Select tour dates on sale now! $150 off per person if you book by March 3rd, 2023.

Arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland’s elegant capital, home of the Stone of Destiny. Gather with your traveling companions for an evening of good cheer and fine dining. In the morning, you’ll head south to England’s Northumberland, the locale for Harry Potter and Downton Abbey film shoots, and the market town of Alnwick. Discover Alnwick Castle where you can fly a broomstick! Next, Guisborough, influenced by the Vikings, is on the edge of the moors—visit the UNESCO site of Durham Cathedral.

Tour atmospheric York and cruise the River Ouse, bordering the city. The West Midlands, particularly the Peak District, is a haven of moors, dales, rivers, springs, and inspiring beauty—it was Britain’s first national park. Explore Chatsworth House, the grand manor and gardens that influenced Jane Austen’s settings. Going farther south, your nights are charmed by a stay in the Cathedral City of Lincoln. The Cathedral is the finest medieval architecture in England, housing one of the few copies of the 1215 Magna Carta. Lincoln is rich in heritage, great art, culture, shopping, and exceptional cuisine. Enjoy!

Your last two nights are spent in idyllic Cambridge. At the heart of town, Cambridge University is split into 31 stunning colleges. Kings College has a distinctive gothic chapel and an illustrious list of graduates. Wander through the market square, then take a lazy sail down the River Cam. The town’s tea rooms are grand, and Fitzbillies is a special favorite. Finally, we have a date with royalty at Sandringham, the private residence of Queen Elizabeth II—the gardens are sublime. A farewell dinner is the perfect finale to a journey through the royal heart of Scotland and England.

Included Unique Activities

Visit Sandringham Estate, private retreat of Her Majesty The Queen
Tradititional Punting Experience at Cambridge University
Tour Behind-the-Scenes at Newmarket National Stud

Accommodation

1 Night

Stylish New Town Edinburgh Hotel

1 Night

The White Swan Hotel, Alnwick

1 Night

Yorkshire Country Retreat

2 Nights

19th Century Manor House

2 Nights

Cathedral Quarter Hotel

2 Nights

Stylish City Break Hotel

Transportation

Premium Mini-Coach Transportation with Professional Driver/Guide

Dining Options Included

Delectable Full Breakfast Each Morning
5 Dinners Included

Points of Interest

Explore the Home of Famous Captain Cook
Filming Locations from Harry Potter & Downton Abbey at Alnwick Castle
Cruise along River Ouse to Admire York's Gothic Beauty
Tour the Estate that Inspired the Setting for Pride & Prejudice
Visit the Village of the Damned: Plague in 17th Century Eyam
Behold the Stunning Architecture of 1000-year-old Lincoln Cathedral
Stroll over Cambridge's only Covered Bridge - the Gothic-Style 'Bridge of Sighs'
Peruse Famous Manuscripts at Wren Library

Day 1

Accommodation

Stylish New Town Edinburgh Hotel - Edinburgh, Central Scotland

Room Type: Double

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4 PM on your day of arrival. Check-out before 11 AM.

Daily Itinerary

Arrive in Edinburgh

The historic Scottish city of Edinburgh is where we’ll meet ahead of our incredible journey into Eastern England. Get to know your expert Tour Leader and travel companions better over tonight’s delicious welcome meal. Dinner included.

Arrive at

Arrive at Edinburgh Airport, Central Scotland

Arrive at Edinburgh Airport. If arriving from the U.S., please note that your flight is overnight.

Edinburgh is a small airport, ensuring that your experience there is a pleasant one. The airport is located 8 miles west of downtown Ediunburgh, and it takes approximately 30 minutes to make the journey by car or bus.

Overnight Location

Edinburgh, Central Scotland

On The Map: Edinburgh is located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth. It is the capital city of Scotland. Situated in Scotland’s Central Belt, the city center is 2 ½ miles southwest of the shoreline of Leith and 26 miles inland, as the crow flies, from the east coast of Scotland and the North Sea at Dunbar. It is 332 miles north of London and 46 miles east of Glasgow.

