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Greek delights

Canary island escapes

Thailand Holidays

Late escapes, a better way to book a holiday.

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• Indian Ocean
• South East Asia
• Australasia & Pacific
• Central America
• North America

Tailor-made holidays and safaris full of extraordinary experiences and the same personal service you'd expect from Kuoni.

• South Africa

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We’re here to tailor-make a beach holiday that’s right for you

All inclusive

Our hand-picked all-inclusive holidays include, boutique, family & wellness resorts.

Romantic honeymoon package you’ll remember for the rest of your lives.

Incredible Family holidays from Kuoni, adventures your family will always remember.

City breaks

Our hand-picked luxury city breaks in Europe, Asia, Africa, Middle East and the USA

Romantic retreats and group get-togethers on our adults-only holidays

Safari Holidays

Let us take you on safari in Africa for the best animal viewing on the planet.

LGBTQ+

Romantic retreats or special occasions on our LGBTQ+ holidays

Multi-centre

Combine different destinations, resorts and tours for a dream multi-centre.

Enjoy the best of both worlds: a luxurious and out-of-the-way villa holiday at a resort

Spa & wellness

Handpicked spa & wellness retreats, pampering or activity holidays all tailormade by Kuoni

Create a tailor-made self-drive itinerary for a trip to immerse yourself in outdoor life.

Sit back, relax and enjoy the view during one of our luxurious train journeys

Dubai: Jewel of the Emirates

Attitude hotels collection.

This portfolio of charming retreats in Mauritius is leading the way in with their collection eco-committed hotels, ranging from adult-only retreats to family-friendly havens.

Where to travel in 2024

Which is better: Mauritius or Maldives?

The best things to do in Borneo

The best beaches in Europe

Secrets to planning the ultimate Californian road trip

Turquoise dreams: A guide to the Indian Ocean islands

Offbeat gems: The Caribbean's hidden treasures

What to do in Canada: the ultimate bucket list

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Looking for a specific style of holiday?

Our range of travel types includes honeymoons, family breaks and solo travel, as well as specialist trips focused on wellness, wildlife-watching and lots more.

We’ve spent almost 50 years finding the best places to stay and getting the very best offers for you

Let your holiday have a positive impact on the world

• Picked for you

St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas

Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa

Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas

A dazzling lineup of facilities make the large island of Kuramathi one of the Maldives’ most popular resorts.

Set on a pristine beach, this intimate all-inclusive hotel is perfect for low-key relaxation

Perfect for a romantic escape, this atmospheric hideaway offers a quiet setting and delicious cuisine.

Set on a powdery white beach, this elegant resort offers an exceptional array of inclusions.

The Kuoni difference

Personal service.

Your holiday will be planned by one of our Personal Travel Experts, who will listen to your ideas and expectations, make recommendations, share advice and add extra touches to create the perfect holiday for you.

The full experience

We’re here to take care of you at every step. We’ll make sure you have everything you need before you travel, look after you while you’re away and stay in touch when you’re back.

Total peace of mind

All our holidays are ATOL protected, we’re members of ABTA and you’ll have our full support throughout your travels.

Our passion for creating unforgettable holidays has earned us over 200 awards and we’re proud to be a Which? Recommended Provider.

If you’re gearing up to book your 2024 holiday but could use some inspiration, here are a few of our most sought-after destinations to put on your radar.

With their breathtaking beaches and opulent resorts, they're dream destinations in their own right. But which one is your perfect paradise? Let's compare and find out.

Planning your next beach getaway? We asked a few of our travel experts to tell us about their favourite coastal gems in Europe.

Your first time in Thailand: our experts share what they wish they’d known

Our travel experts share their top planning, travel and foodie tips, for any first-timers trip to Thailand. Discover the advice they wish they'd known before visiting.

Our top reasons to visit the Maldives

The Maldives is one of the most romantic places on earth, here our experts' top reasons to visit the islands of the Maldives.

5 of the best luxury beach hotels in the Mediterranean

Ready to treat yourself to the ultimate luxury escape in Europe? Here are a few of our favourite all-out beach retreats in the Mediterranean.

Your perfect holiday begins with a conversation

Our travel experts are ready to craft your next unforgettable holiday.

We have boutique stores around the UK, where you'll receive a warm welcome from our friendly Personal Travel Experts.

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Put the world in your hands

The luxury travel experts

The world is vast, full of wonders. But information engulfs us. See this, do that, don’t miss this. It seems the more choice there is, the more overwhelmed we feel. What’s more, you’re never asked how you want to feel . In fact, you’re rarely asked anything. That’s not us. We are people. People who value human connection and thrive on connecting you to our vast world. A company of people renowned for planning remarkable and luxurious travel experiences.

So let’s begin. Let’s do something remarkable.

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“Black Tomato has made it a mission to keep the world of travel fresh, responsible, and exciting”

“Black Tomato are one of the coolest things in the world. Don’t even try and live without them”

“Many travel companies brag about offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences but with Black Tomato, it’s not hyperbole”

“Black Tomato prides itself on meeting customers every minor need or desires”

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Remarkable experiences to inspire the mind

A luxury Tuscany and Amalfi Coast holiday: La…

The best of japan: ancient traditions & modern…, kenya: the ultimate family safari, best of morocco: berbers, kasbahs & camels, south iceland, golden circle & reykjavik: from land….

Trekking across remote parts of the country, navigating by compass and sight, I was rewarded with memories that will last a lifetime

K, Mongolia

We have explored some incredible places and had unique adventures that could have only been made possible with their guidance

Ike and Alexa, Italy

Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. Black Tomato is top notch – you will not be disappointed

Wendy, Morocco

As a solo traveller, Black Tomato did an excellent job of allowing me to experience Cuba and the Cuban people in a truly creative way

Black Tomato will change the way you travel

Micah, Egypt

Glamping, hiking, icebergs, gourmet food. Not sure how my trip could have been any better

Jimmy, Greenland

A dream come true – from small riads to a mountain fortress and a desert oasis. Black Tomato delivered

Kim, Morocco

What sets us apart?

Five reasons to book with black tomato, travel trends 2024.

This coming year, we’ll be approaching the world with a renewed sense of focus; choosing to travel in ways that truly count – pursuing everything from wellness and togetherness to pilgrimages and passions. These trends reflect the big themes that’ll shape the journeys we’ll take over the months and seasons ahead.

Let’s get out there.

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Our guide to luxury travel

Luxury holidays are personal. They mean something different for each and every one of us. For some, luxury is hiking in peaceful solitude through a remote corner of the desert, while for others it’s the indulgence of sipping cocktails aboard a private yacht, sailing gently through the Mediterranean. Whatever floats your boat, so to speak.

As luxury travel experts, we work from this, our own (incredibly loose) definition. You tell us exactly what you want from the world, and we’ll help you to see it. To feel it, taste it, hear it. All those wonderful sensorial things.

Our team of seasoned travellers are connoisseurs of luxury, curating unparalleled experiences, tailor-made tours and bespoke adventures. Whether you seek the opulence of a secluded villa in the Tuscan hills or the thrill of an exclusive safari in the heart of Africa, we’ll craft a journey that exceeds your expectations.

