small group travel uk

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Our Small-Group Tours:

Our small-group tours visit iconic destinations, but they also seek harder-to-reach locations. Navigate along narrow country roads, travel through the heart of history, hear local stories and create unforgettable memories!

Relax on our comfortable minibuses in the company of a friendly Driver-Guide. Escape London on one of our day tours or embark on an extended trip to explore the far-reaching corners of Britain.

Small-group tours, exploring Britain.

The go-tours way:

Small-groups guaranteed

Travel in small friendly groups of up to 16 guests per tour

Follow the country roads

Absorb the scenery as we travel along the scenic country roads.

Friendly Driver-Guides

Your all-in-one tour guide, minibus driver and friend on the road

Support the environment

We support environmental projects to help reduce the impact of our tours

Explore our tours:

Brighton & seven sisters tour, cotswolds tours, canterbury & dover cliffs tours, cornwall tours, lake district tours, wales tours, bath & stonehenge tours, stratford tours, guest feedback:.

‘Tour of a Lifetime’ There are not enough superlatives to describe how superb our tour was with Kevin via Go Tours. I can declaratively say it was the very best trip of my life. I highly recommend this company without hesitation. Tracy, Cornwall Tour

‘Blooms, Brew and Brilliant Glenn’ Calling all flower lovers, tea lovers, history lovers & anyone who wants a day of beauty away from the bustle of London. The Cotswolds is your Xanadu, and GO-Tours your comfortable, air-conditioned chariot…I would rebook with GO-Tours for another adventure with Glenn even if it were just a tour of the local Sainsbury’s. Heather, Cotswolds Tour

‘A very pleasant tour of Wales’ We thoroughly enjoyed our tour of Wales with Steve as our driver and guide. He was assiduous in his attending to the individual needs of our small group which made for a relaxed and friendly experience….We would unreservedly recommend this tour. David, Wales Tour

‘Excellent, Excellent, Excellent’ This trip exceeded our expectations in every way. We’ve toured by motor coach before, but this was a whole new (fun) dimension…I have nothing but praise for this little tour company. They work their butts off to give you a first-rate experience. Sally, Cornwall Tour

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UK and Great Britain Small Group Tours

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

176 UK And Great Britain small group tours with 2,016 reviews

10-Day Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour

We just finished an outstanding 10-day Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour with our exceptional guide, Finn! We selected this tour as it had, for us, the right combination of the highlights of Ireland and varied activities, it included both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, and it was a small group tour. This tour absolutely exceeded our already high expectations! The itinerary proved to be excellent, but a lot of the credit for the success of the tour has to go to Finn. Like any good teacher, he is truly passionate about his country and sharing all it has to offer! He shared his knowledge and love of Irish history, literature, culture, sports and music throughout the tour which added so much depth and color to our adventure. Finn is competent, personable, patient, funny, and flexible — to name a few of his many virtues. He proved to be an excellent driver as we traversed many winding, narrow and challenging roads! He kept us on schedule, made modifications when needed, and provided us with a smooth running tour and a once in a lifetime experience for our group! We highly recommend Finn and the 10-day Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour! We made new friends and enjoyed a lot of fun and laughter along the way!!

• In-depth Cultural

7-Day Ireland to Island Small Group Tour of Ireland

Absolutely fantastic!! Travelled with my mom who is turning 80, my sister and our teen boys ( aged 15-17). The itinerary and hotels were perfect. What made it so great was out guide Pat! Not sure it would have been near as great an experience if we had someone else guiding us. He was kind, funny, patient and very knowledgeable!

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

The trip was amazing. Our bus driver/tour guide, Lee, was fantastic. He looked after us and shared his love and knowledge of Ireland so that we grew to love it too. Nothing was too much trouble. Our accommodation was perfect and the food and pubs were better than I had I had imagined. Can't recommend it enough.

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coach / Bus

The Celtic Voyage - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

Wonderful tour and guides. I will defenately recommend them and use them again.

Northern & Southern Ireland

there is a difference between, a tour guide and a tour leader, this i did not know. a leader is the organizer of all events, transportation and accommodations. Zoe far exceeded my expectations in this role, and i would highly recommend her. She was not a tour guide. I was expecting more information about the people, locations and cultures of Ireland.

8 Day Castles & Coast Experience - Small Group Tour

The trip was very well organized with lots of options to do things at each destination. Our tour guide Anthony was great. His knowledge of the area was very comprehensive and he told great stories as well. The Irish people were wonderful and the Irish breakfasts were delicious. It was a great way to see the country without having to navigate all of the narrow roads along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Scotland's Shetland Islands

This was a really enjoyable and comprehensive tour of Shetland, we had an amazing tour guide and had lots of good walking. A great mix of history, sightseeing, and culture.

Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

There really aren't proper words to describe how incredible this tour was. My wife and I returned nearly 4 months ago and we have thought and talked about this trip nearly every day. We saw so many magical, mystical, emotion-evoking things that it's hard to even comprehend. From ancient ruins where High Kings were crowned, to watching passersby while having great food and drinks at a street side cafe, to walking along a serene riverfront, to sipping tea while watching the sunset from a castle, to enjoying superb cocktails with new friends in an amazing library bar. And, that, was just the first day! Experiences like feeling gale force winds against your face, as you stand next to a lighthouse on top of rocky cliffs that plunge down into the cold North Atlantic, are followed by strolls down winding streets lined with quaint shops, before ducking into a pub to enjoy some of the best musicians, fine ales or whiskies, delicious meals, and the nicest, friendliest people in the world. The accommodations were perfect and allowed us to get a good night's rest everywhere we went. And, the included breakfasts were sublime and filling, which was needed for days full of activities. Activities like walking through morning fog so thick that you could barely see your outstretched hand, before the fog began to lift and we were treated to the breathtaking views from the Cliffs of Moher along with the sounds of buskers playing the uilleann pipes. Just to start the day. We trekked through lush forests to see pristine waterfalls, lochs, mansions, and the haunting Muckross Abbey, believed to have inspired Irish author Bram Stoker in his writing of Dracula! We traveled the scenic Ring of Kerry, visited Molly Gallivans to learn about the history of weaving woolen sweaters and their importantly identifiable patterns, and even sample some locally made honey mead and poitin (Irish moonshine)! We walked barefoot on beaches, saw Clydesdale horses, sang songs, shared stories, and had the most amazing time. If you're a Star Wars fan reading this review, then I haven't even told you the best part. While some members of our group chose to stay on land and tour Valentia Island, we took a small boat, optional tour, out to the Skellig Islands (you know, where Rey and Chewbacca went to find Luke Skywalker in hiding)!!! We saw thousands of endangered birds that use one of the two islands as a sanctuary, and were joined along the way by a pod of many dolphins racing with our boat and jumping out of the water all around us! Cows, sheep, horses, cows, sheep, cows, and sheep. Did I mention cows and sheep? Ireland is a relatively small country. It's only 175 miles wide and 300 miles long. It has a population of 5 million people. It also has 5.5 million sheep and over 7 million cows. Wow! I haven't even mentioned Galway, Clonmacnoise, Puck the Goat King, the Charlie Chaplin statue, the Ford Model T statue, the scenic towns of Dingle and Lahinch, many more lighthouses, and so much more! All along the way, we learned a lot about the history and culture of this beautiful country from our fantastic tour guides, Andy and Diarmuid. You guys ROCK! We can't wait to visit again!!!

6-Day Outer Hebrides & Skye Adventure Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Don &Dom are great guides ,narrators and excellent drivers to boot. Impressive tour!!

• Christmas & New Year

England Scotland Ireland – Highlights of UK

5-Day Devon & Cornwall Small Group from London

This was the first multi-day tour I have taken. I have always been concerned about being locked in to an itinerary with a large group of strangers and the loss of liberty etc. I was happy with the way this tour turned out - smallish group, being left to tour stops on your own, and mostly interesting stops (I would replace Tavistock with something else in Devon - say Torquay perhaps - but I realize there are logistical constraints as well). I think Samuel did an excellent job - he was able to set a playful mood, articulate relevant historical information and keep things running smoothly. One suggestion: the bus should have wifi.

5-Day Northern Ireland & Atlantic Coast Small-Group Tour from Dublin

The tour was fantastic, informative funny. Our driver Liam was really good he kept us all entertained. I would go on a Rabbies tour again.

2-day Outlander Tour (Small Group)

This tour was incredible! Absolutely recommend it for any Outlander fans. Even non-outlander fans can enjoy it though!!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Classic Scotland Self Drive

Overall it was a very nice trip, I think it was well laid out for traveling

The Best Of Ireland

The tour was great and our tour / bus driver is one of the best. He's extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of Ireland and went out of his way to do extra things that were not on the itinerary. We had plenty of time at all of our stops and loads of free time as well. Thanks Indus for a great time.

Reviews of Small Group tours to UK And Great Britain

Mike was an excellent guide, informative, very knowledgeable and flexible with the itinerary when necessary

Small Bus touring is the way to go!

Excellent guide - very informative and expert bus driver!

• One week in England and Scotland (for Seniors) 2024/2025

Small Group Tours

Explore beyond the beaten path.

