We’ll be the first to admit, that taking a group tour of Great Britain wasn’t at the top of our travel wish lists. But when we decided to plan a special trip for David’s mom, Barb, and her 70th birthday, we let her pick the destination. Turns out the UK was at the top of hers.
Having traveled with Globus several times before in Northern California, Jordan, and Ireland, we knew that this would be the perfect way to celebrate. It would also be stress-free, leaving the legwork to them. All we had to do was show up!
The tour we chose started in London, England, and traversed the United Kingdom ending in Edinburgh, Scotland. Along the way, we visited Stonehenge, Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon, Liverpool, Grasmere, and Gretna Green.
This article is a full overview of our experience on this tour, including all of the included stops and optional tours that are available. Enjoy!
A Multi-Generational Tour of Great Britain
We can’t say enough good things about taking a multi-generational trip with Globus. The goal of this trip was not only to celebrate Barb’s birthday but also to enjoy a quality adventure with David’s parents. My aunt even joined in, so we were a party of 5, within the larger group!
Normally, David and I make all the plans and book the hotels, transport, tours, guides, and restaurant research for these trips. It takes a lot of time and can add a lot of stress to the trip. By booking a tour, we left all these things in the hands of Globus. All we had to do was book our flights and show up!
I don’t think it gets better than this when you’re just wanting to explore and spend time with the people you are traveling with. As a result, we spent our free time with them shopping and sitting in pubs while listening to live music. We were able to make stress-free memories and enjoy the stops along the way.
A British tour may not have been at the top of our lists, but we loved this trip for so many reasons. Not to mention, it was entirely stress-free. We didn’t even have to touch our luggage for the entire week! Now that’s service.
As I mentioned above, we were a group of 5. David and I booked the 7-Day British Escape and his parents, along with my aunt, booked the 8-Day British Escape with Return to London.
Day 1 – Arrival in London, England
The first day of our tour of Great Britain was arrival day in London and checking in to the included tour hotel, the Park Plaza Waterloo for a 2-night stay. There aren’t any planned activities on arrival day.
If you arrive early in the day or the night before, you’ll have some time to tour around London. If this is your plan, take a look at our 3 Days in London Itinerary.
As we chose to fly in a day before the tour started, we found ourselves with a whole day and a half in London before the Globus welcome dinner.
On the day we arrived, we spent a few hours at Harrod’s in the afternoon and then went for afternoon tea at The Library at County Hall. The next morning, David’s parents went to the British Museum and the Charles Dickens House while we hit the pavement and logged more than 12 miles walking around the city. There’s no better way to beat jet lag!
Day 2 – London, England
Our first official day on tour started with an included buffet breakfast and a reasonable departure time. After leaving the hotel, we were off for a panoramic bus tour of London with a certified Blue Badge guide.
City Tour of London
Our panoramic city tour route showed London’s iconic landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and the Thames.
Our first significant stop was Buckingham Palace, where we got off the bus to admire the grandeur of the palace gates and the Victoria Memorial while learning about the history of this working royal residence.
From there, we visited St. Paul’s Cathedral, renowned for its magnificent dome and historical significance. The tour took us inside so we could see the intricate mosaics and the famous Whispering Gallery.
The tour provided a great introduction to London, balancing history and architecture, before returning to the hotel. For the rest of the day, we had the option of free time or to join the optional add-on tour to the Tower of London. Of course, we chose to see the Tower of London!
Tower of London Tour (Optional Tour)
Visiting the Tower of London is like walking through a living timeline of British history. Originally built by William the Conqueror in 1066 as a symbol of Norman power, the Tower has served many roles over the centuries: fortress, royal palace, prison, and even a zoo.
As we entered through the formidable gates, the Yeoman Warders, or Beefeaters, provided fascinating insights into its past, recounting tales of prisoners like Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes.
Inside the White Tower, the oldest part of the complex, we explored displays of medieval armor and weaponry, including Henry VIII’s imposing suit of armor. The highlight was the Crown Jewels, a dazzling collection of regalia used in royal ceremonies, featuring the legendary Koh-i-Noor diamond and the Sovereign’s Sceptre.
Of course, no visit would be complete without meeting the massive ravens that call the Tower of London home. They are more than just birds; they are part of the Tower’s lore and history.
Legend has it that if the ravens ever leave, the kingdom will fall, so at least six are always kept on the grounds. It isn’t hard to spot the massive black birds with their glossy feathers, hopping around or perched near their enclosures.