Edinburgh is the bold heart of Scotland that invites exploration. From the ancient Edinburgh Castle, perched on a dormant volcanic plug, to narrow lanes, and royal Georgian neighborhoods, this city is enchanting. Walk along the medieval walls. Expect surprising vistas and views of the sea. Discover quirky shops, whisky tasting, world-class restaurants, pub crawls, and friendly talk. Edinburgh is one joyous find after another.

Day 2

Accommodation

The White Swan Hotel, Alnwick - Alnwick, North East Region

Room Type: Double

Check in policies:

Check-in time on your arrival day is after 3.00pm. Check out time is before 11.00am.

Daily Itinerary

Alnwick Castle & Downton Abbey

This morning, we’ll cross over into England to begin our tour of the fascinating and scenic eastern region of this enchanting country. Our first stop? Alnwick Castle – the majestic home of the Duke of Northumberland. Here, we’ll admire some of the rooms that took a starring role in Downton Abbey and enjoy some free time to wander the serene gardens. Tonight, we’ll come together once again for an included group dinner. Breakfast and dinner included.

Overnight Location

Alnwick, North East Region

On the Map: Alnwick is a market town in Northumberland in the North East of England and it lies on the south bank of the River Aln, between the Cheviot Hills and the sea.

Visiting Alnwick, pronounced to sound like ‘panic’, is like stepping into a fairytale, where you can dine in the twinkling treetops of one of the world’s largest treehouses, fly a broomstick at Alnwick Castle, and visit a sleeping Giant at The Alnwick Garden. Alnwick Castle is (quite literally) spellbinding, as its starring role as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry casts a hint of magic over the grounds. Combine your visit with a trip to The Alnwick Garden, the enchanting site that holds 4000 different plants, a Grand Cascade, a mysterious Poison Garden and a seasonal cherry orchard. From the end of April - early May, the largest collection of Japanese Taihaku cherry blossoms in the world blooms here. Explore The Alnwick Treehouse, where indoor branches are intertwined with sparkling fairy lights and a flickering open fire takes centre stage. Don't miss Bailiffgate Museum & Gallery, which holds over 10,000 years of history in its charming stone walls. And just a short walk through Alnwick’s winding streets and past the archway of Bondgate Tower, the only remaining chunk of the town walls, will take you to Barter Books. One of the cosiest cafes in the county, this once Victorian railway station is now one of the biggest antiquarian bookshops in the UK.

Day 3

Accommodation

Yorkshire Country Retreat - Guisborough, North East Region

Room Type: Double/Twin

Daily Itinerary

UNESCO Site: Durham Cathedral

This morning we’ll move on to Durham, where we’ll step inside the Cathedral: a magnificent Norman-style monument now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our road will then carry us to the traditional seaside resort of Whitby – where a guided tour of the fascinating Captain Cook Museum awaits us. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious included dinner at our accommodation in the charming North York Moors district. Breakfast and dinner included.

Overnight Location

Guisborough, North East Region

On The Map: Guisborough is located just east of the major city of Middlesbrough in the northeast of England

Guisborough has something for everyone. An attractive market town set in rural surroundings just outside the boundary of the North York Moors National Park, Guisborough is steeped in history and outstanding natural beauty. The town's most notable feature is the beautiful ruined abbey Gisborough Priory. Standing in full glory, to it's original height of 97 feet, the dramatic gothic east gable towers high over the market town and has become a well known icon of the town. Around Guisborough sits the spectacular woodland of Guisborough Forest. Attractive and diverse, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including walking and cycling and take in stunning views over the Tees Valley and Eston Hills.

