Classic England and Scotland

Ride the iconic London black cab for a fascinating tour of this city that resonates with historical, cultural and contemporary vigor. Learn all about the rich past and colorful present of London from your friendly cab driver. Take in the expanse of the Parliament Square, bordered by majestic buildings like the Houses of Parliament, the iconic Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, which has hosted royal ceremonies since 1066. Travel alongside the famous Thames till you see the skyline broken by the magnificent Tower Bridge. Move to the more serene Hyde Park, where lush green avenues and exquisite gardens await you. Stroll through Trafalgar Square, humming with activity, Downing Street where resides the British PM, past the imposing Whitehall. till you arrive at the busy Mall from where you can view Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British royalty. (Half Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Duration: 3hrs; Times: 10:00 or 16:00 hr)

Enjoy a five course dinner offering the best of contemporary London cuisine as you sail down the Thames on a vibrant evening cruise on the newly refurbished Glass Room. Select from three dinner options and look forward to an evening of fine dining garnished with stunning views. Sit back and relax in your floating restaurant as you watch the glittering lights of London pass by as you are serenaded by the tunes of live entertainment. Enjoy expect touches like a sparkling welcome drink, assortment of teas and coffees, and wine pairing with each dinner course. Relish a five course set menu or a la carte menu, based on your dinner option, featuring the finest of contemporary London cuisine made with the best produce. Satiate your senses on a truly memorable dinner on the Thames! (Shared Activity; Transfer not Included; Duration: 2 hrs 45 mins; Times: 19:00; Please inform of any special dietary requirements at time of booking and report at your allocated departure point at least 15 mins ahead of boarding)

Discover the UK’s most mystical destination on this day tour of the Salisbury Plains. Return to Britain’s old Celtic world, replete with pagan tribes, druids and sacred rituals with a visit to the mystical monoliths of Stonehenge. This circle of enormous gray stones, surrounded by ancient burial mounds at Salisbury, continues to fascinate and intrigue travelers and pilgrims alike. Leave your London hotel early, accompanied by your local guide cum driver. On reaching Stonehenge, take the bus or walk down the picturesque mile-long stretch from the visitor center to the stones, soaking in the magical ambiance. Return to your waiting vehicle and drive over to one of the world’s oldest and largest continuously occupied royal castles. Windsor Castle has been inhabited by the British nobility as well as its royal family for nearly a thousand years and continues to be the Queen’s favorite weekend residence. Barring the Queen’s private quarters, most of the Castle is open to the public today. Take a peek at the stately halls and lavish rooms hung with chandeliers and grand portraits of royal personages, including St George’s Hall, the Grand Reception Room, and the Waterloo Chamber. (Full Day; Duration: 8 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes).

Explore the intimate city of Bath, through specialized guided walking tours. The tour starts at your hotel with your guide. Visit the city’s most famous attractions, and learn about Bath’s historical and cultural heritage. Admire the ancient Roman baths, and experience the interactive museum. Soak up the relaxed vibe of Bath’s 18th century boulevards, enlivened by the lively busking scene, thanks to the city’s young university folks. From food to literature, horror and comedy, and films to architecture, there’s plenty to uncover. Take a walk around the shaded plaza of The Circus, a circular complex of elegant townhouses inspired by Stonehenge. Drop by the Royal Crescent, Queen Square, Parade Gardens, and the surrounding parks for people-watching. Laze about the Pulteney Bridge, and its bustling lane, dotted with bars, boutiques, and cafes. Get a glimpse of Bath’s culinary treasures, including historical dishes and artisanal offerings such as the big buns, local cheeses, and Bath Oliver. Finish off with a relaxing dip at the modern Thermae Bath Spa that overlooks the city. (Half Day; Duration: 4hrs; Private Activity; Transfer not required; Fitness level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring a light raincoat or umbrella)

Soak in the picturesque beauty of the Cotswolds region on this enjoyable tour. Explore attractions of your choice with a customized itinerary accompanied by your knowledgeable driver and guide. If stunning photographs are what you seek, click away to your heart’s content as you are guided from one vantage point to another. Or, immerse yourself in the history of this area that has evidence of Neolithic settlements as well as vestiges of the Roman Empire. Satiate your curiosity about the filming locations of series such as Downton Abbey, Inspector Morse, and Midsomer Murders as you see for yourself these fictional country villages. You could also discover the pretty town of Stow-on-the-Wold with its honey-colored buildings, narrow streets, and cozy pubs before stopping to sample excellent organic food and drink at Daylesford Organics. Alternatively, travel down the path less trodden to discover hidden gems tucked into the quaint hamlets, revel in folk tales and ghost stories, and explore the mysterious Rollright Stones. (Duration: 8 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Experience the verdant beauty of the Lake District, which has inspired a host of English poets and writers, especially Romantics like Wordsworth and Coleridge. Arrive at the pretty market town of Keswick and then travel along Derwentwater to Borrowdale and Buttermere, famed for their exquisite natural beauty. If weather permits, you can spot Langdale Pikes in the distance and even Scafell Pike, the tallest mountain in England. Take in the lush greenery dotted with picturesque lakes and the popular Catbells Fell as you pause at ‘Surprise View’. After all that walking, treat yourself to a well-deserved lunch of local specialties at a family owned pub and then set off to feast your eyes on yet more ethereal vistas. Pass through the placid Crummock Water, the scenic Hopeback Road, the panoramic Whinlatter Pass till you reach the iconic Castlerigg Stone Circle, dating back to 5000 years. (Full Day; Duration: 8 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer)

