9-Night Marmalade, Gin and Beer Adventure

Day 2

Accommodation

The Queen's Gate Hotel London - London, UK

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 12 PM Noon.

Included Unique Activities

Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Capture the heart of the city’s culture, landmarks and history on our London routemaster bus, whilst sipping on a lovely cup of tea and enjoying the exquisite tastes of France. High tea accompanied with an array of tasty sandwiches and delicious cakes and pastries. Your London bus driver will take you round Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, St James’s Park, Hyde Park, The Royal Albert Hall, Marble Arch, Nelson’s Column, Downing Street and more. The Classic Afternoon Tea Bus London sightseeing tour lasts approximately 90 minutes (depending on traffic).

Must-See Sites

Buckingham Palace, London

On The Map: Buckingham Palace is located in the heart of London - north of the River Thames and just southeast of Hyde Park:
Closest Tube Stops: Victoria, Green Park and Hyde Park Corner

Famed Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of Britain's Sovereigns since 1837. Although in use for the many official events and receptions held by The Queen, the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are open to visitors. The Palace has 775 rooms, including 19 State Rooms, 52 Royal and Guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms. Buckingham Palace is furnished and decorated with priceless works of art that form part of the Royal Collection, one of the major art collections in the world today. George IV's original palace lacked a large room in which to entertain. Queen Victoria rectified that shortcoming by adding a Ballroom 1853-5 which was, at the time of its construction, the largest room in London. Today, it is used by The Queen for State banquets and other formal occasions such as the annual Diplomatic Reception attended by 1,500 guests.

The Tower of London, London

On The Map: The Tower of London is located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London.
Nearest Tube Stop: Tower Hill - served by the Northern and Jubilee Lines

The Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was founded towards the end of 1066 as part of the Norman Conquest of England. The castle was initially used as a royal residence, but is more famous for its prison use between 1100 and 1952. The Tower has always played a prominent role in English history, when control of the Tower was crucial to establish control of the country. Nowadays the Tower is home to the famed Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom, which while still in regular royal use, are otherwise on display for visitors to admire. The Yeoman Warders ('Beefeaters') are another major attraction. Guided Warder tours are available, and guards will regale you with tales of intrigue, imprisonment, execution and torture! Legend says that the Kingdom and the Tower will fall if the six resident ravens ever leave the fortress. There are seven ravens at the Tower today (the required six plus one spare!), and their lodgings are to be found next to the Wakefield Tower. These magnificent birds, eat 170 grams of raw meat a day, respond only to the Raven Master and should not be approached too closely by anyone else, as they may bite!

Big Ben, London

On The Map: Big Ben is located in the very heart of Central London, adjacent to the British Houses of Parliament.
Nearest Tube Stop: Westminster - served by the Circle, District & Jubilee Lines, is located right beside Big Ben.

When the Palace of Westminster was destroyed by fire in October 1934, it was decided that the new neo-gothic style Palace should include an imposing and impressive clock tower. Thus, one of England's most famous & instantly recognizable landmarks came to be. Interestingly, although the name Big Ben is commonly used to describe the tower, it was initially given to the Great Bell within the tower. The tower itself, which lies to the north of the Houses of Parliament, is officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, and was completed in 1859. The Great Clock started on May 31, with the Great Bell's peals being heard for the first very time on July 11. It is the second largest four-faced chiming clock in the world,after that of Minneapolis City Hall, and is famed for it's unerring time-keeping accuracy. The hands of the clock are 9 and 14 feet in length, and the Great Bell (Big Ben!) weighs-in at 13 tons. Although it is possible to tour the Houses of Parliament, the Elizabeth Tower is closed to visitors. But with no lift, and 334 steps to the top, this may not be such a bad thing!

Westminster Abbey, London

On The Map: Westminster Abbey is located in the very heart of Central London, adjacent to Big Ben.
Nearest Tube Stop: Westminster - served by the Circle, District & Jubilee Lines, is located just 0.2 miles north of Westminster Abbey.

