Glamour and adventure in beautiful England
Then heading out into nature and the spectacular British countryside.
This remarkable journey takes you from London to Inverness in the Scottish Highlands – a journey through Great Britain from south to north. Along the way you’ll hike through the charming villages of the Cotswolds and through the mountains of Lake District National Park. You’ll experience the culture and heritage by visiting castles, historic homes and a modern day croft.
And your body and soul will be nourished through yoga, nature walks, and various foodie experiences. And of course, you’ll meet a variety of fascinating local characters along the way!
If you love a touch of glamour combined with the great outdoors, sublime food and great company then this is the trip for you!
You will love
- Sudeley Castle with a private guide
- Chedworth Roman Villa with a private guide
- Private yoga session
- Private visit with Ghillie Basan, famous cook book author/foodie delight
- Beautiful hiking
- Private whiskey tasting
- Private guided walking tour of hidden Edinburgh
- Gorgeous accommodation
- Fabulous food
14 UNFORGETTABLE DAYS
DAY 1 | SUNDAY 1 SEPTEMBER | HELLO LONDON...
Arrive into London, one of the most fabulous and exciting cities in the world!
Make your way to the Henrietta Hotel in Covent Garden, your home for the next 2 nights.
This evening the group will catch up for a tour briefing, welcome drink and for those in the mood head out for a casual dinner.
Overnight Accommodation: The Henrietta
DAY 2 | MONDAY 2 SEPTEMBER | LET YOUR SHOPPING DIVA GO CRAZY...
London offers so many things to do and see, so today is up to you. Enjoy private tours of beautiful museums and art galleries, private shopping if you would like it – or you might just want to go and get lost in Harvey Nichols or head out for a walk through the delights of St James’ Park, Regents Park and more.
This evening a delicious welcome dinner at a favourite restaurant in Covent Garden….
Overnight Accommodation: The Henrietta
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 3 | TUESDAY 3 SEPTEMBER | TO THE COTSWOLDS WE GO...
A private transfer collects the group from your Covent Garden Hotel mid-morning and transfers you to the Cotswolds (approximately 2 hours).
Along the way we will enjoy lunch and if time permits, you will enjoy an easy afternoon hike following the Windrush River, taking us directly into Burford.
Dinner together this evening, where we will get to know our guide as well.
Overnight Accommodation: The Lamb Inn, Burford (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4 | WEDNESDAY 4 SEPTEMBER | THE VILLAGES OF THE COTSWOLDS, AND A CASTLE WITH TUDOR CONNECTIONS...
Enjoy breakfast and then this morning, we enjoy a classic Cotswolds hike, linking the charming villages of Stow-on-the-Wold, the Slaughters (much nicer than its name suggests!) and Bourton-on-the-Water (known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’).
Afterwards, we visit Sudeley Castle, with its strong royal connections, where we benefit from a private guide to talk us through its fascinating history.
Overnight Accommodation: The Lamb Inn, Burford (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5 | THURSDAY 5 SEPTEMBER | A ROMAN VILLA AND THE PRETTIEST STREET IN ENGLAND...
A short transfer takes us to Chedworth, one of the grandest Roman villas of its time. After exploring the beautiful ruins, enjoy a relaxed hike, following the banks of the River Coln to the charming village of Bibury, passing through woodland and through small villages on the way.
In Bibury, you can explore Arlington Row, often said to be the prettiest street in England. This row of weavers’ cottages were created in the 17th century but the original buildings date back to around 1380.
A short transfer returns us to Burford and a delicious dinner.
Overnight Accommodation: The Lamb Inn, Burford (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6 | FRIDAY 6 SEPTEMBER | TO THE LAKE DISTRICT, OH SO BEAUTIFUL...
Today we transfer north to the Lake District National Park.
The transfer time is almost 5 hours, so we will have a break or two along the way and then enjoy a short walk to stretch out our legs on arrival in the Lakes.
Check into our lovely home for the next few nights and enjoy your gorgeous surroundings.
