Road Trip: Highlights of England

12 Days from $3,490 USD / person

Drive through the best-loved sights and towns on this private England tour. Begin your tour in bustling London where you can cycle past iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and Big Ben. Explore the UNESCO-listed Stonehenge from Bath, taking in the massive stones dating back thousands of years. Back in Bath, take in the 2000-year old Roman baths that the city is named after, and the beautiful museum next door. Drive on through the scenic countryside to the idyllic Cotswolds villages and explore the region’s historic walking trails, castles, and preserved houses. Next, discover the university town of Oxford, including the imposing Blenheim Palace. In the Lake District, stretch your legs on leisurely hikes and treks across the beautiful countryside filled with mountains, lakes, and valleys. Drive back to London for one last night and return to your favorite haunts before you depart from England.

Personalize this vacation to suit your preferences and budget with inputs from our destination experts. Get in touch with us for a completely obligation-free England tour itinerary.

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Heritage & Culture

Nature & Landscapes

Sample Itinerary

Day

Place

Hotel Opts

1 – 4

London
Highlights: History & Architecture, Food, Museums, Galleries & West End Shows, British Royalty

Hilton London Kensington
Rubens at the Palace

4 – 6

Bath
Highlights: Roman Baths, Georgian & Literary History, Georgian Architecture

Abbey Hotel
The Roseate Villa Bath

6 – 7

Cotswolds
Highlights: Quaint English Villages, Rolling Hills & Farm Life, Relaxation

Macdonald Bear Hotel
The Old Stocks Inn

7 – 9

Oxford
Highlights: World's Oldest English University, History & Architecture, Punting

Jurys Inn Oxford
Old Parsonage Hotel

9 – 11

Lake District
Highlights: Beautiful Nature, Relaxation, Hiking

Macdonald Swan Grasmere
Linthwaite House

11 – 12

London
Highlights: History & Architecture, Food, Museums, Galleries & West End Shows, British Royalty

Rubens at the Palace
Doubletree by Hilton London – Westminster

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Road Trip: Highlights of England

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Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 4

3 Nights

London

Images of grandeur, tradition, and pageantry take over the senses when you set foot in London. A city that figures on the bucket list of every avid traveler, London is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Kew Gardens, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the Royal Observatory in Greenwich and iconic landmarks such as the London Eye, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, and Piccadilly Circus. Get a peek into history at one of the many museums or catch a ballet performance at the Royal Opera House. Head to Hyde Park or Hampstead Heath for a whiff of fresh air and some soothing scenery. A dynamic cosmopolis, the city is, today, home to people of diverse ethnicities speaking over 300 languages! Get a glimpse of this cultural diversity at Borough Market, London’s oldest and largest food market serving up a gourmet selection of flavors. A shopoholics paradise awaits in Oxford Street and Knightsbridge with boutiques, luxury brands and department stores including the iconic Harrods. Shakespeare fans can head to the Globe Theater to watch a play conducted as it would have been during the Tudor era while Harry Potter fans can lose themselves in the world of magic with a behind-the-scenes tour at Warner Bros Studio!

Included activities

Cycling Down London Streets

Biking across the iconic landmarks in London can be a fun way of getting to know this great city better. Meet your local guide ahead of the tour near the exit of the Queensway tube station. Astride your bikes, take a leisurely ride through town, soaking up all the history and anecdotes shared by your guide. Pedal past the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben. At Trafalgar Square, make a pit stop for lunch at a traditional pub, relishing the classic pub fare washed down with a mug of delicious cider or ale. Continue touring the monuments, sights and sounds of the historic square after lunch. Also drop by the Royal Parks and London’s Kensington Palace. (Half Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 4 hrs; Times: 1100; Shared Activity; Transfer not Included; Fitness level: Moderate; All children over 12 years have to be able to ride a bike & all those under 18 to be accompanied by adult; Please dress appropriately for the weather; Daily tours from Sep 17–Oct 31, 2019; and from Thu–Mon during Nov–Dec 2019).