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VOTED AS A BEST TRAVEL SPECIALIST IN THE 2023 CONDÉ NAST TRAVELLER READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

A TOP 10 TOUR OPERATOR IN TRAVEL + LEISURE WORLD’S BEST AWARDS 2023

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Tailor-made holidays and safaris, crafted by experts

Where to go in 2024

Here are ten destinations that are calling out to us, from the wild spaces and intimate camps of Botswana, to the art cities and Roman ruins of Italy.

Our spring edition of Audley Traveller is here

Within its pages, our specialists share their latest travel tips and ideas, including three ways to explore Japan and a coastal road trip through South Africa.

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Our specialists can help bring your trip to life, sharing maps, images and first-hand experience.

Our accreditations

We’re honoured to have been awarded Harper’s Bazaar's Reader Accreditation as well as being recognised by Which? as a Recommended Provider.

Inspire your travels

Browse our latest inspiration pages to start planning your next adventure. We arrange trips to more than 80 destinations throughout the world and across each continent.

Rediscover South Africa

Celebrating Earth Day

Escape to Tasmania

South Africa

Suggested tours

The tours featured throughout our website are intended to give you ideas for what's possible when you travel with us. Treat them simply as inspiration, because your trip will be created individually by one of our specialists to match your tastes and budget.

Ultimate luxury tour of Australia

20 days from £29,275pp

Luxury New Zealand self-drive tour

17 days from £27,120pp

Into Canada's Northwest Passage

20 days from £21,535pp

Deluxe grand tour of Japan

23 days from £20,850pp

Ultimate Alaska wildlife safari

13 days from £19,455pp

Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falklands

24 days from £16,170pp

Luxury Botswana safari

12 days from £16,070pp

Antarctic Peninsula fly & cruise

14 days from £15,995pp

Eco-friendly South Island itinerary

20 days from £15,955pp

Holiday ideas to match your interests

Whether you want to stay in simple or luxurious accommodation, have a particular passion for wildlife, art or experiencing the great outdoors, or you're planning a trip for a special occasion, we can create an itinerary to match your interests and tastes.

Safari holidays

Family holidays

Beach holidays

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What our clients say about us.

TrustScore 4.8 | 3656 of reviews

Paris&London, Mother&Son and a Trip Never Forgotten

Many 5-star reviews over promise and under-deliver. Mine, hopefully will not. From end-to-end our...

The trip was very well planned with…

The trip was very well planned with attention to details, Driver, tour guide, and pick up were very...

Fabulous trip to Mexico

I had a wonderful itinerary put together for me by Phoebe, the Mexico specialist, only 3 weeks...

Trip of a lifetime

Audley helped us to organise the trip of a lifetime - 3 months visiting Singapore, Cambodia,...

Wonderful 10* service and support

The best travel service in the world! Not only did they plan our trip with great attention to...

Audley prepared an itinerary for a… family

Audley prepared an itinerary for a two-week trip to Scotland and Ireland for my family. It was a...

Lucy Celon - Portugal & Spain - 04/06/2024 - 04/16/2024

The fact that Lucy Celon was our trip planner for Portugal and Spain was nothing short of...

Absolutely faultless

Absolutely faultless - I would recommend to anyone. - Very clear communication throughout -...

I can't fault Audley…

This is the 2nd time we have used Audley Travel as we were so impressed with how they planned our...

Southafrica !

Southafrica ! We booked a 3 week trip to Cape Town, garden route, winelands and safari, all tailor...

Our trip to Thailand "the land of smiles" was fabulous

Our Thailand trip was fabulous. With expert guidance from Saskia at Audley we visited golden...

Australia Adventure

Just excellent service from beginning to end :-planning the trip, securing all the flights and...

The service we received was amazing

The service we received was amazing from the beginning… including responsiveness, quality of the...

Outstanding customer service!

Our Audley experience was extraordinary! From start to finish, our Audley specialist was attentive...

New Zealand Trip of a Lifetime…

The New Zealand trip had been on our agenda pre Covid and we used Audley to help plan our self...

THE ONLY WAY TO TRAVEL

The ultimate travel company.

Independent and family-run, we have been offering a rare blend of luxury and adventure travel experiences to our clientele for more than four decades. The depth of knowledge and insight, together with a global network of trusted partners, gained over the years allows us to design itineraries that are flexible and entirely personalised to you. We do so with perception, creativity and enthusiasm, but with a profound appreciation for your investment and an absolute respect for the environment, the wildlife and the local cultures of the destinations in which we operate.

TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL

Whether you wish to explore Antarctica, experience the Great Migration in Kenya or simply relax on a beach, we will personalise your trip so that it’s just right for you.

IDEAS BY MONTH

Travelling at the perfect time can truly enhance your experience. Whatever you’re looking for, we will help you decide where to go, and just as importantly, when.

GROUP ESCORTED TOURS

Unique small group journeys with expert guides, guest lecturers and exclusive access to sought after sites and events.

INSPIRING STORIES

We are inspired by hidden gems and the wonderful people we encounter on our journeys. Explore our stories…

“…relocate to Jose Ignacio”

11 Interesting Facts About Chile You Might Not know

A Chilean Patagonia Adventure

A gorilla encounter of the closest kind.

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Get in touch, and we will begin planning your bespoke adventure.

• Luxury Algarve Holidays
• Luxury Crete Holidays
• Luxury Corfu Holidays
• Luxury Halkidiki Holidays
• Luxury Lanzarote Holidays
• Luxury Majorca Holidays
• Luxury Maldives Holidays
• Luxury Mauritius Holidays
• Luxury Mykonos Holidays
• Luxury Sorrento Holidays

Domes Lake Algarve, Autograph Collection is one of the most luxurious hotels and is perfect for a family holiday.

• Luxury Gran Canaria Holidays
• Luxury Tenerife Holidays

Allow us to help you filter through our best holidays based on your desires and needs.

• Grand Park Hotel Rovinj
• Sun Gardens Dubrovnik
• Dubrovnik & Split
• Hotel Park Split

Discover Dubrovnik's Venetian chapels and Split's biggest living palace complex in the world.

• All Croatia
• Istria Countryside
• Annabelle Hotel
• Hotel Elysium
• Alexander the Great Beach Hotel
• Amavi Hotel - Made For Two Hotels
• Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel
• Columbia Beach Resort
• Amanti, Made For Two Hotels
• Troodos Mountains
• Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection
• MarBella, Mar-Bella Collection
• Ikos Dassia
• Ikos Oceania

At Sovereign, we give you complete flexibility to choose your perfect island hopping holiday.

• Athenian Riviera
• Peloponnese
• Luxury Lake Como Holidays
• Luxury Lake Garda Holidays
• Luxury Amalfi Holidays

Italy is home to a diverse and varied landscape, where you’ll find skiing in the mountains, beautiful golden beaches in Sardinia and world famous ancient ruins in Rome.

• Italian Lakes
• Neapolitan Riviera
• Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort
• Domes Lake Algarve, Autograph Collection
• Pine Cliffs Village
• Vila Vita Parc
• Savoy Palace And The Reserve
• Reids Palace a Belmond Hotel
• The Cliff Bay

With short flight times and year round sun, Portugal is a fantastic choice for a family holiday.

