PRIVATE 15 DAY TOUR OF SCOTLAND & ENGLAND

Accommodation – Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh (2 Nights)
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur
Dinner Reservation – The Brasserie Prince

After touching down at Edinburgh Airport your Luxury England Tours representative will welcome you to Edinburgh and your tour of Scotland and England will begin.

After a day of travelling, you will be taken to the prestigious Balmoral Hotel to relax before dining in the hotel’s Brasserie Prince restaurant which marries French and Scottish cuisine in exquisite surroundings.  Then simply rest well before your first full day of touring tomorrow.

Accommodation – The Balmoral, Edinburgh
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – Number One Restaurant

Make sure to have a hearty breakfast as day two kicks off with a private walking tour of Edinburgh where you will see the city’s famous landmarks, including the Royal Mile, which joins Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament, Mary King’s Close, St Giles Cathedral, and George Street.

You will then enjoy an in-depth tour of the iconic Edinburgh Castle which sits atop a large rock and dominates the skyline. The tour takes in Mons Meg, one of the largest canons in the world, St Margaret’s Chapel, the Scottish Crown Jewels, and the imposing Great Hall.

You will stay in The Balmoral again this evening though dinner will be served in the hotel’s 4 AA Rosette restaurant, Number One.
Expect Loch Duart salmon, hand dived scallops, and aged Acquerello pumpkin risotto.

Accommodation – Fonab Castle, Pitlochry (1 Night)
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – Sandeman’s

First up today is a trip to Scone Palace, a fine example of Gothic Revival architecture which is surrounded by pristine gardens and grounds complete with nature trails and a maze.
You will then make a pit stop in Pitlochry for a chance to wander down its charming streets, pick up a souvenir in independent craft shops, and stop for a coffee.

Those with a sweet tooth are in for a treat as you visit the Highland Chocolatier next. Iain Burnett has been a trailblazer in the chocolate world, winning many awards and supplying Michelin star chefs and celebrities around the world with his sumptuous velvet truffles.

This evening you will be staying in Fonab Castle which enjoys the seclusion of being surrounded by ancient woodland and boasts a world-class spa.
Dinner reservations will be made for you in the hotel’s 3 AA Rosette restaurant, Sandeman’s, which uses premium ingredients to create a tasting menu of the highest quality.

Accommodation – Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness (1 Night)
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – The Torrish

Day four begins with one for the shopping enthusiasts as you stop by the House of Bruar, a high-end shopping centre which stocks premium country clothing brands such as Barbour and Harris Tweed. There is also a food hall complete with butchery, delicatessen, and bakery.

You will then wind your way through The Cairngorms, a wild and impressive national park which is brimming with wildlife so keep an eye out for red squirrels, ospreys, and harriers.

The drive will lead you to Dalwhinnie Distillery where you will learn all about the whisky making process on their tour. There will also be a chance to sample some of the finest single malts available at the end of the tour.

Your driver will then take you to Cawdor Castle which has been in the Cawdor family’s possession for six centuries. You will learn about the legendary holly tree which the entire castle is constructed around.

Tonight’s accommodation is the Ness Walk Hotel which sits on the banks of the river Ness in Inverness. Dinner will be served in the hotel’s Torrish restaurant where you will find Speyside beef fillet, razor clams, and a full vegan à la carte menu.

Accommodation – Isle of Eriska Hotel, Near Oban (1 Night)
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – Isle of Eriska Restaurant

Day five begins with a private boat tour of Loch Ness. Due to its great size and depth, Loch Ness is the most voluminous loch in the UK and the perfect home for Scotland’s infamous mythical creature, the Loch Ness Monster. Your experienced skipper will be on hand describing the surrounding landscapes and telling the rich history of the loch.

You will then stop by Fort William, “the Gateway to the Highlands”. You will have time to grab a coffee and explore the many craft and souvenir shops.

Here you will get your first glimpse of the highest mountain in the UK, Ben Nevis, standing at 4,411 feet. You will get a chance to see it from a fantastic viewpoint as you head 650 metres up the side of another mountain, Aonach Mòr, on the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola. The view from here is truly spectacular, with nothing but mountains on the horizon all around you.