A raven master is responsible for their care, ensuring they are well-fed and clipped to prevent them from flying too far. Seeing the ravens up close added a unique and quirky element to the Tower’s rich history.
London By Night (Optional Tour)
Capping off the day, we opted for another optional tour to see London by night. The evening began with dinner at a traditional London pub, where we enjoyed the classic British dishes of fish and chips and a hearty pie.
The pub, The Nags Head, offered a cozy atmosphere and centuries-old char, setting the tone for a true British experience.
Afterward, we boarded a boat for a night cruise on the River Thames. This gave us the chance to see iconic London landmarks like the Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament beautifully lit against the night sky.
The commentary onboard highlighted the river’s importance in London’s development, from its role in trade during Roman times to its place in modern tourism. It was the perfect way to end our full day in London and kick off our British Escape.
Day 3 – London, England to Bath, England
Leaving London, we made our way by coach bus into the countryside towards Stonehenge and ultimately Bath.
We would spend a decent amount of time in transit on most days of this tour, but this would prove to be no problem. The buses that Globus uses for their tours are big, roomy, and offer large panoramic windows.
Stonehenge
Despite our aggressive travel over the past 15 years, we still had not visited the iconic site of Stonehenge! To finally visit, was an awesome moment for us and an opportunity to connect with one of the world’s most iconic ancient monuments.
As we approached the site, the massive stone circle came into view, standing in the middle of an open plain. Believed to have been constructed over 4,000 years ago, Stonehenge is still shrouded in mystery. We were told various theories about its purpose, ranging from an astronomical calendar to a site for religious rituals.
Walking along the designated paths, we were struck by the sheer size of the stones, some weighing over 20 tons, and wondered how they were transported and arranged using only primitive tools and techniques.
The visitor center added depth to the experience, with exhibits showcasing archaeological finds from the area, such as tools, pottery, and human remains that shed light on the lives of the people who built and used the site. The reconstructed Neolithic houses outside the center provided a glimpse into how those early communities might have lived.
It was a thought-provoking visit, and yes, the stones are impressive and worth visiting! We grabbed a delicious lunch from the onsite café before heading back to the bus for our drive to Bath.
Bath, England
After arriving in Bath, we dropped our luggage at the hotel and set off on a walking tour with our guide through the city to the famed Roman Baths. Our tours included tickets to the incredibly well-preserved site that gave insight into life during Roman Britain.
Walking through the complex, we saw the Great Bath, still filled with steaming thermal water from the city’s natural hot springs. The museum displays artifacts like coins, jewelry, and curse tablets thrown into the sacred spring, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and social practices of the time.
Listening to the audio guide, we learned how the Romans engineered this sophisticated bathing complex, which was as much about relaxation as it was about religious rituals.
After exploring the baths, we strolled through the streets of Bath, lined with Georgian architecture and honey-colored stone buildings. The Royal Crescent and the Circus stood out as masterpieces of urban design.
We eventually made our way down to the park by the River Avon, where the famous Pulteney Bridge spans the water. We capped the day with drinks at the pub across the street from our hotel before joining the whole group for an included dinner at the hotel.
Day 4 – Bath, England to Liverpool, England
This morning we set off from Bath, England towards Stratford-upon-Avon.
Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Visiting Stratford-upon-Avon provides a fascinating look into the life and legacy of William Shakespeare and was one of the stops we were most excited about on this trip. Honestly, who wouldn’t be?
Our first stop was Shakespeare’s Birthplace, a preserved 16th-century home where the playwright was born and raised. Walking through the rooms, we saw exhibits detailing his family life and the influences that shaped his writing. In the garden, we had a chance to reflect on how this small town nurtured one of the greatest writers in history.
Afterward, we wandered through Stratford’s streets, which retain much of their Tudor charm with timber-framed buildings and cobblestone pathways. We stopped by the Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare is buried, and visited the River Avon, where boats drifted past under stone bridges.
The town’s dedication to preserving its history was evident in every corner, from small museums to plaques marking historical sites. Stratford-upon-Avon offers a blend of cultural and historical exploration, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Shakespeare or English heritage.
Liverpool Beetles Tour (Optional Tour)
After leaving Stratford-upon-Avon, we set off in the coach bus for Liverpool. This drive was just over 3 hours and due to the time of year, we arrived in Liverpool just as the sun was setting. We checked in to the hotel quickly and came back to the lobby to join the optional Beetles tour!
