Trip summary statistics
8days
England's Literary Lake District & Yorkshire
Manchester, Windermere, York
See the wild beauty that inspired literary classics like Dracula and Taylor Swift's pop hits.
Sail through the Lake District’s waters, framed by cascading falls and mountain passes.
Walk Britain's Roman frontier with guided visits to Hadrian’s Wall and military forts.
Discover York's medieval core with a private guide, from York Minster to Clifford's Tower.
Admire opulent interiors and gardens at a stately home, curated by your Destination Expert.
* Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
We personalize
There's no formula, we simply listen to you and make it happen.
We expertly plan
From your itinerary to the small details, we prepare it all on your behalf.
We don't settle
Refining your itinerary until you're happy, even while you're traveling.
When would you like to travel?
| Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
What's your ideal trip length?
If anything changes, we can always adjust.
Prefer to speak with a destination expert?
ManchesterThe Adventure Begins
- Airport - Airport Meet & Greet
- England Welcome Package
- Manchester Art Gallery
- Dining Recommendation: Hawksmoor Manchester
- Self-Guided: Northern Quarter Bar & Music Crawl
Manchester to WindermereOnward and Upward
- Manchester-Windermere - via Brontë Country (9 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
WindermereLose Yourself in Nature
- Mountains, Villages and Waters of the Lake District (with Cruise) (8hrs) - Private
WindermereNurtured by Nature
- 1/2 Day Keswick Village and Ancient Stone Circle Discovery (4hr) - Private
Windermere to YorkIt’s All Ancient History
- Windermere-York - with Hadrian's Wall, Vindolanda & Housesteads Fort (8 hrs) - Vehicle/Driver-Guide
YorkAlong Cobblestone Streets
- Vehicle & Guide at Disposal (9 hrs) - Private Transfer
- Central York Walking Tour (4 hrs) - Private
- York Minster Admission
YorkWinding the Wind-Swept Shorelines
- Whitby, Dracula's Coast & Castle Howard (8 hrs) - Private Tour
York to ManchesterUntil Next Time…
- York to Manchester (1.5 hrs) - Private Transfer
MANCHESTER
The Adventure Begins
For your added comfort, a Meet & Greet assistant will be waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall of the airport after you pass through customs. They'll direct you to your transfer, assist in the hotel check-in process, and take you through your travel documents.
A Welcome Package will be provided and will include any relevant documents or tickets required for your trip.
Nestled in the heart of Manchester, the Manchester Art Gallery stands as a beacon of artistic excellence, captivating visitors with its diverse collection spanning centuries of creativity. Boasting over 25,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, the gallery offers a mesmerizing journey through the annals of human expression. From renowned masterpieces by the likes of Pre-Raphaelite artists to contemporary installations that push the boundaries of innovation, every corner exudes a sense of wonder and discovery. Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Manchester as you explore this iconic institution, where art transcends boundaries and enriches the soul.
Optional Dining Recommendation: Hawksmoor Manchester
One of Manchester’s most reliable dining experiences for steak and classic British dishes. Housed in a former courthouse, it delivers a polished but approachable atmosphere that works well for both couples and groups.
Spend the evening exploring Manchester’s Northern Quarter, known for its independent bars, live music venues, street art, and late-night energy. Guests can hop between cocktail lounges, hidden speakeasies, craft beer pubs, and casual music spots at their own pace.
Where you’ll be staying
Signature Room
MANCHESTER TO WINDERMERE
Onward and Upward
Set out with your private driver-guide for a convenient transfer to Windermere in the Lake District. Along the way, immerse yourself in the world of some of England's most revered writers - the BrontË sisters. Stop in the village of Haworth, an undisputed literary mecca boasting historic cobbled streets, an iconic parsonage, and rolling moors. Tour the BrontË Parsonage Museum, a writer's house museum maintained by the BrontË Society in honor of Charlotte, Emily and Anne. The BrontË Parsonage Museum library contains the world's most comprehensive collection of BrontË manuscripts, letters, early editions of the novels and poetry, and secondary material on the famous family and their work. The museum also hosts a Contemporary Arts Program, showcasing literary events, exhibitions, artistic responses, a competition and festivals, and a lifelong learning program. Your private transfers concludes at your accommodation in Windermere.
Where you’ll be staying
Willow Room
WINDERMERE
Lose Yourself in Nature
Embark on an opulent journey through the exquisite Lake District, renowned as England's most picturesque haven. Delight in the lavish comfort of your private chauffeur-driven vehicle as you traverse majestic mountain passes, meander through lush valleys, and marvel at cascading waterfalls adorning the landscape. Immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Lakeland villages, where time seems to stand still, affording ample opportunities to capture breathtaking vistas and timeless memories. Indulge in the epitome of luxury with a serene lake cruise aboard an exclusive vessel, basking in uninterrupted views of the idyllic surroundings. Enjoy time rambling in iconic Lake District villages, where you'll savor leisurely moments exploring its quaint streets and upscale boutiques, all while reveling in the unparalleled sophistication of this premier destination.
Where you’ll be staying
Willow Room
WINDERMERE
Nurtured by Nature
Meet your driver-guide today for a half day tour which delves into the depths of history and culture as your expert guide unveils the secrets of Castlerigg Stone Circle, a breathtaking archaeological marvel nestled amidst the majestic Cumbrian hills. Marvel at the spectacle of 38 ancient stones, each imbued with its own story, some towering over 5 feet tall, standing as silent witnesses to the passage of time over the past 5000 years. Afterward, luxuriate in the serene ambiance of Keswick, a charming township brimming with elegance and sophistication, where every corner reveals a tale of refined indulgence and timeless allure.
