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DAY 1 Bath
Leaving the hustle and bustle of London behind, we head towards the ‘dreaming spires’ of medieval Oxford. Here we wander through the streets of this academic city, and visit C.S Lewis’s college, Christ Church College (also used as a film set in Harry Potter). This afternoon we are in for a real treat as we gently meander through the quintessentially English landscape of the beautiful Cotswolds country towards our comfortable accommodation in the magnificent city of Bath. This evening we enjoy a traditional British dinner in a local restaurant, a great opportunity to discuss the exciting days ahead with the group. Stay in Bath. (D)
DAY 2 Ludlow & Shrewsbury
Waking up amongst the Georgian and Roman splendour of this grand city, we take the scenic route following the river Severn towards Gloucester, which boasts one of the most remarkable Gothic cathedrals in Britain. We then travel further north towards the historic market town of Ludlow, where you may explore its medieval castle, its unique shops and taste the local produce. We continue our journey north to visit the cradle of the Industrial Revolution and UNESCO World Heritage Site at Ironbridge. We step back to times gone by as we stroll along the stunning gorge and visit the local Victorian museums, which bring the everyday life of this era back to life. (B,D)
Day 3 Chester
This morning we drive through the delightful town of Shrewsbury, the birthplace of Charles Darwin and often referred to as the ‘Town of Flowers.’ It is packed with timber-framed black & white buildings, steep narrow streets and alleyways and has over 600 listed buildings. Be prepared to be awe-struck as we travel across the border into Wales to explore Snowdonia National Park, an area of natural outstanding beauty. This National Park is one of dominating peaks (the highest in England and Wales), narrow mountain passes, flowing streams, cascading waterfalls, sheep-covered uplands and verdant, hidden valleys. It has been claimed that these secluded valleys were home to the real King Arthur. Certainly, an ancient Welsh culture and language still thrives here today. We explore it in true Back-Roads fashion, taking you beyond the regular tourist haunts down tracks and paths that will have you gasping! This afternoon we continue back along the English/Welsh border through gentle pastoral scenery and quaint Welsh coastal towns, Conwy Castle being a highlight, to the beautifully preserved walled city of Chester. There will be opportunity for you to delve into this city and admire its Roman amphitheatre, historic cathedral and shop in its famous unique timber buildings along the Chester Rows. (B)
Day 4 Lake District
Waking up to a hearty breakfast we then head north, through the beautiful Lancashire Dales, to the land of Beatrix Potter and the Lakeland poets. Although we have a long drive this morning, the sights that await us in the Lake District are well worth it as we travel towards Windermere, the largest and most famous of the Lakes, and our base for the next two nights. Before we arrive at Windermere, those who want to find out more about Beatrix Potter’s life and works may visit the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction nearby. (B)
Day 5 Lake District
Today’s circuit in the Lake District will provide a feast of photographic opportunities as we visit waterfalls, quaint local villages, and travel through panoramic and dramatic countryside. Our highlights include Grasmere, where we pay homage to the life and work of William Wordsworth at Dove Cottage, the Wordsworth Museum and Art Gallery. We also visit the mystical Castlerigg Stone Circle, one of Britain's earliest stone circles dating back to the Neolithic period 4000 to 5000 years ago. We immerse ourselves with the stunning natural beauty of the region before returning to Lake Windermere. Enjoy a glass of wine or local ale in a country pub before we reconvene for tonight’s evening meal. (B,D)
Day 6 Edinburgh
Following another delicious breakfast, we say goodbye to the truly memorable Lake District as we head north to Scotland and its Borders and Lowland country. The wild landscape offers us ample opportunity to explore local villages and ancient chapels, including the decorative Rosslyn chapel, featured in the Da Vinci Code. Our final destination is Edinburgh - home to kings and queens. There are many highlights to Edinburgh and included in our tour will be a drive up the Royal Mile to the imposing Edinburgh Castle high above the city. Tonight you may wander the city and tuck into a traditional Scottish meal, perhaps accompanied by a ‘dram’ of whisky. (B)
Day 7 Edinburgh
This morning, we take a walking orientation tour of the old town and the castle, as we end our tour. We recommend you spend the afternoon here to really appreciate the warm Scottish hospitality whilst you explore the myriad of things to do and see in this wonderful city. T(B)
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