Westminster Abbey is one of the world’s great churches, with a history stretching back over a thousand years. Paying a visit is truly an essential part of any trip to London. Kings & Queens, Poets & Heroes - all are represented at the Abbey - and it has many fascinating tales to tell. Westminster has long been the traditional venue for the coronation of English Monarchs, as well as their final resting place. The current, wonderful 700-year-old building is literally brimming with amazing artifacts and stunning craftsmanship. Of particular note is The Lady Chapel, begun in 1503, and constructed at the expense of Henry VII. It is regarded as the last great masterpiece of English medieval architecture, and in 1545 was heralded as "the wonder of the entire world". The outstanding feature of the chapel is the spectacular fan-vaulted roof with carved pendants. The spectacular Waterford Crystal chandeliers in The Nave were a gift from the Guinness family, in honor of the Abbey's 900th anniversary in 1965. In front of the High Altar is another of the Abbey's treasures - a marble pavement dating from 1268. The method of its decoration is known as Cosmati work, after the Italian family who developed the technique. Audio guides are available in 12 languages, and the highly-popular Verger-led tour is also an option on-site. Westminster Abbey is usually open to visitors from Monday to Saturday throughout the year.

London, UK

On The Map: London is located in the southwest of England. The city's fantastic transport system, including the Tube (subway), red buses and black taxis, insure you can get around the city quickly and easily.

London is the capital of England, and globally-renowned as one of the world's great cities. London is very diverse - more than 230 languages are spoken, and you'll encounter a great variety of cultures and communities throughout the city. London's history is measured in thousands, not hundreds of years, and the city boasts four World Heritage Sites: The Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey, The Tower of London, Maritime Greenwich and The Royal Botanic Gardens. Beyond these, there is an unending list of interesting attractions and places to explore. You can visit the Queen's official residence at Buckingham Palace and tour the Houses of Parliament, historic home of the UK government. Many of the most famous attractions are free to visit, like the Tate Modern Art Gallery, the National Gallery and the Victoria and Albert Museums. Famous City Landmarks abound, such as Leicester Square, Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus. London is often cited as Europe's best shopping destination. Oxford Street is the central shopping hub, but quirky markets all over the city, such as in Camden Town are well worth a visit. The River Thames runs through the heart of London, and a river cruise is a great, alternate way to see the city.

Day 3

Accommodation

Yorkshire Bridge Inn - Peak District National Park, West Midlands Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 10:30 AM.

Included Unique Activities

Windsor Castle Admission

Enjoy entrance to the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world - Windsor Castle. Explore the castle’s grounds and be sure to check out its highlights including: The State Apartments (the grand sequence of rooms forming the centerpiece of the Castle), The Semi-State Rooms (the private apartments created for George IV), The Grand Reception Room, St. George’s Chapel (where Prince Harry and Ms Meghan Markle were married), and the Changing of the Guard. No matter how you spend your time at Windsor Castle, it will surely take your breath away! 

Must-See Sites

Windsor, South East Region

On The Map: Windsor is located 25 miles directly west of the heart of London, along the M4 Motorway.

The town of Windsor is best known for the impressive Windsor Castle (pictured). The castle has a long history - well documented from the 11th century. Through subsequent centuries the castle drew a regular royal presence to the town, which in turn insured the prosperity of Windsor, as repeated investment in the castle drew merchants, smiths and craftsmen of all descriptions to the area. The castle is currently an official residence of the Queen, and is the largest inhabited castle in the entire world. Windsor boasts a wealth of good shopping options - of particular note is the Windsor Royal Shopping Centre located in the Central Train Station. Windsor is also home to the largest Legoland in the world, and the only one in Britain. World-famous Ascot Racecourse is located in Windsor, and beautiful Savill Garden is also well worth a visit.

Overnight Location

Peak District National Park, West Midlands Region

On The Map: The Peak District National Park is located in Central England, just southeast of Mancheser and west of Sheffield.