Our group tours seek lesser-known tracks. The hidden locations and the stories that get overlooked. Driving deeper to unlock more out of the places so many call home, is what ignites our fire to return time and time again. Go beyond with a group tour this year and collect stories to last a lifetime

Small Group Tours to Ignite Your Curiosity

From the rugged landscapes a tour of Scotland can provide, to the historical greatness of an England trip , the enchanting emerald isle of Ireland and the mesmerising ruins located in Wales , our group tours are designed to quench your thirst for authentic, engaging travel experiences. Let our driver-guides take you there. Come rain or shine, we embark on unforgettable journeys. Just be sure to pack your waterproofs. Unlike our small-group tours, the British weather can not always be reliably sunny.      

Explore all our small group tours

Reasons You'll Love a UK & Ireland Small Group Tour

Explore in Style & Comfort

Driven around in a Mercedes 16-seat mini-coach , watch the horizons come into focus with every passing minute. Breathe in the unexpected and exhale any uncertainty, as you embrace the wonders of the British Isles, from sampling local cuisines to witnessing nature's greatest shows. But remember, the first rule of seeing a Highland coo … don’t ask to see a Highland coo.   

Safety in Numbers

There's a unique strength in numbers. Our small-group tours provide a safe, intimate setting that still allows for personalised experiences. The camaraderie, shared adventures, and combined curiosity of the group. All the qualities that enriches the journey, making your travel tour a tapestry of fascinating stories to take home and reveal in.

Add a Group Tour to Your Solo Travel Itinerary

Travelling alone doesn't mean you have to be on your own. Add a solo travel tour to your itinerary and start collecting legends from our driver-guides or lesser-known stories from the locals tucked away in a bustling pub. However the words grace your ears, know they’ve been on a journey themselves. Discover and listen for yourself by securing a place on a tour. 

Your Journey, Our Responsibility

We view our travels as a relationship between us, you, and the places we visit. Through our responsible travel initiatives , we strive to protect and conserve the beauty of our destinations, wherever we can. From volunteering and donating, to using small mini-coaches, all is in the hopes of protecting the places we love for future generations to enjoy.

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• +44(0)2921 660 747 UK / International

Britain Small Group Tours

Escorted touring with a difference! Discover Britain’s beautiful winding country-roads, rolling landscapes and historic visitor attractions in the company of your friendly and knowledgeable driver-guide and an intimate touring group of no more than 14 passengers.

Travel in style on board an agile, luxury mini-coach perfect for getting off the beaten tourist track to explore the back roads and country lanes of England, Scotland and Wales. And with our experienced driver-guides taking care of all of the driving and logistics, you’re free to simply kick back and soak up the scenery. And there’s so much scenery to absorb on our small group journeys whether it’s the rustic villages of the Cotswolds, the craggy seascapes of the Cornish peninsula, the dramatic mountain ranges of North Wales or the remote wilderness of the Highlands and islands of Scotland.

Our guaranteed small-group sizes means you’ll enjoy an intimate and sociable touring experience whilst also benefitting from a host of logistical advantages such as greater group interaction, swifter check-in at attractions and a capacity to stay in quainter overnight lodging away from the featureless hotels of traditional group tours.

Our range of small group journeys have been carefully put together and fine-tuned to offer perfectly balanced touring itineraries; our guests visit both must-see attractions and lesser-known gems, engage in both scheduled sightseeing and self-guided free-time and enjoy inclusive group meals alongside free-nights for independent dining.

And of course, here at adeo Travel we believe that your overnight lodging is very much part of your touring experience and should reflect your destination! On one of our small-group tour you’ll stay in our signature, hand-picked accommodation which can include anything from elegant townhouse properties, historic city hotels, traditional coaching inns and opulent country manor houses. But whatever the style, we ensure your benefit from quality, comfort and characterful accommodation.

Combining regional tours you can discover the whole of the UK. See below our selection of boutique small-group tour itineraries of Britain.

  Key features

• Maximum group-size of 14 guests
• Accompanied by a friendly and professional driver-guide
• Travel in style and comfort by luxury mini-coach
• Choose from a range of unique itineraries covering England Scotland and Wales
• Overnight lodging in quality and characterful hotels
• Inclusive breakfast each morning and selected evening dining
• A comprehensive sightseeing and admission program
• A dedicated consultant to plan your trip and a comprehensive travel documents pack prior to travel.

  Tour benefits

• An intimate and interactive touring experience
• Relax - the driving and logistics are taken care of
• Gain local insight of British history and heritage from your driver-guide
• Get off the beaten tourist track to explore Britain's back roads and hidden gems
• Enjoy authentic local experiences and cuisine for a true taste of Britain
• Well balanced itineraries including scheduled visits and free-time
• Experience Britain’s hospitality in quaint and characterful hotels
• Hassle-free planning and additional arrangements with your own dedicated expert.