Overnight Accommodation: The Inn on the Square
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7 | SATURDAY 7 SEPTEMBER | WILLIAM WORDSWORTH, HIKES AND AFTERNOON TEA...
After breakfast, we transfer to Grasmere, visit the home of William Wordsworth for a tour of his cottage and amble around the pretty little village before visiting the Grasmere Gingerbread shop to learn about the history of this local delicacy, and of course sample the goods!
Afterwards, We’ll pick up a packed lunch and set out on our first of our Lake District hikes to a nearby mountain tarn passing waterfalls and natural infinity pools, a great opportunity to dip a toe! We’ll transfer back to our hotel to debrief and relax before dinner.
Dinner is at leisure this evening.
Overnight Accommodation: The Inn on the Square
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch
DAY 8 | SUNDAY 8 SEPTEMBER | PRIVATE YOGA, CRUISING THE LAKE AND BEATRIX POTTER...
After a full day hiking yesterday, an easier day today.
After hiking yesterday, an easier day today. We’ll drive down the spine of the Lake District along the winding country roads to Windermere for a private yoga session near the shores of the Lake. Afterwards, we’ll board a boat on the lake and relax on a 30-minute cruise to Ambleside. From here we’ll transfer back to the north lakes to Lingholm Kitchen and Walled Garden to enjoy the quintessential British tradition of Afternoon Tea overlooking the garden which Beatrix Potter credited as her inspiration for Mr McGregor’s garden in The Tale of Peter Rabbit.
Overnight Accommodation: The Inn on the Square
Meals Included: Breakfast, Afternoon Tea
DAY 9 | MONDAY 9 SEPTEMBER | TO EDINBURGH WE GO...
Today we transfer north to Edinburgh (about 3.5 hours).
However, before we leave the Lake District we’ll make a stop at Aira Force on the shores of Ullswater. Quiet glades give way to dramatic waterfalls, we’ll visit a thundering waterfall that drops 65 feet past ferns and rocks, made even more picturesque by the small stone bridge at the bottom. There are so many woodland trails for us to discover in this landscape of contrasts.
Afterwards, we’ll head north to Edinburgh, a journey of around 3 hours through the winding Scottish countryside. Once we have arrived we’ll settle into our hotel in a beautiful part of the New Town district.
Overnight Accommodation: The Bonham (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 10 | TUESDAY 10 SEPTEMBER | EXPLORING EXQUISITE EDINBURGH...
A day exploring Edinburgh, including the famous Old Town district which has UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
To kick off we will enjoy a day exploring Edinburgh, including the famous Old Town district which has UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Enjoy a morning with a local guide, showing you the best and hidden, less-known areas in Edinburgh, finishing with a tasting of the national dish of Scotland, the Haggis ( a must – and there is a vegetarian version!).
Take the afternoon to continue your exploration on your own.Then you can choose to shop, take to the spa or enjoy a plethora of free museums and the castle that looms over the city! It is extraordinary and breathtaking – very Outlander…
Dinner is at leisure this evening and is a great opportunity to get out and about, exploring some of the local pubs and a plethora of great bars and restaurants.
Overnight Accommodation: The Bonham (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 11 | WEDNESDAY 11 SEPTEMBER | BACK TO NATURE WE GO...
After breakfast, we checkout of our gorgeous hotel and head off.
This morning we transfer north to Cairngorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands (3 hours).
After lunch, we visit a small croft run by two remarkable ladies dedicated to small-scale farming in tune with nature. We spend time with them learning about their life and commitment to sustainable living. They are incredibly inspiring and it is amazing what they have achieved!
Afterwards, we continue to the attractive village of Aberlour, and check into our hotel. There should be time for a short walk in the village, perhaps along the banks of the River Spey or up to a waterfall, before dinner.
Overnight Accommodation: Dowans Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 12 | THURSDAY 12 SEPTEMBER | SHINRIN-YOKU AND A COASTAL HIKE...
