-timbered manor house that is richly decorated with wooden furniture inside.

Highlights:

  • Follow in the footsteps of the famous band the Beatles who grew up in Liverpool
  • See the impressive civic buildings, the Walker Art Gallery and the largest church in the UK
Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning / Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Private transport by luxury car or minivan
  • An expert local driver-guide for 8 hours
  • Entrance fees to all sights and museums
  • All taxes
Exclusions:
  • All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
  • Gratuities

Cardiff
Through the valleys of South Wales, Cardiff, the Welsh capital, sits on this beautiful portion of Wales’ coast. Cardiff is famous for its imposing Castle and the new Millennium stadium.
London
London is undoubtedly one of the world's finest cities. In addition to numerous monuments from its more glorious past, London is equally well-known for its pageantry and tradition. London has something for everyone - wide boulevards buzzing with excitement far into the night, quiet squares and explorable alleyways. Visit this famous city's parks, museums, galleries, monuments, abbeys and churches, skyscrapers and ruins, Georgian squares. Take in such events as the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower, or the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, or even one of the many theatrical productions. Some of the most exclusive shops are found along Oxford, Bond and Regent Streets. An old favorite and one of the world's premier institutions is Harrods - offering everything from Chanel suits and sliced salmon to caviar and even pets.
Edinburgh
Dominated by the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle, this picturesque city offers shopping on Princes Street, the grandeur of the Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral and historic Palace of Holyrood House, where Queen Mary lived and many Scottish kings were wed. Or venture across the moors to marvel at the scenic Highlands.

Excursions

Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh - 8 hours

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Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh - 8 hours

With Scotland's most famous castle dominating the city, Edinburgh provides a fantastic introduction to this magical country. This morning you will receive a warm welcome by your local guide as you disembark your cruise for your full day sightseeing tour (8 hours) by private vehicle.

You will first head up to Edinburgh Castle, where you will see the 'Honours of Scotland', or the Scottish Crown Jewels, and have the opportunity to admire striking views across the city. Drive along the Royal Mile to the imposing Holyrood Palace*, the Queen's Official Residence in Scotland.

Continue the Royal theme this afternoon, with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia. Built in Scotland, and now permanently moored here, this famous ship hosted many official voyages during her working life. Your guide will bring the Royal Yacht Britannia’s intriguing history to life prior to the short transfer back to your cruise ship.

*You will tour the staterooms of the palace if no member of the Royal Family is staying here at the time.
 
Highlights:
  • Privately guided tour of Edinburgh Castle
  • Visit Holyrood Palace (Subject to Royal Visit)
  • Discover the history of the Royal Yacht Britannia
Tour Duration: 8 Hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light
 
Inclusions:
  • Private transport by BMW 7 Series or similar for 1 or 2 passengers or Viano (6 passenger seats) or similar for 3, 4, or 5 passengers or Sprinter for 6 passengers.  
  • Expert local guide for stated sightseeing 8 hours in Edinburgh
  • Entrance fees to all sights and museums
  • All taxes
Exclusions:
  • All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
  • Gratuities
  • Supplement for public holidays
  • Anything not specifically mentioned in the “Inclusions” list above.

Edinburgh: Introducing Edinburgh - 4 hours

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Edinburgh: Introducing Edinburgh - 4 hours

The capital city of Scotland is undoubtedly one of the most dramatically-situated cities in Europe; this setting has had a profound effect on its historical development and today your expert local guide unravels these themes on a half-day sightseeing tour. The focal point of the city is Edinburgh Castle, a royal fortress that symbolises the Scottish nation and is home to the 'Honours of Scotland', the oldest set of Crown Jewels in the British Isles. From the impressive military installations there are stunning views of the city. The Royal Mile stretches down on from castle through the 'Old Town' of Edinburgh, at the heart of which is St. Giles Cathedral. This fascinating Gothic church is topped by a fine medieval spire in the shape of a crown. At the foot of the Royal Mile is Holyrood Palace, the Queen's Official Residence in Scotland*. The palace's neighbour is the much more recent Scottish Parliament Building; its striking contemporary designs are in eye-catching contrast to the classical style of the palace. 

*Tour of palace staterooms is included if no member of the Royal Family is present at time of visit

Highlights:

  • Take in the stunning views of the city from Edinburgh Castle, a royal fortress home to the oldest set of Crown Jewels in the British Isles
  • At the foot of the Royal Mile see Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament Building

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning / Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Private transport by luxury car or minivan
  • An expert local guide for 4 hours
  • Entrance fees to all sights and museums
  • All taxes
Exclusions:
  • All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
  • Gratuities

York
Explore 2000 years of history in the street, buildings and museums that chronicle York's outstanding beauty and vibrant heritage. Witness the beauty of Yorkshire with ease. The city's night clubs, themed pubs and restaurant offer a variety of activities and York has major events for cultural events and conferences. Visit the famous York Minster, award-winning Jorvik Viking Centre, National Railway Museum, Yorkshire Museum and Castle Museum. York offers a unique shopping experience and a lesson in history. Shop Victorian in Swinegate Walk and be entertained by street performers in Coppergate.
Windsor
Windsor and the surrounding area is steeped in the history of England and its Royal Heritage. Situated on the river Thames, Windsor is surrounded by many historical sites; Runneymede, Eton and the Great Park.

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges
03/29/2026 - 04/06/2026
from $3,295 per person
04/12/2026 - 04/20/2026
from $4,095 per person
04/26/2026 - 05/04/2026
from $3,595 per person
05/10/2026 - 05/18/2026
from $3,795 per person
05/24/2026 - 06/01/2026
from $3,795 per person
05/31/2026 - 06/08/2026
from $3,795 per person
06/07/2026 - 06/15/2026
from $4,345 per person
06/28/2026 - 07/06/2026
from $3,845 per person
07/05/2026 - 07/13/2026
from $3,845 per person
08/09/2026 - 08/17/2026
from $3,995 per person
08/30/2026 - 09/07/2026
from $3,845 per person
09/06/2026 - 09/14/2026
from $3,895 per person
09/20/2026 - 09/28/2026
from $3,895 per person
10/04/2026 - 10/12/2026
from $3,595 per person
10/11/2026 - 10/19/2026
from $3,595 per person


* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.
Prices Start At
from $3,295 per person
Length
8 Nights
Air City
Call for airfares from your city.
Vacation Rating
Deluxe
Fine dining, on-site bars or lounges and room service with extended hours are characteristic of deluxe establishments. Guest services usually include valet parking, concierge services, baggage assistance and laundry services. Other on-site facilities often include shops and boutiques, full service spas, full fitness facilities with pools and tennis courts. Business amenities may include available up-to-date technology and support staffs available for services. Attention to detail is apparent in the guestrooms which typically have stylish furnishings, quality bedding and bath products and often provide an evening turn down service.
Remarks
Prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy, subject to availability and change without notice. Taxes additional. Single supplement available. Surcharges may apply. Internal and international airfare not included. All pricing and accommodations are subject to availability. Full terms and conditions apply. Rates may vary by date of travel; please inquire for the best prices for your preferred travel dates. Itinerary and map subject to change. Prices subject to availability and changes without notice. Some restrictions may apply.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID
1615511

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