The Peak District National Park became the first designated national park in the UK in 1951. Given its close proximity to the mnajor cities of Manchester, Liverpool and Sheffield, the park attracts millions of visitors each year. The park encompasses an area rich in culture and natural diversity - from the northern moorlands around Dark Peak, to the southern limestone region around White Peak. The park is a walker's paradise, boasting a very extensive network of footpaths and trails. Gritstone peaks such as Stanage Edge and The Roaches, are universally recognized as some of the best rock-climbing locations in the world. Potholing in the Park's many caves, mines and caverns is very popular, and watersports abound on the Park's larger bodies of water. Beyond the wonderful rolling-hill scenery, the Park has much to offer visitors, whether just passing through, or staying for multiple days. Bakewell is the largest town within the Park's boundaries, and its charming arched bridge dates from the 13th century. The Park features several historic buildings of note, including Chatsworth House, Haddon Hall, Hardwick Hall and Lyme Park. The charming village of Castleton is overlooked by the imposing ruin of Peveril Castle, situated on a picture-perfect limestone perch.

Day 4

Accommodation

Yorkshire Bridge Inn - Peak District National Park, West Midlands Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 10:30 AM.

Included Unique Activities

Forest in a Bottle

Join a Forest Distillery team member on a foraging walk in Macclesfield Forest. Gather wild botanicals (such as bilberry, raspberry, blackberry, gorse flower, pine and moss) to flavour your own bespoke gin. Back at the Forest Distillery (located in a beautifully restored 17th century stone barn), learn about the gin making process and enjoy samples of products, including Forest Gin, which is exported around the world and sold in the exclusive Harvey Nicholls department store in London.

Must-See Sites

Peak District National Park, West Midlands Region

On The Map: The Peak District National Park is located in Central England, just southeast of Mancheser and west of Sheffield.

The Peak District National Park became the first designated national park in the UK in 1951. Given its close proximity to the mnajor cities of Manchester, Liverpool and Sheffield, the park attracts millions of visitors each year. The park encompasses an area rich in culture and natural diversity - from the northern moorlands around Dark Peak, to the southern limestone region around White Peak. The park is a walker's paradise, boasting a very extensive network of footpaths and trails. Gritstone peaks such as Stanage Edge and The Roaches, are universally recognized as some of the best rock-climbing locations in the world. Potholing in the Park's many caves, mines and caverns is very popular, and watersports abound on the Park's larger bodies of water. Beyond the wonderful rolling-hill scenery, the Park has much to offer visitors, whether just passing through, or staying for multiple days. Bakewell is the largest town within the Park's boundaries, and its charming arched bridge dates from the 13th century. The Park features several historic buildings of note, including Chatsworth House, Haddon Hall, Hardwick Hall and Lyme Park. The charming village of Castleton is overlooked by the imposing ruin of Peveril Castle, situated on a picture-perfect limestone perch.

Day 5

Accommodation

The Devonshire Fell - Yorkshire Dales National Park, North East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11 AM.

Must-See Sites

York, North East Region

On The Map: The City of York is located in Northern England, just 25 miles northwest of the major city of Leeds

The City of York boasts a dramatic 2,000 year history. The City, originally named Eboracum, was founded by the Romans in 71 AD, and became the capital of the Roman province of Britannia Inferior. Visitors to York can enjoy a wealth of attractions, museums, historic buildings, shops, restaurants and bars, all within the compact walled city. Indeed, substantial portions of the City's Walls are still intact today - more so than any other English city - and are a major tourist attraction in themselves. York Minster Cathedral (pictured), is the highlight of the city. The gothic edifice is one of the largest of its kind in Europe, and its Great East Window contains the greatest area of medieval stained glass in the entire world. Another of York's gems, Clifford's Tower, offers panoramic views over the city and surrounding countryside. The current stucture dates from the 1300s and is a great example of the power wielded by England's medieval Kings. The Shambles is a must-visit shopping street in the city. Bulidings, some dating from the 14th century, overhang the street by several feet - so much so, that opposing structures are not very far from touching in some places!

