tour groups uk

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video.

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

Get the Hottest Deals First!

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

British Landscapes featuring England, Scotland and Wales

British Landscapes featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Discover Scotland

Discover Scotland featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

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

Brochures that Feature Our United Kingdom Tours

Find a travel agency.

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

• Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
• Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
• I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

View or Download

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

• +44(0)2921 660 747
• 1-866-209-4554
• [email protected]
• account_circle Register

Itinerary is Empty

Our Tours of Britain

Escorted touring with a difference! A Great British Journey guarantees a small and intimate touring experience as you explore the history, heritage and natural landscapes of England, Scotland and Wales. All of our tour departures guarantee a maximum group-size of just sixteen passengers.

Our touring programs have been carefully put together using our local knowledge and with you, the customer in mind. We have carefully created interesting and enjoyable itineraries that not only visit iconic sites but also go beyond the traditional tourist façade to discover more hidden gems. There’ll be plenty of free-time to relax  or explore independently and together, we’ll also enjoy a range of local cultural experiences and evening meals.

On all Great British Journeys we guarantee comfortable transit on board a luxury mini-coach, friendly and knowledgeable tour leaders and quality overnight accommodation with a focus on local character and excellent food.

So browse our selection of itineraries below and let us know when you would like to join us on your very own Great British Journey…

London Christmas Party Cruise – Exclusive to Greatdays

Meal, Welcome drink and Entertainment included - Now based at the 4 star DoubleTree by Hilton London Docklands Riverside.

North Devon Explorer

On this tour we visit the picturesque villages of Lynton and Lynmouth, discover the National Trust’s Arlington Hall, go behind the scenes at the fascinating Dartington Crystal, visit RHS Garden Rosemoor, and explore the popular destinations of Ilfracombe and Bideford.

Disney Hotels Summer Offer 2024

The July Offer starts here! Explore the parks to your full extent by staying in one of Disneyland® Paris’ onsite hotels – Santa Fe, Cheyenne, Sequoia Lodge, Newport Bay Club or the Davy Crockett Ranch.

Medieval Ghent – NEW TOUR

Cosy yet vibrant, medieval with an industrial edge – Ghent is a stunning Belgian city of towers and gables. This stunning port destination is located in the north-west of Belgium and easy accessible from numerous cities.

Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines for Groups

Greatdays Group Travel’s Cruise team are experts in helping to book and get the most out of a cruise with Fred.Olsen for you and your group.

Greatdays Group Travel – Great Holidays for Groups

Greatdays Group Travel is one of the UK’s leading specialist tour operators. Established in 1985, we pride ourselves on not only high quality service but also unique and interesting group tours. Our friendly team organise quality customised tours for group travel from 12+ persons and tailor-made holidays for groups to London , the UK and Ireland , Disneyland® Paris , Europe and many Worldwide destinations by coach, train or air.

Not part of a group? If you’re an individual traveller, please click here .

UK & Ireland Group Travel

Day Trips & Group Entertainment

European Group Travel

Worldwide Group Travel

River Cruises

Cruises for Groups and Individuals

Disneyland® Paris for Groups

Education and Youth Groups

UK Incoming Tours

RHS Gardens

Incentive & Meetings for Groups

Really Interesting Tours

Greatdays Wholesale

Greatdays offer a trade only booking service for coach and tour operators or professional group travel organisers and we can provide single or multiple elements of a holiday.

Greatdays Holidays

Greatdays are able to offer a complete tailor-made booking service for group travel organisers with the help of one of our friendly consultants to assist you through the booking process.

Providing group travel since 1985

Greatdays Group Travel is one of the UK’s leading group travel tour operators . We have  extensive experience in both incoming and outgoing tourism serving London,   the UK, continental Europe and worldwide.

We offer competitive prices and inspiring group travel ideas and can organise accommodation in 3, 4 and 5-star hotels. Ferry crossings, flights, sightseeing, coach hire, transfers, guide services, theatre tickets and vouchers for visitor attractions and tourism suppliers, we can organise it all for you so you can kick back and enjoy your holiday.

Read more…

• [email protected] Email us
• 1-866-209-4554 US & Canada Toll Free
• +44(0)2921 660 747 UK / International

Small Group Tours

Small group tours of britain.

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.

Our guaranteed small-group size 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 quainter overnight lodging.

Our range of tours have been carefully put together to offer perfectly balanced itineraries; our guests visit 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, your overnight lodging should reflect your destination; on an Adeo Travel small-group tour you’ll stay in our signature accommodation including everything from townhouse hotels and historic coaching inns to opulent country manor houses. But whatever the style, you’ll enjoy 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 by luxury mini-coach
• Choose from a range of unique itineraries
• Overnight lodging in quality and characterful hotels
• Inclusive breakfast each morning and selected evening dining
• A comprehensive sightseeing and admission program
• A dedicated travel 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 guiding companion
• 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
• Experience Britain’s hospitality in quaint and characterful hotels
• Hassle-free planning and additional arrangements with your own dedicated expert.

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

Britain Small Group Tours

England small group tours, scotland small group tours, wales small group tours.

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

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 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 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.

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 England – Discover the rich history and rustic landscapes of England on this diverse journey from the far South West to England’s Northern territories. England’s Coastline and Countryside takes you from the golden bays and craggy cliffs of Cornwall through the quintessential villages of the Cotswolds to the rugged landscapes of Yorkshire and the Lake District. Along the way we’ll visit the elegant cities of Bath, Oxford and York and enjoy a host of local visits and experiences to truly immerse ourselves in England’s unique charm and heritage.