• All Portugal
• Hotel Bahia del Duque
• Red Level at Gran Melia Palacio De Isora
• The Ritz-Carlton, Abama
• Ikos Andalusia
• Zafiro Palace Alcudia

We make travelling as a family easy, with our carefully selected range of luxury family hotels

• Canary Islands
• Fuerteventura
• Gran Canaria
• Costa del Sol
• Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences
• Blue Waters & Cove Suites Antigua
• Fairmont Royal Pavilion
• Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

Whatever you choose to do, our family holidays in the Caribbean offer plenty of fun in the sun, whatever age your children are.

• Dominican Republic
• LUX South Ari Atoll
• Heritage Le Telfair Golf and Wellness Resort
• Anantara Iko
• Dubai & the Maldives

Start off in the diamond-bright emirate of Dubai, before spending seven nights between the sugar-sand beaches and tropical mountains of Mauritius.

• Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah
• Atlantis, The Palm
• Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
• The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert

An exclusive, ocean-front resort with elegant rooms and villas, located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah in Dubai

• Ras Al Khaimah

Escape the long British winter with a relaxing holiday in the sunshine. We can recommend the best destinations so you can switch off and unwind.

Enjoy luxuries like large family suites, interconnecting rooms, kids' clubs and family friendly restaurants to make the most of your family holiday.

Browse our collection of hand-picked luxury villas, selected for their inspiring locations and exceptional quality.

• All Holiday Types
• New to Sovereign
• All Inclusive
• Family Friendly
• Winter Sun Holidays
• Boutique Hotels
• Villa Holidays
• Long Haul Holidays
• Island-Hopping Holidays
• Hotels with Private Pools
• Hotels with Swim-Up Rooms
• Hotels with Villas
• Luxury Honeymoons
• Multi-Centre Holidays

It's never too late to book a last minute luxury holiday with Sovereign. Our late escape offers include some great savings.

Save on your luxury family holiday today. We have some great offers when departing during the school holidays.

2024 holidays are now on sale so seize the sunshine with our early booking discounts and have something to look forward to next year!

• Last Minute Holiday Offers

Summer 2024 Offers

School holidays offers.

• Greece & Cyprus Offers
• Spain & Portugal Offers
• Couples Holiday Offers
• Family Offers
• Italy & Croatia Offers
• Long Haul Offers

Download the latest Sovereign brochure.

Start preparing your dream holiday with the help of Sovereign Trusted Advisers

Picking a holiday can be tricky with all the choices. Allow us to help you filter through our best holidays based on your desires and needs.

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At Sovereign, we are committed to working with trusted partners and making sure that their hotels meet our standards, giving you the peace of mind to holiday safely.

We’re celebrating 50 years of Sovereign Luxury Travels. Luxury is personal to each and every one of our guests, which is why we have always truly tailored our holidays.

Ready to chat through some ideas? Our Personal Travel Planners are here to plan your perfect holiday and will be on hand from the moment you first get in touch, right through until you’re back home.

• Travel with Confidence
• Booking with Sovereign
• About Sovereign
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Book a luxury holiday and enjoy room discounts, board upgrades and more.

Experts in creating personalised luxury holidays

Why choose sovereign.

50+ Years Experience

Dedicated Personal Travel Planners with over 50 years of experience.

Hand Picked Hotels

Luxury holidays with handpicked hotels around the world.

Travel With Confidence

Travel with confidence with 24/7 support, ABTA and ATOL protected.

Your plans, our expertise

Luxury Travel Offers

Are you thinking of your next luxury escape? Find inspiration today with some of our favourite special offers below. Let us help you find your dream holiday - Give us a call on 01293 762400.

Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort, Crete

Ideal for families, the Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort offers a unique range of activities and clubs for children aged four months to 18 years meaning those travelling with older children can give them plenty of independence.

Special Offer

• Up to 20% room discount

Eagles Palace, Halkidiki

The Eagles Palace is a breathtaking and elite hotel in Halkidiki and one of the finest spa hotels in Greece. Relax in the hotel’s peaceful and serene atmosphere as you overlook the sparkling waters of the blue sea and glorious natural surroundings.

• Up to 15% room discount
• Free Half Board upgrade

Secrets Bahia Real, Fuerteventura

Secrets Bahía Real Resort & Spa is located right on the golden sands of the Atlantic Ocean and offers a wide range of amenities and activities. Surrounded by exotic gardens, relax into the beautiful surroundings and buildings, which combine chic and beachy décor with classic style and traditional Moorish details.

• Up to 25% room discount

Last Minute Offers

Luxury holiday finder

Our top destinations.

From trending destinations to time-tested classics – we’re always adding to our collection of luxury holiday destinations.

What our guests think

  We've been finding people their own slice of paradise for 50 years, and like to think we're pretty good at it.  Don't just take our word for it, though - see what our customers have said about their Sovereign experience..

Luxury holidays, tailor-made for you

The experts in tailor-made travel for over 50 years

Start creating your tailor-made holiday

The world at your feet.

Our diverse portfolio covers the best the world has to offer, from relaxing beaches to adventurous itineraries

Speak to the experts

Our team are here to offer you first-hand insights so you get the most out of your holiday

Truly personalised

We'll create an entirely bespoke experience for you with expertly curated touches throughout

Tailor-made travel ideas

With Inspiring Travel, your holiday will always be uniquely crafted by an expert so it's entirely individual to you. Our top travel ideas are just a starting point - speak to our Travel Specialists to tailor one to your liking or to create your own unique experience.

Discover Alberta and British Columbia’s Lakes and Mountains

Take in the striking beauty of Western Canada on this stunning fly-drive that takes you through some of the world’s most...

15 nights from £4,699 p/p

Best of Japan

There is plenty to see and do on our 14-night Japan itinerary. Discover the contrasting historical and cultural side of ...

14 nights from £6,887 p/p

Explore Australia’s East Coast Cities, Outback, Rainforest and Reefs

Journey through the unique wonders of eastern Australia with this 21-day itinerary, covering bucket list-worthy spots. E...

20 nights from £11,555 p/p

Cape Town, Malaria Free Luxury Tented Safari Plus Mauritius

A fantastic combination of stylish and luxurious boutique properties. Cape Cadogan and Marataba Safari Lodge are private...

Highlights of the Amalfi Coast

One of the most evocative areas of Italy, the Amalfi Coast is a sun-soaked stretch of coast where charming coastal towns...

Boutique Rajasthan

Embark on an incredible journey through the royal Indian state of Rajasthan. At each stop along the way you'll stay in a...

14 nights from £9,499 p/p

Ultimate Luxury Hawaii with Four Seasons Resorts

Island-hop your way through Hawaii, soaking up the distinctive beauty of Oahu, Lanai, Maui and Hawaii’s Big Island in on...

12 nights from £11,940 p/p

Discover Indochina

This 15-day heritage journey takes you through three of Indochina’s most exuberant countries. You’ll discover Laotian cu...

15 nights from £5,745 p/p

Maldives & Dubai Twin-Centre

Experience the best of both worlds with a twin-centre escape to the paradise of Baros, Maldives, followed by an exhilara...

