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Best England Tour Companies

Search 113 England tour operators and travel companies, with 1,695 reviews.

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Cycling in france - canals and castles of the midi.

Cycling to Chateaux de Lastours and walking to some of the chateaux.

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Really enjoyed cycling by the lagoons and seeing the flamingos. Also enjoyed...

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Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in England 2024/2025

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in England. Below you will find 25 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in England offering in total 271 tours and holidays through-out England. Combined they have received 438 customer reviews and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The top tour activities offered in England are: Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history, Adventure and sport & Wildlife, landscapes and nature.

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25 Tour Operators in England with 438 Reviews

Brendan Vacations

• Address Brendan Vacations 801 E. Katella Avenue Anaheim, California 92805, California, USA
• Response Rate 90%
• Response Time 1 hour

Walkers' Britain

• Address 1B Osiers Road, London, England
• Response Rate 83%
• Response Time 3 hours

• Best-in-Class Top 5% of companies
• Excellent Service Top 10% of companies
• Superior Service Top 15% of companies

• Address 109 Power Road, Chiswick, London, England
• Response Rate 81%

• Address Picquet House, St Peter Port, Guernsey, London, England
• Response Time 2 hours

Mckenzie Mountaineering

• Address Hillcrest Braes , Ullapool, Scotland
• Response Rate 100%

Discovery Nomads

• Address 27 Gloucester str, London, England
• Response Rate 86%

Expat Explore

• Address 10 Merryweather Place, London, England

Collette Tours

• Address 162 Middle Street, Pawtucket, Rhode Island, USA
• Response Rate 84%

• Address Nelson House, 55-59 Victoria Rd, Farnborough, England
• Response Rate 96%

Luxury Gold

• Address 33 Kern Road, Toronto, Canada
• Response Rate 60%

• Response Rate 88%

• Address 38-51 Bedford Way, London, England

The London Bicycle Tour Company

• Address 74 Kennington Road, London, England

Indus Travels

• Address 233, 11951 Hammersmith Way, Richmond, Canada
• Response Rate 98%

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10 Best England Tour Operators 2023 [Unbiased & With Reviews]

10 best england tour operators 2023.

Are you planning to visit England, but unsure which tour provider to select? Now, you no longer have to waste time searching the internet and filling out dozens of contact forms. Simply fill out ONE form, we’ll send it off to multiple tour providers and they’ll contact YOU! You’ll be able to compare rates and find the lowest cost tour for the most affordable trip abroad.

Are you planning on taking a vacation in England? Do you know how to find the best England tour? Would you like to know the highest rated and most professional England tour operator to plan your journey?

England is enchanting and fascinating, offering various natural marvels, lush National Parks, and countryside scenic landscapes. With over 600 miles of coastline, the country is divided into nine regions, with unique cultures, history, traditions, and personalities. As one of the most popular vacation destinations globally, England offers hundreds of historical sites, medieval castles, and prehistoric megaliths. Besides, the country is easy to get around since it has well connected automated transport infrastructure.

While vacationing in England is an extraordinary experience, it often gets problematic when you start looking for a reliable agency to design an all-inclusive vacation for you. When you search online for tour operators in England, thousands of results will show on your screen from different tour providers, all claiming to have the best offers. Many, however, cannot be trusted. So how do you know which one to select? Picking the wrong tour company in England could have terrible results.

But TravellersQuest is here to help. We would hate for you to choose the wrong tour operator in England and possibly ruin your vacation experience. To save you time and money, we spent thousands of hours finding and analyzing and found the most affordable and best tour companies England.

In this article, you’ll find an unbiased selection of the 10 best tour companies for England.

Keep reading to see the best travel packages with 10 of the most highly-rated tour companies England.

Table update Oct 22, 2021

Silent Disco Walking Tours

Company’s location and type: London, Local Tour Operator Awards, Certification: Ranked #1 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2020 Reviews: 682 Reviews on Trip Advisor 99% rated great and exceptional

About Company

Silent Disco Walking Tours is on our top list as a highly rated and trusted best tour company in England. Based in London, the company specialized in customized, bespoke, and themed music tours on special silent disco headsets. Founded by music fanatics, Silent Disco Walking Tours is internationally recognized for its funky dancing tours, experienced tour guides, and outstanding disco experiences.

Silent Disco Walking Tours primarily focuses on providing immersive and fun tours, and they have various England tour packages you can get involved in and enjoy.

Take the fully customized Private Party Booking and select your music and recorded messages to be played throughout the tour and shared with your loved ones who cannot attend. Take on an experience with Silent Disco Drag Brunch for a three-hour music medley, then hop off the tube into an unforgettable brunch experience fully dressed up. Experience the Magic of London’s Theatreland in the West End while singing and dancing to the best tunes having lots of fun.

Silent Disco Walking Tours is one of the most highly rated tour companies in England. With nearly 700 positive reviews on Trip Advisor , music enthusiasts have praised its customer service and unique fun experiences. Besides, the company is ranked #1 out of 1,596 tours in London with a 5-star rating. You can read a lovely review below.

“Fabulous funny afternoon singing & dancing around soho. Hannah Mantana & the staff were excellent. We all thoroughly enjoyed it.” – KJS: Aug 2021

Look Up London Tours

Company’s location and type: London, Local Tour Operator Awards, Certification: Ranked #4 Trip Advisor Travelers Choice 2021 Reviews: 745 Reviews on Trip Advisor

Founded in 2016 by Katie, a blogger and art graduate, Look Up London Tours is an award-winning England tour operator specializing in walking tours around London. With a team of professional guides, the company is passionate about unearthing the city’s layers of incredible monuments and history while enjoying safe and fun excursions. Based in London, Look Up London Tours’ core values, and objectives are to be passionate, authentic, and professional with every tourist.

Look Up London has exciting England vacation tour packages that can be personalized or customized to fit your needs.

No trip is complete in London without the Museum and Gallery Tours . On this tour, you will visit multiple museums, including the British Museum, National Gallery, and Tate Modern. The Look Up London Walks is designed with local Londoners in mind to help you discover every part of the city and seeing fantastic details, including historical sites. Join in on the Private London Tour for stunning sights and learn all about their attractive and grand history with a small group.

Look Up London is one of the best tour companies in England with many raving and glowing reviews. The feedback shows that the client satisfaction rate is outstanding. Of the total of 756 reviews made on Trip Advisor , 99% of the customers rated the operator as outstanding and excellent. See the positive review below:

“Quirky Bloomsbury walking tour with Katie was exactly what it said on the label! How can I, as a nearly local, go by this area so many times and not “see” what Katie pointed out to us! Insightful and so well presented. Thanks, Katie.” – Hilary P: Aug 2021

BrakeAway Bike Tours

Company’s location and type: London, Local Tour Operator Awards, Certification: Ranked #2 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2013-2020 Reviews: 2,917 Reviews on Trip Advisor

BrakeAway Bike Tours is a London-based leading and one of the top tour companies in England. The company was founded by a professional team of young local guides passionate about biking and sharing the city’s hidden gems. As a fully licensed and registered tour agency with the England Tourism Board, BrakeAway Bike Tours offers top-notch biking tours. In addition, they received the Certificate of Excellence Award by TripAdvisor for more than five years in a row.

BrakeAway Bike Tours offers safe and highly rated new England bicycle tour options to choose from that will leave you with fulfilling memories.

If you want to hear quirky tales of London, join the Grand London Tour , designed to show you all the City’s great monuments and hidden nooks just like a local. London is a safe city for riding. The Private Family Bike Tours accommodate families with young children as it is designed with accessible routes to follow along with the parks and cobbled streets. If you are going to London as a group, the Private Group Bike Tour offers the ideal opportunity to ride around the city with a professional guide whilst stopping to learn about the stunning sights.

BrakeAway Bike Tours is one of the top tour companies in England with an excellent track record of delivering safe and highly rated bike tours in England. The company has a five-star rating on Trip Advisor with nearly 3,000 reviews and ranked #2 out of 446 outdoor companies. You can read a positive review below:

“Wonderful day on a tour of London, enjoyed learning and our guide was v keen to educate with humour.” – Martina: Aug 2021

Strawberry Tours

Company’s location and type: London, Local Tour Operator Awards, Certification: Ranked #2 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2015-2019 Reviews: 22,638 Reviews on Trip Advisor

Strawberry Tours is a highly rated and multiple award-winning tour company in England based in London. The company is passionate about quality tourism, integrity, and outstanding customer service. With years of experience, they have curated carefully designed tours covering the most exciting areas of the city, to give you the best possible understanding as well as the entertainment. Strawberry Tour is on our top list with over 22,000 reviews and over seven awards for excellence from Trip advisor.

Strawberry Tours offers many different new England tour packages for all types of travelers. They will design a tour that fits your needs and budget.

Private Walking Tours are the best option if you are touring as a family or a group.  Discover the Royal family by taking the Free London Landmarks Tour , which allows you to learn about Henry the VIII or Guy Fawkes while exploring the Palaces, including the Buckingham Palace. Join the Free James Bond & The History of Espionage , the world’s most famous spy, while discovering the Westminster for the iconic locations of the James Bond films.

Strawberry Tours has garnered over 22,000 excellent and raving positive reviews on Trip Advisor from both international and local tourists who took their England tour for their excellent customer service. In addition, over 98% of past tourists have attested to the company’s professionalism and affordable packages.  Read this positive review below:

“Tour guide Mark very enthusiastic and easy to listen to. Made the walk interesting by giving an insight into life in the East End.” – Sharon Parsons: Aug 2021

Free Tours By Foot

Company’s location and type: London, Local Tour Operator Awards, Certification: Ranked #2 Trip Advisor Reviews: 4,791 Reviews on Trip Advisor

Founded over 15 years ago, Free Tours by Foot is a leading, fully accredited, and government-licensed tour operator new England. The company is proud of its well-trained, highly experienced, and passionate guides committed to delivering the best escapades in a hassle-free manner. For your convenience, the trips cover neighborhoods such as Westminster, London, and Greenwich. Free Tours by Foot does not require an upfront cost. You will decide the worth of your tour upon completion.

Free Tours by Foot specializes in offering the best tours packages, and you can join in on any fun new England tour.              

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting boat cruise, Hop-On-Hop-Off Thames River Cruises . This tour allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you are a group of friends, a family, or a couple, the Private London Tours are customized depending on your requirements or budget. The East London Food Tours are very popular because the district is home to several immigrants, so there is a wide variety of cuisines and drinks that you can sample.

