Highlights Between London & Edinburgh
From medieval mini-cities to culture capitals
This is the UK experience you've been waiting for! Catch glimpses of the English and Scottish countryside as you enjoy scenic train rides from city to city. Start out in London then visit the charming, old-world cities of Lincoln, York, and Durham before reaching Edinburgh, Scotland. Marvel at medieval castles, wander through cobblestone alleys, and say "cheers" with a pint in a colorful pub. Adventure is waiting!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into London (LHR), out of Edinburgh (EDI)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 2 nights in London at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge (formerly Grange Tower Bridge Hotel) or similar
- Thames Clippers River Roamer Pass
- Cutty Sark Tea Clipper & Royal Observatory Admissions
- Standard class rail from London to Lincoln
- 2 nights in Lincoln at the Doubletree by Hilton
- Standard class rail from Lincoln to York
- 2 nights in York at the Doubletree by Hilton or similar
- York Pass (1-Day)
- Standard class rail from York to Durham
- 2 nights in Durham at the Radisson Blu Hotel Durham
- Standard class rail from Durham to Edinburgh
- 2 nights in Edinburgh at the Hilton Carlton Hotel Edinburgh or similar
- Scotch Whisky Experience (Silver Tour)
- Breakfast Daily
Below is a sample itinerary inspired by England Originals products to give you an idea of each destination's exciting activities!
Great Ways to Explore
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See more of the UK during scenic train rides between cities.
- Visit the UK's #1 landmark, the UNESCO-recognized Durham Cathedral.
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Named Britain's "best small city," Lincoln is filled with charming Gothic architecture and surrounded by stunning countryside.
-
Taste your way through York, Britain's home of chocolate and the foodie capital of northern England!
-
See world-famous sites, like Big Ben in London, and Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh.
Stroll through picturesque stone streets lined with bright storefronts and medieval architecture, then stop in a local pub for a pint and some live music! This 10-night adventure will give you a taste of the UK's cutest small cities, and the most iconic big ones. Get ready to become immersed in English and Scottish culture!
Begin your journey in London, where royal sophistication meets trendy grunge. Visit all the "must-sees," like the Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace, then do some off-the-beaten-path exploring! Take Instagram-worthy photos in Notting Hill, or sample some food and check out striking street art at the funky Camden Lock Market. Cruise the Thames with your included MBNA Clippers River Roamer Pass and see London from a whole new viewpoint. Then, check out the UNESCO-certified Royal Museums Greenwich with your included admissions to Cutty Sark Tea Clipper and the Royal Observatory!
From London, you'll hop aboard the train to Lincoln, a lovely little city filled with half-timbered houses and traditional English pubs. Marvel at the city's incredible Gothic architecture, do some souvenir shopping at adorable shops, then venture out to the picture-perfect countryside that surrounds the city. After two unforgettable nights, you'll continue onto York. There, be sure to take advantage of your 1-Day York Pass, which grants you free admission to the city's attractions and tons of other perks. From York, you'll enjoy another scenic train ride to Durham, home to the iconic Durham Cathedral!
Next stop: Edinburgh! Drench yourself in Scottish culture and get to know this storybook city. Visit Edinburgh Castle, strut down the Royal Mile, and enjoy an included whiskey tour & tasting! Suit up in your favorite kilt and get ready to eat some haggis - Scotland awaits.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into London (LHR), out of Edinburgh (EDI)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 2 nights in London at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge (formerly Grange Tower Bridge Hotel) or similar
- Thames Clippers River Roamer Pass
- Cutty Sark Tea Clipper & Royal Observatory Admissions
- Standard class rail from London to Lincoln
- 2 nights in Lincoln at the Doubletree by Hilton
- Standard class rail from Lincoln to York
- 2 nights in York at the Doubletree by Hilton or similar
- York Pass (1-Day)
- Standard class rail from York to Durham
- 2 nights in Durham at the Radisson Blu Hotel Durham
- Standard class rail from Durham to Edinburgh
- 2 nights in Edinburgh at the Hilton Carlton Hotel Edinburgh or similar
- Scotch Whisky Experience (Silver Tour)
- Breakfast Daily
Below is a sample itinerary inspired by England Originals products to give you an idea of each destination's exciting activities!
-
See more of the UK during scenic train rides between cities.
- Visit the UK's #1 landmark, the UNESCO-recognized Durham Cathedral.
-
Named Britain's "best small city," Lincoln is filled with charming Gothic architecture and surrounded by stunning countryside.