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

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

A small group tour of 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 – Secrets of Scotland takes you on an epic journey through Scotland’s dramatic landscapes. We’ll discover the history, heritage and natural beauty of this enchanting nation as we pass from historic Edinburgh in to the remote wilderness of the Scottish Highlands; along the way we’ll spot unique wildlife, ancient castle ruins, shimmering lochs and deep glens. With highlights including Royal Deeside, Inverness, Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and Glencoe you’ll come away having uncovered the many secrets of 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.

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

See All England Tours

See More England Trips

5 million happy guests and counting

Pound Sterling

Capital City

Winter avg temp

Summer avg temp

Good morning

Good evening

"What is there to not love about England. Real life castles, Princes and Princesses, stunning scenery, and historic streets lined with lively pubs everywhere you go!”

Aryan, Travel Director

Admire the British capital from the London Eye

Watch London unfurl from the iconic 135-metre height of the London Eye. The unmatched views extend in every direction, reaching Buckingham Palace, the river Thames and the famed clock tower of the Palace of Westminster. All London’s highlights in one peaceful, 30-minute rotation.

Take in the views of Britain's Lake District

Delve into Britain’s natural wonders and take in the panorama of rolling hills, rocky mountains and glittering waters of the Lake District. Abounding in outdoor opportunities from cruises to hilltop walks, you'll find serenity in this national park resting between Leeds and Glasgow.

Visit the Roman baths in Bath

Turn back the clock 2,000 years at the remarkably preserved remains of the Roman Baths. Still flowing with steaming, geothermally heated water, the ancient stone pavements reveal the culture behind the simple daily task of washing. Let time stand still staring at a spring filled with 12,000 Roman coins.

Enjoy the guided tour of Liverpool

Sink into the nostalgia of the Beatles, cruise along the Mersey River and sample real ale at the Albert Docks. A visit to Liverpool is an invitation to uncover the many layers of British culture; the UK's fifth largest city means more than the passion of its football club.

See the Stonehenge's stone monoliths

Southwest England’s soil is rich with mystery. Stand in the shadows of Stonehenge’s stone monoliths and let your imagination be sparked by the secrets of this 5,000-year history. Weighing up to 30 tonnes each, the weight of history will leave its mark on you.

Our top 5 things to do in England

Mysterious stone monoliths and preserved ancient baths prove there is so much more to see beyond the limits of London city. Let Trafalgar turn the pages of the history book that is England.

The British Museum

The British Museum is a ticket to relics that reveal some two million years of human history. Feel small standing beneath the colossal presence of Rameses II and contrast the myth and reality of Troy with the graphic world of Manga. This London highlight will take you on a journey of time travel.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum takes you on an unfathomable discovery of the formation of the solar system and its path to the present. Trace the origin of our species under the shade of a T. rex and glimpse rare meteorites straight from the surface of Mars. If this doesn’t shake you, the earthquake simulator most certainly will.

Victoria and Albert

The Victoria and Albert Museum is an encounter with the very best of human creativity in almost every medium. Here you will design your own bioplastic bag, step behind the creative lens of Christian Dior and take a literal walk in history’s shoes admiring a 2,000 strong collection spanning 3,000 years.

Best museums in England

A cultural epicentre of the planet steeped in royal heritage, the museums of England sparkle like the Crown Jewels. Let Trafalgar guide you through the very best the region has to offer.

Fish & Chips

It’s hard to separate the partnership of fish 'n' chips. Try this traditional meal both from a gourmet restaurant and a local 'chippie' wrapped in newspaper. Always with lashings of salt and vinegar on top.

Sunday Roast

Embrace the traditional English Sunday lunch with roast meats, a side of vegetables and an indulgent topping of gravy. The joy of this simple culinary experience is best served in a traditional English pub complete with football on the screen and a few stouts.

Full English breakfast

The full English breakfast is a requisite of a trip to England. A hearty plate piled with fried bacon, grilled tomatoes, buttered toast, mushrooms, eggs, beans, and black puddingis hard to resist.

Best food in England

Food is at the heart of every journey when you travel to England. This is a country of warm and hearty meals, our trips will show you the very best of it.

What to pack for England

With a high chance of experiencing four seasons in one day, an umbrella is a must when visiting England, both for rainy days and occasions when the sun beams down.

Digital maps

It's always good to have a backup of digital maps on standby when you're out exploring in your own time. Download them prior to your trip so you can reach them even when your phone is offline.

Travel adaptor

Though many hotels will have adaptors available for use, being prepared with your own will ensure you're always charged and ready to go.

A good book

With a seemingly infinite list of parks found in England, don't forget to pack a novel and immerse yourself in a good book should the occasion arise.

With days full of adventure and numerous souvenirs tempting your strolls, a day pack will ensure your hands always remain free. Split the weight across your back with a double strap bag for extra comfort.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and toiletry bottles.

Our Europe & Britain destinations

Bosnia Herzegovina

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

North Macedonia

Netherlands

Northern Ireland

Switzerland

Other worldwide regions we visit

Africa the Middle East

Australia and New Zealand

North and Central America

South America

Get your free brochure

Find your next escape with the world's leading travel brand

Request A Brochure

Award winning tours

Every year, we're proud to win some of the most prestigious travel accolades around the world - from the Travel Globes to the Agent's Choice Awards

Search Our Tours

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Media & Press Room

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

Destination: England

Small group tours to England

Tours of england.