Day 4

Accommodation

19th Century Manor House - Peak District National Park, North East Region

Room Type: Double/Twin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Daily Itinerary

River Cruise

We’ll rewind back to the Middle Ages this morning with a visit to the delightful medieval city of York. Here we’ll seek out the mystery-filled narrow streets (known as ‘Snickelways’) and timber-framed buildings of the famed Shambles – where there’s plenty a photo opportunity to be claimed! Next, we’ll take to the water and discover a unique view of the city with a cruise along the River Ouse. Finally, we’ll continue to our accommodation bordering the breathtaking Peak District – where the evening will be yours to enjoy as you please. Breakfast included.

Overnight Location

Peak District National Park, North East 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

19th Century Manor House - Peak District National Park, North East Region

Room Type: Double/Twin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Daily Itinerary

The Grand Manors of Jane Austen

This morning we’ll stretch our legs on a stroll around Chatsworth House, a grand stately home that is said to have inspired Jane Austen with its impressive architecture. In fact, Chatsworth featured in Pride and Prejudice as Pemberley, the home of Mr Darcy. We’ll enjoy a guided tour of the lavish apartments and some free time to wander the exquisite gardens – before returning to the Peak District for an afternoon spent exploring at your leisure. Breakfast and dinner included.

Overnight Location

Peak District National Park, North East Region

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

Day 6

Accommodation

Cathedral Quarter Hotel - Lincoln, East Midlands Region

Room Type: Double/Twin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on the day of your arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Picturesque Peak District

Today we’ll bid farewell to the picturesque Peak District as we journey onwards to the historic city of Lincoln – but before we get there, we’ve two stops to make. First: a visit to Eyam, where we’ll learn the tragic story of the villagers who fell victim to the plague in the 1600s. Then, we’ll raise a glass or two on a tour of a local brewery. This evening is ours to spend exploring Lincoln’s charming cobbled streets for some local fare or relaxing at our hand-picked accommodation. Breakfast included.

Overnight Location

Lincoln, East Midlands Region

On the Map: Lincoln is a city in Lincolnshire in the English East Midlands. It stands 200 feet above sea level on an impressive site at the point where the River Witham cuts a deep gap through the limestone escarpment of the Lincoln Edge.

Lincoln is known for the medieval Lincoln Cathedral, with early printed books in a Wren-designed library. Lincoln Castle houses a Victorian prison and a copy of the Magna Carta. The Museum of Lincolnshire Life has social history exhibits in Victorian barracks. The Collection is a museum displaying local archaeology.

Day 7

Accommodation

Cathedral Quarter Hotel - Lincoln, East Midlands Region

Room Type: Double/Twin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on the day of your arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Magnificent Medieval Architecture

This morning will see us touring the spectacular Lincoln Cathedral – one of the best examples of medieval architecture in England. After that, the afternoon will be yours to explore the Castle (which houses an original 1215 Magna Carta), seek out a quaint tea room for lunch, stroll the array of vintage boutiques and continue your discovery of the city’s rich history. For dinner tonight, choose from one of the many cosy pubs in the city’s old centre for a hearty English meal. Breakfast included.

Overnight Location

Lincoln, East Midlands Region

Day 8

Accommodation

Stylish City Break Hotel - Cambridge, East of England Region

Room Type: Double/Twin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Punting in Cambridge

Today we’ll move on to Cambridge: an iconic city filled with history and tradition. After taking to the water for an iconic punting experience along the ‘Backs’ of Cambridge University, the afternoon will be yours to spend spotting world-famous buildings such as The Wren Library and the Bridge of Sighs. Step inside colleges and chapels, museums and galleries – or simply indulge in a little retail therapy before relaxing in one of the many historic pubs. Breakfast included.

Overnight Location

Cambridge, East of England Region

On The Map: Cambridge is located in the east of England, approximately 50 miles directly north of London.