As one of our top tour companies in England, Free Tours by Foot is an excellent choice for fun, safe and affordable walking tours. The company has earned the rank of #2 of 420 food tours in London with a 5-star rating and 4,700 raving reviews on Trip Advisor . You can read this review left by a traveler recently:

“A very enjoyable and informative way to spend a couple of hours getting fit and learning stuff. Canice is extremely knowledgeable and delivers the information in a very entertaining way.” – Simon P: Aug 2021

Go Cotswolds

Company’s location and type: Cotswold, Local Tour Operator Year of establishment: 2014 Awards, Certification: Ranked #2 Trip Advisor Reviews: 843 Reviews on Trip Advisor 99% rated great and exceptional

Founded by Tom and Lisa Benjamin, Go Cotswolds is an independent, award-winning family-run business delivering fun and safe tours in North Cotswolds. Since its inception in 2014, this tour company in England focuses on guided tours that ensure that tourists have time for self-exploration between each location for a memorable and life-changing trip. Join Go Cotswolds Tours for adventurous day tours in the Cotswolds countryside and villages with one of the best new England tour companies.

Go Cotswolds offers many attractive new England tour packages to choose from.

On the company’s award-winning Cotswolds in a Day Tour , you’ll visit popular and gorgeous Cotswold villages for incredible scenery and hidden gems such as Dover Hill and Bibury.  The Private Tours of the Cotswolds are enjoyable and an affordable way for small groups to explore the Cotswolds and beyond. If you are looking for walking opportunities in the countryside, you can sign up for the Cotswolds Trails and Villages Tour to see amazing scenic landscapes and explore the picturesque rivers and stone bridges.

Go Cotswolds is ranked #2 out of 29 tours in Stratford-upon-Avon for its unique packages and excellent customer service. With over 843 reviews on Trip Advisor , the company is also rated with a 5-star ranking. When you book a New England tour with them, be confident that they will execute it competently. See what past tourists had to say:

“We managed to visit the beautiful parts of the Cotswold, and Tom was very kind and helpful. The minibus was very clean. We truly enjoyed this lovely trip! Thank you so much 😊 .” – Uyeng Ng: Aug 2021

Cambridge Tour Guides

Company’s location and type: Cambridge, Local Tour Operator Year of establishment: 2011 Awards, Certification: Ranked #2 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2020 Reviews: 801 Reviews on Trip Advisor 99% rated great and exceptional

Cambridge Tour Guides is an award-winning and one of the best tour companies England operated by Chris Skilton and Tony Rodgers. Established in 2011, the company is a registered Cambridge Green Badge Guides, passionate about curating fun and informative new England tour itinerary. All the Green Badge Guides have intensive training and are accredited to take tourists inside the Cambridge colleges. Besides, Cambridge Tour Guides are multilingual and can deliver tours in many languages, including Spanish, German, French, and Italian.

Cambridge Tour Guides has a long list of unique new England tour packages that are fun and enjoyable to join.

Cambridge is a city with many medieval buildings, it is no surprise to the many ghost stories floating around. On the Cambridge Ghost Tour , the guides will show you places where unexplained and mysterious occurrences are known to have taken place. The Cambridge Places and People Tour includes famous colleges, such as King’s, Trinity, the Old Cavendish Laboratory, and Eagle Pub. No one believes in ghosts.  However,  A Shared Ghost Tour will make you change your mind with medieval artwork and mysterious occurrences.

This tour operator’s New England reviews show that Cambridge Tour Guides’ client satisfaction rate is outstanding and excellent. With nearly 801 reviews made on Trip Advisor , 99% of the company’s past guests rated the operator as very good and exceptional. See the positive review below:

“Tony gave us an excellent tour and was happy to answer any questions. He is very knowledgeable. Would highly recommend.” – Bennett S: Aug 29

The London Bicycle Tour Company

Company’s location and type: London, Local Tour Operator Year of establishment: 1991 Awards, Certification: Ranked #6 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2020 Reviews: 2,347 Reviews on Trip Advisor 99% rated great and exceptional

The London Bicycle Tour Company is the original bike tour England established in 1991. With over 20 years of experience, the company’s tours are safe and suitable for all travelers, including families, couples, and individuals. They specialize in London’s historically rich quarter bike tours, night tours, and day trips in multiple languages, including English, German, and Spanish. For the best experience in England, book a vacation with the London Bicycle Tour Company and find all the hidden gems while learning centuries of history.

With years of experience, the London Bicycle Tour Company offers multiple New England biking tours that are fun and diverse.

The Classic Gold Tour is the company’s premium ride to central London through to Buckingham Palace in the morning to see the Changing of the Guard. After a busy day, wind down with a Private Sunset Tour , perfect for London newcomers and the ultimate sightseeing experience. You can also join the London City Walking Tour covering iconic and historical sites such as Gherkin and the Tower Bridge.

London Bicycle Tour Company is ranked #7 of 446 tour companies in England and with 2,348 amazing reviews on Trip Advisor . This award-winning company has also been given a 5-star rating for its exemplary service.

“Jordi gave my family a 4-hour extensive bike tour of London. He even did it all in French. Very entertaining. We highly recommend The London Bicycle Tour Company.” – Muriel: Aug 2021

Cambridge Alumni Tours

Company’s location and type: Cambridge, Local Tour Operator Awards, Certification: Ranked #5 Trip Advisor Reviews: 1,463 Reviews on Trip Advisor

Cambridge Alumni Tours is a student-guided independent England tour company based in King’s Parade and Oxford. The company offers private or shared walking tours around the Cambridge University Colleges suitable for prospective students, school groups, corporate groups, and tourists. The trips are conducted by Cambridge alumnus, local professional guides, or current students who will help you explore the authentic insights of the student community at the University of Cambridge.

By joining Cambridge Alumni Tours, you will experience the best England vacation tour packages that are affordable and fun.

If you are a group of prospective students, join in the Bespoke Group Tours to Oxbridge for application workshops and inspirational talks. The exclusive Private Cambridge Punting Tour is perfect for family, prospective students, or even hen parties. On this tour, you will cruise the eight most famous colleges and the nine iconic bridges. This Private Walking Tour of Oxford is great for prospective students looking to understand the application process and with questions about student life.

Cambridge Alumni Tours has many outstanding great reviews from past tourists because of their unique England tour.  The company is ranked #5 of 38 outdoor activities in Cambridge, with almost 1,500 positive Trip Advisor feedback. Below read what a past tourist had to say about the services of this tour company in England:

Very good. Well organized. The guide (joseph) was nice and responded to any questions. Highly recommended. Best way to spend your day at Cambridge. – Rania Z: Aug 2021

The English Bus

Company’s location and type: Cambridge, Local Tour Operator Awards, Certification: Ranked #13 Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2019 Reviews: 2,678 Reviews on Trip Advisor

The English Bus is a highly rated and professional small family-run business based in London specializing in transportation services on the off-beaten track following scenic routes that the big buses can’s access. With years of experience, this award-winning and one of the top tour companies in England has raving reviews as a travel expert with unique adventures.  The company’s tour guides are incredibly passionate, articulate, and knowledgeable, with expertise to craft excellent tailor-made excursions.  

In England, The English Bus offers a healthy mix of tours of New England.

The Oxford Tour takes you to the home of the world’s most famous university dating back over 900 years. If you want to see the quintessential English countryside, join the Cotswold Tour and enjoy stone cottages and the babbling brooks with green landscapes. Make learning exciting by enrolling in a School Group Tour with a professional guide who will also be your motivational speaker.

The English Bus offers professionally guided private and group tours around England. For this, they have been highly rated by past clients for excellent customer service and outstanding tour packages. On Trip Advisor , this tour operator New England, is ranked #13 out of 1,597 tours in London with nearly 2,678 reviews. Read this a lovely review by a former tourist:

“Andrew is a very engaging, entertaining, and knowledgeable tour guide. There was never a dull moment while on the tour. He even gave us great tips and advice on where to go and what to do on our UK holiday! We even had a treat on the bus!” – Ellenbmd: Mar 2020

This article has clearly analyzed the top 10 tour operators in England. If you are planning on taking a trip to England, then you should think about using this exemplary and contact the companies that you feel best like will suit all your interest and budget.

We would love to hear about your tour to England, or if you have already been to England with one of these tour providers, please get in touch and tell us about your experience!

Honorable Mentions

• Liquid History Tours , Trip Advisor – 2775 Reviews
• London Walks , Trip Advisor – 2490 Reviews
• Shoreditch Street Art Tours , Trip Advisor – 2129 reviews
•   Tigers Thames , Trip Advisor – 425 Reviews
• Tour for Muggles , Trip advisor – 3700 Reviews
• Fun London Tours , Trip Advisor – 2129 reviews
• Brit Movie Tours , Trip Advisor – 1575 Reviews
• Evan Evans Tours , Trip Advisor – 9078 reviews
• Premium Tours – London Tours , Trip Advisor – 6456 Reviews
• Expat Explore Travel , Trip Advisor – 315 Reviews

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We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

In touch with quaint country lifestyles and booming metropolitan hubs, England contains gems to uncover for all travelers. With over 5,600 trips planned by our travel specialists to date, Zicasso is confident that you will have an itinerary designed perfectly to your preferences. Below are sample itineraries that will demonstrate what is possible from the mystical Stonehenge and proper tea ceremonies, to the cutting edge of western culture. To get more information on this engaging country, explore our guide and find helpful tips and inspiration to jumpstart your imagination.

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7  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,180

From Abbey Road to London Bridge, the capital of the United Kingdom enjoys a reputation that is much larger than the city itself, and this seven-day tour of London has been designed to help you reconcile this reputation with the reality of your visit. The distinct thrill of this reality will be revealed through day trips to Oxford and Cambridge, vintage trains rides, and an exploration of the headquarters of British soccer fandom.

From afternoon tea to “God Save the Queen,” England is a place unlike any other, filled with adventures waiting to be had and memories waiting to be made. And with private tours of the country’s best sights, from Westminster Abbey to the ruins of Stonehenge, you can be sure that this first visit to England will not be your last.

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,675

Southern England has long enjoyed a special hold on the imagination and attention of travelers, and this 10-day tour along England's southern coast has been handcrafted for those searching for great food, excellent views, and abundant history. This tour allows you to fully immerse yourself in the culture and heritage of England, making sure that no stone goes unturned by the time of your departure.

13  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,910

England's World Heritage Sites evocatively represent the eras of world history: Jurassic fossils, neolithic mystery, Roman frontiers and spas, medieval pioneers, industrial innovators, and an inspiring list of architectural styles. This unique England UNESCO World Heritage tour reveals ­­16 UNESCO sites in 13 days, capturing the eclectic blend of heritage. Every day brings another inspiring monument from centuries past, revealing both historical England and the country's influence on the world.

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $8,465

Epic history, grand landscapes, and charming villages will take center stage during your 14-day luxury tour of England and Scotland. Castles, palaces, mysteries, and luxuries will bring to light the allure of iconic sites while uncovering hidden character. Designed for 2022, this sample itinerary ranges from the White Cliffs of Dover to Edinburgh’s cobbled lanes, charming thatched-roof cottages, and stunning palaces, each brimming with timeless drama and endless prestige.

