Meet in London and depart for Windsor Castle (optional, at own expense). This thousand-year-old royal residence sits on the south bank of the River Thames and serves as one of the monarch’s principal official residences. After lunch, continue to Oxford for a visit to the famed University City of Oxford, rich in traditional British academic charm. Highlights include the Ashmolean Museum, Trinity College (which has produced three UK Prime Ministers), and the University Church of St Mary the Virgin. If time allows, you may also visit Carfax Tower, the Oxford University Museum of Natural History (associated with Darwin’s evolution debates), and Radcliffe Square, one of Oxford’s most photographed scenes. The visit ends around 16:00, then proceed to a hotel along the route or near Oxford. ▲ Windsor Castle: Guests are advised to book a 10:30 entry slot. Official website: https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle?utm_source=magpietravelttd
Depart for the Cotswolds, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful countryside regions in England—quaint villages and breathtaking scenery straight out of a storybook. Then travel to Stratford-upon-Avon, about 180 km west of London, the birthplace and final home of William Shakespeare. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace on Henley Street, a two-storey house with an attic where he spent his childhood and youth. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere along the River Avon before heading to the hotel.
Travel to Lake Windermere, a beloved natural lake in England’s Lake District. Enjoy time by the water—watch swans glide by, stroll along the shore, and take in the tranquil lakeside scenery. For a touch of childhood nostalgia, you may also visit the World of Beatrix Potter. Then continue to the hotel.
After breakfast, depart for the Scottish Highlands, one of the UK’s most spectacular natural regions. Enjoy views of Glencoe and the iconic Three Sisters peaks, and pass by the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Seasonal Note: Apr–Sep: Continue via the picturesque village of Fort Augustus to the medieval fortress Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness, and enjoy the dramatic scenery while keeping an eye out for the legendary monster. Oct–Mar: Due to shorter daylight hours, the Loch Ness/Fort Augustus/Urquhart Castle visit will be skipped, and the group will proceed directly to the hotel.
Travel to Edinburgh, the final major stop of the tour in the UK. A must-do is viewing the city from Edinburgh Castle, a royal fortress dating back to the 6th century—earlier than many European castles. Afterwards, enjoy free time. Recommended sights include: Royal Mile (great for Scottish souvenirs), The Elephant House café (associated with J.K. Rowling’s writing days), Princes Street, dividing New Town and Old Town, often called one of the world’s most scenic streets, Scottish National Gallery and Princes Street Gardens, Views from Calton Hill, with sweeping city panoramas. If time permits, Palace of Holyroodhouse (a bit farther) Then regroup and continue to the hotel. ▲ Edinburgh Castle: Tickets must be booked in advance. Suggested entry time: 13:30. Suggested visit duration: 30–60 mins. (Edinburgh Castle is closed annually on Dec 25 & 26.) Official website: https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/plan-your-visit/tickets
Travel to York, an ancient city with over 1,900 years of history, blending different eras of British culture. Visit the Gothic York Minster and walk along the historic York City Walls. Explore the medieval cobbled street The Shambles, known as a filming inspiration for “Diagon Alley” in Harry Potter. If time allows, enjoy classic afternoon tea at Bettys Café Tea Rooms, stroll by the River Ouse, or visit the impressive National Railway Museum.
Travel to Cambridge, one of the UK’s most famous university towns. Wander through colleges and soak up the academic atmosphere, with the River Cam winding through the city. You may choose to experience a Cambridge punting tour (optional) for riverside views, or explore on foot. Highlights include the magnificent Gothic King’s College, and Trinity College, where an apple tree is said to descend from the one linked to Newton’s discovery. See Cambridge’s famous bridges, including the Mathematical Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs connecting St John’s College. Return to London to conclude the tour.
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