The City of Cambridge boasts a history dating from Roman times, although the town's first charters were not officially granted until the 12th century. Cambridge is most widely renowned as a university town. The University of Cambridge was founded in 1209, and is consistently ranked as one of the top five universities in the world. The wondrous architecture of the University's King's College Chapel and Library, along with Our Lady and the English Martyrs Church and St John's College Chapel Tower dominate the city's impressive skyline. Cambridge offers many beautiful museums, theaters and art galleries. Historic and characterful streets and alleys are brimful with local and brand-name stores, creating a unique and relaxing shopping atmosphere. After exploring the college buildings on foot, you may wish to take a guided 'punt' on the River Cam. This is a very enjoyable way to see the city, and grants the punter a completely different perspective on Cambridge's fascinating and beautiful architecture.

Day 9

Accommodation

Stylish City Break Hotel - Cambridge, East of England Region

Room Type: Double/Twin

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Royal Sandringham Estate

We’ve a date with royalty today: Sandringham House is our next stop. The private residence of Her Majesty The Queen, Sandringham is a magnificent stately home with picturesque gardens – and even a museum. After our insightful visit we’ll return to Cambridge, where we’ll look back on our magnificent journey and clink glasses over tonight’s farewell dinner. Breakfast and dinner included.

Overnight Location

Cambridge, East of England Region

On The Map: Cambridge is located in the east of England, approximately 50 miles directly north of London.

Day 10

Daily Itinerary

Newmarket National Stud

There’s time for one more behind-the-scenes tour today: prepare to delve into England’s sporting heritage at Newmarket National Stud. On a guided tour of this working Thoroughbred stud farm, we’ll gain a unique insight into Thoroughbred breeding and may have the opportunity to view some of the Stud’s robust stallions in the paddocks. Breakfast included.

You'll be arriving late in the day to London so you may want to add an extra night in London depending on your flights' departure time. Please ask your Authentic Expert should you like help arranging a post night stay.

Depart From

Depart from London Heathrow Airport, Greater London

Return to London Heathrow Airport three hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. This will allow ample time to check in for your flight home.

Available Dates

23 April - 02 May 2023

ON SALE! From $~~3,212~~ $3,062 per person

21 - 30 May 2023

From $3,233 per person

02 - 11 July 2023

ON SALE! From $~~3,485~~ $3,335 per person

20 - 29 August 2023

ON SALE! From $~~3,485~~ $3,335 per person

03 - 12 September 2023

From $3,485 per person

Your Price Includes

ACCOMMODATION

9 Nights of Superior Hotel Accommodation

TRANSPORTATION

Premium Mini-Coach Transportation with Professional Driver/Guide

DINING OPTIONS INCLUDED

Delectable Full Breakfast Each Morning
5 Dinners Included

INCLUDED UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Visit Sandringham Estate, private retreat of Her Majesty the Queen
Traditional Punting Experience at Cambridge University
Tour Behind-the-Scenes at Newmarket National Stud

POINTS OF INTEREST

Explore the Home of Famous Explorer Captain Cook
Filming Locations from Harry Potter & Downton Abbey at Alnwick Castle
Cruise along River Ouse to Admire York's Gothic Beauty
Tour the Estate that Inspired the Setting for Pride & Prejudice
Visit the Village of the Damned: Plague in 17th Century Eyam
Behold the Stunning Architecture of 1000-year-old Lincoln Cathedral
Stroll over Cambridge's only Covered Bridge - the Gothic-Style 'Bridge of Sighs'
Peruse Famous Manuscripts at Wren Library

Prices Based On

All Taxes & Fees Included
Prices are Per Person based on 2 people traveling together and sharing a room.
Traveling Alone? No Problem. Just Ask Us for a Single Supplement Price.

"Italy Bucket List"

Oct 26, 2022

Dale

Wisconsin

We recently completed our trip to Italy after walking the Camiño de Santiago. The trip included Tuscany, Sicily, and Rome with a cruise to the Holy Land between Sicily and Rome. We worked with Naomi on the original planning and Joleen on the execution. Both were exceptional to work with and both are true professionals. Every facet of the trip, from transportation to billeting to excursions, was flawlessly planned and executed. We worked with Authentic Vacations for three trips this summer, Ireland, Scotland, and Italy we could not be more pleased with the service they provided us. Thank you!