11  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,000

Indulge in the complexity and contradictions of the English wilderness during this 11-day luxury tour of England. Discover remote and rugged islands where puffins nest and wind around the iconic architecture of Norman castles and Gothic cathedrals. From monastic foundations and remote coastal trails to dramatic Roman walls and charming villages lost in time, you will have an immersive journey into England's inspiring and captivating wilds.

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12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,455

England's romantic landscape is a sensual patchwork of new experiences and iconic traditions. These 12 days helps reveal it all, enveloping you in a world of spa cities, opulent hotels, champagne picnics, and sublime architectural styles. From glamorous palaces to cute cottages, serene lakes to decadent cityscapes, this romantic tour of England loops around the finest boutique destinations in the country, offering a journey that's handcrafted just for two.

9  Day Custom Tour

From the cozy charm of a Cotswolds farmhouse in the wintery countryside to the scarf-wearing and pint-hoisting hospitality of London, this 9-day tour of England at Christmas time will present you with an unforgettable experience of the holidays. England is an excellent choice of destinations no matter what time of year you visit, but nothing quite matches seeing this historic land during the peak of the holiday season.

Dynamic pricing from  $4,090

Castles evocatively dapple the English and Scottish landscape. And with this handcrafted itinerary, you don't merely visit them. You spend each night immersed in their ancient splendor, basking in the luxury of their royal past. On this England and Scotland castle tour, you sleep in six different castles; each handpicked to reflect a different architectural era and opulent style. On the way, you stop at an eclectic mix of England's premier attractions and connect the centuries with effortless ease.

Dynamic pricing from  $4,545

So much of England feels frozen in time, charming destinations revealing the postcard-perfect images of eclectic eras. This luxury 10-day England tour itinerary connects these jigsaw pieces of the past, immersing you in everything from Neolithic wonder to medieval charm, Georgian beauty to Roman remains. Along the way, there's a complete sense of England's iconic countryside, plus glamorous stops that discover regal opulence. Seductive and sublime, this is a tour of England's untouched history.

Afternoon tea in luxurious hotels, spas surrounded by Georgian architecture, palaces delighting in their grandeur; it can only be England and its famous indulgence. This 10-day luxury England tour takes you on a journey from royal history to contemporary luxury, boutique dining to rural English excess. At every turn, you can't help thinking that this is England, a country bathed in traditions and a place where opulence and heritage always come hand in hand.

Your custom-tailored highlights of Britain and Ireland tour takes you on a journey through the British Isles and Ireland, showing you their interconnected, yet diverse histories, from Celtic mythology to Roman ruins, English kings to treasured scenery. The sunlight shines through stories etched into the colorful stained glass windows decorating York’s historic abbey. An imposing castle stands atop a cliff overlooking Edinburgh. Images of the Titanic fill the harbor at Belfast. Whispered histories continue to drift through the marbled halls of Trinity College in Dublin. The historic centers of Cardiff embrace the modern architecture of the city’s edges.

Dynamic pricing from  $4,875

Celebrating some of the world's greatest literary figures, this unique tour takes you on a journey from Shakespeare to Samuel Johnson, Tolkien to Oscar Wilde. Discover Dickens' London and Joyce's Dublin, explore the inspiration for seminal works and breathe in the hallowed scent of ancient libraries. You'll visit the locations that have captured the imagination of millions around the world. Except you're not reading. You're seeing them in private on exclusive behind-the-scenes tours.

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Dynamic pricing from  $4,055

Southern England and Northern France are covered in the poignant reminders of the two world wars, from historic beaches to shell-battered bunkers, resonant memorials to legendary aircraft. On this guided itinerary, an expert historian unveils all the history, taking you on an illuminating journey that's away from any tourist trail. Part tribute and part celebration, these ten days uncover the legends from the Allied story and the locations that will always honor their memory.

Dynamic pricing from  $4,648

Kings and queens, battles and artwork, forests and mountains, museums and pubs all fill the histories of England and Scotland. Imagine the cobblestone streets of London, the central dramatic edifice of Edinburgh Castle, and the thatched roof cottages of Grasmere village. Roman walls outline the ancient city center of Chester, and Hadrian’s Wall demarcated the Roman territories from the north. Your England and Scotland heritage tour is hand tailored to show you the proud heritage of these grand countries, taking you beyond the House of Parliament and the Scottish Crown Jewels, into the majesty of English countryside all the way to the Scottish Highlands.

Dynamic pricing from  $6,365

England captivates with its classical tones, Shakespeare's plays echoing from outdoor theaters and opera houses revealing the world's finest. This handcrafted England tour of operas and theaters takes you behind the scenes to private recitals, hidden history, and sublime performances. With music as the focus, you tour the iconic destinations of Southern England, enjoying spectacular evenings in eternal venues such as the Royal Opera House. Resonant and atmospheric, every day is a live highlight.

8  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,635

Shakespearean sonnets whisper historical romances along the banks of the River Thames. Treasured artwork spans the lengths of neoclassical buildings. Charming canals wind through enchanting cities, where locals glide along the water on shallow boats. Marketplaces brim with vintage wares and artisan cheeses. Your custom London and countryside of England tour showcases the splendor of historic architecture and mystical landscapes, noble palaces and Roman ruins. Visit enchanting traditional country villages and captivating urban neighborhoods offering iconic glimpses into the everyday life of past and present England.

The world of Lord and Lady Grantham will burst into life during your handcrafted tour of England, which is inspired by the upcoming Downton Abbey film and the series most beloved characters. Experience the grandeur and the elegance of the British aristocracy of the 1920s as the Granthams prepared to welcome the King and Queen to Downton in the 1927 setting of the film. Travel through London to follow the life of the royals, and then step into etiquette lessons in connection to the strict guidelines of Mr. Carson before discovering recipes in which Mrs. Patmore would delight. From savoring your time at Highclere Castle to relishing the real-life tiara of Princess Mary’s that is on display at Harewood House, your custom-tailored tour drops you into the world of 1927 England as you explore the film locations of Downton Abbey .

Brush off the tuxedo, travel at high speeds, and journey into the 007 world of London. James Bond travels in style, and this James Bond tour of England celebrates his glamorous adventures: drive an Aston Martin, sip martinis in iconic hotels, tick off the movie filming locations, and reenact the epic duels of England's greatest movie series. From the Goldfinger ballroom to the casino in Dr. No , this is not merely a sightseeing experience: it's a chance to live it up in London, James Bond style.

Southern England has long presented visitors with a stunning array of historical sights and UNESCO-listed attractions, but this 12-day tour of Devon, Cornwall, Kent, and Sussex will present each destination and its enticing gastronomic scene. As you savor the foodie tours, cheese tastings, and wine samplings of this vacation, you will experience a side of English cuisine that is missed by those that never venture away from the traditional pub fare.

Tailored for those seeking to discover the best of London and Paris, this 8-day tour highlights the reasons these destinations must be visited. Uncover the origins of Rome in London in addition to visiting its royal palaces and the English countryside. Savor authentic French cuisine and make memories within France's fabled heritage sites of Versailles and the Eiffel Tower.

Dynamic pricing from  $5,065

Family time is as precious as gold, which makes custom family vacations priceless. Your custom tailored family vacation to England, France, and Italy offers you marvels of which the entire family will enjoy, from the storybook villages of the French countryside to the trotting horses along the lush plateau of the Swiss Alps. Castles overlook the historic waterways in London. Bakeries and boutique shops line the wide avenues of Paris. Renaissance statues decorate the public squares of Florence. Hike along the Mediterranean coast and create everlasting memories that the entire family will treasure for a lifetime.

Picture the perfect Christmas scene: the air filled with the strains of your favorite carol and the silent dance of falling snow, the smells of hot cider and apple pie rising to your nose, the undeniable feeling of lightness and joy that heralds the coming of the season. If these are your Christmas memories, then this is your Christmas in England vacation.

22  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $10,577

If the United Kingdom was a book, those who visit London only read a page, and this 22-day tour of England, Scotland, and Wales is designed to give you an up-close and personal look at each land you visit. This vacation ensures that you will enjoy the entire story of this magnificent country. At each destination, a blend of leisure and active exploration will provide you with a balanced and well-rounded experience.

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Popular England Travel Styles

Summer is stunning in England but is also the most popular time for tourists. To avoid the crowds and enjoy comfortable weather outside of summer, we recommend you visit in spring, from March to May, or in fall, from September to November.

Spring brings warmer days and less rain, perfect for sightseeing, exploring the English countryside, and visiting botanical gardens or historic castles. The weather is cooler in the fall, and there are fewer tourists. During this time, fall foliage covers the Lake District and the Cotswolds, and food festivals showcase seasonal cuisine.

While spring and fall are excellent times, England is a year-round destination. Summer and winter are appealing for their  reasons, whether you wish to enjoy summer’s long daylight hours or visit winter’s Christmas markets.

Regardless of when you can visit, we can help you find the right month for your trip in our guide on the best time to visit England .

From cosmopolitan cities to medieval villages in the countryside and breathtaking natural landscapes, England offers no shortage of exceptional places to explore. Here are a few of our best places to visit in England :

• London : Visit world-famous museums, explore vibrant neighborhoods, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and see landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace on a trip to the capital.
• The Cotswolds: Home to golden-stone villages dotting the countryside, the Cotswold is the epitome of a traditional English getaway. You can stroll through picturesque towns, wander immaculate gardens, and shop for artisanal trinkets and treats.
• Lake District: England’s Lake District is a stunning national park famous for its winding lakes, surrounded by lush hills, and home to traditional towns. You can enjoy scenic walks, kayaking, and boating to see the region from all vantage points.

Like a storybook come to life, England’s charms wait behind every corner to reveal the country’s rich cultural tapestry, sweeping natural beauty, and iconic sites.

With ancient castles, quaint villages, lively cities, and stunning landscapes begging to be explored, a trip to England will dazzle when experiencing these top things to do :

• Visit famous monuments and landmarks, from Stonehenge to Big Ben
• Explore England’s royal castles and palaces, from Windsor Castle to Buckingham Palace
• Wander picturesque countryside villages and towns
• Hike, cycle, or kayak in the countryside to appreciate the natural beauty
• Enjoy the finest British cuisine on gourmet food tours
• Learn about England’s influence on popular culture, from King’s Cross to Abbey Road

London’s cosmopolitan energy is enticing as history and modernity collide. From wandering the cultural boroughs to eating at restaurants owned by celebrity chefs, the following top things to do in London are excellent experiences for your tour:

• Enjoy views of Big Ben and tour the Houses of Parliament
• Walk across Westminster Bridge and visit Westminster Abbey
• Stroll along the Mall ceremonial route to see Buckingham Palace and the Changing of the Guard
• Visit museums detailing Britain’s history, from the Churchill War Rooms to the British Museum
• Browse iconic artwork in London’s famous museums, from the Tate Modern to the National Gallery
• See the city of London from above when taking a ride on the London Eye

For more ideas on how to experience the city on a trip with your kids, explore our guide on the top things to do in London with family .