From there your driver will take you on one of the most picturesque drives in the world through Glencoe. With steep, intimidating mountains on each side of a winding road which cuts through rock, be sure to have your camera at the ready.

This evening you will stay in the Isle of Eriska Hotel where dinner will be served in the hotel’s fine dining restaurant which has both a tasting and an à la carte menu.

Accommodation – Cameron House, Loch Lomond (1 Night)
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – Cameron Grill

Your first stop on day six is Oban on Scotland’s rugged west coast. One of the first things you’ll notice on arriving here is McCaig’s Tower which stands proudly above the town. The double layer of archways was inspired by Roman and Greek architecture but unfortunately John McCaig’s death meant construction was stopped with only the outer walls complete.

You will then set sail on the Corryvreckan Wildlife Boat Tour where you will have a chance to spot whales, seals, basking sharks, otters, and golden eagles. The tour also takes in the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, the third largest in the world.

Back on dry land your driver will take you on a scenic tour through the awe-inspiring landscape of Loch Lomond.

Cameron House is tonight’s accommodation, a favourite hot spot of celebrities and sports stars. Dinner will be served in the hotel’s Cameron Grill restaurant which serves up Cullen skink, gin cured salmon, and Gigha halibut.

Accommodation – Glenapp Castle, South Ayrshire (1 Night)
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – The Azelea Restaurant

Day seven begins with a trip to Culzean Castle. This impressive cliff-top castle was designed by Robert Adam who created an absolute masterpiece. You can explore the grounds which are complete with a swan pond, formal gardens, mighty trees, and an icehouse. Be sure to check out the Oval Staircase, the focal point of the castle.

Your accommodation for the evening will be Glenapp Castle and you will have time in the afternoon to enjoy its many facilities and activities which include archery, clay pigeon shooting, falconry, horse and carriage rides, and a world class spa, among many others.

Dinner will be served in Glenapp’s Azalea Restaurant which boasts a dining space surrounded by beautiful flowers, plants, and indoor trees.

Accommodation – Linthwaite House, Windermere (1 Night)
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – Henrock Restaurant

Your first stop on day eight is Hadrian’s Wall in Carlisle. It was built by the Romans as a way to control the flow of people into the north-west frontier of their empire and stretched across the entire width of Britain.

From there you will make a quick stop in the town of Penrith. If Hadrian’s wall piqued your interest in Roman history, you could visit Penrith Museum where there is a large collection of Roman pottery. The ruins of Penrith Castle are also well worth a visit.

Your driver will then take you to Lowther Castle and Gardens. Built in 1806, it was a grand castle with hundreds of rooms. Yet in 1957 much of the castle was demolished and left to ruin for over 50 years. Now, however, the remaining outer walls retain an undeniable charm. There are also magnificent gardens and an exhibition telling the story of this unique castle.

You will then enjoy a stunning scenic drive through the Lake District National Park before arriving at your accommodation, Linthwaite House.

The hotel’s restaurant, Henrock’s, takes the use of local produce very seriously and even has its own farm. Marinated Loch Duart salmon, parmesan crusted loin of cod, and chocolate coffee whisky tonka are just some of the delicacies on offer.

Accommodation – Peckforton Castle, Cheshire (1 Night)
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – 1851 Restaurant

It will be music to the ears of Beatles fans to hear that you will be enjoying a private Beatles Tour today. The Beatles changed the world of music forever with their captivating, ever-evolving style. John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr formed the band in Liverpool in 1960 and are now widely recognised as the most influential band in history.

Your knowledgeable guide will take you on a taxi trip through Liverpool, retelling the history of the band from beginning to end. You will also stop off at many iconic spots such as the band members childhood homes, Penny Lane, Strawberry Field, and Eleanor Rigby’s grave.

Peckforton Castle is tonight’s accommodation. Surrounded by dense forest, this grade-1 listed building is a truly romantic setting. With a portcullis at the entrance, suits of armour, and huge four-poster beds, you will feel as if you’ve fallen into a fairy tale when you arrive at Peckforton Castle.