The Shambles, North East Region

The Shambles is an old street in York, famous for its overhanging timber-framed buildings. Some structures date from as back as far as the fourteenth century. The Shambles' ancient buildings overhang the cobbled street, to the point that the roofs almost touch in the middle. Mentioned in the Domesday book (making it over 900 years of age), The Shambles is York 's oldest street, and Europe's best preserved Medieval street. It was once known as The Great Flesh Shambles - literally 'flesh-shelves' - the word for the shelves that butchers used to display their meat. As recently as 1872, there were twenty-five butchers' shops in the street, but now there are none. The street today is one of England's most visited, and boasts a wealth of shopping, tourist attractions, restaurants and many other things to see and do, including tours, ghost walks and historic talks.

York Minster, North East Region

Overnight Location

Yorkshire Dales National Park, North East Region

On The Map: The Yorkshire Dales National Park is located in Northern England, some 55 miles northwest of the City of York.

Up hill and down dale, the Yorkshire Dales National Park is home to some of Yorkshire's most iconic scenery and attractions. The Park was established in 1954, and covers an area of 680 square miles. Ideal for walking, the Park exudes tranquility and solitude - a place in which to be refreshed and invigorated. The Park is home to a wide range of animal and plant species. Many of these are rare or scarce nationally, and the Park often represents their last stronghold. The area straddles the Pennines Mountains, the backbone of England. Three peaks rise to over 2,300 feet. Rivers have cut deep valleys (dales), of which there are over 20 named examples, each distinctive in character and atmosphere. The south of the National Park boasts one of the best examples in Britain of classic limestone (Karst) scenery, with its crags, pavements and extensive cave systems. The area's northern landscape is equally striking. Its valleys with distinctive stepped profiles, are separated by extensive moorland plateau. With picture postcard villages and historic castles, the Park stirs the emotions and stimulates the senses of everyone that visits.

Day 6

Accommodation

The Devonshire Fell - Yorkshire Dales National Park, North East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11 AM.

Included Unique Activities

Pub Safari

Enjoy a guided pub safari and explore Swaledale, Wensleydale and Arkengarthdale, considered by many to be the most beautiful Yorkshire dales. Soak up the English countryside atmosphere in three traditional pubs, all in stunning settings with their own stories and communities. In each pub, you will have the opportunity to try a local drink and enjoy a Yorkshire Ploughman’s – a delectable platter featuring local produce. The safari even includes Tan Hill Inn, England’s highest pub in the north of the National Park, where stunning views are around every corner. 

Must-See Sites

North York Moors National Park, North East Region

On The Map: The North York Moors National Park is located in northeast England, just 20 miles north of the City of York.

Designated a National Park in 1952, North York Moors is a truly unique and unspoilt region of England. From picturesque dales to windswept moors, pretty villages to imposing castles, the Moors offers something for everyone. A combination of slow-eroding sandstone, abundant rain and poor drainage create the conditions for boggy moors to form. The moors are ideal for the proliferation of purple heather, which distinctively dominates the landscape. 75% of global heather moorland is to be found in Britain, and this National Park is by far the largest. The moorland is in stark yet beautiful contrast to the many lush farming valleys in the Park. The Park's eastern coastline boasts dramatic cliffs and bays, with the cliff at Boulby rising to an impressive 690 feet - the highest point on England's east coast. The Park is a massive draw for leisurely walkers and serious hikers, with more than 1,400 miles of criss-crossing trails to choose from. Exceptionally pretty villages include Hutton le Hole, Thornton le Dale and Goathland. The train station at Goathland may look familiar - it was the set location for Hogsmeade Station in the Harry Potter movie series. Indeed you can ride one of England's most picturesque steam railways from here. The Park is dotted with ancient abbeys, castles and priories - if you only visit one, Helmsley Castle should be it! The Moors Centre in Danby is also well worth a visit.

Holyhead to The Menai Strait, Wales

Upon arrival in Holyhead, you will head to the Menai Strait. Along the way, take time to stop at Llanfair PG for a photo with the sign that displays the longest location name in Europe. In the afternoon, perhaps enjoy lunch at Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens - a large restoration of a previously hidden garden never before seen by the general public. You may also wish to take a saltcote tour - complete with a tutored salt tasting - on the nearby grounds of Halen Môn Sea Salt. 