Where you’ll be staying
Willow Room
WINDERMERE TO YORK
It’s All Ancient History
Along with your private driver-guide, and in the comfort of a private vehicle, make your way to York today. En route you’ll stop to explore a stretch of Hadrian's Wall, an ancient Roman stone fortification, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Approximately 1,900 years old, and stretching proudly across 73 miles of Northern England, Hadrian’s Wall is the largest Roman artifact in existence. Just south of Hadrian's Wall, visit Vindolanda, a Roman Army Museum which provides an authentic and dramatic tribute to Rome's extraordinary military legacy. Before continuing to York, you’ll get to visit the nearby Housesteads Roman Fort, where you can wander ancient barracks blocks and hospital ruins.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic
YORK
Along Cobblestone Streets
Enjoy a full day of service with a private guide and vehicle at your disposal (maximum 9 hours). This provides flexibility in your day and gives you an opportunity to see and do as many things as you'd like within the allotted period. Please note, an additional fee applies for time overages.
Your private guide will meet you at your hotel and lead you on foot on a half-day walking tour of York, a city with heritage to rival any in Britain. King George VI famously remarked that York's "history is the history of England." Perhaps that's overstating it, but York has nevertheless seen a lot, from the Roman and Norman periods to the vast changes in the Victorian era. As if to ward off time, the city is still encircled by two-and-a-half miles of medieval walls. Whereas sentries used to walk the wide ramparts in days of yore, you get to spend time walking their perimeter today. As one of the most intriguing cities in northern England (the heads of traitors used to hang at the entrance to Micklegate), York boasts a number of historical landmarks. As you stroll the medieval core, it's impossible to miss the stunning facade of the 13th century York Minster - Northern Europe's largest Gothic cathedral. Discover the snickelways, an intricate maze of narrow alleyways and twisting lanes, along with the Shambles, one of the best preserved medieval streets in Europe. Even gaze up at the 13th century hilltop-perched ruins of Clifford's Tower, part of the York Castle complex. History abounds in York!
Enjoy York Minster, which is one of the finest medieval buildings in Europe, and world famous for its stained glass windows, historic artifacts, and awe-inspiring architecture.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic
YORK
Winding the Wind-Swept Shorelines
Embark on a full day tour with a private driver-guide, setting out to discover the coastal town of Whitby, followed by a visit to Castle Howard. You'll head northeast, driving through the scenic North York Moors National Park, a place of sheer beauty, shaped by nature over thousands of years, arriving to historic Whitby on the east coast of Yorkshire, former home 18th century explorer Captain James Cook. Take in the views of this town, soak in the fishing village ambiance, and admire sights of the hilltop ruins of Whitby Abbey, a piece of atmospheric inspiration for Bram Stoker's famous horror novel, Dracula. Looping back toward York, you'll head to Castle Howard, to visit one of Britain’s finest stately homes. Built for the third Earl of Carlisle over 300 years ago, the home has remained in the possession of the Carlisle branch of the Howard family ever since. Be dazzled by ornate interiors and world-renowned works of art, and enjoy time wandering the landscaped gardens before returning to York.
Where you’ll be staying
Classic
YORK TO MANCHESTER
Until Next Time…
Meet your private driver for a transfer from York to Manchester.
MANCHESTER
The Alan
Nestled near Piccadilly and Victoria stations, The Alan, a unique 6-story hotel in Manchester's center, is ideal for city exploration. Discover 137 rooms spread over 5 categories, featuring large beds and refreshing rainfall showers. The interiors reflect a commitment to authenticity and sustainability, with original brickwork, tall ceilings, and historic windows restored to their former glory. Dining at The Alan is a celebration of seasonal British cuisine, showcasing small plates crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The open-plan kitchen, bar, and restaurant offer a vibrant atmosphere from breakfast through dinner, complemented by partnerships with local breweries and distilleries. Discover The Alan, where history meets contemporary design, and sustainability meets comfort in vibrant Manchester.
WINDERMERE
Low Wood Bay Resort Hotel
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Windermere in the heart of the Lake District and a short 7 minute drive to Windermere, Low Wood Bay Resort offers an unparalleled retreat for guests seeking luxury and relaxation. The resort features a world-class spa, where guests can indulge in a variety of rejuvenating treatments amidst breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From massages to facials and body wraps, the spa provides a tranquil oasis to unwind and recharge. Dining at Low Wood Bay is a culinary delight, with options ranging from the award-winning Blue Smoke on the Bay restaurant, serving contemporary British cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients, to casual fare at The Windermere Restaurant. The resort also offers The Langdale Lounge & Bar for drinks and light bites, and The CafÉ for coffee and snacks. With its idyllic setting, sumptuous accommodations, and exceptional amenities, Low Wood Bay Resort promises an unforgettable experience for discerning travelers.
YORK
The Grand Hotel & Spa
Experience the luxury, opulence, and style of the golden age of travel at The Grand Hotel & Spa in downtown York. Situated within the old town walls and housed in the iconic former headquarters of the North Eastern Railway Company, York’s only 5-star luxury hotel offers views of, and walking access to, the River Ouse and historic York Minster. Stay in one of the 207 elegant guestrooms, experience luxurious Afternoon Tea, sample a taste of Yorkshire fine dining on-site, and rejuvenate in the serene aura of the spa. History and heritage combine with everything a modern traveler could wish for in this iconic Edwardian building, with The Grand Hotel & Spa offering the very best in traditional English style and service, polished with a friendly Yorkshire welcome.
Made to Order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- Regional flights between stops in your itinerary (unless otherwise indicated)
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What's not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Protect your travel
- We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
- No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel. Still unsure? Consider these frequently asked questions.