Crafted for mature World Travellers

Prehistoric Britain small group history tour including standing stones

Visiting England, Scotland

This guided tour invites you to explore UNESCO World heritage sites at Skara Brae in the Orkneys , Isle of Skye , and Stonehenge in a prehistoric tour. This escorted tour has trips to key sites in Scotland , and the Irish sea in Wales such as Gower Peninsula and National Museum in Cardiff and England. Each day tour is supported by local guides.

From A$16,750 AUD

Anglo French Tour | Normandy, Brittany, Channel Islands tour

Visiting Channel Islands, England

Our 21 night program has daily itineraries with plenty of authentic experiences provided by passionate local guides in the key destinations in France , Channel Islands and England for this small group of like minded people. For Solo travellers minimal single supplement applies for this European tour.

From A$17,995 AUD

World of Shakespeare | Small Group Tour

Visiting England

This small group tour for mature couples and solo travellers visits Shakespeare's birthplace, Stratford upon Avon and Anne Hathaway's cottage all form part of this small group tour escorted by a tour director and local guides sharing their knowledge on this guided tour. Included are performances in London at the Globe & RSC in Shakespeare's Stratford upon Avon.

From A$7,950 AUD

Rural Britain | Walking Small Group Tour

A walking tour into England , Scotland and Wales provides small group journeys with breathtaking scenery to destinations such as Snowdonia national park , the UNESCO world heritage site Hadrians wall and the lake district . each day tour provides authentic experiences often off the beaten path from our local guides.

From A$15,880 AUD

Ireland and Lake District walking small group tour

Visiting England, Ireland

A guided small group tour for senior walkers that starts in the capital of Ireland , Dublin . This escorted tour with local guides also explores the Giant's causeway, a UNESCO World heritage site. It transfers from Ireland to Scotland to head to walk in the National park of the Lake district.

From A$14,850 AUD

Canals and Railways in the Industrial Revolution Tour | Tours for Seniors in Britain

A small group tour of Wales , Scotland & England that traces the history of the journey that is the Industrial revolution . Knowledgeable local guides and your tour leader share their history with you on this escorted tour including Glasgow , London , New Lanark & Manchester , Liverpool and the Lake district .

From A$17,860 AUD

England’s villages small group history tours for mature travellers

Guided tour of the villages of England. The tour leader manages local guides to share their knowledge to give an authentic experience across England . This trip includes the UNESCO World heritage site of Avebury as well as villages in Cornwall, Devon, Dartmoor the border of Wales and the Cotswolds.

From A$16,995 AUD

Opera Tour Europe | Theatre-Opera-Ballet and Classical Music Small Group Tour for Seniors

This 22-day small group program visits the major arts centres of Hamburg, Amsterdam, Paris , and London . We travel in winter avoiding crowds and enjoy a different perspective of the places visited. At Odyssey Traveller we have sought to assemble entry and show tickets to what many will consider the best arts experiences available in those cities during each program.

From A$22,000 AUD

British Gardens Small Group Tour including Chatsworth RHS show

This small group tour will explore gardens in Scotland and England with knowledgable local guides and a tour leader. We explore the gardens in and around Edinburgh , Chester, Stratford upon Avon - Shakespeare's birthplace, Oxford and London in a 22 day tour.

From A$16,095 AUD

Discovering the art and literature of England: Jane Austen, Shakespeare, and more

Stratford upon Avon , Shakespeares birthplace and Anne Hathaway's cottage as well as the Lake district a UNESCO World site and Dicken's London are part of guided tour for a small group tour of like minded people learning about the art and literature of England . Your tour leader and local guides share day tour itineraries to create a unique travel experience.

From A$17,765 AUD

Habsburg Spain vs Tudor England: small group tour exploring 16th century history of England & Spain

This holiday with a leading tour operator allows the escorted tour for seniors to explore the life and times of the royal families responsible for making England and Spain so significant in the 16th century with local guides providing the travel experience for the detailed itineraries. We spend 10 days travelling from London to Madrid .

From A$14,295 AUD

Vikings in Britain; small group tour

Vikings in Britain, escorted educational small group tour for senior couples and mature solo travellers who for 27 days explore Ireland, the isle of Man, Scotland and England and the viking history.

From A$20,385 AUD

Roman Britain

On this small group tour explore with a tour director and local guides the world of Roman Britain . The Romans occupied Britain for some 400 years and left behind a lasting legacy from roads Hadrian's wall to Roman Baths many are UNSECO World heritage listed.

From A$13,855 AUD

Queen Victoria's Great Britain: a small group tour

A small group tour of England that explores the history of Victorian Britain . This escorted tour spends time knowledgeable local guides with travellers in key destinations in England and Scotland that shaped the British isles in this period including a collection of UNESCO world heritage locations.

Liverpool, Newcastle, Glasgow

Spend 22 days in 3 cities in England and Scotland . Your tour leader and Knowledgeable local guides examine the history of these great cities. Liverpool & Glasgow faced onto the Irish sea, and Newcastle onto the North sea, and all where connected to the city of London .

From A$13,915 AUD

Walking Ancient Britain

A walking tour of England & the border of Wales . Explore on foot UNESCO World Heritage sites, Neolithic , Bronze age and Roman landscapes and the occasional Norman castle on your journey. Your tour director and tour guide walk you through the Brecon beacons , the Cotswolds and Welsh borders on this small group tour.

From A$13,995 AUD

Small Group Tour along the Wainwright Walking trail

Part of the small group tour of the British isles series, this walking tour goes west to east across England . The tour leader takes you into the national park of the UNESCO World heritage site in the Lake district and the North Yorkshire moors. This trip concludes in York . It is designed for senior walkers seeking authentic experiences.

