England & Scotland | Classic | End London | Winter | 2025/2026

England & Scotland | Classic | End London | Winter | 2025/2026

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11 Days From

$1908

England & Scotland | Classic | End London | Winter | 2025/2026

11 Days Starting and ending in London, England

Visiting: Bristol, Birmingham, England, Liverpool, York, England, Lake District National Park, Carlisle, England, Edinburgh, Inverness, Loch Ness, Aviemore, Glasgow, London

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

WWBRMA120

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

UK tours by Coach

Interests:

Cultural, History

From: $1908

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through England and Scotland with this classic winter tour, starting and ending in London. Experience the grandeur of Windsor Castle, the historic charm of Bath, and the academic allure of Oxford. Delve into the literary world of Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon and walk in the footsteps of The Beatles in Liverpool. Discover York's rich Viking and Roman history, and explore the iconic landmarks of Edinburgh, including Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle. Cruise along the mysterious Loch Ness, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall. Travel in comfort aboard a coach, with train travel from Glasgow to London, and stay in centrally located hotels. With guided tours, breakfasts, and dinners included, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Optional activities and personal expenses are not included, allowing you to tailor your adventure.

Highlights

  • Walk the iconic tree-lined 'Long Walk' and take in the views of Windsor Castle in Windsor.

  • Live out your Bridgerton dreams in Bath's historic and regal architecture.

  • Explore the quaint canals and streets of Oxford and the grounds of its famous university.

  • Discover Stratford-upon-Avon, from Shakespeare's birthplace to his burial site.

  • Walk in the footsteps of The Beatles and see iconic landmarks in Liverpool.

  • Explore York Minster and delve into York's Viking and Roman roots.

  • Visit Holyrood Palace, The Royal Mile, and Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh.

  • Cruise along Loch Ness and keep an eye out for the mythical 'Nessie'.

Places You'll See

Edinburgh Castle

Loch Ness, Scotland

Edinburgh Castle

Loch Ness, Scotland

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: London To Bristol Via Windsor And Bath

Location: Bristol

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, England

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 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 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

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 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 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 Inverness Via St Andrews And Stirling

Location: Inverness

Accommodation Name: Columba Hotel Inverness (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It's time to blaze a trail out of Edinburgh & head for Inverness. 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. 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!" Already blown away by the beauty of the rugged mountain scenery en route, we'll arrive in Inverness amped up for mystical tales.

Day 9: Inverness Via Loch Ness And Aviemore

Location: Inverness, Loch Ness, Aviemore, Inverness

Accommodation Name: Columba Hotel Inverness (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 and Glenfinnan Viaduct, the mood will only be rising. We'll stop to see lovely Loch Ness, 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... We'll also check out Aviemore, a picturesque jewel in the Cairngorms' crown - home to lochs, mountain trails and plenty of panoramic views. With breath-taking scenery still in mind, today's sights will leave you more than content with your day's discoveries.

Day 10: Inverness To Glasgow

Location: Glasgow

Accommodation Name: Ibis Glasgow City Center Sauchiehall Street Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a few days of remote and rugged goodness, a change of pace in Scotland's biggest city is sure to fire things up a notch. Feast your eyes on the railway viaduct – once a calling stop for the magical Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films and the breathtaking waters of Loch Shiel, which seems to stretch on endlessly. Get involved with everything great about Glasgow. Live music on every corner, a gothic cathedral & plenty of quirky characters make this city unique. Tonight, you have the option to sign up for a delicious home-cooked meal for a truly local Glaswegian experience.

Day 11: End Glasgow/Train To London

Location: London

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

  • Meals

    The tour includes 2 dinners and 10 breakfasts.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Ibis Bristol Centre Hotel, Ibis Birmingham New Street Station, Ibis Liverpool Albert Dock, Holiday Inn Express Wakefield, Ibis Carlisle City Centre Hotel, Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Columba Hotel Inverness, and Ibis Glasgow City Centre Sauchiehall Street Hotel.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided walking tours are included in Liverpool and other locations.

  • Transportation

    Transportation by coach is included throughout the tour.

  • Train Travel

    Additional train travel from Glasgow to London at the end of the tour is included.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as a local guide tour in Bristol, a tour of Edinburgh Castle, and a home-cooked meal in Glasgow are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.

  • Flights

    Flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.

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.
  • Stirling: Explore the sights of Stirling and get a selfie with the memorial to the iconic Scottish knight.
  • 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’.
  • Fort William: Heads up ‘Potterheads’. Keep your eyes peeled for the Hogwarts Express.

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

  • What type of transportation is used during the tour?

    The tour primarily uses a coach for transportation, with additional train travel from Glasgow to London at the end of the tour.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour includes 2 dinners and 10 breakfasts.

  • Are guided tours included in the itinerary?

    Yes, guided walking tours are included in Liverpool and other locations.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    Accommodation is provided in comfortable and centrally located hotels such as Ibis Bristol Centre, Ibis Birmingham New Street Station, Ibis Liverpool Albert Dock, Holiday Inn Express Wakefield, Ibis Carlisle City Centre, Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, and Columba Hotel Inverness.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, optional activities such as a local guide tour in Bristol, a tour of Edinburgh Castle, and a home-cooked meal in Glasgow are available but not included in the tour package.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    No, travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.

  • Does the tour include flights to and from the starting and ending locations?

    No, flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included in the tour package.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • 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.

  • 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.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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1 Select your preferred date

Wednesday - Saturday

Oct 15, 2025 - Oct 25, 2025
$2519 $2141

Barrhead discount: -$378

Wednesday - Saturday

Oct 29, 2025 - Nov 08, 2025
$2519 $2141

Barrhead discount: -$378

Wednesday - Saturday

Nov 12, 2025 - Nov 22, 2025
$2459 $2090

Barrhead discount: -$369

Wednesday - Saturday

Nov 26, 2025 - Dec 06, 2025
$2459 $2090

Barrhead discount: -$369

Wednesday - Saturday

Dec 03, 2025 - Dec 13, 2025
$2459 $2090

Barrhead discount: -$369

Wednesday - Saturday

Dec 17, 2025 - Dec 27, 2025
$2575 $2189

Barrhead discount: -$386

Tuesday - Friday

Dec 23, 2025 - Jan 02, 2026
$2575 $2189

Barrhead discount: -$386

Friday - Monday

Dec 26, 2025 - Jan 05, 2026
$2575 $2189

Barrhead discount: -$386

Wednesday - Saturday

Jan 07, 2026 - Jan 17, 2026
$1908

Wednesday - Saturday

Jan 21, 2026 - Jan 31, 2026
$1908

Wednesday - Saturday

Feb 11, 2026 - Feb 21, 2026
$1908

Sunday - Wednesday

Mar 01, 2026 - Mar 11, 2026
$1908

Wednesday - Saturday

Mar 11, 2026 - Mar 21, 2026
$1908

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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