10 nights from £3,975 p/p

Highlights of San Sebastian & the Basque Country

This nine-night itinerary explores the renewal architectural projects of Bilbao, before delving deeper into the traditio...

Highlights of the Philippines

Start in Manila, the capital of the Philippines. Take a tour of the historical area of Intramuros or shop in one of the ...

12 nights from £4,899 p/p

Caribbean island twin-centre, Antigua & British Virgin Islands

Showcasing the very best of easy-going island living, this 10-night twin-centre itinerary perfectly incorporates the ric...

10 nights from £5,469 p/p

Your Inspiring Travel experience

The experts in tailor-made luxury holidays, we're here to make your holiday all about you.

At Inspiring Travel, we're proud to have 50 years' experience in creating unforgettable luxury holidays around the world. Whether it's a relaxing beach holiday or an awe-inspiring adventure, we have the passion, expertise and service to bring your getaway to life.

No matter how big or small your travel idea is, our skilled experts take the time to truly understand why it's important to you before tailor-making an individual itinerary, just for you. They'll work with you to find the best hand-picked luxury hotels and personalised experiences that suit you, so every moment is truly bespoke and entirely special.

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Meet the Inspiring Travel Specialists

Nothing is more valuable than the genuine insights of a well-travelled expert. That’s why our team visit everywhere in our portfolio themselves or have strong personal connections they can rely on.

When you speak to one of our Travel Specialists, they won’t just pick a holiday ‘off the shelf’. They’ll add special touches and unique experiences at every step, curating every moment to seamless perfection.

Call our team on

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Top luxury travel destinations

Our portfolio covers the world with premium travel experiences. From cultural adventures to sumptuous beach escapes, unmissable cruise journeys, stylish ski breaks and scenic road trips, you'll find no shortage of inspiration.

Tailor Made Canada Holidays

Luxury Tailor-Made Holidays to South Africa

Luxury Japan Holidays

Luxury Holidays to Vietnam

Luxury Maldives Holidays

Luxury Barbados Holidays

Luxury Antigua Holidays 2024 & 2025

Luxury Holidays to Mauritius 2024 & 2025

Luxury Australia Holidays

Luxury Holidays to Greece

Luxury Spain Holidays

Luxury Holidays to Italy

Luxury St Lucia Holidays

Luxury Dubai Holidays 2024 & 2025

Top travel guides.

Make a start on planning your next trip with our travel guides. They're full of insider knowledge, from cultural highlights to the most peaceful spots. Delve in, or speak to our team for personal advice.

The Best Scenic Railway Journeys in the World

Imagine taking gorgeous snapshots of Canada's National Parks, then spotting elusive wildlife roaming the landscape before sitting back as you to head to your next destination.

8 Minute read

The Most Amazing Places to Visit in Alaska

With its active volcanos, authentic gold rush towns, gigantic glaciers, and wildlife havens, there's no shortage of amazing places to visit in Alaska...

11 Minute read

A Guide to Visiting Australia for the First Time

Simply put, holidays to Australia are phenomenal. From the stunning New South Wales to Queensland, Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory...

10 Minute read

The Best Places to Visit in Japan Besides Tokyo

Whether you're hungering for a fresh seafood dining experience or hope to explore historical temples, luxury holidays to Japan provide the ultimate escape – even outside the capital city, Tokyo.

The Best Driving Routes in California

For the ultimate feeling of freedom while you're away, nothing beats a road trip holiday. With its diverse states and iconic cities, the USA is one of top destinations in which to hit the open road...

13 Minute read

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Atlantic Canada

A visit to the Atlantic provinces of Canada is to uncover a hidden treasure. In a country that has so many awe-inspiring features, from the picturesque coast to the vibrant cities and quaint small towns...

16 Minute read

Looking for more?

Explore further with some of experts' recommended ideas, offers and favourite places to go.

2024’s best offers

From the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean and Asia, explore further with these savings

Trending Greece getaways

Speak to our experts for the latest availability and discover your perfect spot

Save up to 40% on the Maldives

Find unmissable upgrades and extras for your tailor-made escape

Fairmont Royal Pavilion

Take a post-Easter escape at this exquisite hotel set on one of Barbados’ best beaches

Find some short-haul sun

These 10 hotspots are all less than a four-hour flight away

Discover your luxury Jamaica

Explore stunning hotels, golden beaches, delicious cuisine and rich culture

Quiz: Find your perfect holiday

Answer a few questions for some personalised holiday ideas

Australia Travel Guide

Join Ellie as she shares her advice for first-time visitors to Australia

Top offers this week

Curtain Bluff

Book a relaxing getaway to this elegant yet laidback Relais & Châteaux beachfront resort

• Save 25% on all-inclusive accommodation
• Enjoy a complimentary room upgrade

Atlantis, The Palm

Stay at one of Dubai's most iconic hotels overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Palm Island

Grand Hotel Tremezzo

Escape to this iconic luxury hotel perched on the edge of Lake Como

• Why not experience:
• Wine tasting at L'Escale Trattoria and Wine Bar
• 1 hour boat tour of the lake

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort

Enjoy a relaxed family holiday with plenty to do at this popular beachfront resort

• Summer school holiday price
• Save up to 50% on accommodation
• Children eat for free

Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel

Escape to this adult-only Cypriot resort on a private beach this summer

• Save 15% on accommodation

The Inspiring Difference

Personal to you.

• We get to know you personally
• Tailor-made holidays that are unique to you
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Experts in luxury

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• Only the best premium travel experiences
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Extensive experience

• Nearly 50 years of bespoke luxury travel
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• Diverse portfolio and exclusive experiences

For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware

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Curating deluxe travel experiences across the UK & Ireland

Delivering luxury, bespoke adventures, tailored travel, personalised tours, & luxury vacations.

Why settle for ‘off-the-rack’ when you deserve ‘tailor made’? Your free time is precious; it is where stories begin and when memories are made. At Sleigh’s we have the knowledge, connections, passion, and most importantly the time to create a truly unique trip for you. Let us know what inspires and interests you and the leave the rest to us.

House of Sleigh – Exclusivity, Redefined

A magnificent Medieval-themed birthday soirée? A star-studded New Year celebration? An immersive Viking raid adventure? From personal adventures, and private gatherings, to corporate team building, we have redefined the exclusive use experience.

First, we understand you; your aspirations, visions, and wants. Then we identify your perfect fit exclusive use property from across the UK & Ireland and connect you with a world you didn’t know existed, all created uniquely for you. From invitations through to the finale we will design and manage everything for you. It starts with you.

expert local insight across the UK & Ireland

With luxury ingrained every step of the way., royal history, quaint villages, tradition, castles, lochs, mountain tops, coastal drives, celtic culture, craic, let's work together, the sleigh family have specialised in luxury travel since 1974 and are now leading experts in the industry, client stories, "sleigh's were absolutely incredible in the way they managed our event from start to finish".

Paul Lowton, Corporate Event in Stirling Castle.

Recent Case Studies & Articles

50 years of wl sleigh ltd, a spellbinding sojourn, discovering three nations through witchcraft history and lore, your own winter’s tale, a storybook winter holiday - festive feasts and celtic delights, a journey across lands of literary inspiration, enhancing university studies by creating an inspiring literary adventure, cultured connections – the best of scotland, an elevated experience, highlighting the very best of bonnie scotland, a medieval birthday party, what do you design for a man that has experienced everything, get in touch, let's design your next adventure.

