Heart of England, Wales & Yorkshire 2025/2026

Our tour takes us to the heart of North Wales today. What doe we know about Wales? Its tongue-twisting language is the oldest in Great Britain; it’s the land of castles, with over 600 across the country; and it’s a landscape of inescapable beauty. But there’s so much you don’t know, and you can’t know, until you explore it for yourself. So, let the adventure begin.

Your first stop of the day is Conwy. This gorgeous harbour town is known for an imposing medieval castle perched by the sea, the ‘world’s smallest house’, and a plethora of restaurants with delectable fish and chips, among other things. This is ideal, since Conwy is your lunch stop for the day, and we highly recommend splitting your time between the sights and the senses.

Recharged after lunch, we travel into the Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), where we roam the impressive mountains and valleys, its slate quarries, and travel through the dramatic Pass of Llanberis in the shadow of Snowdon, Wales’ highest peak. Next, is the charming village of Betws-y-Coed . Surrounded by rugged mountains and lush forests, it offers picturesque streets lined with traditional stone cottages. Make sure to walk to the ancient, weathered stone bridge called Pont-y-Pair that is famous for the views of a cascading river. In the late afternoon, we head over the English border and travel back to Shrewsbury.

It’s your second free evening in Shrewsbury and you can decide how you want to spend it. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try a ghost tour that explores the haunted corners of the town, delving into its eerie history. Or you can stroll along the River Severn and find a traditional restaurant for your dinner.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Shrewsbury. (B)

Lying northeast of Shrewsbury is the Peak District National Park, an expanse of rugged moorland with walled pastures and wooded valleys. Picturesque villages and unbeatable scenery line our route as we wind through this area’s unique landscape.

After a spectacular drive, we arrive in the elegant spa town of Buxton. It’s been attracting visitors to enjoy its natural thermal springs since Roman times. And it’s where you can fill up your bottle with crystal-clear water from the famous spring.

In the early afternoon we reach the impressive Chatsworth House, the Duke of Devonshire’s famous stately home and gardens. You’ll have several hours here to explore. What you do and see is up to you. Maybe you’ll take in the beauty of the estate’s gardens? Maybe you simply can’t miss the collection of masterpieces inside, artworks from Rembrandt, Reynolds, Veronese. You’ll need to refuel after taking it all in. There are plenty of places at the estate to stop for a treat, whether you just need a quick bite or a full meal. Travelling northwards, we pass through some of the old industrial heartlands of northern England to the historic walled city of York.

We arrive in the historic city of York, a place where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern charm . As evening falls, the city comes alive with a magical atmosphere. We stay here for two nights so you can wander through the lit cobbled streets of The Shambles, visit one of the city’s cozy pubs, or take a walk along the medieval city walls.

Your overnight accommodation will be in York. (B)

Today there are two options. You can choose to spend the day exploring the medieval heart of York, an ancient city with a colourful history dating back to the times of the Romans, Vikings, and Normans. Alternatively, you can journey out with your guide on a half-day excursion across the Yorkshire Dales to the handsome market town of Knaresborough.

Knaresborough’s spectacular stone viaduct over the River Nidd, winding streets, and picturesque houses perched on the cliffs create a scene straight out of a fairytale. Stroll through its charming market square, explore the ruins of a castle and take in the stunning views of this picturesque place. Then we continue our exploration of the Yorkshire Dales and head to another delightful village, Pateley Bridge

Nestled in the heart of Nidderdale, this picturesque village invites you to slow down and explore its cobbled streets, historic sites, and tranquil riverside walks. Whether you’re savouring a sweet treat at the Oldest Sweet Shop in England or simply soaking in the stunning landscapes, Pateley Bridge is the place where you create lasting memories of one of Yorkshire’s most scenic corners. Then we finish our half-day tour and return to York in the afternoon, so you can uncover more of its secrets. There’s much to see and do: you can visit a chocolate museum, admire the iconic York Minster, find out about the Vikings, or even just stroll around the ancient walls.

You’ve got another free evening and you can decide what you’re going to do. Maybe you’ll fancy taking a ghost tour to uncover the city’s haunted past? Or enjoy a relaxing drink in one of York’s historic pubs? Whether you prefer a quiet evening steeped in history or lively nightlife, York offers something for everyone.

Your overnight accommodation will be in York. (B)

Departing the fair city of York in the morning, you begin your journey south to London.

You stop in the town of Lincoln, famed for its beautiful historic center, stunning medieval architecture, and delicious Lincolnshire sausages. Make sure you visit the cathedral while you’re here; it was the world’s tallest building for around 200 years, and its intricate design, towering spires and stained-glass windows will leave you speechless.

Next, we travel to Cambridge, a city of timeless elegance and rich intellectual heritage. You can discover the prestigious university here, visit one of the iconic college buildings — and there’s plenty more to see and do, with popular museums, historic churches, market squares. Take a guided punting ride along ‘the backs’ of the colleges or climb the steps of St Mary’s tower to get a skyline view. There are also plenty of pubs, cafes and tea rooms to choose from for lunch. After you’ve uncovered some of Cambridge’s secrets, we start our return journey to London.

Travelling back to London, you can ponder over the sights that make up the heart of England and that show the spirit of Wales. As you approach London, the bustling energy of the city draws nearer, yet the echoes of the serene countryside and the stories continue to resonate, reminding you of the spirit of adventure, tradition, and the beauty of both nations you’ve witnessed on this tour. (B)