-
Taste your way through York, Britain's home of chocolate and the foodie capital of northern England!
-
See world-famous sites, like Big Ben in London, and Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh.
Stroll through picturesque stone streets lined with bright storefronts and medieval architecture, then stop in a local pub for a pint and some live music! This 10-night adventure will give you a taste of the UK's cutest small cities, and the most iconic big ones. Get ready to become immersed in English and Scottish culture!
Begin your journey in London, where royal sophistication meets trendy grunge. Visit all the "must-sees," like the Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace, then do some off-the-beaten-path exploring! Take Instagram-worthy photos in Notting Hill, or sample some food and check out striking street art at the funky Camden Lock Market. Cruise the Thames with your included MBNA Clippers River Roamer Pass and see London from a whole new viewpoint. Then, check out the UNESCO-certified Royal Museums Greenwich with your included admissions to Cutty Sark Tea Clipper and the Royal Observatory!
From London, you'll hop aboard the train to Lincoln, a lovely little city filled with half-timbered houses and traditional English pubs. Marvel at the city's incredible Gothic architecture, do some souvenir shopping at adorable shops, then venture out to the picture-perfect countryside that surrounds the city. After two unforgettable nights, you'll continue onto York. There, be sure to take advantage of your 1-Day York Pass, which grants you free admission to the city's attractions and tons of other perks. From York, you'll enjoy another scenic train ride to Durham, home to the iconic Durham Cathedral!
Next stop: Edinburgh! Drench yourself in Scottish culture and get to know this storybook city. Visit Edinburgh Castle, strut down the Royal Mile, and enjoy an included whiskey tour & tasting! Suit up in your favorite kilt and get ready to eat some haggis - Scotland awaits.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to London!
Touch down in London, the historic heart of the city where classy sophistication meets artsy cool. Saturated in over 2,000 years of history and culture, there's tons to do in the one-square-mile city! Once you make it through customs, enjoy a comfortable transfer to your first hotel. Settle into your accommodations, then begin exploring the city on your own!
During your stay in London, be sure to take advantage of your included tours & admissions. Visit the UNESCO-recognized Royal Observatory Greenwich and the iconic Cutty Sark sailing ship. Next, hop on the MBNA Thames Clippers River Roamer and see the city of London from a whole new perspective. Did someone say Instagram?Â
Tonight, treat yourself to a celebratory first-night meal of fish n' chips at a local pub! Cheers!
Shared transfer to London hotel
Drinking and dining options at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge (formerly Grange Tower Bridge Hotel) include a vibrant in-house Tower Bar and Grill restaurant and grill room serving both lunch and dinner, complemented by Knight's bar serving the very best wines, spirits and cocktails. Situated on 14 luxurious floors, each guest room at Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge offers an iPod dock, Bluetooth-enabled media hubs, and satellite channels on the 3D-enabled TV. A free daily newspaper is available, and the sleek, private bathroom includes luxury toiletries. Signature facilities at the hotel include a luxurious Wellness Centre offering an extensive range of beauty and holistic treatments. The Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge incorporates renewable solar and photovoltaic panels, and has an on-site borehole to reduce water consumption - making it one of the most energy-efficient hotels to open in recent years.
Located in the heart of London's financial district, Dorsett City London is a 13-story hotel with 267 rooms boasting modern architecture and design. The hotel is within walking distance to the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Leadenhall Market, Tate Modern, Spitalfields Markets, Brick Lane, Borough Market and Columbia Road Flower Market. You'll be adjacent to Aldgate Station providing easy access in and around London and just minutes from Tower Gateway for the 02 Arena, Canary Wharf, Excel and London City Airport. The hotel features two restaurants, a 24 hour gym, 4 meeting rooms and a destination rooftop terrace bar with a 360 degree panoramic view of London's iconic skyline.Â
Stay at the Crowne Plaza Edinburgh - Royal Terrace for a quiet, modern hotel experience! Rooms include free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. Grab a snack at the Terrace Brasserie, or work out in the modern Techno gym. You’ll be close to landmarks like Calton Hill and Waterloo Place, and about 7 miles from Edinburgh Airport.