A small group tour of Britain – discover what makes Britain Great on this small group journey through the diverse cultures and landscapes of England, Scotland and Wales. This comprehensive itinerary takes you from the peaceful coasts and mountains of Wales, through rustic landscapes of rural England and north in to remote wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. We’ll see iconic landmarks and hidden gems, visit Britain’s quaint villages and heritage cities and enjoy a host of local experiences from steam train rides through the English countryside to whisky tasting in the Highlands.  In the company of your local guides, the Great British Journey is the ultimate way to explore Britain.

A small group tour of England and Wales – Enjoy an epic journey of discovery through the varied histories and landscapes of England and Wales. We’ll see many of Britain’s most beautiful natural landscapes from the golden coasts of Pembrokeshire and the mountains of Snowdonia in Wales to the rustic hills and vales of Yorkshire and the Lake District in England. Along the way we’ll sample traditional fare and enjoy a host of local visits including archetypal medieval fortresses, stately English manors, ancient cathedrals and historic steam train journeys; the ideal tour to discover the very essence of Britain.

A Small Group Tour of England and Scotland – From the southernmost tip of the Cornish Peninsular to the remote wilderness of the Isle of Skye, enjoy an epic small-group journey through the diverse cultures and landscapes of England and Scotland. Discover the quaint fishing towns of Cornwall, the rolling hills and honey-coloured villages of the Cotswolds, the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of the English Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, and finally the barren moorlands of the Scottish Highlands. Along the way we’ll visit the heritage cities of Bath, Oxford, York, Chester, Inverness and Edinburgh, and experience regional food, drink and hospitality. South Coast to Skye is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture and panoramas of England and Scotland.

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

A small group tour of England and Scotland – Beauty of Britain is an epic journey exploring the history, heritage and natural landscapes of England and Scotland. We’ll pass from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, through the rustic landscapes of Yorkshire and the Lake District to the barren wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. Our journey is punctuated with visits to Britain’s heritage cities, including Oxford, York and Edinburgh, and we’ll enjoy a host of local experiences including a countryside steam train ride, ancient castle visits, traditional afternoon tea and a whisky distillery tour. The true beauty of Britain is waiting to be discovered.

A small group tour of Britain – Aspects of Britain offers a leisurely tour through England, Scotland and Wales for an engaging insight in to British culture and countryside. Your journey will take you through the rural regions of the South Wales valleys, the Cotswolds, the North Yorkshire Moors and the Scottish Lowlands to the heritage cities of Cardiff, York and Glasgow. Along the way we’ll visit medieval castles, roam Shakespeare country, wonder at stately homes, discover ancient abbey ruins and see shimmering Scottish lochs. The highlights of Britain are waiting to be explored.

A small group tour of Wales and England’s West Country – A perfect combination of Celtic cultures discover the beauty of England’s West Country and the beguiling landscapes of Wales. Your journey will take you over the barren moors and along the rugged coastlines of Devon and Cornwall before passing in to the undiscovered nation of Wales, home to towering mountains and ancient castles. This journey is a combination of our Treasures of Cornwall and Enchanting Wales tours.

Small group guided tours of England and the UK from London

Small groups.

#1 rated small group day tours from London. See the best of England with a family run company, and tour on a luxury bus with an expert guide. 

The Cotswolds, Oxford & Stratford upon Avon

Canterbury, dover castle and cliffs & kent villages, great guides, stonehenge, bath & a secret place ®, one day tours..

Make the most of your time in London with a guided tour of England’s must see destinations. Our bus tours take the back roads, with a great guide in a small group on our award winning day trips from London. Visit Stonehenge, Cotswolds, Oxford, Bath, Canterbury, Stratford-upon-Avon, Dover, Bruges & more. Don’t get lost in the crowd. Join The English Bus for the best tour experience.

Stonehenge, Bath & A Secret Place ®

The cotswolds, oxford & stratford upon avon, canterbury, dover castle and cliffs & kent villages, a cotswolds village, bath and stonehenge, warner bros. studio tour london - the making of harry potter & oxford, winter solstice sunrise tour at stonehenge 2024, belgium – a day in beautiful bruges.

#theenglishbus on Instagram

" We already had high expectations for this tour, but the English Bus managed to exceed them. "Johny," our guide/driver, struck a perfect balance between professionalism and humor. The 'secret place' was the icing on the cake. " Christopher, Massachusetts, USA - a TripAdvisor reviewer

"Lilly was absolutely LOVELY! She was enthusiastic and humorous and very well-informed! The English Bus has mastered the day tour! Thank you Lilly for one of the best days of our vacation." Karen, San Diego, USA - a TripAdvisor reviewer

"Our tour guide, Lilly was wonderful. She mixed history, culture, and enthusiasm in a way that brought the whole experience alive! The tour group size was perfect, small, but enough people to interact." Daniel, USA - a TripAdvisor reviewer

Small Group Tours

An immersive and unique way to explore Britain

• Evan Evans Tours
• Experiences
• Small Group Experiences

Our Small Group tours allow guests to explore London and Britain more deeply. Head off the well-beaten path with our Expert Storytelling Guides to discover the spots that locals love and immerse yourself in quintessential British culture first-hand. Each Experience is guaranteed to have no more than 25 guests, unearthing authentic encounters that delve deep into the heart of local culture and history.