Explore London on Your Own

Embark on a leisurely discovery of one of the world’s most visited cities. If you’ve had your fill of art museums, then a trip to the Chocolate Museum in Brixton or the Design Museum with its mind-boggling array of exhibits might be just what you need. Afterward, pop into a couple of the historic bookstores that the city is famed for. Enjoy a meal at one of the elegant restaurants in Kings Cross and stop by the train station popularized in the Harry Potter series for a photo opportunity! Or, you could get something to eat at a cozy pub in Trafalgar Square followed by a leisurely stroll down Oxford Street, Europe’s busiest shopping street. As the sun goes down, head up Primrose Hill and settle down to enjoy stunning views of the city skyline against the twilight sky. (Half Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admission; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Afternoon Tea Indulgence on Wheels

Discover London in all its historic glory as you enjoy a traditional English tea featuring the best of the city’s culinary offerings. This indulgent tour takes you aboard the luxurious Bustronome where the top level of the double decker bus is transformed into an elegant dining room. Choose from an aromatic collection of teas or sparkling bubbly to sip on while you are driven past the most iconic landmarks in London such as the Tower Bridge, Royal Albert Hall, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament. Read up the stylish menu not just for an update on the courses to follow but also for juicy bits of information on the various city sights – for example, how the Royal Courts of Justice are guarded by a bronze dragon! Tuck into savory bites like cheese mushroom braised with truffle oil and delicate eggs Florentine as you take in the sights outside. Nibble on lemon meringue pie and the Bustronome special, macaron with praline nuts, to lavish your senses with sweet delight. (Shared Activity; Frequency: Wed, Fri, Sat; Duration: 1 hr 45 mins; Times: 15.00)

Hotel options

Hilton London Kensington – Opt 1

Room Double room/Twin Deluxe Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Rubens at the Palace – Opt 2

Room Classic Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 4 – 6

2 Nights

Bath

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Bath is all about soaking in history, quite literally! Named after the well-preserved Roman-era baths found here, the city continues with its spa tradition to this day. Take a dip in the natural thermal hot springs while sophisticated period tearooms, retro cafes, quaint taverns, and bistros that dot this historic city welcome you warmly. The city has been home to some famous names – author Jane Austen as well as artists John Maggs and Sir Thomas Lawrence. The alluring Georgian architecture of the city’s buildings has been the inspiration for some of their most famous works and provided the backdrop for many a novel and television program. Soak in the beauty and tranquility of Bath Abbey with its exquisite stained glass windows. Stay at one of the stately Georgian guesthouses or pick a lovely country cottage to call home while in the city. Get your dose of mystique with a drive to the prehistoric site of Stonehenge located less than an hour away.

Included activities

En Route: Unravel the Mystery of Stonehenge on Your Own

Unlock the mysteries of this world famous prehistoric site as you explore it at your own pace. Leave your hotel in your rental car to the UNESCO World Heritage site passing by the scenic countryside. Head to the informative visitor and exhibition center to gain background on the significance of this historic site. Afterward, wander around the cluster of massive stones placed in a circle as you try to come up with reasons they came to be here thousands of years ago. Get a closer look at the five Neolithic huts furnished as they might have been when this monument was built. Stop by the café to relish rock cakes and an array of beverages before it’s time for you to continue your drive to Bath. (En Route Activity; Full Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admission; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Hop-on Hop-off bus tour of Bath

Discover Bath at your own pace while riding the open rooftop, hop-on hop-off bus, which traverses two distinct routes across the city. Listen to live information and anecdotal commentary on board as you pass by famous landmarks of Bath. Between stops, soak up the relaxed vibe of Bath’s Georgian streets, and visit the various attractions based on your personal interests. From food to literature, and films to architecture, there’s plenty to uncover. On the City Tour, apart from window shopping and people watching around the high street and the city college, expect to see the Roman Baths, Thermae Bath Spa, Royal Crescent, The Circus, Jane Austen Center, and Grand Parade. On the Skyline Tour that extends to the English countryside outside of Bath, see Pulteney Bridge, Prior Park Landscape Garden, and the American Museum. Enjoy stunning vistas of the city from the wooded and meadow-covered Bathwick and Widcombe hills, replete with native wildlife. (Half Day; Time: First tour begins between 9:30am and 10:30am, Last tour begins between 3:30pm and 6:30pm; Duration: Attraction visits are variable, tour busses depart every 6-12 mins during summer and 30 – 60 mins during winter; Transfer not Included; Fitness level: Moderate; Please wear walking shoes and comfortable clothes)