Outside of London, there are many attractions, landmarks, and historical sites to see on your tours of England. Here are some of our favorites that we recommend you plan to visit:

• Stonehenge, Wiltshire
• The Roman Baths, Bath
• York Minster, York
• Windsor Castle, Berkshire
• Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

England is famous for many reasons, from the Royal Family to its historical castles and palaces and contributions to art and literature to its pop cultural influences. On a trip to England, you can view the residence of the Royal Family and explore the stately ancient fortresses, admire the artworks in famous museums, and learn about the country’s musical influence.

With thousands of castles dotted throughout England, you will have plenty of options from one city or region to the next should you wish to tour any famous and historic palaces and fortresses.

Here are some of our top recommendations for castle tours in England:

• The Tower of London, London
• Dover Castle, Dover
• Leeds Castle, Kent

With options for short stays or longer trips, our best England itineraries combine experiences in popular cities with unique possibilities for a memorable experience. Below, we share three England tour packages designed by our travel specialists, which you can customize to suit your preferences:

• Our Best of Legendary London One-Week Tour lets you experience the highlights of England’s capital city, from Abbey Road to London Bridge, the National Gallery to the Thames River.
• Our Best of England Tour takes you from London to Stonehenge, across the English countryside to Bath, and beyond to experience the country’s cultural and historical charms.

Our Simply Splendid Southern England Tour will whisk you away to the southern English countryside for a unique and immersive experience in and around the breathtaking landscapes.

Explore more information in our frequently asked questions about planning a trip to England and inspiration in our England travel guide .

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Great British Journeys

Explore all corners of britain on one of our boutique small groups tours, self drive scotland, experience the glistening lochs, dramatic mountain ranges and barren moorlands of scotland, visit cornwall in 2024, steeped in myth and legend, cornwall is one of our popular destinations for 2024, specialist rail tours, relax on one of our independent rail tours of britain, specialists in tailor-made vacations and tours of britain.

adeo Travel is a Britain-based travel company, specializing in providing customized vacations and small-group tours of Britain for overseas visitors coming to England , Scotland and Wales .

As locals, we have first-hand experience of your destination and an intimate knowledge of everything we offer, ensuring we are always able to provide you with the very best, expert advice for your trip. Based here in the UK we trawl the country and hand-pick the very best local travel providers and most characterful accommodations for your trip; so whether it’s an independent rail tour of England , a driving tour to the Scottish Highlands and Islands or a small-group tour of Wales ,  you’re guaranteed a unique and authentic experience of our beautiful country. We look forward to welcoming you to Britain!

To begin planning your dream Britain vacation, contact one of our friendly Britain Vacation Experts today for a no-obligation vacation proposal!

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Read ten good reasons why you should book your Britain vacation with adeo Travel

We offer a range of tours exploring every corner of Britain. Our tour types include both escorted tours and self-guided itineraries for England, Scotland and Wales. All of our tours offer the piece of mind of a fully-packaged itinerary with many extra services built in as standard. Our self-guided itineraries are perfect for the more independent traveller and are all fully customizable.

Self Drive Tours

Small group tours.

Read more about our boutique small group tours of England, Scotland Wales, including our signature Regional and Combination tours of Britain.

We love to share our experiences of travelling around Britain. Our destination guides provide a snapshot of travelling the four corners of Britain: through the diverse landscape of England, the cultural heritage of Wales and the stark landscape of Scotland. Explore our tours by destination and delve deeper into our beautiful country.

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North of england, south west of england, heart of england, east of england, south east wales, south west wales, north wales, central scotland, scottish borders, scottish highlands, scottish islands, get in touch with one of our britain travel experts.

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A small group tour of England’s West Country – Treasures of The West Country takes you on a leisurely journey through the charming counties of Somerset, Devon and Cornwall, a region of unique Celtic heritage and beguiling natural landscapes. Arriving in Devon by rail, we’ll explore the barren uplands of Dartmoor and the dramatic coastlines of Cornwall before returning to the elegant Georgian city of Bath. Along the way we’ll sample local specialities, unearth Arthurian Legends, discover cliff-top castles, hear smugglers tales and explore rambling fishing villages! The South West of England’s many treasures are just waiting to be discovered.

A small group tour of England – England’s Rustic Charm is a leisurely tour exploring the highlights of central and Northern England. Departing the medieval university city of Oxford, you’ll enjoy a journey through the rolling hills and honey-coloured villages of the Cotswolds to the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of the English Lake District and Yorkshire Dales. Along the way we’ll experience the dreaming spires of Oxford, the Tudor streets of Chester and spend two nights in the charming city of York. A leisurely journey that will leave you charmed by England’s unique heritage and rustic landscapes.

A small group tour of Wales – Discover beguiling natural landscapes and an utterly unique heritage on this journey through the enchanting nation of Wales. Following a stay in the cosmopolitan capital of Cardiff, we’ll explore the dramatic coastlines of Pembrokeshire, the towering mountains of the Snowdonia National Park and the rugged uplands of the Brecon Beacons. Along the way we’ll encounter medieval market towns, secluded villages and colossal castles. Wales is an undiscovered gem that will leave you enchanted by its natural beauty and ancient Celtic heritage.

One of our best Scotland Driving Tours – Enjoy an enchanting drive through Scotland’s majestic Highlands on this charming and leisurely-paced itinerary. From the rustic shores of Loch Lomond, you’ll journey over the sea to the Isle of Skye and onward through the heather-strewn hills and glens of the Highlands and the heart of Scotland. Not to mention, experiencing the elegant city of Edinburgh. Your evenings throughout will be spent in some of our superior, hand-picked hotels boasting the best in Scottish hospitality, cuisine and accommodation.

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• Specialists in providing vacations to Britain
• Based in Britain with first-hand experience of our nation
• Independent advice and guidance built around your needs

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What our guests say

Scotland as you’d like to see it, … luke arranged this trip based on our vague ideas of where we wanted to go and turned it into a spectacular reality. responsive, attentive to detail, friendly. always first rate. adeo working with heart of scotland tours created a seamless trip. can’t recommend highly enough.

We had an amazing experience

My family and i wanted to explore and experience some of the best of wales, northern england, and scotland on our 3 week trip. adeo travel found our lodging, a rental car, and organized our train transportation, allowing us to concentrate on having a great time and not worrying about logistics., featured tours of britain.

All of our itineraries have been lovingly developed over many years, working closely with our guests and suppliers. However, below are some of our standout trips whether it be for their lasting popularity, unique touring features and destinations or exciting enhancements for the upcoming season. Browse away and contact us for more information or to book.

A Driving Tour of Wales - Immerse yourself in breath-taking natural scenery and an ancient Celtic culture as you explore the diminutive nation of Wales. A land of contrasts from the cosmopolitan capital city of Cardiff to the tiny cathedral village of St Davids and from the industrial valleys of the South to the majestic snow-capped peaks Snowdonia in North Wales you’ll see it all on this journey of discovery. Along the way see untouched coastlines, medieval fortresses, meandering rivers, ancient abbeys and a host of traditional towns and villages.

A small group tour of Scotland and Wales – explore the outer reaches of Britain from the glorious landscapes of the Pembrokeshire coast to the wilds of the Scottish Highlands. Two of Britain’s lesser explored regions, Wales and Scotland offer a perfect marriage boasting strikingly unique cultures but sharing a common appeal in their undiscovered natural beauty. Your journey will take you from the nations’ capital cities in Cardiff and Edinburgh to the mountains of Snowdonia and the remote seascapes of the Isle of Skye. Along the way you’ll ride steam trains, wander the flagstones of ancient castles and sample local fare.

A Great Britain driving tour - experience all that is great about Britain on the ultimate tour of England, Scotland and Wales. See it all, from the thriving capital cities of London, Edinburgh and Cardiff to the remote Scottish Highlands, tranquil Lake District and spectacular Snowdonia National Park. Along the way you’ll experience diverse cultures and histories and see world-famous landmarks including Stonehenge, the Roman Baths, Cardiff Castle, the Cotswolds, Hadrian’s Wall, Loch Ness and Edinburgh Castle.

An England Rail Tour – Make use of England’s extensive and far-reaching rail network to explore the corners of this great nation.  From the capital city of London your journey will take you to England’s farthest reaches in on the Cornish Peninsula and the Lake District. Along the way you’ll visit a host of heritage cites including Plymouth, Bath, Oxford, Chester and York. You’ll take in scenic rail rides along the Cornish Coast and over the Yorkshire Dales and enjoy small-group day tours to reach those less accessible spots including Stonehenge, the Cotswolds and the dramatic scenery of the Lake District.

A driving tour of Scotland's Far North - Journey through the most dramatic and breath-taking scenery Britain has to offer. You may have heard of the Scottish Highlands, but you may not have heard of the North Coast 500 – Scotland’s answer to Route 66! Following the far northern Scottish coast for 500 miles to the farthest tip of Britain, you naturally pass through the most remote areas, unchanged since Vikings stormed the shores. The untouched landscapes bring with them spectacular vistas and a wealth of wildlife such as stags, puffins, seals and porpoise. This comprehensive tour packs together all of the best parts of Scotland (the famous and the unheard of) with some unique experiences to make your journey; the journey.

A Scottish Isles Driving Tour – Take the road to the isles along Scotland’s stunning West Coast to explore the beautiful inner Hebridean islands of Skye and Mull.  On these secluded Scottish islands, you’ll enjoy spectacular natural beauty - pass dramatic mountain ranges, see sparkling lochs and experience an abundance of wildlife on land and in the coastal waters. Skye and Mull are also peppered with unique archaeological features and intriguing historic sites just waiting to be explored.

Unique Experiences of Britain

Ever wanted to stay in a Castle? Or perhaps sample the peppery taste of Haggis? Our tour packages have been developed to explore the quirky and eccentric culture of Britain and provide a unique insight into our country's heritage and ancestry.

Castle & Manor Tours

Devon and cornwall, scottish island tours, tour directory.