SPECTACULAR EXPERIENCES IN THE COTSWOLDS

Make the most of your group journey in Britain and discover magical places in the Cotswolds on our comfortable small coaches. Choose from our most popular Small Group Experiences.

The Cotswolds with Rothschild Wine Tasting Experience - Small Group Tour

Embark on a journey through the Cotswolds, from the historic charm of Stow-on-the-Wold's market square to the quintessential beauty of Burford's honey-coloured streets on this small group tour.

Villages of The Cotswolds Small Group Tours

Harry Potter Film Locations of Lacock & The Cotswolds - Small Group Tour

Evan evans peace of mind.

You can book with us reassured that we have put numerous measures in place to elevate our hygiene standards and protocols, and be confident that your money is in safe hands with our flexible booking terms.

Committed to your well-being

Book with confidence, a more intimate experience.

Explore Britain with a maxmium of 16 guests and an Expert Guide

Make Travel Matter

This is our goal. We recognize our responsibility to ensure our impact on the planet we call home, the people we visit, and the wildlife we find there, is a positive one. We take steps to address our impact in two ways; through our sustainability strategy, How We Tread Right, and through our TreadRight Foundation.

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United kingdom.

Regal. Charming. Scenic.

Comprised of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the United Kingdom definitely has dozens of reasons worth leaving home for. Mountains, valleys, hills and dales, forests and gardens, oh and no less than 25 UNESCO World Heritage sites scattered throughout, are but a few. You will find a slew of cathedrals, castles, palaces and country houses spanning history. Centuries of inspiring the world, influencing the arts, and forming natural beauty have developed this land into one great nation.

Destination Must-See's

A world in a city is a common way to describe the metropolis of London, the capital of England. A cultural melting pot of over 230 nationalities, London is the financial, political and cultural capital of the UK. It is booming with activity and bursting with sightseeing treasures. You’ll find historic highlights from the haunting Tower of London to the ornate Buckingham Palace and more modern attractions such as the world-famous Harrods department store and the towering London Eye.

The capital city and second most populous in Scotland, Edinburgh has been recognized for its historic and cultural attractions. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK after London. Great shopping, historic architecture and great Scottish whisky are just part of its allure. Its greatest draw is Edinburgh Castle. This sprawling medieval castle and fortress sits atop Castle Rock in the city center, dominating Edinburgh’s skyline.

Giant’s Causeway:

At the foot of the basalt cliffs on the coast of Northern Ireland’s County of Antrim lies the stunning Giant’s Causeway. Travelers flock to this UNESCO World Heritage site to experience the 40,000 massive dark columns rising from the sea. The natural phenomena has sparked legends of giants and magic, but its unique geology points to volcanic activity from over 50 million years ago. The Giant’s Causeway is a beautiful sight and the experience of a lifetime.

Cornwall, a region located on a peninsula in southwest England, is comprised of many different towns and villages that feature beautiful beaches and picturesque coastlines. Bordered by the Celtic Sea and the English Channel, one of its most popular towns is St. Ives. This seaside port town just north of Penzance on the coast of the Celtic Sea is known as the art center of West Cornwall and has a sub-tropical feel and beautiful beaches.

Destination Must-Do's

England’s Lake District:

Lose yourself in the natural beauty of this mountainous region in northwest England dotted with tranquil lakes. One of the picturesque villages in the region is Grasmere, once home of and inspiration to the romantic poet William Wordsworth. Perhaps you will take a sail on one of the lakes and take in the peaceful backdrop of lush green mountains, serene shorelines and pristine calm waters dotted with tiny islands.

Stonehenge:

Walk in the footsteps of so many before you when visiting prehistoric Stonehenge. This mysterious rock formation dates back to the Stone Age and remains one of the world’s most famous sites. Standing in the middle of the most dense complex of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments in England, Stonehenge is perhaps the most important prehistoric monument in England. The experience of seeing this timeless monument is not to be missed – it will surely be a highlight of your visit.

This large, deep freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands extends approximately 23 miles southwest of the city of Inverness. Loch Ness is best known for the alleged sightings of the Loch Ness monster. While Loch Ness is not the largest Scottish loch by surface area, it is the largest by volume, with its deepest point at 755 feet. Along the shore, you will find the ruins of Urquhart Castle. This once mighty site rests on the headwaters of Loch Ness and dates back as far as the 13th century.