From A$17,595 AUD

Small group tours Medieval England

A small group tour of England focused on Medieval England and Wales . Spend 21 days on this escorted tour with tour director and local guides travelling from Canterbury to Cambridge, passing through Winchester, Salisbury, Bristol, Hereford and Norwich along the way. Castles, villages, Cathedrals and churches all feature in the Medieval landscapes visited.

From A$14,665 AUD

Seven Ages of Britain, snapshots of Britain through the ages.

This guided small group tour starts in Scotland and finishes in England . On Orkney we have a day tour to the UNESCO World heritage site, Skara Brae , before travelling to city of York. Your tour leader continues to share the history from the Neolithic to the Victorian era . The tour concludes in the capital city, London .

From A$15,995 AUD

Devon and Cornwall, England

Our guided small group tour of Devon and Cornwall in England, designed for mature and senior travellers who are travelling with their partner or as a solo traveller. A journey filled with medieval treasures , charming fishing villages in the north Cornish coast, stunning cliff-top coastal views of the blue Atlantic, and atmospheric destinations traditionally linked to the legends of King Arthur.

Yorkshire, Northumberland and the Lake District

Small group tour for senior couples and mature solo travellers exploring Northern England. Not just the historic cities of Leeds, Newcastle and Manchester but the Viking shaped landscapes , villages and the Lake District are visited on this program.

From A$18,275 AUD

Agrarian and Industrial Britain | Small Group Tour for Mature Travellers

Visiting England, Wales

A small group tour of England that will explore the history of Agrarian and Industrial period . An escorted tour with a tour director and knowledgeable local guides take you on a 22 day trip to key places such as London , Bristol, Oxford & York , where the history was made.

From A$16,450 AUD

Small group tours of England for seniors

Odyssey’s England tours for seniors focus both on the must-see sights and the hidden gems, across both rural and urban landscapes. If you’re interested in a trip discovering more about England’s history, culture, architecture, cuisine, or landscapes, the best way is to see it all for yourself with like-minded people on a guided tour. Our small group tours of England are ideal for solo travellers or couples seeking an intimate guided tour led by an expert tour manager and local guide. Odyssey tour England and select day tour destinations with an eye to getting off the beaten path while also providing the opportunity to explore the major cities including the inimitable London , golden-hued Oxford and effervescent Manchester .

Currently Odyssey Traveller offers 20 tours to England as well as tours that visit Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Our tours of England delve into Queen Victoria’s Britain ; examine the world of Shakespeare with a visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace at Stratford upon Avon; attempt to understand cricket if you need too; and explore the sights of medieval England, visiting some of the country’s most magnificent cathedrals and grandest castles. On our tour of Agrarian and Industrial Britain we investigate critical elements of Agrarian and Industrial Revolutions and the impact that they had on the Great Britain we know today, visiting Lincoln, Manchester and York . On a tour of England’s villages we explore the haunting standing stones at Avebury, with its very own Neolithic World Heritage Site, and view the Tudor mansion and glorious gardens of Hever Castle, childhood home of Anne Boleyn. If you are considering joining a tour of an England, some of things to think about include what places you would like to visit , when you would like to go and the best way to travel around the country.

Whatever sightseeing tour you choose for your England vacation, from a tour of the entire country to immersing yourself in a particular region, Odyssey Traveller makes sure you have time to learn about and appreciate England’s rich culture , history and people when on vacation as solo travellers or with your companion.

What are the top travel destinations in England for mature travellers?

With a treasure trove of architectural wonders to explore, the whole city of Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mature travellers will appreciate the guided tour to see the exquisite Georgian architecture, well-preserved Roman baths and period tearooms. For Jane Austen fans, you can visit the Jane Austen Centre and discover more about her life and works.

Travelling to York is like stepping back in history to a more magical and colourful version of the Middle Ages. Explore the fascinating walled city that is tucked within 13th-century walls and visit York Minster , one of the most stunning Gothic cathedrals in the world. For mature travellers, the city is well placed for a number of day tours as your tour England .

Undoubtedly one of England’s most beautiful cities with its dreaming spires and medieval atmosphere, Oxford is a great walking tour destination for mature travellers. The historic core is small enough to walk around easily and there are plenty of old-fashioned British pubs to visit and enjoy a hearty meal. For lovers of literature, there is a lot to explore, with many authors’ works being inspired by Oxford and its formidable university.

Cambridge, like Oxford, offers captivating architecture and centuries of history but with a slightly more tranquil atmosphere than ‘the Other Place’ (as Oxford is referred to by Cambridge locals). Senior travellers can enjoy the idyllic riverside gardens, surrounding verdant green meadows and beautifully manicured lawns of colleges as a day tour expands their knowledge of this historic city.

What are some of England's must-see sights?

A UNESCO world heritage site , Stonehenge is one of the most famous prehistoric monuments in Europe. To visit Stonehenge remains an inspiration to many who take the trip. Stonehenge has drawn millions of visitors over the years, mystified by the mysteries collection of stones. A new visitor centre provides more information on the history of Stonehenge , thought to have been around for over five millennia, and explores with a local guides some of the startling ideas of archaeologists and anthropologists who have worked on the site.

Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall was built by the Romans in 122 AD and, at 117 km long, it was intended to separate the Romans from the barbarians of Scotland. As local guides explain on a trip to Hadrian’s wall, this wall was built in under six years by a force of 15,000 men, it’s as impressive today for its sheer vision as it is for its remarkable engineering.

