Arrive at either London Heathrow or Gatwick Airport and hop aboard the express rail link into the heart of the city. Once in London, take some time to relax or begin exploring the many highlights of this dynamic capital. A city where rich history meets modern culture, London offers countless iconic sights—from Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square. Venture east to discover the historic Tower of London and the impressive dome of St Paul’s Cathedral.

Overnight in London.

Trains: UK rail (estimate travel time to London- 20 minutes).

After breakfast, board the train for a scenic journey to the southwest of England. Travel across the Salisbury Plain and through the gentle hills of Dorset before reaching the coastal landscapes of Devon. Your destination is the historic maritime town of Plymouth, where you’ll spend the next two nights. Take time to explore this storied port—visit Plymouth Sound with its commanding hilltop lighthouse and Citadel overlooking the harbour, and be sure to stop by the Mayflower Steps, the departure point of the Pilgrim Fathers on their voyage to America. In 2020, the town marked the 400th anniversary of this momentous journey.

Overnight in Plymouth.

Trains: UK rail (estimate travel time from London to Plymouth- 4 hours).

After breakfast, set off on one of England’s most breathtaking rail journeys, traveling southwest across the mysterious Bodmin Moor and tracing the rugged Cornish coastline. Along the way, you might choose to explore one or more of Cornwall’s charming fishing villages, such as St Ives or Penzance—once known for smugglers and pirates, now celebrated for their thriving arts communities. Alternatively, visit the seaside town of Falmouth, where you can stroll along golden beaches and explore a historic hilltop fort overlooking the sea.

Overnight in Plymouth.

After breakfast, Head to north, your train journey will carry you through the gentle hills of Somerset en route to the refined Regency city of Bath. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath is renowned for its elegant Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage. Spend your afternoon discovering its many treasures—from the stunning Roman Baths and historic Pump Room, to the grand Elizabethan Abbey, the Jane Austen Centre, Pulteney Bridge, and the sweeping curve of the Royal Crescent.

Overnight in Bath.

Train: UK rail (estimate travel time from Plymouth to Bath- 3 hours).

After breakfast, set out on a small-group day tour with a local driver to explore the charming villages and scenic countryside of Wiltshire. Begin in Castle Combe, often hailed as England’s prettiest village, and continue to the ancient stone circle at Avebury. Along the way, admire unique local landmarks such as Silbury Hill and the Cherhill White Horse. Highlights of the day include a visit to the world-famous Stonehenge and a stop in Lacock Village, whose picturesque cobbled streets have featured in beloved film and TV productions like Pride and Prejudice, Downton Abbey, and Harry Potter.

Overnight in Bath.

After breakfast, board the train once more and travel to the historic university city of Oxford, where you’ll spend the next two nights. Immerse yourself in the city’s distinctive academic atmosphere as you wander through the iconic quads, spires, and green lawns of Oxford University—alma mater to literary legends like J.R.R. Tolkien and Oscar Wilde. Consider visiting some of its renowned colleges, such as Magdalen and Christ Church, or explore the Bodleian Library and New College Hall, both of which served as filming locations for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.

Overnight in Oxford.

Train: UK rail (estimate travel time from Bath to Oxford- 1 hour).

After breakfast, begin with a short train ride from Oxford to the market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, where you’ll meet your local driver for a scenic journey through the rolling hills and winding lanes of the Cotswolds. Along the way, soak up the region’s rustic beauty with regular stops in some of England’s most picturesque villages. Explore delightfully named spots like Upper Slaughter, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Broadway—each brimming with local markets, honey-hued stone cottages, and thatched rooftops.

Overnight in Oxford.

After breakfast, travel north to the delightful city of Chester, where history comes to life. Explore its well-preserved medieval city walls and gate towers, visit the remarkable excavated Roman amphitheatre, and admire the grandeur of its impressive cathedral. Don’t miss a stroll along The Rows—Tudor-style galleries filled with charming boutique shops. If time allows, consider a short train ride to nearby Liverpool, a vibrant city with a rich cultural legacy. Named European Capital of Culture in 2008, Liverpool is home to a wealth of heritage attractions, many celebrating its most iconic musical export—the Beatles.