This morning, transfer 30 minutes north to Findhorn where we will enjoy a relaxing coastal hike along the scenic stage of the Moray Coastal Trail.
Then it is time for whiskey – a staple in Scottish life. We’ll take a trip to a local distillery where we will learn all about the local whiskeys and indulge in a private tasting experience….
Overnight Accommodation: Dowans Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 13 | FRIDAY 13 SEPTEMBER | BEN RINNES, MEETING GHILLIE BASAN, OFF GRID LIVING AND A WHISKY TASTING...
A special day to finish this amazing trip!
This morning, we hike up a ‘local’s favourite’ peak called Ben Rinnes. The 4-hour hike takes us to its summit, at 840m above sea level, for wonderful views across Moray and the Cairngorms.
Afterwards, we visit Ghillie Basan, a remarkable chef/writer who has lived off-grid for most of her adult life. Here, we’ll learn about her philosophy towards food and life, and enjoy a wonderful final night banquet, complete with whisky tasting.
Overnight Accommodation: Dowans Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 14 | SATURDAY 14 SEPTEMBER | TIME TO SAY FAREWELL...
Sadly all things must come to an end. We transfer to Inverness and for those in the mood we can enjoy a short walk around the River Ness islands, finishing around lunch time. Then a group transfer to the airport.
For those who wish to you may want to extend for a night and go off in search of the Loch Ness monster!
Meals Included: Breakfast
NEED TO KNOW
14 days | 1 September to 14 September 2024
14 days
1 September to 14 September 2024
$15,715 per person twin share | Single supplement of $4,065 applies.
$15,715 per person twin share
Single supplement of $4,065 applies.
START: LONDON, ENGLAND | Finish: INVERNESS, SCOTLAND
Most major airlines fly to London. Ask us for details.
Australia & New Zealand passport holders do not require a visa for Great Britain for a stay of up to 180 days.
If you do not travel on an Australian or New Zealand passport please be sure to let us know and we will advise if there are any visa requirements.
HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR JOURNEY
- 13 nights in beautiful boutique hotels
- Visit Sudeley Castle with privately hosted talk
- Visit Chedworth Roman Villa with private guide
- Visit Dove Cottage at Grasmere and ride a water taxi on Derwentwater
- Private Yoga session and visit the former home of Beatrix Potter
- Private walking tour of hidden Edinburgh
- Visit a Highland croft run by two ladies who escaped to live a better life
- Whisky tasting and tour at a beautiful distillery
- Meet Ghillie Basan and learn about her life and cooking, and for a final night’s dinner
- Plenty of retail therapy opportunities!
- Experience all the beauty of Italy with other fabulous women who are passionate about travel
- And even more surprises…..
Inclusions
- Fully escorted from London by Nicola, your tour guide (and experienced hiking guide)
- 13 nights’ beautiful boutique hotel accommodation
- Breakfast daily
- 10 lunches
- 9 evening meals
- Afternoon tea
- Drinks with dinner on Day 1 and Day 11
- The services of a qualified and experienced hiking guide throughout the hike from Day 3 – Day 14
- A second guide on days when the hiking is slightly more challenging
- All transfers throughout the trip in a private mini coach with driver
- All local boat rides as per the itinerary
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
- All guided hikes as per the itinerary
- Private hosted talk at Sudeley Castle
- Private guided tour of Chedworth Roman Villa
- Visit Dove Cottage at Grasmere
- Ride a water taxi on Derwentwater
- Private Yoga session
- Visit former home of Beatrix Potter
- Private walking tour of hidden Edinburgh
- Visit a Highland croft run by two ladies who escaped to live a better life
- Whisky tasting and tour
- Visit Ghillie Basan for a final night’s dinner
- Fruit and local snacks throughout the trip
- Gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff, as well as local guides (but not our lead guide or the coach driver)
- 24/7 in-country support
Exclusions
- Airfares unless stated in the itinerary
- Items of a personal nature eg phone calls or laundry
- Passport and visas (if applicable)
- Entry or departure fees charged at the airport
- Tips.