Whether it’s finding a castle to host a big family vacation, organising helicopter transport for a remote picnic or arranging unique private cultural experiences, we are eager to meet every client’s wishes.

Inspiration

Feed your imagination, hiring: luxury travel design assistant, sustainability in scotland (5 nights), taste of scotland, best places to eat in glasgow, top golf courses to play in 2023/2024, a short excerpt goes here about this, our whisky favourites, the sleigh team lists their top drams, a winter wonderland – uk and ireland, our team's favourite winter activities, a feast of festivals in uk and ireland, our selection of the top food festivals across the uk & ireland, uk country escapes, the uk offers some incredible country retreats from vast manor house to quaint family cottages....

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Holidays for special occasions

Passionate about luxury and tailor-made holidays, we are dedicated to using our first-hand knowledge and expertise to design you the perfect trip.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Romantic. Timeless. Matchless. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a glamorous luxury rail journey like no other.

Rocky Mountaineer

Captivating. Exhilarating. Iconic. A journey on Canada's Rocky Mountaineer is an experience like no other.

A land of ancient temples, serene backwaters, vibrant streets and Raj retreats, palaces, forts and tigers.

Discover our Italy holiday collection

While city breaks to the likes of Rome, Venice and Florence continue to entice, it’s a shame not to take full advantage of Italy’s diverse charms. That’s why our destination experts have put together a range of itineraries, linking the country’s myriad highlights with private chauffeur drives, exclusive private touring, iconic rail journeys and luxury stays.

Go big with our bucket-list holidays

While all of our holidays offer something special, these trips stand out as genuine, once-in-a-lifetime classics. From Antarctic expeditions to driving California's Pacific Coast Highway in a convertible Mustang, they're the experiences that will keep your dinner party conversations topped up for years to come.

Book with confidence

We want you to be able to look ahead to your time away with absolute confidence. Not only will you enjoy the benefits of ABTA or ATOL protection , our travel experts will also be on hand to deal with any unforeseen situation on your behalf. Whether that's a cancelled flight or an unexpected change to your itinerary, we'll iron out any bumps in the road.

7 reasons to book with us

Unrivalled expertise, full financial protection, bespoke experiences, added extras – find out why you should book your next luxury holiday with us.

Get inspired

If you've got some dates for your holiday in mind, but aren't sure where's best to go, our Travel Planner is here to help. Explore the world's finest luxury holidays by month for the ultimate year in travel.

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Holidays as unique as you

Your luxury holiday starts here....

Tailored to you

Every holiday we create is made specifically for you, making sure that we deliver on our promise to create unforgettable experiences for you and the ones that you love.

Dedicated support

Whether it be before, during or after your trip, our expert team is on hand 24/7, to ensure that your holiday is a dream come true.

Door to door service

We take care of every detail of your trip so that you don't have to. We think that you should spend your valuable time away making incredible memories.

Featured destinations

Not sure where to go next? Take a look at some of our featured destinations for some inspiration.

The Maldives - A tropical paradise

Offering stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life. Escape to a world of relaxation and adventure. Find out more about the awe inspiring resorts we are partnered with.

Virgin Voyages - Adult-only luxury cruises

Learn about how this new cruise line is redefining the luxury cruise experience with no buffets, dress codes or kids.

New York - The city that never sleeps

New York is a cultural hub, complete with iconic landmarks, world-renowned cuisine and endless entertainment options. Find out how you can take a bite of the Big Apple and explore the city that never sleeps.

Bali - Tropical haven of relaxation and cultural exploration

A tropical paradise with serene beaches, lush rice terraces, and mystical temples. It offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Bali truly has something for everyone.

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Small Group Tours and Tailor-Made Holidays

Cox & Kings has over 265 years of experience arranging high quality travel to the world's most captivating destinations. Whether you're seeking culture, adventure or a blend of both, our holidays are designed by experts and brought to life by the finest guides.

Group tours

Our high quality small group tours offer superb value – combining sightseeing with expert guides, signature experiences and free time to relax.

Tailor-made holidays

Holidays and experiences designed around you, created by our experts.

Late availability tours

For those keen to travel sooner rather than later, browse our last-minute small-group tours.

Solo travellers group tours

With Cox & Kings you can travel solo alongside like-minded travellers – at no extra cost.

Guaranteed departures

Plan ahead with even more peace of mind.

Where to travel next

Central america, central asia, indian subcontinent, middle east, south america, ready to start planning your next trip.

• Popular group tours

18 days 16 nights

From £4,795

This tour focuses on South America's cultural and natural highlights, revealing the continent's diversity, and passing from high Andean scenery down to the thundering Iguazú Falls

Journey through the Heart of Spain

8 days 7 nights

From £1,895

Beyond the busy shores of the Mediterranean and Andalucía's popular tourist trail lies Extremadura, one of Spain's least-visited provinces but certainly one full of surprises

Treasures of Peru: Solo Travellers Tour

11 days 9 nights

From £3,095

This introductory tour of Peru includes the country’s most celebrated sights

Looking for a holiday that’s tailored to you?

• Popular tailor-made holidays

Taste of India

9 days 7 nights

From £2,315

Spend a week soaking up the sights and sounds of India’s famed Golden Triangle

A Journey through Jordan

10 days 9 nights

From £2,895

Rich with history and natural beauty, Jordan has an impressive selection of crusader castles, archaeological sites and beautiful desert scenery

Naples, Sorrento and Capri

From £1,720

This itinerary stays in the most popular locations of the Amalfi Coast - Naples, Sorrento and the island of Capri

Read our month-by-month travel guide

Read our blog, jordan's top 10 adventure and culture activities, 10 best places to visit in ecuador, the natural wonders of japan, 7 reasons to visit kenya with cox and kings, 10 best things to do in india, natural splendours of costa rica, why travel with cox & kings, genuinely small groups.

Small groups promise a more personal touring experience. That’s why Cox & Kings maintains a maximum group size of 18 guests on most tours, and an average of just 14.

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Cox & Kings is ABTA bonded and ATOL protected. When you arrange a holiday with us, rest assured that your booking is secure and your money is protected.

Experts since 1758

Cox & Kings is a name you can trust. We’ve been helping the curious traveller explore for more than 265 years – longer than any other travel company.

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From Booking Safaris to Planning Global Vacations, Here Are the 10 Best Travel Specialists

After a year off-grid, our winning specialists are providing customized experiences from jet travel to road trips., the editors, the editors's most recent stories.

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Travel specialists have never been more essential than they are right now, with their invaluable ability to pivot, re-book and offer advice. We picked 10 standouts in the luxury field from across the world, a directory of those who embody that above-and-beyond spirit essential in the past year.

Christoper Sitwell, Cazenove + Loyd

Wilmot-Sitwell has been working in travel for more than three decades. The co-owner of a 16-person London-based agency specializes in long-haul luxury, often to far-flung sites in rural Africa and Asia. The team there spent much of 2020 canceling or postponing trips—most recently, unpicking rescheduled itineraries to the Tokyo Olympics when a ban on foreign spectators was announced.

