London & Edinburgh Signature
8 Days
from
$3,344
to
$4,520
per person*
Highlights:
England
(London)
,
Scotland
(Edinburgh)
Trip Start/End:
London
/
Edinburgh
Boasting four World Heritage Sites: The Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey and St. Margaret's Church; the Tower of London; the historic settlement of Greenwich; and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew; London really doesn't have to do much to draw its visitors as they tend to come of their own accord.
As the largest urban population in the UK, the city has a wide sweep of amenities from public gardens, to shops, galleries, museums, theatres and more. Spending a number of days here is like a drop in the ocean - there is always so much more to see and do. But fear not, we have picked the top highlights in the city to give you a great in-depth introduction to what London is all about. With private transfers, a number of organized tour options, balanced with free time to explore, this Exclusive tour of London offers you the best way to experience all of what this great metropolis has to offer... comfortably!
Take the train to Edinburgh - a wonderful city from sights to shopping and culture to city sightseeing. Upon arrival, you will be met with a private vehicle and taken to your central Edinburgh hotel. Enjoy a tour of the city center by foot with your expert local guide on arrival. Stroll the Royal Mile, and walk past Edinburgh Castle. Your guide will show you all the sites. You will also visit the Highlands of Scotland and explore the prehistoric cairns to stately homes and castles.
On your final day, enjoy a full day private tour to visit Perth, Blair castle and a whisky center. Take in a guided tour of the castle and spend some time wandering through the extensive gardens and estate. Finish off the day with a wee dram of whisky in a local whisky center on the way back to Edinburgh. Your most memorable memory may just be sitting in a typical Scottish pub soaking up the atmosphere while talking with one of the friendly locals. You will enjoy personalized service at its best in this 'wee" 4 day extension to the Scottish capital... Cheers!
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- London
| - England - London Welcome Package
- Transfer - Private - Heathrow Airport (arrival) - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Self-Guided - Dinner at Leisure (in the West End)
| The Mandeville (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- London
| - Private - 1/2 d City Highlights (4 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| The Mandeville (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- London
| - Shared - Salisbury, Stonehenge & Bath - Coach/Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Premier Dinner Cruise on the Thames - Ticket
| The Mandeville (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- London - Edinburgh
| - Transfer - Private - Train Station - VIP Vehicle/Driver
- Train - London - Edinburgh [4.5 hrs] - 1st Class Train Ticket
- Transfer - Private - Train Station - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Macdonald Holyrood (4*)
Standard (Sun-Thu) (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Edinburgh
| - Private - 1/2 Day Walking Tour - Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- At Leisure
- Dinner (not included)
| Macdonald Holyrood (4*)
Standard (Sun-Thu) (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Edinburgh
| - Shared - Castles, Lochs & Whisky (8 hrs 45 mins) - Coach/Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Macdonald Holyrood (4*)
Standard (Sun-Thu) (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Edinburgh
| - Private - Perth, Blair Castle & Distillery Tour - Saloon/MPV/ Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Macdonald Holyrood (4*)
Standard (Sun-Thu) (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Edinburgh
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
London
Big Ben, London
Mandeville Hotel
Day 1: London
A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, train tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.
Meet your driver at Heathrow airport, and take a private transfer to your hotel.
There are some great restaurants in the West End of London.Here are a few suggestions: J Sheekey, an incredibly smart seafood restaurant, Mildred's, London's best veggie restaurant, Sketch, the trendiest place in London, specializing in some of the best french food you'll ever taste, or for those looking for something simple and cheerful, enjoy a nice meal out at Zipangu. Or try the amazingly stylish Corrigan’s Mayfair http://www.corrigansmayfair.co.uk
Accommodation: The Mandeville (4*) Internationally recognized interior designers have orchestrated The Mandeville Hotel bedrooms for the utmost comfort. Each bedroom exudes style and has been furnished with luxurious fabrics and wall coverings from some of the leading design houses. The Mandeville Hotel is based in the ever-fashionable Marylebone Village,within a few minutes walk of some of London's most exciting shops, art galleries and antique shops of Mayfair. The hotel is perfectly located near some of the world famous auction houses such as Sotheby or Christies and renowned Harley Street clinics, making this hotel an excellent choice for your leisure, cultural and corporate stay in London. The Mandeville Hotelprides itself on offering a highly personalized service under the direction of its expert management team. Great design is the key to the hotel, providing guests with a sophisticated and stylish environment.