Tower of London

The Tower of London was once a royal palace and infamous prison but today is it a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Home to the dazzling Crown Jewels, a visit to the Tower of London offers a gripping insight into England’s history.

Windsor Castle

Still a ‘working’ castle , Windsor Castle is the weekend holiday house of the Royal Family and one of our day tours from London . Windsor Castle has been a Royal residence and fortress for almost 1000 years since the site was picked out by William the Conqueror. At Windsor Castle on this trip you can explore the grand State Apartments with the tour leader , view the impressive family portraits and pour over Queen Mary’s Doll House.

The Royal Pavilion

Another one of our day tours as part of a small group tour of England is to the The Royal Palace,in Brighton, was built by King George IV as a seaside pleasure palace. George IV was a notorious womaniser and gambler and the splendid summer house is obscene experience in extravagance, mixing Regency grandeur with the visual style of Indian and Chinese palaces.

What are the best ways to get around England?

In England, the country’s efficient transportation system and extensive rail network make travelling relatively painless..

When is the best time to go on your UK trip?

The best time to visit the United Kingdom is in spring (late March to early June) and autumn (September to November), when it’s usually warm and dry. You’ll see beautiful spring flowers or the leaves changing hue in autumn, and avoid the much busier summer period.

Why choose a small group tour?

Odyssey specialises in educational small group tours , for seniors , typically groups between 6 to 12 people, and no more than 18 travellers. Odyssey has been offering this style of adventure and educational programs, since 1983.

We offer a wide range of educational, cultural and heritage journeys that expand horizons and broaden the mind. Our tours are designed for active, inquisitive travellers in a small group environment.

What's the accommodation like on a group tour?

Whether travelling solo, in a couple, or with friends, Odyssey Traveller caters primarily for travellers over 50, over 60, over 70 or 80 years of age. Therefore, your travelling companions are sure to share your interests. They will want similar experiences in an environment of mutual understanding. We design all programs with the mature traveller in mind. Travelling solo does not mean travelling alone, so when there’s free time to explore you’re sure to have another solo traveler or couple ready to join you if you wish. Single travelers make about a third of our groups and many a repeat travelers!

All Odyssey Traveller participants want more than just a blur of museums and monuments. We work to create a lively learning experience and cover some of the world’s most fascinating destinations and authentic cultural experiences. We are also, of course, aware of your need for free-time, so many of our itineraries allowing space for you to explore, or simply relax on your own.

Do you have any other holidays that aren't with a group?

Odyssey welcome enquiries for private groups, at a minimum of 6 participants.

What is a small group tour?

Tours typically span between two to three weeks in duration. An Odyssey small group tour seeks to stay typically 2 to 3 nights in each location in good 3 or 4 star hotels. These are an escorted tour that have evolved to be a good blend of touring and seeing. As well as opportunities to spend time in key places to take a half or full day break from the group enabling you should you with to be a solo traveller for a few hours or explore with a travelling companion a particular place or take time out for a break, before we travel on to our next destination. For the solo traveller , Odyssey has a expansive range of holidays for solo travellers over 50 to choose from, though we do not offer a regular river cruise or a dedicated solos holiday or solo travel tours.

For the solo traveller there is a single supplement charged on all of Odyssey Travellers small group tour programs. The single supplement reflects the cost of single occupancy of a hotel room with a double bed in your own room (generally, no single bedded rooms are offered across Europe) or a single cabin on a cruise . There are no additional charges made any client booking holidays for solo travellers over 50 years of age, just the single supplement , we like to keep a level of transparency in the prices charged.

Which countries do small group tours go to?

Odyssey Traveller offers tours all over the world. We have a range of tours across Europe , The British Isles , Asia , Africa , The Middle East , and The Americas . We can take you to see the Northern Lights in the outermost regions of Norway. You can travel with us to the jungles of Madagascar to experience its magnificent landscape and wildlife or see the ruins of Machu Picchu in South America . Or take a journey through history with a tour with the theme of Britain’s canals and railways . If you enjoy a spot of cruising, join our Journey through Mongolia and Russia which includes a 10 night river cruise between Moscow and St. Petersburg, or our Egypt tour with an amazing Nile river cruise . If you prefer to stay closer to home, we have a great selection of tours in Australia to Western Australia, South Australia, Northern territory, Kata tjuta Outback Queensland, but not the great barrier reef or Ayers rock, Kangaroo Island but Tasmania as well as New Zealand , visiting both North island and the South Island including the east coast, Rotorua, Milford Sound, and Queenstown.

How big are the group sizes on your tours?

Odyssey specialises in educational small group tours , for seniors , typically groups between 6 to 12 people, and averages at 12 participants per tour, a mix of singles and couples

First solo trip with Odyssey?

Odyssey offers a collection of genuine small group tour(s) Odyssey tours are priced to reflect that these are small group tours. Typically this means you are part of a small group of 6 to 12 people, not part of a group of 18 or more. Small group means you and fellow traveller enjoying an evening meal around one dinner table. So, we do not achieve the economies of scale of 18 plus on a coach that a larger tour operator would offer, because this is not the type of trip or touring experience our clients seek from us.

Odyssey tours are genuinely based around;

• A Small group tour of less than 18 people for the mature traveller as holidays for a couple and holidays for solo travellers over 50.
• Knowledgeable local expert guides and a great tour leader who has an interest in the theme of the tour.
• Inclusive pricing, including all entrances, tipping and the majority of meals included. That means, no hidden extras with respect to cost. Transparent pricing of the single supplement for the single traveller.
• A learning based escorted tour with a like minded fellow traveller.
• Accommodation in 3 & 4 star hotels and self catering apartments.
• A blend of group learning, touring activities and free time to explore a place further, whether on a discovery or walking holiday program.
• No name badges or flags to follow when out and about.
• Travel to places that extend your learning and curiosity, often where others will not follow.
• Spending typically between 60 to 85% of the operating cost of the tour in the country visited, benefiting the local communities directly.