Uber Boat by Thames Clippers: River Roamer Pass
See London in style! The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers River Roamer pass is the perfect way to explore London, whether you’re looking for a day out on the river or a way to reach your destination with a view. Travel anywhere in the Central and East Zones with these tickets; piers include Battersea Power Station London Eye, Embankment, Bankside, Tower, Greenwich and North Greenwich. Once activated, your ticket is valid for the entire day until the end of service.Â
Cutty Sark Tea Clipper and Royal Observatory Admissions
A top visitor attraction in the UK, the UNESCO-certified Royal Museums Greenwich is home to the Royal Observatory Greenwich, the iconic historic sailing ship Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Queen’s House art gallery. All attractions are located within easy walking distance of each other.
Visit Cutty Sark, the celebrated historic sailing ship and fastest of its time. Stand on the world's Prime Meridian, discover the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and explore space at London's planetarium at the Royal Observatory. Discover the extraordinary art and fascinating royal history of the Queen's House, and discover the treasures of the National Maritime Museum.
Your ticket includes admission to Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory (excluding special exhibits and planetarium shows). Entry to the National Maritime Museum and The Queen's House is free (excluding special exhibits).Â
Day 2. London
Enjoy your first English breakfast! If you feel like an adventure today, consider stopping by Tower Bridge or climbing the 257 steps up to the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral. Both of these are packed with hidden gems and gorgeous sanctuaries where you can sink into the rest and relaxation intrinsic to these world-class institutions.
After, get ready for thrilling fun and incredible postcard-worthy views of the city. Discover the intriguing Whispering Gallery along the way! If you haven't already, you'll want to do some sightseeing around Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, as well.
While in London, you might want to treat yourself to afternoon tea at a pretty restaurant or hotel. If you're interested, make reservations before your trip!
Looking for London's punk music scene? Check out Camden Lock, filled with food markets, local vendors, and funky record shops. You may also want to stop off at Abbey Road for a cool photo-op! For more foodie fun, you may want to check out Borough Market or Leadenhall Market. After a few hours of exploring London's centuries-old traditions and modern cultural icons, hit up one of the city's world-class restaurants to see that London is really made of!
In the mood for somewhere trendy and colorful? Head to Notting Hill, famous for its pretty pastel-painted houses, chic cafes, and quirky antique shops. Strut down Portobello Road for a lovely English afternoon!Â
Day 3. London - Lincoln
Wave goodbye to England's capital city and hop aboard the train to Lincoln - known as Britain's "best small city!" Keep your eyes focused out the window - you'll be passing some breathtaking scenery.
Upon arrival in Lincoln, make your way to your hotel and settle in quickly; you've got 2000 years of history to explore!
Stroll through the cobblestone Medieval streets of this charming mini-city and marvel at Lincoln Castle. Just when you thought the castle couldn't get cooler, this incredible structure houses original Magna Carta documents! Retrace the footsteps of fascinating history, then treat yourself to tasty sausages and a pint of ale at a traditional pub. Walking through Lincoln is like walking through a fairy-tale!
Train to Lincoln!
Check-in - Doubletree by Hilton Lincoln
Doubletree by Hilton Lincoln is set overlooking Brayford Marina in the Lincoln city center. The hotel is located less than a mile from the train station, easily connecting you with other nearby areas. Enjoy complimentary toiletries, television, and free WiFi in your spacious guest room. Unwind with a drink at the rooftop bar before settling down to enjoy a sumptuous meal at Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill. Explore the nearby Cathedral Quarter, Bailgate area and more when you stay at Doubletree by Hilton Lincoln.
Day 4. Lincoln
Today, you might want to get lost in the impressive beauty of Lincoln Cathedral. This jaw-dropping building is considered one of the finest examples of English Gothic architecture in the country! Be sure to check out the cloisters - you might recognize the area from the final scenes of the film The Da Vinci Code!Â
Tonight, head to buzzing Brayord Waterfront, a vibrant hub for bars and restaurants!
Day 5. Lincoln - York
Say "later" to Lincoln! Today, journey on to the vibrant city of York which is bursting with culture and exuberant energy, all built upon the foundation of its heritage and medieval legacy.
Once you settle into your hotel, take a stroll through the gorgeous streets and get to know the foodie capital of northern England. If you're looking for outdoor adventure, York borders three national parks!
Don't forget to keep your York Pass in mind! This handy pass is a great way to see York's best attractions, as it offers free attraction entry, a hop-on/hop-off bus tour, and more. Depending on your plans, you may choose to use it today or tomorrow. Remember that it is good for only one full calendar day, not a 24-hour period, so choose wisely!Â
Train to York!