Explore Wales by Rail

Scotland’s West Coast by Rail

North of England by Rail

Whistle Stop Britain

Rails of Wales

Heart of Scotland by Rail

Explore Scotland by Rail

Heart of England by Rail

England Express Rail Tour

Explore England by Rail

Rails of England and Wales

England and Scotland by Rail

Great Britain by Rail

Superlative Scotland

Seven Isle Spectacular – Scotland’s Inner Hebrides

Scotland’s Whisky and Wilderness – NC500 & The Highlands

Orkney and the NC500 – Scotland’s Far North

Road to the Isles – Mull and Skye

Classic Britain

Mountains & Fortresses – North Wales

Castles and Coastline – South Wales

Castles and Manors of Wales

Wales Explorer

Simply Scotland

Skye and the Highlands

Castles and Manors of Scotland

Hebridean Highlights – Isles of Skye, Lewis and Harris

Scotland Explorer

Cotswolds and Historic Cities

Lakes and Dales – England’s North

Icons of England

Castles and Manors of England

Road to Cornwall

England Explorer

British Journey

English and Welsh Experience

Castles and Manors of Britain

English and Scottish Experience

The Great Britain Tour

Treasures of Wales and Scotland 2024

A Celtic Journey – Wales and Cornwall 2024

England Coast and Country 2024

The Great British Journey 2024

Essence of England and Wales 2024

Beauty of Britain 2024

South Coast to Skye – England and Scotland 2024

England’s Rustic Charm 2024

Enchanting Wales 2024

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"I love surprising our guests with London's incredible diversity. You can go from admiring the dazzling architecture and shopping at the trendy boutiques, to watching grand royal ceremonies and meeting the locals in a 16th-century pub - all in one day."

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Admire the Big Ben and the imposing Houses of Parliament

As you touch down in London, you’ll surely be searching the skyline for Big Ben, the iconic Clock Tower at the Palace of Westminster, or the Houses of Parliament. You'll have the chance to admire these impressive buildings in the company of your London travel guide and listen for the famous chimes that have been ringing out across London since 1859.

Learn about the history of the Buckingham Palace

You’re in for a royal time at Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the British royal family since 1837. It’s one of the most iconic places to visit in London, and we’ll take you to marvel at this magnificent palace, learn about it’s centuries-old history, and perhaps even wave to the King if he’s home.

Ramble through London's picturesque Royal Parks

If you love a lush park or garden, you’re in for a real treat in London, with over 5,000 acres of gorgeous green space across the eight Royal Parks. Spend your days strolling, cycling, or simply relaxing in these beautiful parks, from the famous Hyde Park to the ornate Kensington Gardens.

Go on a shopping spree around Carnaby Street and Soho

We’ll dive into London’s West End with a tour around the buzzing borough of Soho, where you’ll get a taste of London’s diverse culture, history and cuisine. Wander down the iconic Oxford and Regent Streets and of course, Carnaby Street, the city’s shopping mecca, and the epicentre of the Swinging Sixties in London.

See the stately Changing of the Guard

You’ll watch history come alive when we take you to Buckingham Palace to witness the spectacular Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s a full-on display of royal pomp and military tradition, with the soldiers of The Queen’s Guard in bearskin hats and bright-red uniforms marching down the Mall, and you can’t miss it on your London trip.

Our top 5 things to do in London

With an overwhelming number of iconic London attractions to explore, where to begin? When you travel London with Trafalgar, we’ll show you all the very best of the city.

Tate Modern

As one of the world’s largest museums of modern and contemporary art, the Tate Modern is an unmissable London attraction. You’ll find everything here from vibrant artworks to films and performance art, and you can’t miss the giant Turbine Hall, a five-storey tall room used to display extraordinarily large art installations.

Museum of London

If you’ve ever wanted to learn the history of this great city, the Museum of London is the place to go. It’s the world’s largest urban history collection and you’ll learn all about England’s capital from prehistoric to modern times. The museum even overlooks the remains of the Roman city wall on the edge of the oldest area of London.

Science Museum

You could spend hours exploring the treasures of the Science Museum including the world’s greatest innovations, ranging from Puffing Billy, the oldest surviving steam locomotive, to the first jet engine, to the Apollo 10 command module. You’ll travel from the Industrial Revolution all the way into the future in this amazing playground of the mind.

Best museums in London

London’s museums are among the world’s best, with millions of visitors each year to marvel at the incredible history, art and design. What treasures will you find when we take you to these great institutions?

Cottage Pie

It doesn’t get more comforting than a traditional cottage pie, and you’ve got to order this English staple at least once in a classic London pub. It’s been a beloved dish for generations, originating as a clever way to make a hearty meal from leftovers like beef, peas and carrots, topped with creamy mashed potatoes.

Cornish Pasty

Make a beeline for the nearest bakery in London and discover these little pockets of deliciousness. They’re made from shortcrust pastry stuffed with beef, potatoes, swede, onion and egg, then baked until golden, forming a rich gravy inside its own tasty casing. You’re sure to go back for more than just one Cornish pasty!

Named after the prestigious boys’ boarding school of the same name, this simple yet delicious treat is made from a refreshing blend of cream, strawberries and crushed meringue. It’s a classic British dessert and you can even try it at The National Café at the National Gallery, one of the best art museums in London.

Best food in London

Our London tours are big on foodie experiences, and you can go from a traditional English afternoon tea, to a delicious culinary adventure through Chinatown in the West End.

What to pack for London

Waterproof coat

London is known for its drizzles and rain showers, so pack a waterproof coat or travel-sized umbrella to keep your dry and warm on your London trip.

Comfortable shoes

This city was made for walking, and with so many incredible monuments, museums, parks and markets to explore, you’ll need a sturdy pair of shoes to get you around London.

Camera & extra SD cards

From Big Ben to the London Eye, your camera is sure to get a good workout. Pack some extra SD cards so you never run out of space to capture all of London’s pinch-me moments.

Waterproof day bag

Keep your hands free on your London tours with a waterproof day pack, perfect for holding all your shopping and souvenirs and keeping them dry in wet weather.

Warm layers

London is known for experiencing four seasons in one day, so it’s best to wear layers that will keep you warm in the cold weather and cool when the sun comes out.

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What are you looking for, see things differently, welcome to britain.

Discover inventive new experiences and captivating stories in 2024, brought together with a dose of British flair. From exploring film settings and pioneering cultural spaces to countryside trails and relaxing wellness retreats, it’s all happening on our shores and you’re invited!

Join immersive exhibitions as the National Gallery celebrates a landmark anniversary or get a taste for chocolate as Birmingham’s Cadbury World also marks its 200th birthday. Venture off the beaten track for new coastal adventures, exploring new trails and walking routes, or take in sporting action as the world’s best compete in everything from athletics to the Premier League.

Whether it’s getting a feel for our vibrant cultural cities, embarking on a coastal adventure, or discovering locations made famous by film and TV, it’s time to experience Britain differently.

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Explore different

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Spilling the tea on GB

We’re spilling the tea on the hottest experiences – and it’s not just a good old brew that we’re mad about.

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Key sporting moments in 2024

Grab your tickets, or a spot by a screen, and join the atmosphere of brilliant British sport.

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Day trips from London

Britain packs a punch when it comes to the eclectic range of destinations within close proximity to London.

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How to see Britain differently

From gastronomic adventures to eco-friendly stays, there’s always more to explore on Britain’s shores.

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Providing you with inspirational activities and experiences, from those in the know.

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An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

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From palaces to cobbled alleys, and a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

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World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

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A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

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From The Beatles to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with seriously cool credentials.

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Cool creative Bristol is a must-see for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

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Step into a land of castles, world-renowned rugby and a whole host of myths and legends.

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Pushing the boundaries of art and culture and a heart that beats through its people.

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An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures.

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Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

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A hotbed for shopping and the arts, you’ll find lots to explore in Leeds.

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Packed with lively pubs, an eclectic food scene and a myriad of immersive experiences.

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Your trip to england is just around the corner.

Discover the land of Big Ben, Banksy and bangers and mash. From its bustling cities to its blooming beautiful gardens, it doesn’t disappoint.

Discover Great Britain’s northern reaches

Imagine a country where ancient castles guard mysterious lochs and emerald glens, and where the local spirit is as warm as the welcome.

Discover a land of adventure and mythical creatures

Delve into a world of dragons, renowned choirs, championship rugby, and some of the most spellbinding scenery Britain has to offer.

Your trip to Northern Ireland has never looked more magical

Get swept up in a world of ancient myths and modern-day legends, from the Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones to the vibrant buzz of Belfast.

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Best UK Tours 2023/4 – Reviews & Itinerary Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 13, 2023

Taking one of the many UK tours on offer can be a great way to explore the United Kingdom if this is one of your first trips in the UK. There are several advantages to taking a guided or self-guided tour for part (or all) of your time visiting the UK. 

Guided tours of England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland allow you to minimise the travel hassle as you’ll have a company to do most of the planning for you, and many of the United Kingdom tour package options we’ve included here allow you to see far more of the UK in a shorter period of time than it would be possible to do on your own. 

Guided tours of UK can also offer good value for money, and there are some great UK trip packages on offer. Unfortunately, choosing which UK tour to take is not so easy – as the choice of tours in UK can be really overwhelming. There are just so many, so where to start looking? 

In this guide I’ll walk you through some of my favourite UK tour itineraries and how to choose the best UK tour that’s right for you. Whether you’re looking for England tours, cheap UK tours, all-inclusive England vacation packages, or the best coach holidays UK has, you’ll find plenty of options in this blog. I’ve also included some of my recommended cycling and walking holidays UK has for those looking for an active break. 

Let’s get started with the best Great Britain tours 2023/4 options on offer! 

Best Tours of Great Britain – Comparison Chart

When is the best time to go on your uk trip , mode of transport, pace of travel, elegance of great britain – insight vacations – 11 days, castles & kilts – trafalgar tours – 10 days, great britain 7 days, uk by train – great rail journeys uk – 12 days.

• The Lake District & Scotland – Rabbie's – 9 Days

Highlights of Scotland – G Adventures – 7 Days

Country roads of scotland – insight vacations – 9 days.

• Best of Scotland 

8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast

Britain and ireland, essential britain & ireland – globus – 10 days, britain & ireland explorer – insight vacations – 13 days, walk hadrian’s wall, g adventures, globus journeys , great rail journeys, insight vacations, intrepid travel, indus travels , trafalgar travel, rabbie’s tours, extending your british tour with extra days in london.

If you want to compare even more of the best coach trips the UK has or other styles of tour, I recommend TourRadar as a great place to compare tours and read more UK tour reviews. 

When planning for your trip to England or the rest of the UK, it’s important to take seasonality into consideration. I go over all the details of the weather and the seasons in the UK here in this article . 

When comparing tour operator UK options and which trip to take, be aware that UK tours tend to run with reduced frequency during the winter months, with many of the best UK tour packages running more frequently in spring and summer (April – August).

While some British coach holidays run year-round, speciality outdoor trips such as cycling holidays UK options may only run during summer months. 

Best United Kingdom Tours – Choosing the Best Tour for you

When searching for the best UK travel packages and tours, there are many factors to consider. Here are some of the top things I recommend taking a few minutes to think about before deciding on the best tour of Britain for you: 

Many of the most popular UK guided tour options are small group tours. UK small group tours vary widely in size with what is deemed to be a ‘small’ group – with some having up to 50 in a group while others keep it to 12 or under. 

Coach tours UK options are a convenient way to travel around with the rest of your group and often allow more to be fitted into an itinerary than independently travelling by train.