Best walking tour, England for older travellers

The Walking Tour of Rural Britain is designed to have two days to explore per every night based at a hotel. These are rambles requiring a good level of fitness, which is repaid with postcard-worthy scenery. We will walk through Kent, Cornwall, and on the Welsh/English borders, as well as the Lake District and a day on Arran Island in Scotland.

If you want to learn more about British history, consider joining the Walking Tour of Ancient Britain, a fully escorted, small-group, 20-day program that will take you through Britain’s ancient towns and walkways, steeped in over 5,000 years of human history. We will walk through the region surrounding Salisbury, Bath, and Stroud in the southwest of England and along the border with Wales. The tour includes some of the greatest walkways in England.

The Walking the Wainwright Tour travels along Wainwright’s Walking Trail, also known as England’s Coast to Coast trail. The 192-mile (309-km) scenic footpath takes the walker from St Bees in Cumbria overlooking the Irish Sea, to Robin Hood’s Bay by the North Sea coast , crossing the Pennines and passing through three national parks: the UNESCO world heritage site Lake District National Park , the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and the North York Moors National Park.

What to look for in a guided tour of England

When booking an Odyssey small group tour, some things to consider before you book include:

• Gratuities included: Tipping per person, per day, for all different services can quickly add up and leave you out of pocket. As well as this, it can be stressful working out how much and how often you should be tipping. When tipping is included in the price, it saves you both time and money, while giving you peace of mind that you’re not committing any type of cultural faux pas.
• Number of fellow travellers: When booking a England small group tour, you want to ensure that you are not going to get lost in a big crowd of people. This is particularly pertinent when visiting a popular holiday destination such as England, especially when travelling to major cities like London. Odyssey tours have an average of eight participants per tour with a maximum of group size of 18.
• Knowledgeable guides: England has a long, rich and compelling history, demonstrated by its multiple museums, ancient churches and infamous kings and queens. Ideally, you want to be able to gain a sense of England’s past, present and future and for this reason, an informed tour director and knowledgeable local guides are essential to a fulfilling travel experience. All Odyssey Traveller England tours include a tour director (program leader) who accompanies the group for the duration of the trip. In addition, we engage local guides with regional knowledge to ensure an authentic experience during which you can learn as much as possible about the history and culture of the different destinations as you tour England, whether you be in a large city like London or a small rural village.
• Unique locations: England has something for everyone and when looking for a England guided tour, it is useful to consider where you might want to visit and the kind of holiday you would like. Odyssey Traveller offers tours that allow you to tour England and others that allow you to immerse yourself in one city. The British Gardens tour, for example, will guide you on an unforgettable trip through some of the best gardens across the UK and by the tour’s end, you will have a greater understanding of three centuries of garden design in Britain and an even greater appreciation for this enduring form of expression.
• Culture and History: When visiting somewhere like England, you want to return with a better understanding of English periods of history, art and architecture. Odyssey offers a wide range of educational, cultural and heritage journeys that will let you see a side of England you don’t always get from the history books. Walk through well-preserved Roman ruins, discover the beguiling operas of Gilbert and Sullivan, visit Oxford, the oldest university in the English-speaking world and marvel at the Royal Palaces such as Buckingham palace, some of which are still in use.

Articles about England

Studying Gargoyles and Grotesques: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

Article to support world travellers since 1983 with small group educational tours for senior couples or mature solo travellers interested in British and European history.

British Village Icons: Definitive Guide for Travellers

Icons of the British Villages: Pubs and Cottages The British pub and cottage figure prominently in the image of a (often romanticised) quintessential “British village”. In this article, we will give special attention to these…

Exploring Britain's Prehistoric Past: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

Article on Britain's neolithic past for small group educational tours for senior couples and mature solo travellers interested in learning about Standing stones, burial chambers , Skara Brae and Stonehenge or Beaker people.

Roman Roads in Britain: The Definitive Guide

Roman Roads in Britain Roads were crucial in the Roman Empire: they facilitated the speedy deployment of troops and the free movement of supplies. Later, when Roman towns began growing into urban centres, the roads…

Understanding British Churches: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

British Churches Through the Years “How old is this church?” asks Mary-Ann Ochota in a chapter of her book, Hidden Histories: A Spotter’s Guide to the British Landscape (Francis Lincoln, 2016, p. 250). In this article, we…

Queen Victoria's Britain part 2: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

Queen Victoria’s Britain (Part 2 of 2) This two-part article on Queen Victoria’s Britain was prepared by one of our Odyssey Program Leaders, Mal Bock. She will be leading this small group tour especially designed for…

Touring England

The need to know

Getting around

Odyssey travels by coach and occasionally uses local transport, including trains and ferries. Specifics are always outlined in your tour itinerary. England has a centralised and impressively extensive rail network which links towns to the major cities. The Eurostar is among travel options that connect England with Europe via rail. London itself is home to one of the most extensive metro systems in the world, and a number of the stations are tourist attractions in their own right.

Accommodation

In major cities, Odyssey stays in centrally located 3-4 star hotels, with easy access to public transport. In smaller towns or rural areas, we usually stay in family-run hotels or guesthouses. On our longstay tours, during which you spend the length of the tour in a single location, we use serviced apartments.