Taking the Beatles tour in Liverpool was a deep dive into the origins of one of the most influential bands in music history. We started at Penny Lane, made famous by the song of the same name, where we visited some of the landmarks mentioned in the lyrics, like the barber shop and the bank.
As we drove through the city, our blue badge Liverpool guide shared stories about the band’s early years and their connection to the city, adding depth to the experience. Next, we visited the waterfront statue of the Beatles, a tribute to their legacy in Liverpool.
To end the tour, we were taken to the famous Cavern Club. It was in this very spot that the band performed hundreds of times in their early days. The small, brick-walled venue still buzzed with live music, giving a sense of the atmosphere that launched their careers. We ordered a drink and gave a toast to the band.
Day 5 – Liverpool, England to Edinburgh, Scotland
Today would be the longest day on the tour, transit-wise. We woke up early to get a start on the 225 miles we would travel between Liverpool, England, and Edinburgh, Scotland. In true Globus fashion, however, we had some fabulous stops along the way.
Grasmere, England
Visiting Grasmere was a peaceful glimpse into the heart of England’s Lake District. Our first stop was Dove Cottage, the former home of poet William Wordsworth. Walking through the small, stone-built house, we saw the rooms where he lived and wrote some of his most famous works.
The Wordsworth Museum next door displayed manuscripts, letters, and artifacts that offered deeper insights into his life and inspiration. We learned how the surrounding landscape shaped Wordsworth’s poetry, and standing in the garden, we could see why as we admired the rolling hills and quiet paths surrounding the cottage.
After exploring the cottage, we wandered through the village of Grasmere itself. The small shops and cafes gave the town a cozy feel, and we stopped to try the famous Grasmere gingerbread, made from a centuries-old recipe.
Nearby, we also stopped by St. Oswald’s Church, where Wordsworth and his family are buried. The churchyard is simple yet serene, with views of the fells in the distance.
Grasmere’s charm lies in its connection to literary history and its setting amidst some of the Lake District’s most beautiful scenery. It’s an area of England that we’d love to return to in the future.
Gretna Green, Scotland
Visiting Gretna Green gave us a chance to explore one of Scotland’s most romantic and historically significant destinations. Known as the “runaway marriage capital,” it became famous in the 18th century when England’s stricter marriage laws drove young couples across the border to marry under Scottish law, which allowed for “irregular marriages” without parental consent.
The Old Blacksmith’s Shop, where these weddings often took place, is now a museum. Walking through it, we learned about the traditions and heard stories of eloping couples who married over the iconic anvil, a practice that symbolized the forging of a new bond.
Beyond the museum, the area around Gretna Green offered more to explore. We walked through the sculpture garden, featuring artworks that celebrate love and unity, and visited the shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
The nearby Famous Blacksmiths Shop still hosts weddings today, keeping the tradition alive. The combination of rich history and the ongoing celebration of love made Gretna Green a unique stop on our British Escape!
Edinburgh Scottish Night (Optional Tour)
After our long but fabulous travel day from Liverpool, we finally arrived in Edinburgh! We wasted no time jumping into the Scottish culture as pretty much everyone in our group set off for the optional Spirit of Scotland dinner.
This fabulous dinner and show was an immersive introduction to Scottish culture and traditions. The evening began with the ceremony of the Haggis, where a bagpiper led a procession of servers bringing out the dish. A recitation of Robert Burns’ poem Address to a Haggis followed, celebrating Scotland’s national dish in dramatic style.
As we enjoyed a traditional meal that included haggis, neeps, and tatties for an appetizer, the host shared the history and cultural significance of these customs, giving context to the evening’s events.
The show itself featured a mix of traditional Scottish music, dancing, and storytelling. Highland dancers performed energetic routines in colorful tartan kilts, while musicians played iconic instruments like the bagpipes and fiddle. Between acts, performers shared anecdotes about Scotland’s heritage and folklore, adding depth to the experience.
We all had a wonderful time and couldn’t think of a better way to be welcomed to Scotland. I’d like to say we went to bed early, but we didn’t.
Day 6 – Edinburgh, Scotland
Today would be the last official day of our British Escape tour, and it would be spent exploring the best of Edinburgh. We have heard so many good things about this city over the years, and this was our first time visiting. So, we couldn’t wait to get out and explore.