In the evening, may we suggest dinner at the Michelin-star awarded Sosban & The Old Butchers restaurant - a renowned restaurant that is often booked out a year in advance (so be sure to get reservations early). The restaurant is run by a husband and wife team and surprises guests with a menu featuring dishes made with local produce foraged that day. Dine on dishes like Scottish salmon with ginger, carrot and cucumber. If the restaurant is fully booked, don’t worry, there are plenty of other dining options in the area. 

Day 7

Accommodation

Low Wood Bay - Windermere, North East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after  3PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before  11AM.

Must-See Sites

Hill Top Farm - Beatrix Potter, North East Region

Hill Top is a 17th-century house near Sawrey, Hawkshead, in the English county of Cumbria, and within the Lake District National Park. It is an example of Lakeland vernacular architecture with random stone walls and slate roof. The house was once the home of children's author and illustrator Beatrix Potter who left it to The National Trust. It is a Grade II listed building. It is open to the public and the house is shown as Beatrix Potter herself would have known it. The address is Hill Top, Near Sawrey, Hawkshead, Ambleside, LA22 0LF.

Dove Cottage and Wordsworth Museum, North East Region

Overnight Location

Windermere, North East Region

On The Map: Windermere is located just east of Windermere Lake in England's Lake District National Park, in the northwest of the country.

The town of Windermere is located in England's stunning Lake District - just one mile from Windermere Lake. The town grew-up around the Railway Station constructed to bring tourists to the area in the 19th century. Originally named Birthwaite, the Railway Company named its station after the lake, and the town name followed! It is a bustling little town with a good variety of local shops, but the main attraction is most definitely the lake. Windermere is the largest natural lake in England, and lies within the Lake District National Park. Boat rides are available from Bowness Pier, and sail around the lake, many mooring at the picturesque villages of Ambleside or Lakeside, the latter boasting a restored railway. A short walk from Windermere takes you to Orrest Head, an outstanding viewpoint. In 1930, it was the first ‘summit’ in Lakeland to be visited by acclaimed guidebook author, Alfred Wainwright. Over the years, Windermere has merged with the older, adjacent town of Bowness-on-Windermere, though the two have retained separate centres.

Day 8

Accommodation

Low Wood Bay - Windermere, North East Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after  3PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before  11AM.

Included Unique Activities

Boats, Boots & Marmalade

Join an experienced National Park Ranger and take an hour-long cruise on beautiful Ullswater, with expert commentary all the way to Pooley Bridge. Then,  enjoy a 5-kilometre (3-mile) guided walk around the Dalemain Loop past the ancient Church of Dacre - dating back to the 12th Century and featuring mysterious Stone Bears. Finally, you will arrive at Dalemain Mansion, home to the annual world-famous Marmalade Festival. Here, you will enjoy a buffet lunch and private tour of this family home, including the private cellars, and finish with a marmalade tasting session. At the end of your visit, you will enjoy a return cruise to Glenridding.

Duration: 4-5 hours

Special Equipment: Suitable clothing for the weather on the day. Walking boots recommended

Accessibility: Not accessible for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues

Refreshments: Buffet lunch included

Must-See Sites

Cumbria, North East Region

Day 9

Accommodation

Hard Days Night Hotel - Liverpool, North West Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11:00am.

Must-See Sites

Day at Leisure in Llandudno, Wales

Start your last full day with a visit to Llandudno. Visit the Great Orme and take a cable car up to the top (weather permitting). After, take a stroll on the pier and enjoy the nautical views. For lunch, you have the option of dining at The Seahorse Restaurant & Bistro or Lawton’s Cafe Grill. 