Tour guides

Odyssey always engages a tour director and local guides with regional knowledge to ensure an authentic experience during which you can learn as much as possible about the history and culture of places you visit.

Geography, environment, & weather

England forms part of the United Kingdom, along with Great Britain and Northern Ireland. It borders Scotland to the north and Wales to the west and is separated from continental Europe by the North Sea and English Channel. Low hills and plains make up the majority of England’s landscape, but it is punctuated by uplands in the north, including the Lake District, and to the west, with Dartmoor and the Shropshire Hills.

England’s climate is temperate maritime. This translates to relatively mild temperatures, barely exceeding 0 to 32 degrees celsius in scope. The English coast is particulary chilly, especially in the winter months of January and February. England is prone to damp, changeable conditions. This is influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, northern latitude and warmer Gulf stream. It is best to pack wet-weather clothing and be prepared for the rain.

World Heritage Sites

The United Kingdom boasts 31 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, many of which are located in England. You can view the official list of the sites here https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/gb. It is well worth visiting every site, if you are able. But here’s a few highlights from the bunch: The Tower of London, marvel of Norman military architecture Stonehenge and Avebury, pre-historic monuments that capture the imagination of the world The Lake District, where the imposing peaks and depths are balanced by the warmth of the villages throughout.

Festivals & events

England is home to some eccentric festivals and events. In fact, it seems the more eccentric, the greater the fervour of participants. Glastonbury hosts one of the world’s largest contemporary music festivals; the Latitude Festival in Suffolk is a little more sedate. There’s a major cycling race around Leicester in August called the Leicester Castle Classic, and commemorative celebrations for Guy Fawkes in November. Among the most unusual calendar events is the annual Shrovetide football match held in Ashbourne and surrounds. Honouring one of the UK’s oldest sporting traditions, two competing sides must move a ball to posts at opposing ends of town. It is passionate, unruly, and can involve being plunged into waterways by your competitors. There’s truly something for every taste in England.

Reading List

• The Making of the British Landscape: From the Ice Age to the Present by Nicholas Crane.
• Iron, Steam and Money: The Making of the Industrial Revolution by Roger Osbourne
• Britain Begins by Barry Cunliffe

Eating & Drinking

Cuisine is not one of England’s primary attractions for travellers. But despite its unfortunate reputation, quality restaurants serving international dishes are on the rise. England is now experiencing a transition stage, while the eating culture catches up on the progress. In the meantime, some budget options can be hit and miss. Fish and chips is ubiquitous, usually deep fried haddock or cod. As is “curry” – a catch all term for what is arguably England’s national dish! Indian restaurants can be found in just about every village. England boasts some regional dishes too. Melton Mowbray pork pies originated in Leicestershire, and are served cold. Pancake-like oatcakes are a speciality of Stoke-on-Trent, Stafforshire and Derbyshire. Lancashire was the birthplace of the hearty Lancashire hotpot, as well as Eccles cake, a flaky pastry with raisins. If possible, indulge in a Sunday roast, which is likely to feature famous Yorkshire puddings. As for drink, a real British ale is regarded among the world’s best, but it must be sourced from a “real ale pub”. It doesn’t have the shelf life of foreign beers, and some pubs serve it past its prime – a vinegary taste is not a good sign.

While much of England is usually safe to travel around, it’s important to stay alert to anything unusual. Also, you will often see signs warning of pickpockets in areas popular with tourists, so it’s important to keep a close eye on your belongings at all times.

England’s primary travel advice is ‘see it’ say it, sorted for potential threats on public transport.

Whenever you travel overseas, it’s always wise to take an appropriate travel adaptor. The electricity supply runs at 230V, 50Hz. British plugs have three flat, rectangular pins which form a triangle. These are shared by Ireland, Malta and some former British colonies, but Australia is not one of them.

England has too many highlights to count, but here are just a handful

The Lake District

The Lakes District, which has inspired generations of poets and painters with its natural beauty.

Standing Stones

Stonehenge and Avebury, a source of mystery and intrigue for lovers of history. To visit Stonehenge is a memory not lost.

London is many things: the capital and largest city of England and the United Kingdom, the most-visited city in the world, home to almost 9 million people of 270 nationalities.

Tour Reviews

Robert was an excellent leader who made things run smoothly. He had great knowledge about all aspects of the content of this expedition. He interacted with all members of the group. I would be very happy to go on another tour with Robert as leader.

Participant -17

We found all the guides in each place excellent, some more than others, but always knowledgeable and obviously in love with their chosen careers. David our coach driver was excellent also, coping with some difficult situations with a cool head and providing us with a running commentary on a country he knows so well - especially Norfolk his home county!

Sally and Angus H. June 2017

This trip could have been planned for me as all my interests were included - ballet, theatre, concerts, opera and visits to magnificent museums and galleries.

Excellent itinerary, transport and local guides!

Participant 2016

Overall the trip was great and met my expectation.

Errol H. June 2017

Wife Brenda and I just completed Odyssey tour in UK entitled “Canals and Railways” led by Mal Bock. Absolutely superb, and Mal’s leadership faultless. Extremely good value considering only seven guests, superb local guides and drivers, a most comfortable coach with seating for 24. . Hotels chosen were excellent, most with real character, not places one would have chosen without local knowledge and recommendation, . My wife and I have visited the UK many times- I was born there, but we saw so many places which were new to us. Thank you Odyssey!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ian Sanderson

I was impressed by the number of places we visited. It was a very full itinerary which I like. We saw things of interest every day. I see no fault with the tour.