Prepare to step back in time in the English countryside. The Cotswolds are roughly 25 miles across and 90 miles long, stretching from Stratford-upon-Avon to Bath. The region is known for its small towns and villages with homes made from golden colored Cotswold stone and grass roofs that sit among lush greenery and rolling hills. Stratford-upon-Avon is perhaps its most famous town. Lying along the River Avon, it’s famed for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare, one of the world’s great playwrights. Be sure to make a trip to see the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Expert Advice

Think “go to the right.” It is their natural flow of traffic even when it comes to walking. It is important to not only look both ways when crossing the street, but also when on an escalator, stand to the right. When walking down the street, stay alert and follow the flow – to the right.

Expect to be offered tea, a lot. The British love their tea and not only during afternoon tea, any time for any reason. But you should know there is a “proper” way to drink it. The rules are – sit up straight, do not blow on it, take small sips with your pinky down, and put the cup on the saucer between sips. Now you are prepared to sip away.

Bring a raincoat and umbrella, as it rains one out of three days in the UK. It does vary from region to region, but generally speaking, they are important items to have on hand at all times.

Featured Tours to United Kingdom

Shades of The English Countryside

Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend

Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Discover Scotland featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

British Landscapes featuring England, Scotland and Wales

British Landscapes featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Discover Scotland

Coasts & Countryside’s of England with Edinburgh, Liverpool & London with Edinburgh, Liverpool & London

Brochures that Feature Our United Kingdom Tours

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Small group tours

Escorted group tours.

Why choose us for a small group adventure holiday?

Unforgettable experiences.

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

Expert tour leaders

Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small groups

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Types of small group tours

Walking & trekking, family adventures, frequently asked questions about our small group tours.

First time on a small group holiday? We've answered the top questions about travelling on an Explore tour:

Can I take my family on a group travel tour? Yes, our family adventure tours  are group holidays for families, typically with around 11-18 people in a group plus a local leader. Adults get the company of other adults and the kids get to make new friends. We run family trips all over the world, to well-known destinations as well as more unusual ones. With lots of activities included and opportunities to meet locals and stay in quirky accommodation, you're sure to return with plenty of stories and memories to last a lifetime.   How sustainable are Explore's group holidays? Being sustainable and responsible is incredibly important to us at Explore. We're working hard to ensure we travel in a way that positively impacts the people and places we visit. We've committed to offsetting the carbon emissions for all trips taken from 1 January 2020, including flights, accommodation and transport. Find out more about sustainable travel . What ages are the group holidays suitable for? Our group tours are suitable for any age - generally the minimum age is 16 however this can depend on the trip. Our trips attract people of all ages, so it doesn't matter if you're in your 30s or your 60s. Check the pace or grade (for walking tours or cycling holidays tours) of a trip to decide if it's what you're looking for.  The minimum age of children on our family tours varies by trip. Check the 'family information' section of the trip page to find out the average and minimum ages.     

Some of our most popular group travel tours

Amalfi coast walking - agriturismo.

Simply Japan

Cycle Portugal - Lisbon to Algarve

Costa Rica Wildlife Tour

Active Sri Lanka

Historic Baltic Republics

Need some inspiration for a group travel tour?

7 questions answered for your first small-group adventure holiday

7 questions answered about your first walking holiday

7 questions answered for your first cycling holiday

Your first small-group family holiday - top 7 questions answered

First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

• ☎️ 020 3131 5187
• Up to 4 nights
• Up to 7 nights
• 5 to 7 nights
• 8 to 14 nights
• 15 to 28 nights
• I’m flexible +/- 5 days
• Custom range

All of our arrangements have been specially designed to incorporate a reason to travel and, for ease of choice, these have been categorised under the titles shown below.

That sense of adventure to discover the world is at the very heart of Jules Verne.

Our innovative small group escorted tours offer authentic travel with a twist for people who love to see and explore the world. Each of our guided tours are packed with special touches and little extras, which provide you with the chance to gain a different and deeper understanding of each destination. On top of this, our expert guides will show you the true character of their country and take you beyond the norm whether your chosen destination is closer to home or far-flung.

Covering a variety of destinations in Africa, the Far East, South East Asia, Indian Subcontinent, Middle East, Europe, North America, South America and Central America, our small group guided tours aim to inspire travellers and show more than just the classic, first-time sites.

Exploring the world for 45 years.

Beginning in 1978 with one simple idea - to operate a train from London to Peking (Beijing) and thence to Hong Kong – Jules Verne has continued to grow in both destinations and tours offered. Today the range of product encompasses river, coastal and barge cruises , memorable rail journeys , expeditions, hidden treasures , unforgettable Great Journeys , and classic itineraries, all created with a particular focus on history, art and culture or wildlife .