Liverpool Cathedral, West Midlands Region

Neo-Gothic Liverpool Cathedral dominates the city's skyline, and is an unmissable attraction when visiting Liverpool. The foundation stone was laid by King Edward VII in 1904. 74 years later - after a major redesign and surviving two World Wars - a service attended by Queen Elizabeth II marked the official completion of the Cathedral. The structure boasts many unique and fascinating features. At 331 feet, the church's tower is one of the tallest non-spired examples in the world. Visitors can reach the tower's zenith via 2 lifts and a 108-step stairs, to be rewarded with fantastic views over the city. At 207 yards, the Cathedral is the world's longest, and fifth largest in terms of volume. The Grand Organ consists of 10,267 pipes, making it the world's largest, and the Cathedral Bells are also record-setters - highest and heaviest in the world! The Cathedral contains more than 1,700 metres square of stained glass windows, including the wonderful, 52-foot tall Great West Window.

The Beatles Story, North West Region

The award-winning 'The Beatles Story' is the world's largest permanent exhibition purely devoted to the lives and times of The Beatles. Located in the Fab Four's hometown of Liverpool on the stunning UNESCO World heritage site at the Albert Dock, The Beatles Story will take you on an atmospheric journey through the lives, times, culture and music of The Beatles. Learn how four young lads from Liverpool were propelled to the dizzy heights of worldwide fame and fortune to become the greatest band of all time – from their Liverpool childhood, through the early days of the band, to world domination and on to their solo careers. Find out how the Fab Four met, go behind the scenes at the famous Abbey Road Studios and take an underwater trip on the Yellow Submarine! Hang out at the Casbah Coffee Club or explore the stunning replica of the Cavern Club. With a rolling programme of other special exhibitions, you can visit time and time again and always discover something new. Listen to The Beatles story unfold through our 'Living History' audio guides, beautifully narrated by John Lennon's sister, Julia. Visitors can also enjoy a number of interactive experiences including a map of Great Britain allowing you to explore musical roots across the country, a video history booth to record your own memories and an exclusive Ringo Starr interactive drum lesson. An experience truly not to be missed by any self-respecting Beatles fan!!

Albert Dock, Liverpool, North West Region

The Albert Dock is a collection of warehouses and buildings, located on Liverpool's waterfront. The dock originally opened 1846, at which time it was a ground-breaking development. Constructed from iron, brick and stone, with no structural wood, it was the world's first non-combustible warehouse system. The pioneering spirit of the dock continued in 1848, when hydraulic loading cranes were unveiled - another global first. During World War II, the dock was an important naval base, and was extensively damaged by Germain air raids. The dock fell into decline after the war, and was eventually closed in 1972. In 1981, a revitalization project began, and in 1984, Albert Dock was officially reborn. The dock is now a major tourist attraction, boasting the largest collection of Grade I listed buildings in the UK, and forming an integral part of Liverpool's UNESCO World Heritage designation. Visitors will be delighted by the multitude of great shops, restaurants, bars and visitor attractions with a wide-ranging appeal. The dock is home to the Tate Modern Art Museum, The Merseyside Maritime Museum, The International Slavery Museum, and of course, The Beatles' Story.

Overnight Location

Liverpool, North West Region

On The Map: Liverpool is located on the midwest coast of England, approximately 225 miles northwest of London.

Liverpool boasts an exceptionally rich history, celebrating its 800 year anniversary in 2007. At the height of the British Empire, Liverpool was England's second city, and its wealth even exceeded that of London during certain periods. Liverpool's Waterfront received UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2004, in recognition of its importance to global history. In more recent times, Liverpool became famous as the birthplace of the Beatles, and there are several tours and attractions dedicated to the group's story. The Beatles are not the city's only musical claim to fame - boasting more Number 1 hits than than any other city, Liverpool is officially the World Capital of Pop! Liverpool is also world-renowned in sporting circles, and boasts two of the English Premiership's most famous football (soccer!) teams - Liverpool & Everton. Liverpool has more public parks than Paris, and with the largest collection of museums and galleries anywhere outside London, Liverpool’s impressive culture and heritage are at the very heart of the city.

Day 10

Depart From

Depart from Liverpool Airport, UK

Return to Liverpool Airport at least two hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. This will allow ample time to check in for your flight home.