Bath’s Roman Bath Ruins

Indulge yourself on this tour of the 2000-year-old Roman baths in Bath. Admire the large open-air complex filled with natural water, and the recent Victorian additions featuring statues of notable personalities. See views of Bath Abbey on the streets outside as you amble along the wraparound terraces. Learn about this well-preserved ancient spa during an hourly guided walking tour, see innovative and interactive projections on glass, which bring the ruins to life, and listen to costumed staff explain ancient cosmetics and wellness rituals. Notice the separate circular cold-water baths, the ancient heating systems, and water from the thermal springs that flows into the river nearby. Browsing exhibits in the museum next door, see skeletal remains, old temple inscriptions, private altars, carved façade pediments, and the gilded head of Sulis Minerva’s statue, among other relics. You can also taste the mineral water from these sacred springs. Listen to live piano sessions at the elegant Pump Room as you savor drinks and snacks before dispersing. (Flexible Duration; Shared (Public) Activity; Transfer not Included; Fitness level: Easy; Children under the age of 5 enter free)

Hotel options

Abbey Hotel – Opt 1

Room Deluxe Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

The Roseate Villa Bath – Opt 2

Room Deluxe Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 6 – 7

1 Night

Cotswolds

Celebrate the Cotswolds, a wonderful collection of rural counties in south-central England, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, best explored on historic walking trails and driving along the picturesque Cotswolds Romantic Road! Time stands still in these medieval villages and lively market towns that feature magnificent manors, wool churches, antique shops, and quaint houses, all characterized by the golden honey-colored Cotswolds limestone. Chestnut trees, gentle streams, and delightful arboreta line the rows of atmospheric streets around. Enjoy waterfront picnics on castle grounds, or savor artisanal ales, local trout, and Gloucester cheese that make up the region’s fine produce. Home to celebrities and royalty, the Cotswolds also hosts a variety of events year-round, including vintage car rallies, equestrian sports, and races down a steep slope chasing a round of cheese!

Included activities

Discover Cotswolds Attractions on Your Own

‘Explore the scenic English countryside and villages as you explore the renowned Cotswolds region on your own. Stop at idyllic villages to stroll down the cobblestone streets lined with thatched roof cottages. While Broadway offers you quaint family-owned stores, Naunton has its splendid river views and Guiting Power sits on the slope overlooking a small valley. Travel on to the elegant Sudeley Castle that is home to the final resting place of Catherine Parr, last queen of Henry VIII. Saunter around your pick of ten castle gardens, each with a unique theme and design! Explore the interiors of this sprawling castle that was once a royal residence and features exquisite panels of Dutch painted glass, excellent paintings, and sculptures. Afterward, pop into historic pubs and traditional tea houses to sample authentic local fare and entertainment before you head back to your hotel. (Full Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admission; Fitness Level: Easy.) ‘

Hotel options

Macdonald Bear Hotel – Opt 1

Room Executive Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

The Old Stocks Inn – Opt 2

Room Cosy Great Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Day 7 – 9

2 Nights

Oxford

Step back in time when you visit the charming city of Oxford, home to the world’s oldest and one of the most prestigious English speaking universities. The city’s skyline showcases exquisite examples of English architectural styles dating from the late Saxon period. A breeding ground for literary greats, the city has produced authors such as Lewis Carroll, JRR Tolkien, Oscar Wilde, and the ever-popular Dr. Seuss. Aptly named the City of Dreaming Spires by famous British poet Matthew Arnold, exploring the various college buildings walking down paths trodden over by eager students over the centuries is the best way to experience this varsity town. Wander around the many museums and galleries, most of them offering free admission, for a glimpse of masterpieces by Michelangelo, Picasso, remnants of the extinct dodo, and numerous interesting artifacts from across the world. Take a break at one of the many authentic British pubs in the city, some of which were the favored haunts of Oxford’s most famous alumni.

Included activities

En Route: Discover Blenheim Palace on Your Own

From your hotel in the Cotswolds, drive through the beautiful English countryside to arrive at the magnificent Blenheim Palace, and explore it at your own pace! Nestled in the heart of Oxfordshire, and on the fringes of Cotswolds AONB, explore this birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. You can travel through three centuries of stories from the Blenheim Palace aided by a state-of-the-art experiential tour. Step into the many staterooms and galleries that showcase the life and style of the British Royalty. Apart from the family chapel, and the great library, browse through Winston Churchill’s permanent exhibition. You can also take the miniature train to the Pleasure Gardens, laze about the Butterfly House, and navigate the Marlborough Maze. Relax by the lake, watching ducks and sheep, before your onward journey. (En route Activity; Full Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admission; Fitness Level: Easy)