Step into DoubleTree by Hilton York and into the adventure of a lifetime! Offering the ideal location for exploring the city, the hotel is located within walking distance to York Minster and overlooks the historic City Walls and Monk Bar - the city's largest Medieval gateway! Head out to discover dining near the hotel, or stay in and indulge in the on-site restaurant's seasonal dishes served in the courtyard garden or gorgeous main room. Guestrooms are well-appointed and offer amenities such as complimentary WiFi, air-conditioning, and other conveniences to make your stay comfortable.Â
Relax in this elegant 18th century Georgian manor house, which blends modern amenities with old-world style. Settle into your spacious room, take a nap on your large bed, or use the hotel's free high-speed WiFi to map out your day. When it's time to explore, hop on the train and be at York Minster in just minutes!
Back at the hotel, indulge in a delicious meal at the sophisticated on-site brasserie. Choose from a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes that are made with only fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. After dinner, sip on a crisp glass of wine in the Garden Lounge, then take a stroll through the lush grounds of this beautiful hotel.Â
York Pass (1-day)
The York Pass gives you unparalleled access to the city’s great range of attractions and represents great value. With your York Pass, you can enjoy free entry to over 40 attractions in and around York, including a complimentary 24-hour hop-on/Hop-off City Sightseeing bus tour (does not operate in December, January and the first 3 weeks of February). Your 1-day pass is valid for one full calendar day (not a 24-hour period), and becomes activated when you visit your first attraction. Simply present your pass at any attraction you visit - the staff will scan or log your passcode and admit you. Â
Day 6. York
Rise and shine! Enjoy a delightful breakfast, then continue exploring Britain's most haunted city. Be sure to activate your 1-Day York Pass, if you haven't yet - there's no better way to explore the UNESCO city of media arts!
Today, you may want to take a few selfies in front of iconic York Minster and take in its incredible architecture. Then, get lost in the Shambles, a picturesque street in the center of York lined with specialist shops and taverns! If it looks familiar, that's because it was used as an inspiration for the fictional Diagon Alley in Harry Potter!Â
Day 7. York - Durham
All aboard! Kiss York goodbye and get ready to experience one of the most stunning city panoramas in Europe! After a beautiful train ride, settle into your next hotel in Durham.
Spend the rest of your afternoon exploring this quintessential English destination! Relax in the quaint square with a cup of tea and people-watch, or admire the incredible architecture that makes up the breathtaking skyline. Durham is filled with secret gardens, fun-filled museums, cute restaurants, and historic buildings. Be on the lookout for something that strikes you!
Train to Durham!
Check-in - Radisson Blu Hotel Durham
Step into comfort and style at the elegant Radisson Blu Durham, located just outside the city center! Overlooking the River Wear, this hotel serves as a relaxing retreat in the middle of the action. Check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then head up to your spacious room. Open the door to crisp air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, chic decor, and much more. Cozy up in your comfy bed, or relax with the hotel's decadent bath amenities.
Once you're all settled in, work all your stresses away in the fitness center or take a dip in the pool! Why not pamper yourself with a spa treatment? When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal in the classy onsite restaurant and indulge in a cocktail from the bar.Â
Day 8. Durham
After a pleasant breakfast, grab your camera and dive into Durham's medieval past. Ready to visit the UK's #1 landmark? Visit the extraordinary Durham Cathedral, built in 1093, which overlooks the River Wear! Then, move onto the storybook setting of Durham Castle. Together, these structures form Durham's one-of-a-kind UNESCO World Heritage Site!
In the afternoon, hit the city's winding cobbled streets to visit a local market, then watch the sunset as you take a peaceful stroll along the river.Â
Day 9. Durham - Edinburgh
Wake up and throw on your kilt! Today, you'll cross over the Scottish border into the old-world city of Edinburgh. Upon exiting the train, you may feel like you're in the real-life film set of Harry Potter! While York inspired Diagon Alley, Edinburgh inspired many other parts of the series, as J.K. Rowling wrote much of the text in Edinburgh!
Check into your final hotel, then wander through the streets of the city! Do some shopping in the trendy New Town, then cross into the Old Town and admire colorful storefronts and castle-like architecture. Step into St Gile's Cathedral and feel yourself become overwhelmed with beauty.Â
Tonight, catch some live folk music at a pub on the Royal Mile!Â
Train to Edinburgh!