We believe that travelling as part of a small group allows you to enjoy a more intimate and sociable atmosphere, benefit from more personal attention from the guides and delve into your destination in more detail, getting closer to the places visited and experiencing local life in a personal and informal setting.

Fully ABTA- and ATOL-bonded and winner of many travel awards, our personal travel experts organise every detail so you can book in complete confidence.

Our personal travel experts organise every detail for you..

Our guided group tours cover the conventional and the unexpected, across a variety of themes and each with special features and interests included – and all are underpinned by quality and value for money. To enhance the experience for Jules Verne travellers, we arrange and include exclusive and memorable special events, which illuminate the local culture and the country you are visiting.

Like you, we are inspired and have converted our passion for travel and years of expertise to create the best possible experiences. Each of our itineraries have been carefully matched to our customers’ interests and tastes. Our escorted holidays combine unique travel arrangements with cultural sightseeing, relaxing excursions, special events, comfortable accommodation and – in the case of several tours – awe-inspiring   wildlife encounters .

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Jules Verne On Foot

Our slow-paced group walking tours offer an immersive travel experience. Whether you ramble through Italy’s soaring Dolomites or the Algarve’s wild west, exploring on foot provides a unique perspective of any destination.

New Brochure Out Now!

We’re delighted to present our brand-new Worldwide Journeys brochure! Be inspired by our selection of tours and cruises within this brochure,  carefully created to capture the essence of each destination visited.

Listen to our Podcast

Introducing our brand-new podcast! Bringing wonder to your ears as we open the doors to Jules Verne and unlock destinations, providing an audible journey full of travel inspiration.

Small Group Tours & Cruises

We are delighted to offer you our mini brochure which features a selection of small group tours and cruises to help you ‘create your next story with us…’. Order your copy today. 

The Wonders of Egypt

We are thrilled to unveil our brochure, The Wonders of Egypt, where we invite you to embark on a journey of discovery through ancient lands on our small group tours and cruises.

2024 Tour Inspiration

We are delighted to offer tours and cruises travelling in 2024, offering a range of experiences including river cruises, inspiring cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes and rewarding itineraries.

New Tours & Cruises

We proudly present our latest collection of awe-inspiring tours. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery and wonder, as we unveil our newest voyages designed to ignite your sense of adventure.

Popular Tours

The Golden Road to Samarkand

Experience Uzbekistan’s Silk Road cities, from metropolitan Tashkent to Old Khiva’s towers and cupolas, across the Kyzylkum Desert to beautiful Bukhara, and into exotic Samarkand

From £ 2495 pp

The Coast of Explorers & Emperors

A magical meander around the intriguing sites, inviting islands, and inimitable scenery of the Croatian coast, this relaxing and refreshing cruise sees new horizons every day of its seven-night sail on a private Jules Verne small-ship, the elegant MV Admiral

From £ 1945 pp

Classical Tour of Albania

Unspoilt, uncrowded, and unique in its culture, Albania is a treasure chest of ancient cities, mystical mountains, museums, castles and coastline, its feast of Ottoman architecture the jewel in its crown. This tour lifts the lid on its riches, of heritage and of nature

From £ 1045 pp

Carthage to Kairouan

Based in cosmopolitan Tunis and the sea and sand city of Sousse, take a fascinating journey through time, from the ancient archaeological sites of Roman Africa to Islamic architecture

Ukraine-Russia war latest: North Korea says US move in Ukraine is causing 'concern'

There is concern within the international community about the US supplying long-range missiles to Ukraine, North Korea has said. Listen to a Daily podcast on whether the UK should send troops to Ukraine as you scroll.

Monday 29 April 2024 12:59, UK

• Big picture : What you need to know as a new week begins
• Telegram 'blocks bots that oppose Russian invasion of Ukraine'
• North Korea expresses 'concern' over US sending long-range missiles to Ukraine
• Explained : Why is Chasiv Yar the next target for Russia?
• Your questions answered: Will Ukraine launch another spring offensive?
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts
• Live reporting by Andy Hayes

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has thanked "partners" as he said Ukraine is "making every effort" to use drones more effectively.

In addition to posting some pictures on X, the Ukrainian president said he wanted to thank people who train drone operators, as well as "our warriors for their efficiency".

He added: "I thank everyone involved in the production and those who ensure better protection of the Ukrainian skies through their work."

Ukrainian servicemen have been saying goodbye to their visiting partners at the railway station in Kramatorsk, eastern Ukraine.

The men were on a short break from frontline duty.