Participant 2017

The tour was compact, well planned and intense of course, having to include so much in a short space of time, compared with what we would do and see normally at home. A bit overwhelming, but wonderful for looking back, and a challenge to see how much one can remember.

What is the time zone?

England has a single time zone (excluding its overseas territories), Greenwich mean time . The nation observes daylight saving time from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.

Is tipping customary in England?

If you’re on an Odyssey tour, we take care of tipping so you don’t need to give it a second thought. However, in your free time, or if travelling independently, it’s essential that you make sure you tip an appropriate amount for services, as is the case throughout much of Europe. It’s customary to tip 10-15% of the bill at restaurants, or 1 to 3 GBP at a more casual establishment. It’s polite to round a bill up to the nearest whole figure or leave the change when buying drinks.

What is the internet access like in England?

Internet access is easily accessible, and most hotels and many cafes will be able to offer it.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in England?

Check with your cell phone provider to see whether you’re able to make calls and use data while in England. Many providers will offer a daily fee that allows you to make calls and check the internet while only being charged your regular rates. However, be certain to inform your provider that you’re heading overseas, because just like a bank they can turn off your service as a result of unusual activity.

Articles about England published by Odyssey Traveller.

• The London Underground
• Victorian Women’s Fashion
• Queen Victoria’s Britain, Part 1 and Part 2
• Understanding British Churches
• Studying Gargoyles and grotesques
• Georgian Architecture
• London’s Victorian Architecture

For all the articles Odyssey Traveller has published for mature aged and senior travellers, click through on this link .

External articles to assist you on your visit to England.

• National Parks UK
• William the Conqueror ( History.com )
• Queen Victoria
• The Royal Parks of London
• The Royal Mausoleum

Responsible travel tips for England

• If sightseeing in rural areas, remember to be respectful of residents and locals. As well as being tourist attractions, these are peoples’ homes!
• Carry a card in your wallet or purse from your local hotel, to assist you with the return journey if you do become lost.
• Always ensure that you are covered by travel insurance. If you need advice on this feel free to contact Odyssey and we’ll be able to help.
• When travelling independently, make sure you check the opening hours of shops and museums so that you don’t miss out! Museums & galleries are often closed on Mondays. Also be certain to check whether your trip coincides with any public holidays, so you can plan accordingly.
• Consider contacting your bank to inform them that you may be making purchases overseas. Otherwise, they may flag any activity on your account as suspicious. Also, check which ATMs and banks are compatible with your cards, to ensure you can withdraw cash with minimal fees.
• Before departing, make sure you have a number of pounds in a range of denominations. You don’t want to be carrying around enormous amounts of cash, but take enough to make it easy to pay in locations that might not accept credit card. It will also help you avoid card transaction fees, and it makes tipping a breeze.

Join 22,383 like-minded travellers receiving our weekly newsletter.

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.

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.

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

7 Day UK and Great Britain Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 7 day UK and Great Britain tour with TourRadar. Choose from 243 trips with 7,409 customer reviews, that range from 4 up to 7 days.

243 UK And Great Britain 7 day tour packages with 7,409 reviews

• Coach / Bus

Great Britain

Great trip. Mile and Russell were also great.

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

• In-depth Cultural

Highlights of Scotland

This was my second G Adventures tour and it proved to be as enjoyable as the first one, which was the main reason my wife and I booked it. The small size of the tour group and the variety of people made it all the better. The tour offered a good balance between structured visits of major attractions and free time to explore on our own. I would not hesitate to recommend a G Adventures tour to anyone seeking a guided travel experience in the company of other like-minded travelers.

7-Day Ireland to Island Small Group Tour of Ireland

Excellent guide, Pat O'Mara, great accommodations, lots of sights and information from Pat, comfortable bus. Only thing less than great was the boat ride on Killarney Lake while the others kayaked. Kind of boring. Other than that, the tour was excellent.

• Sightseeing

7-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour

Personal local experiences paired with great advice on places to eat., drink and listen to music made this tour special. Small group, great accommodation and wonderful breakfasts were a feature.Sensational scenery, knowledge of where to go and flexibility on timing made it a smooth operation. Our tour guide was experienced, knowledgeable and entertaining.

Exploring the United Kingdom and Dublin

Bonnie Scotland

Our guide Susie and driver Liz were fantastic couldn’t have asked for better.

Best of Scotland (Summer, 7 Days)

My husband and I had the most amazing time on this trip through Scotland! Couldn’t have asked for a better tour director than Mike and bus driver Mark.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

The entire trip was wonderful, very well organized, and satisfying. Peter Flood was an excellent tour guide. He was as knowledgeable as could be, funny, and helpful; and really seems to love what he does.

7 Day Atlantic Way Experience - Small Group Tour

The itenary was paced very well. It gave us the opportunity to see many sites without feeling overwhelming or rushed. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. I appreciated that Anthony listened to the groups' interests, expectations, and limitations. He created a very comfortable group setting.

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

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!!!

Great Tour of Ireland ( 7 days )

• Hiking & Trekking

Walk Hadrian's Wall Highlights

Introduction to Ireland

Our tour guide was Tiarnan....he was excellent and had a wealth of knowledge. I would definitely go with Globus again!! :)

City Lights to Highland Heights

Independent Edinburgh & London City Stay

What people love about 7 day uk and great britain tours.

Lee was excellent. He gave us history and details of the sites we explored along with his fun sense of humor. It was obvious his passion to share his stories with us.

Small Bus touring is the way to go!

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