Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
The gateway to Europe? It can be a maze of confusion for the new kid in town. But hey, we got you. With your centrally-located hotel and included tix to the Hop On Hop Off bus, you can skip the weeks of fumbling with maps, catching wrong trains & accidentally eating at all the wrong places. You'll get easy access to see some of the top attractions in the city (and so much more!). These 3 days will leave you like a true local. Oh, and our experts at the Contiki Travel Hub in the Royal National courtyard will fill you in all the deets of the best foodie spots & hidden gems in town too!
Calling all Harry Potter fans and history buffs—the Castles & Broomsticks tour is your ticket to a magical day out from Edinburgh. Cross the Anglo-Scottish border to the seaside village of Bamburgh, where you’ll explore the mighty Bamburgh Castle and enjoy a bit of beach fun. The highlight? A visit to Alnwick Castle, the real-life Hogwarts and a filming location for both the Harry Potter series and Downton Abbey.
This enchanting tour weaves together centuries of history with a dash of fantasy, making it the perfect choice for families, fans, and anyone keen to discover the stories behind Britain’s most iconic castles and landscapes.
Follow the Coast to Coast Walk from St Bees towards the historic villages and beautiful landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales. Experience the most dramatic section of Wainwright’s legendary Coast to Coast route on this self-guided walking holiday from the Irish Sea at St Bees to the market town of Kirkby Stephen. The western half of the trail showcases some of the most spectacular scenery in northern England, taking you across the rugged heart of the Lake District National Park and into the edge of the Yorkshire Dales.
If you're short on time, new to long-distance walking, or prefer to explore the route in manageable stages, this itinerary is an ideal way to sample the best-loved landscapes of the Coast to Coast. It’s also perfect for hikers who simply want the thrill of crossing the Lake District on foot, experiencing the quiet valleys, shimmering lakes, towering peaks and traditional fellside villages. You’ll start your journey by dipping your boots in the Irish Sea at St Bees, then head east with the prevailing wind at your back. The route leads through dramatic valleys such as Ennerdale, Borrowdale, and Patterdale, with the chance to take optional high-level detours to iconic Lakeland summits like Helvellyn. As the Lake District fells give way to the gentler landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales, your walk concludes in Kirkby Stephen, a charming town with rail links and a great place to relax after an inspiring week on the trail.
Looking to take things at a gentler pace? Our 9-day version of this trip (trip code WSK) breaks up the longer stage between Shap and Kirkby Stephen, offering a more relaxed alternative.
Scroll down to explore all our Coast to Coast walking options.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Guest House, Hostel, Hotel, Hut, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
London, St Bees, Ennerdale Bridg
London, St Bees, Ennerdale Bridge, Borrowdale, Grasmere, Glenridding, Shap, Kirkby Stephen
England, Wales, and Scotland await on this 19-day city sightseeing trip—perfect for travelers eager to experience the UK’s highlights and hidden treasures. Beginning in London and ending in Edinburgh, this group tour offers a rich blend of iconic cities, rolling countryside, and legendary landscapes.
Punt through Oxford, explore the honey-hued villages of the Cotswolds, and stroll bustling Cardiff before hiking through Snowdonia’s majestic peaks. Trace The Beatles’ footsteps in Liverpool and take in the pristine beauty of the Lake District. Heading north, immerse yourself in Glasgow’s vibrant culture, journey across the Scottish Highlands, and unwind in the fairy-tale surrounds of the Isle of Skye.
Support local communities in Edinburgh—JK Rowling’s favorite writing spot—and discover the filming locations that have captured imaginations worldwide. The tour’s unique selling point is its diverse blend of urban and rural experiences, offering a well-balanced, in-depth look at the UK’s cultural and natural riches. For those seeking a comprehensive and engaging tour package, this journey delivers adventure at every turn.