Enjoy touring the lovely Scottish capital on a trendy and sporty Mini Cooper ride. After you meet your local guide cum driver at your hotel door, drive to one of the highest points in the city, Arthur’s Seat at Holyrood Park, which is also home to the Scottish Parliament Building. Don’t miss this chance to visit Scotland’s oldest hidden pub before riding over to Edinburgh’s very own acropolis, Calton Hill, for a panoramic view of the city. Get a feel of 18th-century Scotland as you drive past Grassmarket, listening to gory tales of public executions that used to be held at the spot. Drop by a secret garden before visiting the picturesque Old Town, followed by the New Town. Discover a hidden settlement during your drive at the Dean Village by the Water of Leith and make a pit stop for lunch or dinner. Enjoy a leisurely meal of classic Scottish fare before visiting a few more popular city sights. Get dropped off at your hotel at the end of the tour. (Half Day; Duration: 4 hrs; Timing: 0930/1400 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Light lunch or dinner included; Fitness level: Easy; Please inform ahead in case of special dietary needs; Children 2 yrs & above to have jump seat; Evening tours are available only in summer & some sights are closed for cars on Sundays.)

Explore Edinburgh’s royal past by visiting some of its most beautiful palaces and castles. Set off for Arthur’s Seat, a viewing point on top of a volcanic hill, which offers truly spectacular views of the city and nearby countryside. Get bonus views of Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh. Next stop is the Rosslyn Chapel, which dates back to the early 15th century but was rebuilt in mid-19th century on the orders of Queen Victoria. Explore this spectacular building covered with mystical symbols, which has also served as the setting for Hollywood blockbuster ‘The Da Vinci Code’ because of its Knights Templar and Masonic associations. Once you have taken in highlights of the chapel like the Apprentice Pillar, Green Man and the angel with bagpipes, it is time to proceed to Linlithgow Castle, which once served as a military base and even the royal residence before it was burnt down in mid-1700s. Head next for Blackness Castle, remembered especially for its dramatic location on the shores of the Firth of Forth in the popular television series, ‘Outlanders’. The last stop on your tour today is the magnificent country manor, Hopetoun House. Walk through the winding driveway to approach the ornate building and note priceless objects d’art and paintings as you explore its rich interiors. (Full Day; Duration: 8 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Admissions Included.)

Explore the spectacular beauty of Loch Ness in luxurious comfort on this cruise. Set off from Dochgarroch in a sturdy motor yacht, equipped with all safety measures, to unravel the mysteries of this famous 243-meter-deep freshwater lake. Let the skipper know if you want the boat to slice through the water or glide along in a leisurely manner. Soak in the gorgeous views from the open deck or from the heated warmth of the inside cabin. You could also enjoy the unique experience of steering the boat under the watchful eye of the skipper. (Half Day; Duration: 4 hrs; Private Activity; Chauffeur Transfer Included; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Embark on a memorable horseback ride across the tranquil countryside around Loch Lomond. Hop onto sure-footed and well-behaved ponies as you set off on this private adventure, suitable for riders of all levels, including novices. Settle in comfortably on your pony as you head out from Tullichewan Farm with an experienced ride leader. Traverse the rugged moorland at the southwestern edge of the loch overlooking the national park. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the banks of the loch tucked into the foothills of Ben Lomond mountain. Stop to soak in spectacular views from various vantage points before it is time to turn back. (Duration: 70 mins; Private Activity; Chauffeur Transfer Included; Fitness Level: Easy; Please wear long trousers and sturdy footwear. Note that the maximum height permitted is 6 ft 5 in (1.9m) and maximum weight is 209 pounds (95 kg). All equipment is included.)

Set off with your chauffeur guide to explore scenic national park that is Scotland’s first at your own pace.This exploration is up to you want you want to discover in the area, or if you are not sure what to do your chauffeur guide can suggest some highlights and places to visit. Journey on to the heart of the national park, pausing at scenic viewpoints to click some stunning pictures. Take your pick of activities to explore the park including cycling, sailing, hiking, fishing, and loch cruises to name some. You can also choose to explore one or more of the four segments that the park is divided into. You could stop at the many remote villages that nestle within the park for a glimpse into local culture or to enjoy a meal at a cozy pub. (Half Day; Private Activity, Chauffeur Transfer Included; No Admissions Included; Fitness level: Easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes.)

Glide over the sparkling waters of Loch Lomond in this guided two hour tour. Paddle out from Luss Beach and take in the picturesque Highland scenery from the water. Listen closely as your guide explains interesting historical facts and legends from the area, and imparts local information as well. Kayaking is a relatively quiet activity, so you might also catch a glimpse of the local wildlife around. Depending on the route you are taking, you might get the chance to dock on a small beach and discover one of the many islands surrounding the loch. The waters of Loch Lomond are yours to explore! (Duration: 2 hrs; Timing: 1000/1300/1600 hrs; Private Activity; Chauffeur Transfer Included; Please note that the departure point is Luss Beach, next to Luss car park and Rowardennan Hotel, Rowardennan and guests must arrive 30 minutes before departure. Wet-suits are available for an additional cost.)