Experience true luxury at this stylish hotel nestled right on the Royal Mile. Dating back to the early 1900s, this historic Victorian building is an aesthetic icon of the city. Take advantage of its unique North Bridge location, which links Edinburgh's Old and New Town together. Shop the day away, treat yourself to a tasty bite at a cafe, walk over to Edinburgh Castle, or discover the city's vibrant nightlife.Â
After an exciting day, stroll back to the hotel and take a nap on your large, comfortable bed. Freshen up in the luxurious bathroom, use the hotel's free WiFi to share photos with family and friends back home, and catch up on some TV. When it's time to eat, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine at its elegant Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Restaurant. Enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed atmosphere that boasts glamorous decor and warm vibes. Looking for something a bit less formal? Head to the trendy on-site Nineteen Hundred Bar & Lounge and sip on a cocktail while you sample small plates. If both of these options sound like too much work, go ahead and stay cozy in bed. Room service will be there for you 24/7.
Named after the national newspaper that was originally located here, The Scotsman Hotel is an opulent homage to its fascinating history. Retaining several original features such as wood-paneled rooms, stained glass windows, and a marble staircase, the hotel immerses all of its guests in tasteful luxury. Sprawled over several floors and featuring incredible views of Edinburgh Castle, the character bedrooms are sure to make this a standout stay. Sample three different whiskeys paired with top-notch Scottish gastronomy with Dram & Scran at the Front Page Bar, or the hotel's bold take on afternoon tea at Club 43.Â
Relax and unwind at The Edinburgh Holyrood Hotel, nestled
right in the heart of historic Edinburgh. After a busy day of sightseeing in
the bustling city, you will find yourself only steps away from the comfort and
elegance that this hotel provides. Kick off your shoes and climb into your large,
comfortable bed, or stay up planning your next day, sitting in cozy armchairs
and using the hotel’s complimentary Wi-Fi. All 156 guestrooms are furnished to
the highest standard, featuring triple-glazed windows and boasting marble
bathrooms, creating a quiet, peaceful sanctuary in the middle of center city.
When it’s time to eat, indulge in a delicious, classically
Scottish meal at Acanthus, The Edinburgh Holyrood Hotel’s award-winning
restaurant that creates a perfect environment, as it sits just across from
Scottish Parliament and overlooks Arthur’s Seat. By selecting only the finest,
freshest ingredients that are locally sourced where possible, Acanthus is one
of the most exciting new restaurants in Edinburgh. There, you will be treated
to a sensational experience of specialty cocktails, delicious teas, and a
scrumptious breakfast, lunch, or dinner that captures the taste of Scotland.
Pamper yourself at the hotel’s Leisure Club and Spa, which offers
a perfect retreat from the liveliness of Scotland’s capital city.  Find serenity in a variety of luxurious spa
treatments, take a swim in the 45-foot headed swimming pool, or work out all of
your stresses in the state of the art Technogym.Â
Enjoy the lively and modern decour during your stay at the Grassmarket Hotel. Rooms come equipped with TVs, iPod docks, wall-sized magnetic maps, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms featuring rainfall showers. This newly renovated hotel sitting comfortable within distance of Waverley Train Station and the Royal Mile.
Pubs, bars, clubs, restaurants, and plenty of opportunities for excellent shopping are all within walking distance of your hotel, as well as all of the shops of Princes Street. Old Town exploration and history make the area unique, just like its lodgings.
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's Old Town at the eclectic Stay Central Hotel. Located right on bustling Cowgate, you'll be just steps away from many sights and attractions including the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, and the Princes Street Gardens. Enjoy this hotel's funky yet stylish decor - be on the lookout for tons of interesting artwork, unique furniture, and fun board games.
When your legs are tired from exploring, head up to your spacious, comfortable room and take advantage of the hotel's luxurious amenities. Use complimentary WiFi to plan the rest of your trip, catch up on your favorite show on a flat screen TV, and relax in the rainfall-style shower.Â
Day 10. Edinburgh
Today's a great day to get spirited! After breakfast, make the most of your last day in the UK! Enjoy your included Scotch Whisky Experience, during which you will tour and taste your way through the world's largest collection of Scotch whiskey.Â
If you haven't already, be sure to visit Edinburgh Castle! A hike up Arthur's Seat is another Edinburgh item to check off your list. Venture up hills of stunning greenery until you reach a landing of breathtaking views. The hike may be a bit of a workout, but the views will surely be worth it.Â
Scotch Whisky Experience - Silver Tour
Day 11. Depart Scotland
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and give Scotland the royal wave goodbye. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to the airport, then board your flight home!