The firm anticipated today’s conscious-travel concerns from the outset, always focusing on owner-run and locally staffed independent operations, such as preservation outfit Campfire in Zimbabwe. Cazenove + Loyd also offsets the entire carbon cost of its research recces via a partnership with CommuniTree , a 12-square-mile tropical reforestation project in Nicaragua. Clients can easily opt into this, too; anyone whose itinerary swoops through the country can visit the project and personally plant the trees.

Learn More: Here

Tanya Dalton, Managing Director UK, Greaves

Dalton leads the UK office of this India specialist outfitter, which was founded by her Mumbai-born grandfather in 1978 and later run by her mother. With generations’ worth of in-depth experience and exclusive connections at her fingertips, she arranges custom trips as luxe as they are immersive. Depending on their interests, travelers may find themselves granted entrée to private palaces, sacred religious sites and landmarked government buildings; meeting with celebrated curators, authors, artisans, jewelers, chefs or astrologers; or exploring desert wilds while staying at plush mobile camps.

Dalton’s team—45 in Delhi and Mumbai, and 15 in the UK—helped extract some 40 clients from India at the start of the pandemic, as borders closed. Now she’s helping guests plan their return. On her radar currently are safaris to spot India’s rising tiger population, top-end hotel openings in Rajasthan and a new single-suite wooden boat that’s perfect for privately cruising the Ganges, Bhagirathi and Hooghly Rivers.

Jules Maury, Scott Dunn Private

Maury runs this offshoot of the UK-based travel firm, focused entirely on bespoke itineraries. Much of her work during the pandemic involved extended stays for home-schooling families who were looking to live and work in a new locale, whether spending two and a half months at Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives or a month in residence at Antigua’s Jumby Bay. Another guest commandeered the five-room Sheldon Chalet in Denali National Park, an ultra-secluded property accessible only by a 45-minute helicopter ride.

The SDP team follows multiple pro-social protocols when it travels and encourages clients to follow suit, including the Pack for a Purpose program, in which visitors pack requested supplies in their luggage for distribution at the destination. It’s laser-focused on ethical practices, too. Animal welfare is a priority, so providers that offer bullfighting or elephant riding are not used, and there’s a pledge that 90 percent of all operators will not provide single-use plastics to guests by the end of 2023.

Deborah Calmeyer, Roar Africa

The Zimbabwe-born Calmeyer has carved out a discrete niche as the ultimate elite safari planner, with the ability to pull off near-impossible requests, even during the pandemic. Rwanda’s government requires a negative PCR Covid-19 test for visitors, but offers only the throat-swab version at Kigali airport—a problem for one Roar Africa client, desperate to go gorilla-trekking but phobic about anything touching his throat. Calmeyer set up a protocol change, arranging for a nose swab to be administered instead.

She has offices in Nairobi, Johannesburg and Cape Town, with the HQ in New York, and Roar Africa continued to pay drivers, freelance guides and its staff even during lockdown, as governmental support in situ was scant. Roar Africa supports several social programs, including an all-women anti-poaching academy in Kenya, which has so far graduated almost 30 fully trained rangers, and underwrites a scholarship at a college of tourism in South Africa that trains women to work at local hotels and lodges.

Catherine Heald, Remote Lands

Remote Lands’ expertise centers entirely on planning ultra-luxury trips for Americans to Asia, with offices in New York and Bangkok, plus country managers in every locale.

Heald and business partner Jay Tindall try to ensure a positive impression both for their guests and by them, encouraging clients, for example, to fund the digging of a water well for a local family whenever Siem Reap in Cambodia forms part of the itinerary. Conscious of the higher carbon footprint of itineraries that span the continent, the pair deliberately minimize the number of flights, private or commercial.

Last year, a Texas couple who were planning to go solo to Asia to celebrate both his 70th birthday and their 40th wedding anniversary had to postpone, and instead Heald helped them turn their three-week, four-country trip into a reunion with their grandchildren, whom they plan to take along this November.

Beks Ndlovu, Founder of African Bush Camps

Ndlovu has maintained momentum, despite the safari industry’s devastating year. The operator and hotelier kept his entire 600-person staff employed while also unveiling Khwai Leadwood, a new high-design lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. It’s the latest in his eco-conscious properties; he has rolled out 16 of them in 15 years across three countries, a remarkable achievement. Each has a light footprint, via solar farms and water recycling, while also offering direct support to surrounding communities via the company’s ABC Foundation.

Even amid the logistical and medical constraints of the past year, Ndlovu seamlessly pulled off a recent journey for 14 people to Zimbabwe via private plane. “There was a lot of juggling, but it was well worth it,” says Ndlovu, who advocates for guests to spend their tourism dollars with brands that preserve wilderness areas and empower minorities and locals. “We continue to make the effort in identifying key talent that we can support and help rise to the surface.”

Cedric Reversade, Unique Properties & Events

Luxury travel was already tilting toward villa rentals before the pandemic made the idea of privacy, and self-containment, even more appealing. The London- and Paris-based Reversade and business partner Koskas offer discreet access to the world’s best rental homes in hot spots like Saint-Tropez, Ibiza and Capri while also acting as a travel concierge.

Take the California client who had bought a piano nobile on the Grand Canal in Venice, just before the first lockdown—and for whom they managed to secure a visa even when borders were shut. They also arranged excursions in the city, like a day on Burano with the glassblowers and a night visit to San Marco. Or the polo-loving English client who ditched her Chelsea townhouse for a seafront estate in Ibiza they’d wrangled on her behalf as lockdowns loomed; she then took trips around Spain, including lunching with a retired rejoneador from whom she bought two horses to ride at her country estate.

Cari Gray, Gray & Co.

Based in Santa Monica, Calif., Canadian expat Gray runs a lean team of about 10 with a particular expertise in active luxury. Take the trip to Argentina and Uruguay which shuttled her guests between cycling spots by private jet. It was due to start just as Argentina shuttered its borders last March, so Gray’s team pivoted, re-booking the group on a similar itinerary in California within 24 hours.

She’s determined that the lavish sums spent by clients truly uplift every destination, especially in developing areas. One pair of travelers sponsored GPS collars on a research project for rescued elephants at a local animal reserve in Namibia and witnessed the process firsthand. And an always recommended pit stop in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco is one of the late Eve Branson’s projects, which employs local women making crafts. It isn’t all do-gooding, though: Gray is renowned for arranging Michelin-caliber chefs to cater alfresco at the end of a day’s hiking.

James Jayasundera, Ampersand Travel

Sri Lanka is one of the rare destinations in Asia that have managed to create a program that allows visitors to experience the country during the pandemic, and no one is a better expert to help navigate an itinerary in that new normal than Rome-raised Jayasundera and his five-person, almost two-decade-old firm. Visitors can stay in designated hotels, he explains, and even go sightseeing, as long as they remain in “bio bubbles” to protect the local populace from imported infection.

Jayasundera started early, noting the preferences of each of his 12-strong family as they traveled constantly in his childhood, and has made such attention to detail a hallmark of his commercial operation. Inclusivity is a longtime passion, with a strong presence in the LGBTQ community among both staff and clients, and efforts to use female guides where possible to offset challenges around equality.