Russia's defence ministry says its forces have taken control of the village of Semenivka in the eastern Donetsk region.

Yesterday, the ministry announced the capture of another village, Novobakhmutivka.

Ocheretyne, also near by, has been a focal point of fighting in recent days.

Ukraine's top general, speaking yesterday, said fighting had intensified in the east of the country, with troops falling back in three areas. 

Oleksandr Syrskyi said Russian troops had achieved "certain tactical successes" in the villages of Berdychi, Semenivka and Novomykhailivka.

Ukraine has confirmed that chatbots used by its security agencies on Telegram have been restored after being temporarily blocked.

We reported earlier (6.56am post) that Kyiv's security service described their blocking as "unreasonable".

Now, Ukraine's Centre for Strategic Communication has said three affected bots, used by Ukraine's SBU security service, the GUR and digital ministry for the war effort, had been restored.

A Telegram spokesperson said they were "temporarily disabled due to a false positive but have since been reinstated".

The number of civilians killed or injured in Ukraine in March was 604, according to the UN, which has a human rights monitoring team in the country.

The figure is 20% higher than February's.

The UK defence ministry, highlighting the numbers in its daily intelligence update, said 57 children were reported killed in March, "double the previous month". 

Their deaths have been "attributed directly to Russian use of aerial munitions", the MoD said.

Civilian deaths in general are attributed to "missile and aerial-munitions strikes throughout Ukraine and increased bombardment at the frontlines".

The UN's report highlights an increase in coordinated strikes on critical Ukrainian infrastructure, with 20 sites "destroyed or damaged".

In total, there have been 31,366 civilian casualties in Ukraine since 24 February 2022, the MoD said (including areas Russia is controlling).

Of those, 10,810 were killed and 20,556 were wounded.

We reported earlier in our big picture post (6.27am post) that Oleksandr Pivnenko, who commands Ukraine's National Guard, is not ruling out a Russian attempt to target Kharkiv - Ukraine's second-largest city.

Kharkiv has been the focus of recent air attacks.

The US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) thinktank assesses that the Russian military "lacks the forces necessary to seize the city".

But the commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian armed forces, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, has said the threat of an invasion is causing Ukraine to allocate additional resources to defend the city - weakening forces elsewhere.

The ISW said: "Syrskyi noted that Ukrainian forces have recently improved their positions near Synkivka (east of Kharkiv)."

The Russians' "combat effectiveness" can be questioned because of their "inability to seize Synkivka despite repeated mass infantry and mechanized assaults", the ISW said.

It went on: "ISW continues to assess that a potential future Russian offensive to seize Kharkiv City would be an extremely ambitious undertaking that would pose significant challenges to Russian forces, particularly since Russian forces will be facing better-equipped Ukrainian forces following the arrival of US military assistance."

Telegram has reportedly restored some blocked Ukrainian bots.

They include those of the security service and ministry of digital transformation, the Kyiv Post said on X.

As we reported earlier (6.56am post) the security service said Telegram had "unreasonably" blocked bots that "opposed Russia's military aggression against Ukraine".

Three men who are entrepreneurs in their day jobs have been assembling drones in a home kitchen in Kyiv.

Denys, Yaw and Eugene send the tiny aircraft on to the Ukrainian armed forces.

There is concern within the international community about the US supplying long-range missiles to Ukraine, North Korea has said.

As we report in our big picture post (6.27am post) Kyiv has used long-range ballistic missiles from the US against Russia twice this month, according to NBC News.

"The US has secretly supplied long-range missiles to Ukraine, sparking off uneasiness and concern of the international community," North Korea's defence ministry said.

 "The US can never defeat the heroic Russian army and people with any latest weaponry or military support," it added, according to state news agency KCNA.

Professor Michael Clarke, Sky News's military analyst, has said North Korea is supplying weapons to Russia - facilitated by China.

Official bots that oppose the Russian invasion of Ukraine have been blocked by the Telegram messaging app, Ukraine's military spy agency has claimed.

Ukraine's own bot was included, GUR added.

"Today, the management of the Telegram platform unreasonably blocked a number of official bots that opposed Russia's military aggression against Ukraine, including the main intelligence bot," GUR said in a statement posted on Telegram.

"Despite the blocking of our bot, your personal data is safe." 

A bot is a piece of software that can run on its own, mimicking conversations or collecting content.

Telegram, which is based in Dubai, was founded by Russian-born Pavel Durov, who left Russia in 2014 after he refused to comply with government demands to shut down opposition groups on another social media platform.

Since the Ukraine war began in February 2022, both Ukraine and Russia have used the app to share updates.

Almost all major media outlets, government departments and public figures in both countries have channels on Telegram. 

Telegram's press service did not immediately reply to a request for comment, Reuters said.

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