Walking the Tree-Lined Avenues of Oxford

Discover the old medieval city and university town of Oxford on this fascinating walk in the company of an Oxford graduate. Explore the venerable town with its romantic architecture, gathering authentic insights on student life on this entertaining day trip. Stroll among Oxford’s “dreaming spires”, its cobbled streets, domed structures, medieval chapels, quiet cloisters and quadrangles. Glean interesting trivia on the town’s history, heritage and traditions from your student guide. If you’re lucky, you could get to visit a typical college, complete with Gothic elements, quadrangles and an ancient dining hall hung with portraits of its famous alumni. (Half Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 2 hrs; Private Activity; Transfer not Included; Fitness level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes)

Punting down the Charming Cherwell

Experience a short, leisurely river boat ride down the charming Cherwell River with a professional punter. Come abroad your flat-bottomed boat at the Magdalen Bridge Boathouse, which stands next to Magdalen College Tower, across the road from Oxford’s Botanic Gardens. If you wish, you could also make a day of it on the river, returning half an hour before sunset. Glide past some of Oxford’s iconic landmarks, including the Botanic Gardens and Magdalen College school fields. Row past the Christ Church Meadows, where Lewis Carroll once taught students and wrote his two great masterpieces – Alice in Wonderland and Alice Through the Looking-Glass. Continue traveling past the lovely gardens of St Hilda’s College before returning to the boathouse. If you wish, you could also continue rowing down towards the “Isis”, what they call the Thames in Oxford, and enjoy cruising along this beautiful riverscape. (Duration: 30 mins; Private Activity; Transfer not Included; Fitness level: Easy)

Hotel options

Jurys Inn Oxford – Opt 1

Room Standard Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Old Parsonage Hotel – Opt 2

Room Deluxe Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 9 – 11

2 Nights

Lake District

The Lake District with its stunning mountains, verdant valleys, and picturesque lakes, has been immortalized time and again by poets through the ages. England’s largest national park, this idyllic UNESCO World Heritage site promises you a range of outdoor pursuits and unique experiences. Visual treats await you everywhere you turn, including serene Lake Windermere, nestled amid rolling valleys and towering mountains in the distance. Dotted by quaint villages, this is also home to The World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness – a theme park with interactive displays featuring Peter Rabbit and Jemima Puddle-Duck, as well as the author’s charming home. There’s also Dove Cottage to be explored, the residence turned museum of celebrated poet William Wordsworth, where he composed some of his life’s best work! One of the country’s most popular summer destinations, the Lake District is criss-crossed by walking trails and quaint little spots that invite you in for leisurely picnics. Those seeking adventure could also take a trip to Helvellyn, the third highest peak in England, or Honister Slate Mine which offers a zipline.

Included activities

Enjoyable Lake District Exploration on Your Own

Soak in the stunning beauty of one of England’s most picturesque regions with an enjoyable exploration at your own pace. Drive amid majestic mountains, serene lakes, and cozy valleys as you head to the Lakeland villages that have inspired poets such as Samuel Coleridge and William Wordsmith. Pass by the market town of Keswick, halting a while to explore the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle that is the most popular one in Cumbria. Zoom past pretty lakeside villages such as Borrowdale and Buttermere renowned for their idyllic appearance. Stop to savor the gorgeous beauty of the landscape and in clear weather, enjoy views up to Langdale Pikes as also Scafell Pike, the tallest peak in England. Travel on to reach Catbells Fell for more splendid views. You could take a break for lunch and step into one of the cozy village pubs before exploring some more or turning back. (Full Day; Self Organized Activity; No Guide; No Transfers Included; No Admission; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Windermere Lake Islands Cruise

Experience the ethereal beauty of the Lake District on this fascinating cruise of Windermere Lake, the largest in England. Set off from Bowness Bay and pass hidden bays, secret inlets, and quiet wooded islands bordered by verdant mountain views all around. Inhale and fill your lungs with pure, country air as you take panoramic views of the lush scenery. Enjoy the stunning contrast of green hills and blue waters on this circular Islands cruise. (Shared Activity; Self Drive Transfer; Duration: 45 mins)