Big Ben at Night
Day 2: London
Experience the city in all its beauty on a comprehensive half day (4hr) private city tour with a Professional Guide, vehicle and driver and be shown all the major sights this world metropolis has to offer. A visit of the colourful "West End" with its well-known shopping streets and elegant parks is up first. Then travel on through both the City of Westminster and the City of London, the oldest part of the capital and home to the financial district. During the course of the tour, you will see all the highlights of the city: Royal Albert Hall, Marble Arch, Hyde Park, Harrods in Knightsbridge, Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, and Trafalgar Square with Nelson's Column. The tour ends either in the city centre or back at your accommodation.
Accommodation: The Mandeville (4*) 
Salisbury Cathedral 
Dinner cruise on the Thames
Day 3: London
Clouded in mystery, the ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is an amazing feat of engineering and the most important prehistoric site in England, but beyond its archaeological significance and possible astronomical role, Stonehenge is also a place of spiritual importance. Early legends link it with Merlin and King Arthur, but over the last hundred years the midsummer sunrise has attracted pagan groups and followers of the Ancient Order of Druids. You will also visit the beautiful Georgian City of Bath and take you on a panoramic tour of some of the finest architectural sights in Europe, including Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, the Circus, Assembly Rooms and the famous Pulteney Bridge. Explore the Roman Baths, built around thermal springs, which have been supplying water for over 2,000 years. In Roman times a great Temple was built next to the sacred spring - the waters were believed to have healing properties and attracted visitors from across the Roman Empire. Admission to Salisbury Cathedral, Stonehenge and the Roman Baths is included in the tour price.
Enjoy a four course dinner as you admire London by night from the river Thames on board a boat. Many of the historical and modern buildings along the banks of the river are floodlit at night and make for a beautiful tour of the city. After a cocktail, sit back and relax as you have your dinner to the accompaniment of live entertainment, provided in the form of cabaret and indulge in some dancing if the mood takes you - you are on vacation after all! Your cruise includes a 4-course dinner, coffee and chocolates, live entertainment, after-dinner dancing, a welcome drink, half bottle of House Red and half bottle of House White wine, as well as half bottle of Mineral water per person. (Please note: No jeans or running shoes. Men are required to wear a jacket and tie. This is an unescorted tour. Minimum age limit 16yrs).
Accommodation: The Mandeville (4*) 
Edinburgh
Macdonald Holyrood Hotel
Day 4: London - Edinburgh
Meet your driver for a private train station transfer in London.
Enjoy the train ride from London to Edinburgh. Your direct train ride is approximately 4.5 hours.
Meet your driver for a private train station transfer. Please note that this service includes up to 3 hours of service.
Accommodation: Macdonald Holyrood (4*) Situated in the Old Town neighborhood of Edinburgh, this property is near Our Dynamic Earth, Arthur's Seat, and Scottish Parliament. Other nearby points of interest include Edinburgh Castle. Guestrooms have complimentary high-speed (wired) Internet access, slippers, and air conditioning; bathrooms include shower/tub combinations and hair dryers. At Macdonald Holyrood Hotel recreational amenities include an indoor pool, a health club, and a sauna. The property also provides a restaurant, a business center, and a concierge desk.
Street Sign in Edinburgh
Day 5: Edinburgh
You will be met at your central Edinburgh hotel by your guide to commence your walking tour. The buzz of Scotland's capital city sits in perfect contrast to the peaceful tranquility of the surrounding Lothians region. Edinburgh has one of the most beautiful cityscapes in the world, making it the ideal city break destination. From ceilidhs and science to ghost, film and food festivals there's always something going on in the festival city, and that's just for starters. Discover world-class museums and galleries, learn the history of the city or spend an afternoon pub crawling - whatever your fancy! Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and perhaps take an umbrella!
Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.
Accommodation: Macdonald Holyrood (4*) 
Whisky Distillery
Day 6: Edinburgh
Drive north out of Edinburgh and you'll be amazed by the engineering miracle of the Forth Railway Bridge. Then, as you are travelling through Stirlingshire, your guide will bring to life the turbulent times of William Wallace - dramatised in the film Braveheart - and explain his link to the countryside you're passing through. You'll stop at the beautiful city of Stirling, site of the Wallace Monument. You'll have ample time to explore the stunning castle (optional) or stroll through the beautiful and ancient streets that surround it. Take in the view along the Duke's Pass. The route takes you through the spectacular Duke's Pass which offers spectacular views to the peaks of the stunning Trossach Mountains and carries you past some of Scotland's most picturesque lochs. Stroll the Bonnie Bonnie banks. Your lunchtime stop is by Loch Lomond. Why not try lunch (not included) at a traditional pub built out of a 300-year-old oak tree and then walk the shores of Britain's largest expanse of fresh water? The journey home holds one last treat. You'll have the chance to visit one of Scotland's most beautiful distilleries, Glencoyne Distillery and get a taste of the true spirit of the country - a Highland Malt Whisky (optional). Entry fees not included.