- Any transport outside of included transfers and activities
- Excess baggage
- Security and additional government taxes not covered already
- Travel insurance
- Meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary and beverages unless specifically described.
- Optional excursions or activities that may be offered but are not included in the tour price.
- Camera tickets at sights where allowed.
- Any COVID required testing or documentation required by the countries of entry.
Minimum – 8 travellers
Maximum – 12 (plus host)
Flights & Insurance – on request
Terms and conditions apply – please request a copy of our Booking Form for full details.
- A minimum of 8 guests is required for this experience to depart. There is a maximum of 12 guests. If minimum numbers are not reached, we will discuss this with you well before departure to finalise how to proceed i.e. re-quote with less participants or cancel the departure.
- A $2000 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Once minimum numbers are met, deposits are converted into British Pounds and forwarded to the suppliers. A statement confirming the outstanding balance will then be provided. Please note we will make no conversions until minimum numbers are met and the tour is a confirmed departure.
- A $100 non-refundable booking management fee applies to this tour and will be added to your final invoice.
- Final payment is required by 15 July 2024. Should you wish to pay in instalments we are able to accommodate your requirements for this.
- Easy to moderate hiking is included in the itinerary on most days. A reasonable level of fitness and stamina is required for you to join this journey.
- Please note hotels are boutique, and some quite old, and therefore room size will vary. Rooms will be allotted by hotel management and cannot be altered due to the limited numbers available. There are a maximum of 8 double rooms for single use and 2 x twin rooms.
- Deposit is by a payment link via the booking form to secure your spot. We accept Visa, MasterCard or American Express. Merchant fees apply to credit card payments and will be added at the time of payment.
- Please note an interim payment maybe required due to the supplier terms and conditions.
- The only circumstance for a refund is if this tour doesn’t not depart and you are still booked to travel. If for any other reason you cancel there is no refund hence the requirement to have travel insurance.
- Any part of the tour not utilised is non-refundable
- Prices quoted are in British Pounds and once full payment is received price is guaranteed. Until that time price is subject to change.
- Passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months. Please check visa requirements for entry into the UK.
- It is compulsory for all passengers to have comprehensive travel insurance for travel on this tour including emergency medical evacuation. If you do not have travel insurance you will be unable to travel with us.
- Please check www.smarttraveller.gov.au for the latest travel advice
- Please check with your health professional regarding required vaccinations
YOUR GUIDES
Andrea Powis
A truly wonderful travel industry career that has spanned over a 40 years has led to a passionate love affair with exploring this incredible world. Many happy years have been spent discovering the 4 corners of the earth and Andrea still finds there is not enough time to see it all!
Andrea, founder of Travelling Divas, offers women the opportunity to discover new places or maybe rediscover some old favourites; meet new friends and reconnect with old, and provide the space to indulge in some much needed ‘you’ time. Whether travelling with girlfriends, family or solo, Andrea provides an environment that takes care of you and allows you to experience, rejuvenate and connect!
Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.
Elizabeth MackintoshJulia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.
Milford familyWe are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.
Kim & Brad BalanceThe trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.
Rowntree familyClassic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.
Melanie McMillan & Iain JonesWe loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!
Laurence & Remi CunninghamAn amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!
Sheryl & Robert TaylorThank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.
Paul CozziVery knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!
Jane & Robert HappellEverything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.
Tim BradleyYou can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!
Buckingham FamilyThe trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.
Emma JeffcoatAbsolutely everything was first class & so well organised.
Simon & Jackie AdamsClassic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!
Ros WheelerTheir experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.
Andrew & Pip StevensIf you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.
Miriam & Joseph HarrisonClassic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.
Ron & Alison GuthrieClassic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10
Di & Kingsley YatesThe Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.
Annette WhileyIt certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing. We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.
Jo-anne & Dean MifsudWould do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!
The McGowan TribeAn absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.
Judith & Roger Williamsbegin your journey now
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