"Girl's Dream Trip Of a Lifetime"

Oct 19, 2022

Elizabeth

California

We three Girls wanted a Dream trip of a Lifetime. We stayed for 12 Days and had our own Driver/Tour guide, who will forever be "Family" to us now. We stayed in three Castle Hotels and three other beautiful hotels. All accommodations were so different and unique in their own way. We ate our way through the Beautiful Irish countryside in mostly Pubs, suggested by our driver, Seamus. We were Never disappointed! We had the most wonderful stay we could have imagined, from larger cities to quaint towns we were treated so kindly and had a Blast! We shopped til we dropped, saw more than we could have ever guessed possible, and will have this vacation to remember and Cherish for the rest of our lives. Thank you, Joleen, Thank you Authentic Vacations!

"Wales Vacation"

Oct 19, 2022

Carl

Massachusetts

We couldn’t have asked for a better trip! Our small group had a small luxury coach, and excellent accommodations, and Ian was an outstanding guide in every way! Graham was a wonderful driver who navigated the narrow country roads with great skill! Authentic Vacations gets our 5-star rating! Brian & Esther, MA. Thank you, Jennifer, my agency will be using Authentic Vacations, again!

"Dream Trip to Emerald Isle"

Oct 7, 2022

Judy

Michaela and Authentic Vacations, sharing a very positive review from my clients. Thanks for always making me look so good. - Judy your travel advisor partner.

Hi Judy,

I think I speak for all of us when I say THANK YOU for the most wonderful Ireland trip we could have ever imagined! Each hotel and activity that Authentic Vacations selected for our stay was perfect and beyond our expectations. Our accommodations were well located, extremely comfortable, and even had great food in their restaurants! The breakfasts included were much larger than we remember typical Continental European breakfasts being. The Hawk Walk was a highlight of ours! Our only added wish is that we would have had a full 2 weeks to fully enjoy what Ireland had to offer, and we were blown away by how nice and helpful ALL the Irish people we met were. Thank you again!!

"Anniversary Trip in Ireland"

Oct 7, 2022

Janet

Illinois

Because of the pandemic, we waited 2 1/2 years to finally begin our dream vacation. During that time Michaela reassured me over and over again and kept me up to date on all the Covid regulations. Our trip turned out to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip thanks to Michaela's attention to detail. I can't compliment her enough. I highly recommend this agency...Thank you so much!

"Renewal of Vows in Scotland"

Oct 3, 2022

Monique

Alberta Canada

Our trip was amazing. It was more than I hoped for!!!! We booked our Scotland trip pre-pandemic and were so excited to finally go in September 2022. Lonna made sure everything was perfect! From booking the cutest bed and breakfasts in Stonehaven, Skye, Fort William, and Inverness, to a castle stay in Airth. The experiences included in the trip were amazing.

She answered my numerous questions with patience, suggestions, and guidance. Thank you Lonna!!! I would absolutely book through Authentic Vacations again!

"Scotland Family Vacation"

Sep 30, 2022

Jill

California

Wow does not even begin to describe our trip to Scotland! Josi was the best planner and walked us through every little bit. When the queen died and it looks like we might miss one of our tours, she was on top of it and was able to reschedule it. Her extra suggestions were what made our trip over the top! With her expertise, we were able to see everything we asked for and then some. I will certainly use her and Authentic Vacations again. We are already thinking of where our next trip will be!

"Cousins Getaway to Ireland & Scotland"

Sep 29, 2022

Toni

Oregon

What a wonderful trip! We started planning our trip in 2019 for June 2020, but something happened to shut down the world!😅. Our original travel planner left the company, but Adina stepped in and took over and did a fantastic job. We experienced everything from quaint B &B’s to 5-star Castle hotels, the country, the city, and everything in between. It was well planned and our 15 days in Ireland and Scotland went without a hitch! Thank you, Adina, and Authentic Vacations. We will definitely use your company again when we go back!

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