Hotel options

Macdonald Swan Grasmere – Opt 1

Room Executive Suites

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Linthwaite House – Opt 2

Room View Room

Style Guest house

Day 11 – 12

1 Night

London

Images of grandeur, tradition, and pageantry take over the senses when you set foot in London. A city that figures on the bucket list of every avid traveler, London is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Kew Gardens, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the Royal Observatory in Greenwich and iconic landmarks such as the London Eye, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, and Piccadilly Circus. Get a peek into history at one of the many museums or catch a ballet performance at the Royal Opera House. Head to Hyde Park or Hampstead Heath for a whiff of fresh air and some soothing scenery. A dynamic cosmopolis, the city is, today, home to people of diverse ethnicities speaking over 300 languages! Get a glimpse of this cultural diversity at Borough Market, London’s oldest and largest food market serving up a gourmet selection of flavors. A shopoholics paradise awaits in Oxford Street and Knightsbridge with boutiques, luxury brands and department stores including the iconic Harrods. Shakespeare fans can head to the Globe Theater to watch a play conducted as it would have been during the Tudor era while Harry Potter fans can lose themselves in the world of magic with a behind-the-scenes tour at Warner Bros Studio!

Hotel options

Rubens at the Palace – Opt 1

Room Classic Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Doubletree by Hilton London – Westminster – Opt 2

Room King Guest Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

What Our Guests Say

“A three-week trip to various parts of the UK seemed too much for us to plan and execute, so I was glad when a friend told me about her magical UK trip. She had relied on the expertise of Cherisse Liptzin and ET. From the first meeting, we were impressed. Cherisse asked great questions to figure out our expectations, preferences, and wishes. She offered suggestions based on her time traveling throughout the UK. She was flexible when we made changes to our initial plan and when we added further edits and additional days. Her guidance was superb! Then, she handed us over to our trip coordinator, Namrata Gupta who worked with us before and throughout our time in the UK. Namrata, in her intro message, assured us that we wouldn’t need to worry about a thing – that she would take care of everything. That big promise was proven to be 100% genuine and true. We had several unforeseen issues arise, and she helped us resolve everything. We didn’t miss a bit of the fun and enjoyment of the trip thanks to this dear, responsive, smart trip coordinator who answered the call, going above and beyond every time we needed her help. ET has a process that ensures your travel will be enjoyable, safe, and easy. We give them our highest recommendation. In fact, we’re already planning our next journeys with their wise guidance and help. We’re thrilled to travel with ET!”

May 2025 Rating 5/5

“Enchanting Travels made planning my trip to Ireland very easy and stress free. The experience with Enchanting Travels and finally getting to visit Ireland was a dream come true. I am so glad I did it! I had to go to Ireland by myself, but I didn’t feel like I was alone. My travel guide checked in with me everyday to make sure things were going well. I had my personal chauffeur/tour guide who was with me at least 8 hours a day so I wasn’t completely by myself. I felt very safe and well taken care of. Don’t hesitate to use Enchanting Travels for your next trip. They are the best!”

May 2025 Rating 5/5

“We recently returned from a 10-day trip to London and Paris, and Enchanting Travels made the entire experience seamless and unforgettable. Elizabeth handled all of our bookings and excursions with care and attention to detail. During our trip, Vipra was on call and incredibly helpful anytime we needed assistance. She even surprised us with a thoughtful gift and champagne to celebrate our anniversary, such a kind and personal touch! The Enchanting Travels app was also super user-friendly, which made it easy to keep track of our itinerary, confirmations, and documents all in one place. Everything ran smoothly from start to finish. We’ll definitely be booking with them again!”

June 2025 Rating 5/5

“This was my second trip booked through Enchanting Travels and I will continue to use them for any future trips. The service they provide is amazing and best of all they make everything so easy. Lisa Fox and Divya were brilliant with everything they did for us. I cannot stress enough how much I enjoyed my trip and a lot of that is due to them and their help. 10/10 would recommend. ”

October 2024 Rating 5/5

“Enchanting Travels is an amazing travel company. We have done two major trips of over two weeks with them. The UK and Ireland trips were our two favorites of all time. We have been traveling extensively for over ten years, and Enchanting Travels has delivered in a major way. We will certainly use them again in the future.”

September 2024 Rating 5/5

“Our travel agents did a fantastic job! Everything was so well planned it made it easy not having to worry about so many tiny details you usually would planning on your own. It was an amazing trip! ”

September 2024 Rating 5/5

Road Trip: Highlights of England

Luxury Travel. Your Way.

Ideal For

Sample Itinerary

Thank You for Inquiring

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 4

Day 4 – 6

Day 6 – 7

Day 7 – 9

Day 9 – 11

Day 11 – 12

London

Bath

Cotswolds

Oxford

Lake District

London

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

Option 2

Price Includes

Not Included

What Our Guests Say

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