These range in style and you can find plenty of luxury coach holidays UK options as well as budget bus tours UK.

If you want to take the train but also like the idea of a guided tour, you could consider one of the train holidays UK options listed below. 

This is the one most of us forget to consider! In order to fit as much in as possible, some of the popular coach holidays in England and the rest of the UK move very fast, taking in multiple cities and sights in a day and usually spending only 1 night in a place. 

This can get tiring, so if you prefer to spend at least a couple of nights in each place, check for itineraries that allow you more time or you could consider choosing one of the self-drive holidays UK options available. 

Also, see our tips at the end of this article for extending your stay in the UK by spending extra days in London, Edinburgh, or any of the other common UK tour starting and endpoints. 

England vacation packages and tours have different inclusions depending on the style of trip and company.

Most include transport, guide, accommodation and some meals, but check the small print so you know what you are and aren’t getting included on tours to England.

The entrance fees to many sights are often not included in tour pricing. 

Best Great Britain Tours (England, Scotland, Wales)

Below you’ll find our favourite United Kingdom trip tour packages that take in England, Scotland and in some cases Wales, too. For tours that also include Ireland, see the next section. 

Best for seeing England & Scotland at a more leisurely pace

Starting in Edinburgh and finishing in London, this 11-day journey through some of England and Scotland’s finest sights is a great option for those wanting to travel in comfort or who are looking for the best UK tours for seniors. 

This is one of our favourite England and Scotland tour packages if you prefer a tour that spends 1-2 nights in each place and allows you to relax more in the places that you visit.

Staying at 4* accommodations throughout the trip, this itinerary starts in Edinburgh and takes in Gretna Green, the stunning Lake District , historic York, Stratford-upon-Avon, the Cotswolds and Bath before finishing up in London.

Travel is by private coach. 

As trips to England and Scotland go, this Insight Vacations UK trip is one for those who want to see the best of the UK’s history, natural beauty and culture in comfort and style. If you have additional time, we highly recommend adding on extra days in London or Edinburgh (or both!). 

Click here for more info and pricing

Best for fitting lots of England in at a great price

Starting in London and finishing in Edinburgh, this 10 day London – Scotland tour by Trafalgar Tours England is a great option for those who want to see as much as possible during their trip and don’t mind travelling at a faster pace. 

One of the popular tours of England and Scotland, this itinerary spends 3 days taking in the sights of London at the start of the tour, so you don’t need to worry about booking additional time at the start of the tour (unless you want to).

From London, head north to Oxford and Bath before crossing the Welsh borders and exploring some fine Welsh castles . You’ll also visit Chester, Lancaster and Hadrian’s wall before finishing in Edinburgh. 

If you want to include a trip to Wales in your UK tour itinerary then this is a great tour to go for, and history lovers will enjoy every stop of this trip that showcases the UK’s history from the Wars of the Roses to Roman Bath – you even get to stay at Ruthin Castle in Wales – a 13th century castle with its original moat!

Best for seeing it all in seven days

If you only have seven days to spend in the UK, this whistle-stop tour will whisk you up and down the length and breadth of Britain to introduce you to the highlights. Included on the itinerary are a list of destinations for day trips outside London – and beyond. 

The cities of Bath, Cambridge and York in England, plus the Scottish capital of Edinburgh, are included. Stratford-upon-Avon is also visited as the home of the UK’s most revered playwright. Experiences to savour include seeing Britain’s highest peak, Ben Nevis in Scotland, and enjoying a traditional roast dinner in historic, compact York. 

In addition to Georgian Bath and the capital London, this seven day tour takes you to some other fascinating UK locations too. There’s sculptor Antony Gormley’s famous Angel of the North artwork, a Scottish border town, Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, and the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness.

Once you head down the west coast, the musical and sporting city of Liverpool awaits. You’ll also venture into Wales to see the city of Cardiff and a ​​mediaeval Welsh castle. After touring Bath, the last stop en route back to London is Stonehenge. This ancient site is shrouded in mystery – and a must on the itinerary of every visitor to the UK.

Best for train travel and rail holidays UK

There’s arguably nothing more quintessentially British than train travel – and if life on the rails in Britain is what you’ve been romanticising about, then this is one of the train tours UK for you.

This UK rail itinerary takes in the best of Scotland and England, with the chance to ride on one of the best-known steam train trips UK has to offer on the Jacobite steam train from Fort William to Mallaig.

You’ll travel on the West Highland Line, North East Main Line that links Edinburgh and York, and the West Coast Mainline south from Glasgow.

Travel is at a more leisurely pace with 2 nights spent in most cities, staying in mostly 4* hotels. You’ll also get to see Bath and Stonehenge before finishing in London. 

If you’re looking for guided tours of England and Scotland by train, this is a great itinerary to go for. You’ll get to experience many of the UK’s best-known railways and take in the country’s top historic and cultural sights along the way. Travel is by train and private coach. 

The Lake District & Scotland – Rabbie’s – 9 Days

Best for taking in the beautiful scenery of the Lake District & Scottish Highlands

Rabbie’s tours of the UK offer great value for money, and if you want to be immersed in some of the UK’s finest landscapes and are interested in guided walking holidays UK options, this is a great way to dip your toes in. 

Starting in Manchester, this itinerary is a ‘rail and trail’ combination of 2 Rabbie’s trips , meaning you’ll change minibus and guide half way through.

First you’ll explore the stunning Lake District in the beautiful north west of England, enjoying Windermere and Ullswater before taking the train up to Edinburgh for your Highlands adventure that visits some of the most scenic spots on Scotland’s west coast: Uban, Mull and Skye before heading back to the mainland to visit the iconic Eilean Donan castle. 

If you’re looking for the best adventure tours UK has, then we recommend Rabbie’s who deliver great tours at a budget-friendly price point for those who love the outdoors.

Best for Scottish Highlands exploring and Solo Trips UK. 

If you’re looking to focus your UK trip on Scotland , then this 7 day Scotland tour from Edinburgh by G Adventures is well worth a look.

G Adventures also offer very reasonable single supplements if you’re looking for the best solo holidays uk options – or you can choose to share a room with another traveller of the same sex. Either way, G Adventures UK is popular with solo travellers. 

Starting in Edinburgh and finishing in Glasgow, this Scotland tour takes in Inverness and the famous Loch Ness, Culloden Moor (famous for the Jacobite rising of 1745), the beautiful Isle of Skye and Fort William, with a chance to snap the famous Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct (a must for Harry Potter fans) en route.

Accommodation is on a twin-share basis in 3* hotels and travel is by private minibus. 

If you want the highlights of the highlands of Scotland, this is a good tour to go for, with the option to add on extra days at the start or end of your tour – you could easily spend more time in Edinburgh, or head down to London. 

Off the beaten-path Highlands of Scotland

One of our favourite Great Britain vacation packages for getting a little off the beaten path is this wonderful northern Scotland adventure by Insight Vacations. Perfect for those wanting to see more of the Scottish Highlands or try something different when it comes to the many UK holiday packages. 

Starting in Edinburgh, on this upscale tour you’ll take in Inverness and Loch Ness, the beautiful and remote Orkney Islands at the northern tip of Scotland – a part that few visitors see – before heading south down the west coast of Scotland to take in the Isle of Skye, the stunning Glencoe pass and Loch Lomond before finishing up in Glasgow.

Accommodation is in 4* hotels and travel is by private coach. 

This is certainly one of the best UK coach holidays 2021 has to offer if the Scottish Highlands have been calling to you. You’ll love this one if you want to see the full diversity of landscapes and richness of community and culture that Scotland has. 

Best of Scotland  

Best for uncovering all four corners of Scotland  

If you want to find the best luxury coach tours in the UK that cover much of what lies north of the border, then the Best of Scotland tour from Trafalgar is a popular option for summer. The adventure begins in the capital of Edinburgh on day one. You’ll then be transported around Bonnie Scotland for seven days before ending up in Glasgow. 

This vibrant city lies to the west of Edinburgh. It’s the biggest in Scotland in terms of both population and square mileage. The metropolis is renowned for its magnificent architecture and as a cultural hub for fans of music, museums and more.

After arrival and on the second day of the tour, you’ll delve deeper under the surface of the historic and breathtakingly beautiful Scottish capital. Key sights including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and Palace of Holyroodhouse are visited during your guided tour, and you’ll also enjoy free time to spend as you wish. 

Between leaving Edinburgh and arriving in Glasgow – both of which are in southern Scotland – you’ll head north. The first stop is St. Andrews, where Prince William met Kate Middleton, before overnighting at a hotel in the Cairngorms National Park. During day four, you’ll visit the site of the famous Jacobite uprising, see Eilean Donan Castle, look out for the Loch Ness Monster and head over to the Isle of Skye. 

The fifth day of the tour includes Ben Nevis and Glencoe en route to Glasgow. After staying overnight there, you’ll take a city tour before calling at Clydeside whisky distillery and Stirling Castle on day six. Day seven is departure day, unless you decide to stay on in Glasgow for longer. 

Best for touring unspoiled Scotland

If what appeals to you most about the British Isles is the chance to spend time in Bonnie Scotland, this tour to far northern Scotland might be the one for you. It’s what Great Britain vacations are made of for many – beguiling cities, beautiful coastline and of course a dazzlingly rich and varied history. 

Day one transports you from Edinburgh to Inverness, via the famous Forth Bridge, picture-perfect Perthshire, the peaceful village of Dunkeld, the fascinating Highland Folk Museum, the Cairngorms National Park, bloody Culloden Battlefield and the standing stones at Clava Cairns. 

Next up on the second day is the spectacular North Coast 500 trail, via French-style Dunrobin Castle, en route to the island of Orkney. Puffin territory and an astonishingly well-preserved Neolithic settlement await after overnighting on Orkney. 

Both the better-known and lesser seen sights of Scotland make up much of the tour’s second half. These include Smoo Cave in Sutherland, the harbour village of Ullapool, Eilean Donan Castle, the Isle of Skye, the Jacobite Steam Train from Mallaig to Fort William and Glencoe.

During the last day, you can also choose to take an optional side trip to one of the Western Isles – namely Iona, Kerrera, Mull or Staffa. Alternatively, climb up Battery Hill in Oban or call into the 

 local Whisky Distillery. Finally, before heading back to Edinburgh, visit the Kelpies and Stirling Castle. 

Best England, Ireland, Scotland Tour packages

Some of these itinerary options include the best England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales tours for a comprehensive circuit of the British Isles, while others combine Ireland and Scotland to get a fuller taste of the Celtic lands. 

Best for a whistle-stop tour of the UK and Ireland

If seeing England and Scotland isn’t enough for you, then you might like to add on Ireland. This ten day trip is arguably the best way to see England, Scotland and Ireland in one hit. It lasts for ten days, and packs far more into that time than you could feasibly manage on a self-guided basis. 