Mark Duguid, Carrier

The 60-person, Manchester-based Carrier plans less than 5,000 trips per year, allowing it to retain a reputation for flexibility. It’s willing to change itineraries within hours of departure and never charging amending fees. Duguid and his team were well placed, then, for the challenges of last year: See the couple from the UK who seized the chance to travel when permitted during a break in lockdowns, heading impromptu to the Maldives as an add-on to a last-minute visit to Dubai. Carrier recognized the appeal of the outdoors for travelers in the last year, too, and created an exclusive trip to Octola in Finland’s Arctic Circle, a five-star private wilderness reserve where local guides hosted open-fire lunches and ran excursions on husky sleds and snowmobiles.

Duguid reports a surge in so-called revenge spending, noting that the average booking value for 2021 has risen 90 percent year over year, with clients indulging in once-in-a-lifetime trips after lockdown restrictions loosen.

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Tour Britain & Ireland

Tailored private driver-guided tours of scotland, england, wales and ireland., customised private tours of scotland, ireland, england, london and wales with a driver guide, experience the comfort and convenience of our tailored guided tours, designed specifically for multi-generational families, families and couples. unwind and enjoy a carefree vacation with your private guide, ensuring every aspect of your journey is cared for . .

Tour the UK (England, Scotland, Wales and NI) and Ireland with a private driver-guide and enjoy an authentic insight into the history and culture. Our guides will entertain, enlighten, and enthral. Please take advantage of a specialist guide with  Royal London  knowledge or a Galway  expert; we have the tour guides to match your requirements. We cater for visitors with less-ability and active people who love to hike. Please check out the  best hotels in the Cotswolds  and let us help you plan an amazing Cotswold experience. 

If you love hiking, join our Small Group Tour of England's Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Park . This adventure is about the destination and the camaraderie and shared memories you'll create with fellow hikers. Make your tour of London special including  Wimbledon Tennis Tickets . Contact us for various hospitality packages that will elevate your experience.

Spring has sprung : Enjoy vast displays of daffodils this spring at RHS Wisley and Hampton Court Palace , an easy day tour from London . A NEW London tour option is the Taxi Cab Tour of London  see London through the eyes of a London taxi driver. Must-do tours for a first-time visit: Private guided tours of the Old City of London and Greenwich Tour with River Cruise plus the Royal Tour of London . The tours are designed to be flexible, allowing you to tailor your experience on the day with the guide, giving you a sense of control and reassurance.

Further information on Accessible Tours for wheelchair users .  

Discover our Private Driver-Guided tours

The royal london tour, classic tour of england, the classic tour of wales, scotland adventure, the classic tour of london, unesco greenwich tour and thames river cruise, england and wales, vip private tour of parliament and westminster abbey, vip private tour of the crown jewels and tower of london, personalise your tour of london, scotland, ireland, england, and wales., speak to our experts today and tell us all about you so we can create a curated tour of britain and ireland to match your interests and travel style., our service.

To make travel a joyful experience, one must have a cluster of resources to hand. We have an abundance of talented people to pull all our assets together to create for you a proper British tour, a Luxury Vacation of the United Kingdom. Please see below.

Private tour guides

Your driver-guide will have a wide range of knowledge, the background history of towns, entertaining local stories and cultural tales to enthral and delight. Your driver-guide is there to help with luggage, book restaurants, handle tickets and generally be a personal concierge. Where specialist knowledge is required, or restrictions apply at castles, stately homes and museums your driver-guide will advise on the day. We can also book additional tour guides for VIP and private tours of stately homes, museums and places of historical interest, such as UNESCO world heritage sites. 

Self-drive vacations

A totally different experience from just booking a car for a period of time. You will have a stress-free well-thought-out handover, genuine expert advice, and be provided a detailed hand-highlighted road map. In addition, we take the time to plan your itinerary with various options, post codes, drive-times, hotel bookings, restaurant booking and provide general concierge services throughout your vacation. We will have a professional guide meet you on your first day of driving to go over maps, mark out routes, and offer tips of the trade. Note: We provide high-end vehicles including Range Rover, Land Rover, Mercedes, Jaguar, and Lexus. 

Chauffeur-driven service

We provide friendly and professional drivers, who have experience touring the country and skills to negotiate city centres. It is a pleasure to be driven by a prepared, safe and skilful chauffeur. Helping with doors, luggage and showing concern for your comfort and safety, that’s what it means to be a professional chauffeur.  We sanitise, vacuum and prepare our vehicles before every job. Services provided can extend to corporate wait and return, as directed by passenger, chauffeur-driven day tours from London and extended chauffeur-driven tours of the entire UK. 

VIP experiences

Private tours of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, go behind the scenes of a West End show or a jaw-dropping flash-mob surprise. Your vacation to Britain will be a special event, a milestone birthday, mark your 50th, 60th or 70th with a series of moments of fun for you and your loved ones. While on honeymoon take the Belmont boat (Pic below-left) for a cruise down the Thames from Cliveden House (PICTURED BELOW). We are here to add those VIP touches that will make your Luxury Vacation extra special without the enormous price tag.

Hotels to match your style

Part of what makes your vacation unique is where you stay. We have the knowledge to match accommodation preferences with your budget.  There are an incredible variety of places to stay in Britain and Ireland. Stay in castle style hotels, historic manor house hotels, and homely guest houses all on a single tour of Britain and Ireland.  Stay in a private castle, gatehouse, folly, fort, lighthouse or historic country cottage this is often the way the British enjoy Britain. Be surrounded by glorious countryside but walking distance to a genuine village pub and be intrigued by living, but for a short time somewhere special.  

Thank you all for your nice comments

Our clients return year after year simply because they know we care about their vacation; we want to Make-it-Special, every time. We craft our private tailor-made tours carefully, offer individual access, and make sure our value far exceeds the price. We would like to thank our clients who have taken the time to write and wish us well and appreciate us. Many thanks - The Luxury Vacations UK team.

My family from the US came over for my birthday celebrations in March and arranged a 2-day private tour with Andrew and Graham. In a nutshell, it was amazing. It was just before lock-down when things were starting to close and have limited access, but Andrew managed to change the schedule accordingly to ensure that still we got the most out of the tour.

He and Graham were great company and by the end of the 2 days' we had all bonded! My cousin uses a wheelchair and they seem-lessly assisted him in and out of the vehicle.

We had a great time and saw so much in a short time. Andrew's extensive knowledge on each destination was captivating and his passion for the subjects he talked about was evident.

Highly recommend - you will have an amazing time! Thank you again :)

Lisa F Private tour of Royal London

We came in for a week to visit family and did a private and personalized tour of the London area with Luxury Vacations UK. Everything went fabulous! We had two tour guides, Andrew and Graham, and traveled in style in a very comfortable 15 seat Mercedes minibus for two full days. They even had a professional SLR camera and took some nice group photos for us. Their friendly nature and deep personal knowledge of British history made the experience of visiting some of the castles and churches only that much better.

There were some special needs for one of us and they took care of getting a scooter rented and available for us the whole time we were there. if you are planning to visit the UK, and want to do it "right" then I highly recommend their services. Thanks again Luxury Vacations UK!