Accommodation: Macdonald Holyrood (4*) 
Blair Castle
Day 7: Edinburgh
Enjoy a full day private tour with your own vehicle and driver visiting Perth, Blair castle and a whisky centre returning to Edinburgh. Perth has traditionally been a market and trading town and has many historical sites including the 400 year old Greyfriars burial ground. The architecture is impressive with it's Georgian facades, terraces and cresents and makes for a pleasant town visit. Tracing back to Mary Queen of Scots to the English Civil War, Lord George Murray and the Jacobite cause to the disaster of Culloden, and the Isle of Man to Queen Victoria’s love affair with the Scottish Highlands and her presentation of Colours to the Atholl Highlanders, Blair castle and estate is a higlight of the area. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle (entrance included) and spend some time wandering through the extensive gardens and estate. Finish off the day with a wee dram of whisky in a local whisky centre on the way back to Edinburgh.
Accommodation: Macdonald Holyrood (4*) Day 8: Edinburgh
Meet your driver for your private airport transfer today. Please note that this service includes up to 3 hours of service.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
- Mandeville Hotel
Mandeville Hotel Room
The Mandeville (4*) - London
Internationally recognized interior designers have orchestrated The Mandeville Hotel bedrooms for the utmost comfort. Each bedroom exudes style and has been furnished with luxurious fabrics and wall coverings from some of the leading design houses. The Mandeville Hotel is based in the ever-fashionable Marylebone Village,within a few minutes walk of some of London's most exciting shops, art galleries and antique shops of Mayfair. The hotel is perfectly located near some of the world famous auction houses such as Sotheby or Christies and renowned Harley Street clinics, making this hotel an excellent choice for your leisure, cultural and corporate stay in London. The Mandeville Hotelprides itself on offering a highly personalized service under the direction of its expert management team. Great design is the key to the hotel, providing guests with a sophisticated and stylish environment.
- Macdonald Holyrood Hotel
Macdonald Holyrood (4*) - Edinburgh
Situated in the Old Town neighborhood of Edinburgh, this property is near Our Dynamic Earth, Arthur's Seat, and Scottish Parliament. Other nearby points of interest include Edinburgh Castle. Guestrooms have complimentary high-speed (wired) Internet access, slippers, and air conditioning; bathrooms include shower/tub combinations and hair dryers. At Macdonald Holyrood Hotel recreational amenities include an indoor pool, a health club, and a sauna. The property also provides a restaurant, a business center, and a concierge desk.
Travel Info
Travel tips of England
VISA/PASSPORT
United Kingdom is a party to the Schengen Agreement. As such, U.S. and Canadian citizens may enter for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
Citizens of other countries may require a visa. Please ask your Sales Advisor. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of England for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/united-kingdom.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: London.
Government: Constitutional monarchy.
Language: English. Some Welsh is spoken in parts of Wales, Gaelic in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, and French and Norman French in the Channel Islands.
Religion: Predominantly Christian, with sizeable Muslim, Sikh, Jewish and Hindu minorities.
Time: GMT (GMT + 1 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 240 volts AC, 50Hz. Square three-pin plugs are standard.
Telephone: Country code +44.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone operators. Coverage is mostly good, but can be patchy in rural areas.
Internet: There are Internet cafes and centers in most urban areas.
Travel tips of Scotland
VISA/PASSPORT
There are no border controls when travelling within the United Kingdom including the land border with England. Scotland has the same immigration and visa requirements as the rest of the United Kingdom.
United Kingdom is a party to the Schengen Agreement. As such, U.S. citizens may enter for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/united-kingdom.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Edinburgh
Language: English & Gaelic in parts of Scotland
Religion: Predominantly Christian, with sizeable Muslim, Sikh, Jewish and Hindu minorities.
Time: GMT (GMT + 1 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 240 volts AC, 50Hz. Square three-pin plugs are standard.
Telephone: Country code +44.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone operators. Coverage is mostly good, but can be patchy in rural areas.
Internet: There are Internet cafes and centers in most urban areas.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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