First up after departing London is Shakespeare country and Stratford-upon-Avon, then it’s the Yorkshire cities of York and Bradford. The Yorkshire Dales, Lake Windermere, Gretna Green and Glasgow are then on the agenda for day three. 

There’s a day in Edinburgh for the fourth day, before heading to Ayrshire, Belfast, Dublin, Kilkenny and Waterford on day five and six. Cardiff, Bath and Windsor are the final stops before the tour winds up back in London. 

This tour offers incredible value for money, and really maximises each and every day when time in the UK is tight. 

Best for trips to England and Ireland that include the main highlights

If you’re looking at tours of England, Scotland and Ireland, then this 10 day trip by Globus may tick all the right boxes. 

Start and end in London on this tour that takes in the English highlights of Stonehenge and Bath before exploring Newport and Cardiff in Wales en route by ferry to Waterford and Dublin in Ireland.

Head north through Ireland towards the up-and-coming city of Belfast and crossing back into Scotland to take in the sights of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh.

On the final leg you’ll head south through York and Stratford upon Avon to London to soak up the best of English history. Travel is by coach. 

This is one of the best tours of England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland if you’re tight on time and don’t want to forgo any of the countries of the British Isles. The travel is at a fairly fast pace though – so you may wish to add on a few days to relax at the end of your trip. 

Best for combining Scottish Highlands & Ireland

One of the comprehensive UK tours from London options in this list, this itinerary works well if you want to start in London and have a few days before your trip starts to explore the UK’s capital – either through an extension booked through Insight or under your own steam. 

Leaving London, this ultimate UK tour takes in the historic English highlights of Stratford and York before heading past Hadrian’s Wall to Edinburgh and circling the Scottish Highlands.

Take in the legendary sights of Loch Ness, Glencoe and a boat trip on Loch Lomond before heading back south into England and Wales, and crossing over into Ireland.

Travel is by private coach and accommodation is at 4* hotels. 

On this grand UK tour, you’ll spend a total of 5 nights in Ireland and 7 in England & Scotland, making this the perfect UK tour packages from London when you just want to see it all! 

Best for English countryside and Roman history

Following the route of Hadrian’s Wall makes for one of the best road trips in the UK. Though the wall is quite justifiably famous, the route along it is far less touristy than other parts of the British Isles. The wall stretches from near Newcastle-upon-Tyne in the east to the compact city of Carlisle in the west. 

Hadrian’s Wall can be found within the more peaceful parts of England’s two most northerly counties. As this is a walking tour you’ll need a reasonable level of fitness, but this also means you’ll get up really close to the sights of Cumbria and Northumberland. And of course the unspoiled English countryside, with its dry stone walls and sheep-dotted emerald fields. 

To give you some idea of the distances, the first day’s walk is around eight miles, between Carlisle and Irthington. Other walks include the six mile trek between Lanercost Priory and Gilsland, the three-and-a-half Walltown Crags to Haltwhistle route and seven miles from Once Brewed to Brocolitia Fort. It’s also nine miles from Chollerford to East Wallhouses, and about five from East Wallhouses to Wylam. 

Highlights of this tour include the pretty Cumbrian village Crosby-on-Eden; Birdoswald, Housesteads, Brocolitia and Vindolanda Roman Forts, Walltown quarry, Sycamore Gap, the site of the victory of Oswald and the historic old Military Road. 

Best Tour Companies UK Reviews

Not sure which of the best travel agency UK options you should pick? Below you can find a short review of what to expect when travelling with any of the UK tour companies mentioned above. 

G Adventures tours are known for their good value and experience-rich approach. They attract travellers of all ages, both couples and solo travellers, thanks to their twin-share policy where single travellers can travel at no extra cost if they share with another traveller of the same sex.

Travel is in small groups (max 12) and includes a local tour guide “CEO”. Accommodation is in mid-range hotels and guest houses, and typically breakfasts and entry to some sights are included.

Travel in the UK is mostly by private mini-bus unless otherwise stated. 

Popular for coach tours in the UK and around the world, Globus Journeys offer guided coach tours in the UK and Ireland, either with smaller groups (max 24) or larger groups (up to 50) depending on the style of the trip.

Accommodation is typically in tourist class hotels (3* and 4*) with well known brands. Globus is popular among travellers aged in their 50’s, 60’s and up for the convenience of travel by coach and their tours have more meals and excursions included than some.

Expect itineraries that pack places in, so you’ll see a lot, and stays are typically 1 night. 

GRJ are the go-to for UK steam tours and railway journeys around the UK and beyond, so if travelling the UK by train is what you’re hoping to do, look no further.

Itineraries are designed to take in iconic lines and to provide the best steam train holidays UK has (or ‘regular’ trains). Journeys are escorted by a Tour Manager, and the majority of travellers are either solo travellers or couples aged between 45 – 80.

Accommodation is in 3* hotels or higher. The maximum group size on any trip is 50, or you can opt for a tailor made travel experience. 

Insight Vacations are an upscale tour company offering luxury UK coach tours with up to 40 people per group.

Travellers are typically 45 and up, and itineraries are a little more relaxed than many other tour companies, including 2 night stays at many destinations and “relaxed starts” in the morning spread out through the trip allowing time to catch up on rest if you need it.

Accommodation is in 4* hotels and trips are accompanied by a tour manager. 

Famous for great value adventures around the world, in the UK Intrepid offer a range of shorter ‘retreat’ style trips – so if you’re after hiking trips UK or a guided walking and cycling holiday, look no further.

Accommodation is in local guest houses and you’ll be accompanied by your own Intrepid Travel guide for the duration of the trip.

Maximum group size is 12, and rooms are on a twin share basis with the same sex if you’re a solo traveller, or you can pay a supplement to have your own room. 

Offering a mix of small group tours, independent adventures, cruises and self-drive vacations, Indus Travels allows you to set your own pace of travel with flexible itineraries when you choose one of their ‘unbundled tours’ or self-drive trips.

Self-drive trips are just you, your car rental, itinerary and accommodation, whereas group tours have up to 22 travellers, English-speaking local guides, deluxe accommodation and air conditioned coaches included.

Indus is popular with younger and older travellers alike, with many travellers in their 30’s, 40’s and 50’s. 

Well known and popular Trafalgar Tours England have been offering coach travel around the UK for many years and have many happy customers behind them.

Group tours have a maximum of 50 people, travelling by coach to the most popular destinations. They are popular for England tours for seniors (and younger people), and on any of their England tour packages you’re guaranteed to have a lot packed into your itinerary. That’s one thing to bear in mind – this is definitely not slow travel – but it’s a good way to get an overview of the British Isles.

All tours are accompanied by a guide and accommodation is tourist class 3* or 4* international standard hotels. 

Rabbie’s tours have some great England travel deals (and beyond). They’re a small group tours company providing great value breaks that help you get off the beaten track in the UK and Europe.

Rabbie’s aim to support local communities and promote responsible travel, by keeping tour groups small (10 people). They also work differently to other tour companies in that accommodation is not included in the tour price – once you book your tour you can choose your accommodation from a selection offered by Rabbie’s to suit your budget and preferences.

The name Rabbie’s comes from the nickname for famous Scot, Robert Burns! 

If you have a day, two, or more aside from your tour, we highly recommend taking advantage of those to explore London, or another city if your tour is starting from elsewhere – Edinburgh is another popular starting point for the UK tours mentioned in this guide. 

While some tours include sightseeing in London (or another departure city), not all do – or they include a very shortened version – and trust us that 1 day is definitely not enough to see London in, especially if you’re jetlagged. 

If you can, arrive a few days before your tour begins to enjoy the top London sights and get onto UK time if you’re flying in from far away. You can find our complete London travel guide here to get you started.

If you have specific questions about a destination in the UK why not join my UK and London Travel Planning Group on Facebook where you can chat with others planning their trip.

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England Small Group Tours

Uncover new and exciting adventures in England by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in England will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. View all small group tours .

41 England small group tours with 261 reviews

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5-Day Devon & Cornwall Small Group from London

We had terrific time on our Cornwall and Devon tour. With Nick as our driver. He was knowledgeable, chatty attentive to his groups needs and a all round nice chap We would highly recommend

• Hiking & Trekking

Walk Hadrian's Wall Highlights

• Coach / Bus

3-Day Stonehenge, Glastonbury, Bath & the South West Coast Small-Group Tour from London

We had a wonderful time! Our tour guide, Kate, was knowledgeable and accommodating for all of our interests and needs. I would highly recommend this trip.

Highlights of South-West England

Cornwall tour starting in London

Dacey’s Cornish Tours was absolutely fantastic. Dave arranged for unique hotels, lovely breakfasts, beautiful places to visit. The small group made for the perfect combination of guided and independent exploring.

Contrasts of Norfolk Cycling

Cotswolds Walking Tour

What a wonderful experience we have had on our “Cotswolds, Castles & Cottages” Tour. Our visit to Sudeley Castle was delightful, Hailes Abbey and it’s historical story was made most interesting by having the portable audio commentary provided by English Heritage, and Chedworth Roman Villa is fascinating to visit. To be in the English Cotswolds countryside is an opportunity which we have been so lucky to have had. It was a delight to walk amongst all these ancient thatched cottages. As our Tour Leader had already told us, the Cotswold Cottages are beautifully preserved and it has been awesome to be able to enjoy being amongst them with their magnificent English gardens full of the perfume of their beautiful Roses and their unbelievable colours, and together with all the awesome varieties of English flowers in these gardens, was admired by us all our cameras have recorded amazing memories.

Lake District & Yorkshire Dales Walking & Hiking Tour.

Literary Walking in the Lake District

A delightful trip through the southern Lake District. There were some hiccups in transportation scheduling and communication between the tour operators, so beware of that on self-guided tours. But the accommodations were nice and the rest of trip was fantastic.

Taste of England

Independent London City Stay

Cycling the Cantii Way

Royal Indulgence | London, England

Bath, Devon & Cornwall Small Group Rail Tour

Such a lovely part of Britain (Bath, Devon and Cornwall), the accommodations were wonderful, and tour leader (Barry) was knowledgeable, entertaining and made everything go smoothly.

Trans Wales Trail Run

Reviews of small group tours to england.

I had a great time on the tour. Our driver Francis really added to the experience with his very extensive knowledge of the places we visited. He was always on hand to assist whichever one of us required a little bit of help to climb the various hills and tors. It was amazing to reach the summit and experience such majestic views.

This was my second tour with Dacey's, called the revisit tour. It did not disappoint. Can't say enough to recommend Dacey's tours. So much to see in Cornwall and Dacey's gives a great experience with wonderful sites and great lodging experience. David is a superb travel guides providing fascinating information and also a few jokes along the way. A can't miss tour for anyone.