Michael M The only way to see London! - Private tour of Royal London

We used their services for a week when we visited London in May of 2019. They were very professional, on time in picking us up at our hotel, and the van was impeccable. Also, they bought the tickets for the attractions we visited which was so helpful for a party of 18.

We were delighted with the tour guides and driver who were wonderful to us. Especially Andrew, who upon learning of our granddaughter's birthday, bought her a book about birds which she loves.

I would highly recommend them and would certainly use them again.

Mary A. 

Barnard P Luxury tour of London

Luxury vacations tour of Wales and England Our group of four ladies had a fabulous five day private tour with Luxury Vacations. After a one day tour in London, our private guide Chris Abbott joined us for the remainder of our trip. Chris was excellent. He was very knowledgeable, easy going, fun and flexible. Chris was even able to put up with four loud, laughing ladies for four days—quite a gentleman.

The staff at Luxury Vacations were polite and made it easy to plan our trip. They worked with us to plan a trip that catered to our specifications. Our accommodations were picturesque and high end.

Vivian T Luxury Vacations tour of England and Wales

England and Wales 5 days I was one of the four ladies traveling with Vivian T. I totally agree with her review about Luxury Vacations UK's itinerary for our trip and accommodations. Chris Abbott was truly a knowledgeable, friendly, and personable guide and driver. I would definitely use this company with Chris as guide for our trip to Ireland in the near future. Gary G.

Gary G US visitors - England and Wales 5 days

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Top 10 luxury travel companies

Luxury travel firms are dedicated to ensuring their customers are treated to truly unforgettable, high-end experiences.

Here, Business Chief takes a look at the top 10 luxury travel companies offering trips to the UK & Europe. 

1. Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) has been at the forefront of travel for more than 60 years and now has offices in the UK, France, Italy and the UAE.

Its specialism is the careful curation of luxury, tailor-made escapes which can’t be found on the shelves and don’t require any laborious DIY. 

In fact, to use the firm’s own words, “each holiday is as individual as the person it is created for”. 

A&K forms part of the A&K Travel Group, which also includes Crystal Cruises and Cox & Kings .

2. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

World-leading and multi-award-winning Uniworld Boutique River Cruises offers itineraries in spectacular destinations across Europe, Egypt, Asia and Peru.

Its fleet consists of luxurious ships with an average capacity of just 120 guests, representing one of the highest crew-to-guests ratios in the river cruise industry.

Clients can expect enticing shore excursions, world-class gourmet cuisine, impeccable hospitality and a wide array of all-inclusive benefits. 

Uniworld takes pride in forming long-lasting relationships with guests, for whom there is “no request too large, no detail too small”. 

3. Black Tomato

Black Tomato was formed in 2005 by three friends who were determined to curate travel in a completely different way from what was on the market at the time. 

Today, the firm is an award-winning creator of unique, perfectly-tailored travel experiences. 

Based in London, Black Tomato consists of a team of experts with deep knowledge of the world and an eye for detail. 

To this day, the business is constantly dreaming up exceptional new experiences and innovative services to enhance the lives of its clients. 

4. Kensington Tours

Specialising in tailor-made, private experiences, Kensington Tours offers trips to more than 100 countries across the globe. 

Customers can travel around with a private guide and driver, giving them the freedom to take in extensive, insider information about their surroundings and even change plans at the last minute.

Booking experts have deep knowledge of all Kensington Tours’ locations and tailor each experience depending on their clients’ preferences, ensuring they can make the absolute most of their vacation. 

5. Trafalgar Travel

With history stretching back more than 100 years, Trafalgar is a world-leading tour brand spanning all seven continents.

The firm boasts 303 trips across 72 countries and a collection of exclusive, local experiences – think out-of-hours access to the Vatican or a tour of Versailles with an expert.

Trafalgar also offers ‘Be My Guest’ experiences, a unique chance to be welcomed into the home of locals, enjoy their hospitality and learn about their culture. 

Viator makes it easy to find and book unforgettable travel experiences all across the globe.

Customers can choose from a selection of no fewer than 300,000 experiences, ranging from simple tours to extreme adventures and everything in between. 

Viator prides itself on making four guarantees:

• Exceptional flexibility, including free cancellation and payment options
• Quality you can trust, backed by millions of reviews
• Award-winning support available 24/7
• Experiences to remember

7. Exeter International

Exeter International consists of a team of travel aficionados who design custom private travel to Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, Scandinavia and Central Asia.

Travel experts are proficient in English, Portuguese and Spanish, and utilise their extensive local knowledge to design personalised, often-exclusive travel experiences. 

Itineraries are crafted to fit tastes, pace and budget, while Exeter also handles logistics throughout the journey, carefully selecting private guides and contracting VIP hotels to ensure everything runs smoothly. 

8. Exoticca

Exoticca ’s mission is to place the world at the fingertips of those who wish to explore it.

The online tour operator has a team of more than 400 passionate travel experts, who carefully craft extraordinary travel packages to help travellers based around the world to fulfil their dreams.

By developing unique technological solutions and partnering directly with trusted local operators, Exoticca is offering extraordinary trips at “never-before-seen” prices, enabling its customers to enjoy truly unforgettable experiences.

9. Classic Journeys 

Edward Piegza , Founder of Classic Journeys , was inspired to launch his business after listening to his mother-in-law tell stories of her long weekends in Cuba.

Today, almost 30 years after being established, it has become known as one of the world’s finest walking tour companies, offering trips to 30 countries on seven continents.

Classic Journeys believes that every guest should be able to enjoy the trip of a lifetime, and that the finest way to accomplish that is on foot at eye level.

10. Scott Dunn

Scott Dunn is a luxury tour operator and travel agent that creates tailor-made luxury holidays, honeymoons and safaris in numerous far-flung locations.

Over the years, the firm’s specialists have travelled to the four corners of the world, exploring everything from major cities and rural villages to vast rainforests and tiny desert island. 

It means Scott Dunn is equipped with the tools required to offer high-end trips which are meticulously planned but have an adventurous edge. 

For more business insights, check out the latest edition of Business Chief UK & Europe and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .

You may also be interested in the Business Chief US & Canada website. 

BizClik is a global provider of B2B digital media platforms that cover executive communities for CEOs, CFOs and CMOs, as well as leaders in Sustainability, Procurement & Supply Chain, Technology & AI, Cyber, FinTech & InsurTech. We also cover industries including Manufacturing, Mining, Energy, EV, Construction, Healthcare and Food & Drink.

BizClik, based in London, Dubai and New York, offers services such as content creation, advertising and sponsorship solutions, webinars and events.

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At ITC, we don’t do ordinary.

Our group of travel brands are all united by a drive to create personalised travel experiences that enrich our clients’ lives.

To do this, we pride ourselves on our bespoke service, going above and beyond to find new ways to see more of the world.

With our destination expertise, network of industry partners and diverse product offering, we know that what we do is simply beyond compare.

We know that travel is not one-size-fits-all. So, our portfolio of specialist brands covers a breadth of experiences that are as unique as every client.

From luxurious beach holidays, to enriching wildlife encounters, unmissable live sport events, journeys into the unusual and so much more, nothing is off limits to us.

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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.