Dinner will be served in the 1851 Restaurant which specialises in French and British cuisine in elegant surroundings.

Accommodation – Ellenborough Park Hotel, Cheltenham (1 Night)
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – Ellenborough Park Restaurant

First up on day ten is a special treat as you set off on a VIP Land Rover Tour of Hawkstone Park. You will be in safe hands as your experienced driver negotiates the tricky terrain, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this unforgettable journey.

You will then have a chance to explore the peaceful surroundings of Attingham Park which offers many excellent walking paths throughout the grounds, as well as a walled garden, an abundance of wildlife, and of course the mansion itself to explore.

Ellenborough Park Hotel is where you will rest your head tonight. But before that you will be dining in the hotel’s stunning wood-panelled restaurant. With a full vegan menu including soy glazed tofu and tomato risotto, as well as an extensive menu, there will be something for everyone.

Accommodation – The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa, Bath (1 Night)
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – Dower House Restaurant

Day eleven begins with a leisurely drive through the Cotswolds, a marvellous landscape of low, rolling hills, winding rivers, deep woods, and the most charming little villages. Keep an eye to the sky for a sighting of Kestrels or Sparrowhawks out hunting.

From there you will be taken to Blenheim Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an exceptional example of Baroque architecture in England. With many grand rooms to explore, colourful gardens, and even a miniature train, there is plenty to see and do at Blenheim Palace.

You will then be taken on a delightful walking tour of Oxford. You will wind your way through the historic streets that are littered with landmarks such as the Bridge of Sighs, The Sheldonian Theatre, and the Emperor’s Heads.

This evening you will be staying at The Royal Crescent Hotel and Spa, a masterful architectural triumph in its own right. Dinner reservations will be made in the hotel’s Dower House Restaurant, which has no less than 3 AA Rosettes.

Accommodation – Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London (3 Nights)
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – The Aubrey

Day twelve begins with a visit to Stonehenge. This world-famous collection of huge stone monuments was built over 4,000 years ago, leaving one marvelling at the creativity and determination of those who created such a thing of beauty with just basic tools.

You will then spend some time in the town of Salisbury where you can shop in unique boutique craft stores and pay a visit to the stunning centrepiece, Salisbury Cathedral.

The final stop today is Windsor Castle. Construction was ordered in the 11th century by William the Conqueror and its huge size and key position near the Thames emphasise how important Windsor was as a strategically defensive site.

You will be staying in the opulent Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park tonight, where dinner will be served in The Aubrey restaurant. Fabulous surroundings, signature cocktails, and the finest Japanese and Asian food combine to form a truly unique dining experience.

Accommodation – Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

Ensure you make the most of The Mandarin’s delicious breakfast as first up today is an extensive walking tour of London’s most famous landmarks.
You won’t be able to go inside at the stops, due to the length of the tour, however you will pass by the crème de la crème of London’s tourist attractions, including the London Eye, Tate Modern, Borough Market, London Bridge, The Shard, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament.

After a busy and exciting day of touring you will return to the Mandarin. However tonight you will be dining in the “Dinner” by Heston Blumenthal restaurant which has two Michelin stars and serves up lobster kedgeree, powdered duck breast, and tipsy cake.

Accommodation – Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer
Dinner Reservation – Osteria Romana

Your final day of touring begins with the “secrets of the tower” tour of the Tower of London. The Tower has been a crucial location in London for over 900 years, serving various purposes but most notably as a fortified position considered key to controlling the country. On your private tour you will learn all about the Tower’s history and get a glimpse of areas not usually seen by the public.

The journey through London’s history continues with a visit to the Churchill War Rooms. This is the underground bunker where Winston Churchill and his staff made many critical decisions during World War II. As well as learning about the war, you will also hear all about the life of the charismatic leader in the Churchill Museum . Your final stop of the day will be a regal afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason

The Mandarin will be your accommodation again this evening, however you will be dining at Osteria Romana which serves up traditional Roman cuisine such as oxtail in Vaccinara sauce and Roman style gnocchi.

Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Transfer

After the trip of a lifetime, your driver will be on hand to take you to Heathrow Airport where they will bid you a fond farewell.