City sightseeingWalking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
London, Edinburgh, Lake District
London, Edinburgh, Lake District, Glasgow, Fort William, Isle Of Skye, Inverness, Oxford, Moreton-in-Marsh, Cardiff, Snowdonia National Park, Liverpool
Scotland's wild history and breathtaking landscapes await on the "Premium Scotland" trip, an 8-day explorer tour starting and ending in Edinburgh. Designed for experienced travelers and seniors craving both comfort and discovery, this easy-paced small group journey covers the lush hills of Perthshire, the dramatic Highlands, and the storied west coast. Visit two national parks, enjoy a 'wee dram' of whisky, and keep your eyes peeled for the legendary Loch Ness monster. Stay in a historic country manor, walk through ancient pine forests, and learn about local conservation efforts. Step into Scotland’s past at Blair Castle and the Highland Folk Museum, with settings familiar to Outlander fans. The adventure culminates in Edinburgh, where a walking tour with passionate local guides uncovers hidden city gems. The standout experience: authentic Scottish hospitality and a deep cultural immersion, making this more than a holiday—it’s a true connection to Scotland’s soul.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Ready for the ultimate British adventure? The "Best of the United Kingdom" tour package takes you on a sweeping 27-day journey from London to Edinburgh, capturing the essence of England, Wales, and Scotland in one unforgettable trip.
Explore the vibrant cityscapes of London, Liverpool, and Edinburgh; stroll through the storied streets of Oxford and Cardiff; and lose yourself in the wild beauty of Dartmoor, Snowdonia, and the Lake District. In Scotland, marvel at the brooding lochs, dramatic highlands, and charming villages that have inspired legends and literature. Discover the birthplace of icons like The Beatles and Dr Who, and even step into the world of Harry Potter.
This tour stands out for its comprehensive itinerary, blending historic cities with the UK’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. Ideal for those craving a deep dive into British culture, history, and scenery, this small group tour ensures every day is packed with discovery and delight.
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
London, Edinburgh, Oxford, Moret
London, Edinburgh, Oxford, Moreton-in-Marsh, Cardiff, Snowdonia National Park, Liverpool, Lake District, Salisbury, Glasgow, Fort William, Isle Of Skye, Inverness, Dartmoor, St Ives, Tintagel
Imagine standing beneath the soaring turrets of ancient castles, mist rising from tranquil lochs, and waterfalls tumbling from dramatic cliffs—this is the essence of the "Highlights of Scotland" tour. Over eight days, you'll journey from vibrant Glasgow to elegant Edinburgh, with stops in Fort William, the Isle of Skye, Inverness, and more, all while soaking up Scotland's legendary landscapes and rich history.
This easy-paced sightseeing trip is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of guided exploration and independent discovery. Stroll through Glasgow's lively streets adorned with colorful murals, traverse the legendary Highlands, and marvel at the myth-shrouded depths of Loch Ness. Delve into the heart of historic Inverness, where tales of battles and folklore echo through time, before ending your adventure in Edinburgh—a city where ancient alleys and contemporary culture meet.
A unique highlight of this tour package is the carefully balanced itinerary: you're offered the perfect mix of small-group excursions and free time, allowing you to explore iconic sites like the Isle of Skye and medieval towns at your own pace while still benefiting from expert local guidance. Along the way, you'll visit majestic castles, stroll cobblestone streets, and perhaps even spot a Highland coo or two.
With all accommodations, transport, and many meals included, this Scottish journey offers stress-free travel through some of the most captivating scenery in the UK. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply in search of an enchanting getaway, let Scotland's charm and magic leave a lasting impression on your heart.
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Edinburgh, Glasgow, Fort William
Edinburgh, Glasgow, Fort William, Isle of Skye, Cairngorms National Park
Step into the storybook landscapes of Britain on the "Best of Britain" tour—a 12-day walking adventure connecting the iconic cities and wild countryside of England, Scotland, and Wales. Travelers follow in the footsteps of legends: from punting through Oxford and strolling the Cotswolds, to exploring Snowdonia’s dramatic peaks and Liverpool’s Beatles legacy. You’ll hike the scenic Lake District and wander the literary streets of Edinburgh. Each destination is rich with history, culture, and cinematic charm—think Harry Potter, Peter Rabbit, and Doctor Who. Designed for those who appreciate easy-paced walking and immersive experiences, this trip’s standout feature is its tapestry of cultural legends and breathtaking natural beauty, all seamlessly woven together for a journey that’s as inspiring as it is accessible.
Walking toursLocal boat rides
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
London, Edinburgh, Lake District
London, Edinburgh, Lake District, Oxford, Moreton-in-Marsh, Cardiff, Snowdonia National Park, Liverpool