Overnight in Chester.

Train: UK rail (estimate travel time from Oxford to Chester- 3 hours).

After breakfast, board the train for a scenic journey south through the Scottish Lowlands, crossing the border into England and into the picturesque landscapes of Cumbria. Arrive in the charming market town of Windermere, nestled on the edge of the famed Lake Windermere, and head to your hotel to drop off your bags. Spend the afternoon discovering this delightful lakeside town—browse local boutiques, visit The World of Beatrix Potter exhibition, enjoy a walk along the lake’s peaceful shores, or take a private boat ride or relaxing cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Windermere.

Overnight Bowness-on-Windermere.

Train: UK rail (estimate travel time from Chester to Bowness-on-Windermere- 3 hours).

Breakfast at the hotel. Today is devoted to discovering the dramatic beauty of the Lake District on a small-group tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. Venture off the beaten path as you travel over scenic mountain passes, through lush valleys, and alongside shimmering lakes. Stop to explore traditional Lakeland towns and villages such as Grasmere or Keswick, and take in some of the region’s most breathtaking sights, including Borrowdale Valley, Thirlmere, and the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle. A highlight of the day is a relaxing boat trip on one of the stunning lakes—an unforgettable way to experience this iconic landscape.

Overnight in Bowness-on-Windermere.

After breakfast, board the train and journey east through the scenic countryside of the Yorkshire Dales en route to the historic city of York. Rich in heritage and charm, York offers a treasure trove of cultural and architectural gems. Stroll through the narrow, cobbled lanes of the Shambles—believed to be Britain’s first shopping street—and walk along the impressive medieval city walls, complete with ancient gates and towers. The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the awe-inspiring York Minster, a Gothic masterpiece that dominates the skyline and underscores the city’s status as the ecclesiastical heart of northern England.

Overnight in York.

Train: UK rail (estimate travel time from Bowness-on-Windermere to York- 4 hours).

After breakfast, take time to delve deeper into the wonders of York. Uncover the city’s Viking past at the immersive JORVIK Viking Centre, step inside the beautifully preserved Georgian townhouse of Fairfax House, or marvel at historic locomotives—including the legendary Flying Scotsman—at the National Railway Museum. If you’d like to venture beyond the city, a short train ride will take you to the elegant Victorian spa town of Harrogate, where you can browse charming boutiques or enjoy a classic afternoon tea in one of its traditional tea rooms. Alternatively, consider joining an optional small-group tour to explore the breathtaking landscapes of either the Yorkshire Dales or the North York Moors National Park (subject to availability).

Overnight in York.

After breakfast, board the high-speed mainline train back to London and head to your hotel to drop off your luggage. With this second visit to the capital, you’ll have the chance to explore the city in greater depth. Culture enthusiasts can immerse themselves in world-class collections at renowned institutions like the Tate Modern, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Museum, and the Imperial War Museum. For a more leisurely afternoon, take a stroll through Hyde Park to the stately Kensington Palace, or indulge in some retail therapy—from the iconic department stores of Oxford Street to the lively street markets of Covent Garden.

Overnight in London.

Train: UK rail (estimated travel time from York to London- 2 hours).

Breakfast at the hotel. Take advantage of the convenient rail connections to explore the beautiful and historic cities of Southeast England. Head south into the ancient county of Kent to discover two of its most iconic towns—stroll the cobbled streets of Canterbury and visit its majestic cathedral, then continue by train to Dover to explore the impressive castle and the secret wartime tunnels hidden within the cliffs. Alternatively, you might choose to visit the historic naval city of Portsmouth or enjoy the vibrant, bohemian charm of Brighton by the sea. In the evening, return to London for your final overnight stay.

Overnight in London.

After breakfast, say goodbye to the UK as you board the Heathrow or Gatwick Express for a smooth and direct journey to your departure airport.