The coach bus left the hotel in the morning for a short panoramic city tour. We saw various famous areas and enjoyed commentary from another knowledgeable Blue Badge guide along the way.
At the end of the drive tour, we were brought to Edinburgh Castle where we set off as a group for an intimate guided tour of the castle.
Edinburgh Castle
Visiting Edinburgh Castle was a journey through Scotland’s history, perched high on Castle Rock with commanding views of the city below. As we entered through the main gate, we were immediately struck by the castle’s strategic location, which made it a vital stronghold throughout centuries of Scottish conflict.
Walking through the grounds, we explored the Great Hall, where the crown jewels of Scotland, including the Stone of Destiny, are displayed. The guide explained how the Stone was used in the coronation of Scottish and British monarchs, making it a symbol of Scotland’s sovereignty.
We also visited the National War Museum within the castle, which provided insights into Scotland’s military history through weapons, uniforms, and artifacts. One of the highlights was the One O’Clock Gun, a tradition dating back to 1861 to help ships in the Firth of Forth set their maritime clocks.
From the castle’s walls, we took in sweeping views of Edinburgh, from the Royal Mile stretching down to Holyrood Palace to Arthur’s Seat in the distance. If you’re a history buff, like we are, it was fun to just sit on the benches and think about the likes of Mary Queen of Scots. Imagine if these walls could talk!
After our tour at Edinburgh Castle, we had the option to take the coach bus back to the hotel or to stay at the castle and continue exploring Edinburgh on our own. We chose to stay and spend the rest of the day enjoying the city on our own.
The Royal Mile (Free Time)
Walking along the Royal Mile was a great way to experience the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, and we spent hours doing just that. The street stretches from Edinburgh Castle at the top to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom, offering a mix of history, culture, and lively activity.
Along the way, we explored small alleyways called closes, which hinted at the city’s medieval past. We visited St. Giles’ Cathedral, with its striking crown spire and beautiful stained glass, and stopped at shops selling Scottish woolens, whisky, and other local goods.
Street performers added energy to the atmosphere, while plaques and statues highlighted the area’s rich history. A highlight was stopping into a restaurant to try an Irn-Bru drink.
Classified as a soda, this is a drink you can only find in Scotland. It’s a distinct blend of flavors, yet it’s super hard to peg exactly what they are, something Scotland is proud of.
Victoria Street (Free Time)
Aside from the Royal Mile, no visit to Edinburgh is complete without a visit to Victoria Street. Its curved layout and colorful storefronts make it one of the most distinctive streets in the Old Town.
The street dates back to the early 19th century and was designed to connect the Grassmarket with George IV Bridge. We explored the mix of shops, including independent boutiques, artisan food stores, and bookshops, each tucked into unique, multi-level buildings.
It’s also said to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series, which added an extra layer of interest. You can even stop by the Elephant House Café for a butterbeer.
Mary King’s Close (Free Time)
If you have time and can get a ticket, visiting Mary King’s Close is an intriguing way to uncover Edinburgh’s hidden past. This series of underground streets and homes, buried beneath the Royal Mile, offer a glimpse into what life was like in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The tour began with a guide dressed in period clothing, sharing stories of the people who lived and worked here. Mary King herself was a merchant who owned property in the close, which was named after her.
As we walked through the dimly lit passageways, we learned about the harsh living conditions, the outbreak of the plague, and the superstitions that shaped daily life. Seeing preserved rooms and artifacts brought these stories to life in a tangible way.
One of the most memorable parts of the visit was standing in the plague doctor’s room, where the guide explained how these masked figures tried to treat patients during one of Edinburgh’s darkest times.
Another stop was the home of a woman said to haunt the close, adding an eerie touch to the experience. The close itself is a fascinating mix of history and folklore, with each corner revealing something new about the city’s layered past.
Day 7 – Departure Day in Edinburgh, Scotland
The tour officially ends in Edinburgh, Scotland, with included transfers to the airport today. However, some of the people in our group chose to book an extension that included a first-class train trip from Edinburgh to London on this departure day. This also provides a hotel for this night, extending the tour by a day.
For us, we ended in Edinburgh and began our journey back to the States after an early morning transfer to the airport.
Our British Escape was part of a paid partnership with Globus Journeys. However, all opinions, stories, advice, and insane love for haggis is 100% ours, as always.
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