• England Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

International Versions

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Kyrgyzstan adopts law targeting foreign-funded NGOs

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov on Tuesday signed into law a bill tightening state control over foreign-funded non-governmental organisations (NGOs), which human rights bodies and groups have criticised as restrictive.

Money blog: 10 richest people on Earth revealed - with less familiar name in top spot this year

Bernard Arnault and family are ahead of Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg in the Forbes billionaires' list. Read this and more in the Money blog, your place for personal finance news. Leave a comment on stories we've covered, or a question for our experts, in the form below.

Tuesday 2 April 2024 19:54, UK

• 650,000 pensioners warned they're being dragged into paying tax this week
• 'A blip': UK house prices fell last month
• The top 10 richest people in the world
• Eight big price hikes this week - and six boosts to Britons' pockets
• Extended free childcare rollout begins - but there are concerns about whether it's achievable
• More young people are pausing pension contributions - this is how much it's costing them
• All the places kids can eat cheap or free this Easter

Ask a question or make a comment

Each year, some parents decide to offer cash incentives to their children in return for good grades.

With GCSE and A-Level exams coming up, we'd like to know what you think of the practice.

Is it something that works for your family? Or is there a reason you wouldn't consider it?

Let us know by sending us a message via our Whatsapp here.

Google has agreed to delete billions of records containing personal information collected from millions of people using "Incognito" mode.

The action will be taken as part of a settlement agreement in a lawsuit in the US, but applies outside the country too.

The lawsuit accused Google of tracking Chrome users' internet activity even when they had switched the browser to "Incognito".

Google disputed the claims as "meritless" and said the agreement was only required to "delete old personal technical data that was never associated with an individual and was never used for any form of personalisation".

Shares in Donald Trump's Truth Social platform have plunged more than 20% - wiping out gains made following its stock market debut last week.

The tumble came after Trump Media & Technology Group reported losses of more than $58m (£46m) in 2023.

The company also warned it would struggle to meet its financial liabilities going forward.

Royal Mail has appointed a senior Heathrow Airport executive as the group's new boss.

Emma Gilthorpe will join the postal service on 1 May, before succeeding Martin Seidenberg as chief executive in the summer, said owner International Distributions Services.

Her appointment comes at a critical juncture, with Ofcom considering options that could see Royal Mail cut its six-days-a-week service or extend how long it takes to deliver letters.

Annual shop price inflation almost halved in March to its lowest since December 2021, according to industry figures.

Food costs and competition between retailers drove the down rate from 2.5% in February to 1.3% in March, the British Retail Consortium (BRC)-NielsenIQ Shop Price Index found.

Food prices were 3.7% higher than a year ago, down from 5% in February, the slowest rate since April 2022.

Fresh food inflation slowed to 2.6% from 3.4% a month earlier.

Inflation on products other than food fell to 0.2% in March, down from 1.3%.

Promotional offers were to thank in part, with supermarkets trying to draw in customers for Mother's Day and Easter, said Mike Watkins, head of retailer and business insight at NielsenIQ.

Deals were also being offered on electricals, clothing and footwear, said BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson, adding that dairy prices were falling too.

Forbes has released its annual list of the richest people in the world, as the number of billionaires reaches record highs.

Some 2,781 people are worth a collective $14.2trn - with the top 20 adding $700bn to their wealth since this time last year, according to the news site.

Below are the top 10 of Forbes' 200 richest people in the world , as of 8 March.

1. Bernard Arnault and family: The 75-year-old is the richest person on Earth, with a net worth of $233bn. From France he oversees an empire of 75 fashion and cosmetic brands, including Louis Vuitton and Sephora, under the umbrella LVMH.

2. Elon Musk: Dropping from the top spot, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO, 52, is worth $195bn. 

3. Jeff Bezos: Close behind is the 60-year-old founder of Amazon, worth $194bn.

4. Mark Zuckerberg: Another familiar name in the top 10 is the founder of Facebook - now Meta - with a net worth of $177bn at the age of 39.

5. Larry Ellison: The founder of software giant Oracle, used by businesses to store and retrieve information, is worth £141bn.

6. Warren Buffett: The investor and CEO of multinational conglomerate Berkshire Hathaway, 93, is worth $133bn.

7. Bill Gates: Co-founder of Microsoft, Gates, 68, has a net worth of $128bn.

8. Steve Ballmer: A former CEO at Microsoft under Gates, Ballmer is worth $121bn.

9. Mukesh Ambani:  His company, Reliance Industries, is the largest private sector corporation in India, with interests in retail, financial services, oil and gas, petrochemicals, telecommunications and financial services, making him worth $116bn.

10. Larry Page: Worth $114bn, the 51-year-old remains a controlling shareholder at Google's parent company, Alphabet, where he stepped down as CEO in 2019.

One notable entry this year is Taylor Swift, with a fortune of $1.1bn.

Campaign group Tax Justice UK said those on the super-rich list should be taxed more by world governments to tackle inequality and climate change.

"We're living through incredibly unequal times, lurching from one crisis to the next," said executive director Robert Palmer.

"World leaders need to ensure the super-rich are paying their fair share, for example through introducing wealth taxes."

The government will commission an independent study into the impact of brighter headlights on road users.

Insurance company RAC has said dazzling headlights are causing "significant problems" on the road.

Approximately nine in 10 drivers told an RAC survey that some car headlights were too bright, while 14% of drivers over the age of 65 said they have stopped their vehicles as a result.

"Brighter headlights, while giving drivers a better view of the road ahead, are clearly causing other road users significant problems," said RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis.

"The topic has undoubtedly struck a chord with motorists up and down the country, with many people contacting us directly to call for something to be done."

House of Lords member Baroness Dianne Hayter called the study a "victory for all those drivers affected by glare" and anyone who has "sought help from an optometrist – only to discover the problem was with headlights, and not their eyes". 

By Tim Baker , political reporter

The prime minister has been unable to guarantee a childcare place to everyone who wants one, as the government rolls out its new scheme.

As of today, eligible parents and carers of two-year-olds are now entitled to 15 hours of funded childcare per week.

The policy was announced in March last year and is being rolled out as the government lags significantly behind Labour in opinion polls.

But there have been concerns raised about the ability for the sector to absorb the uptick in childcare places that the government wants to offer.

Read on here...

By Katie Williams, Money team

Following our Money Problem last week in which a worker said their boss was making them take holiday when they're sick, we were bombarded with comments from people with similar experiences. So, we decided to make basic employment rights the subject of of this week's Basically... feature.

Basically, most people with jobs have a number of rights laid down in law - but what you're entitled to depends on whether you're an employee or a worker. The former has more protections.

Firstly, though, these basic rights  apply to both groups:

• Be paid the national minimum wage ( £11.44  if you're 21 or over, £8.60 if you're aged 18-20, £6.40 for apprentices)
• Receive a payslip
• Protection against unlawful deductions from wages
• The statutory minimum length of rest breaks (20 minutes if you work for more than six hours a day)
• Not work more than 48 hours on average per week, or to opt out of this right
• Protection against unlawful discrimination
• Protection for whistleblowing
• Not be treated less favourably for working part time
• Be accompanied at a grievance or disciplinary hearing.

What's the difference between an employee and a worker?

An employee is someone who works under a permanent or fixed-term contract of employment - this is a document which sets the terms and conditions of the working relationship between the employer and employee.

The employee will be expected to work a certain number of hours a week in return for an agreed wage.

The arrangement for workers is deemed far more casual - put simply, the employer does not have to provide the individual with work and the individual is not required to do any work.

Workers can include agency or temp staff, short-term or freelance workers.

What rights do employees have over workers?

An employee is entitled to more statutory employment rights than a worker. These extra rights include:

• Statutory sick pay, as well as statutory maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave and pay
• A minimum notice period if your employment is being terminated
• Protection against unfair dismissal
• The right to request flexible working
• Time off for emergencies
• Statutory redundancy pay. 

What if I'm self-employed?

People who are self-employed generally have more control over their work and a more flexible lifestyle - but they also have limited employment rights.

Self-employed people have the right not to be discriminated against by the clients and customers they are doing work for.

They're also entitled to certain rights in respect of trade unions and under the Human Rights Act.

Read other entries in our Basically... series...

Nationalisation would not, as some suggest, be free of pain. 

The government has just changed the law surrounding the special administration regime, which would potentially dump some of Thames's debts on its shareholders rather than leaving taxpayers to take them on. That might sound attractive to a government not wanting, understandably, to take on some £18bn worth of extra borrowings.

But it would serve as a powerful deterrent to any overseas investors entertaining the thought of investing in the UK's utility sector which, at a time when the country is seeking to step up investment not only in water and sewage infrastructure but also in energy generation, is something no-one should want.

Nor would nationalisation serve the public well.

Studies show that the state-owned water companies in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are significantly less efficient than their peers in England and Wales, while state-owned Scottish Water's efficiency only improved when in 2001 the Scottish government, then run by Labour, altered regulations to specifically benchmark its performance to the privatised sector south of Hadrian's Wall.

On that basis, it really is in everyone's interest for peace to break out between Ofwat and the Thames shareholders. Or, as seems unlikely at present, for Thames to bring in new equity investors.

Thames Water is expected to enter last-ditch talks to avoid sinking into insolvency.

Its parent company, Kemble, is set to pitch a debt-for-equity swap to lenders, The Times is reporting.

This means creditors would convert debt owed to them by Thames Water into share capital.

Restructuring specialists Alvarez & Marsal will discuss all options with creditors, according to the Financial Times.

Investors had pulled a £500m funding lifeline due to be paid at the end of March.

Thames Water's shareholders include the Universities Superannuation Scheme, China's sovereign wealth fund, the Canadian pension fund Omers, Infinity Investments, a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, and the BT Pension Scheme.

The utility company, which serves nearly a quarter of the UK's population, is drowning in more than £15bn of debt, plus huge interest payments.

Chief executive Chris Weston has refused to rule out bill increases of up to 40% for customers as the company tries to secure its future.

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

The FTSE 100 was up 0.7% in early trading following the Easter Bank Holiday weekend as it broke the 8,000 barrier - its highest level in more than a year.

The rise, which has since eased back a little, has been driven mostly by gains in the energy and mining sectors.

It comes amid improved demand and tighter supplies of raw materials, which have pushed up the prices of commodities such as copper.

Shares in HSBC are also up 1.7% this Tuesday morning after it completed the sale of its Canadian unit to the Royal Bank of Canada.

The deal, worth almost £8bn, is one of the biggest of its kind in Canada since the 1990s. It had faced opposition from critics who feared the takeover would damage competition in the country.

Meanwhile, there are more woes for struggling fashion chain Superdry after shares plunged more than 50% to a record low of 13.8p. Its chief executive and top shareholder Julian Dunkerton said earlier he would not be making an offer for the company.

On the currency markets, £1 can currently buy you $1.25 US or 1.17 Euros.

The price of a barrel of benchmark crude oil is just over $88 (£70) this morning.

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