Walk England's Grand Tour from North to South

Arrive at York railway station late-morning, where our friendly Active England guide will be on hand to meet and transfer you to the outstanding Black Sheep Brewery in Masham for lunch. In the afternoon, we head into the picture-postcard landscape of the Yorkshire Dales. Passing dry-stone walls and sheep-filled fields, we walk to the picturesque market town of Hawes, one of the highest towns in England and our home for the next two nights.

1-3 miles

Accommodation for nights 1 & 2: Hawes

Today we head deep into the Dales, stopping first at Malham Cove. An enormous white limestone cliff, shaped by glaciers over millions of years into the amphitheatre that we see today, you’ll quickly see why it’s celebrated as one of England’s most iconic natural landmarks. From here, we continue to Gordale Scar, a magical limestone ravine containing two stunning waterfalls, before ending our day with a visit to the Wensleydale Creamery. Famous for producing delicious artisan cheese in the very heart of the Dales, this is sure to be a favourite stop for any foodie’s among the group.

3-7 miles – Up to 760 ft elevation

Accommodation for nights 1 & 2: Hawes

We transfer this morning to the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and England’s largest National Park. Staying in the bustling market town of Keswick, our route today takes us up the famous Catbells. Known for its steep climb and spectacular views of Borrowdale and Derwentwater, this particular peak is easily one of the most popular in all of the Lakes. After reaching the summit, the descent will bring us to the far end of Derwentwater, where we’ll take to the water and catch a relaxing ferry back to Keswick.

6 miles – Up to 1300 ft elevation

Accommodation for nights 3 & 4: Keswick

We transfer far south this morning to Stratford-upon-Avon, a medieval market town in England’s West Midlands and the 16th-century birthplace of William Shakespeare. Taking plenty of time to explore, with a visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace and the church in which he’s buried, we then take a walk into the Cotswolds. Winding our way through quiet country lanes and over rolling hills, we visit the quintessential English town of Chipping Campden, internationally renowned for its local thatched rooftops. Our accommodation for the next two evenings is in the charming market town of Moreton-in-Marsh.

1-3 miles

Accommodation for nights 5 & 6: Moreton-in-Marsh

Today we begin with coffee at Daylesford Organic, the most exclusive farm shop in the Cotswolds, before travelling through idyllic countryside to Blenheim Palace. Winston Churchill’s birthplace and a World Heritage Site, we eat lunch overlooking the Capability Brown parklands, and take some time during the afternoon to explore the historic palace and the gorgeous 2,000-acre estate. With the day drawing to a close, we return once more to Moreton-in-Marsh.

5 miles - Up to 300 ft elevation

Accommodation for nights 5 & 6: Moreton-in-Marsh

Leaving the Cotswolds behind, we transfer to the wonderful Roman city of Bath. Walking into the city via a 2,000 year-old Roman road, our Active England guide will lead you on a tour of all this historic location has to offer. From the Roman Baths, one of the world’s best-preserved Roman remains, to the Royal Crescent overlooking the city, you’ll quickly find that there’s no shortage of incredible landmarks in which to immerse yourself.

3 miles - Up to 700 ft elevation

Accommodation for nights 7 & 8: Bath

We will spend today in Bath, allowing all the time you need to visit the city’s various restaurants, theatres, galleries and shops. If you need help finding your way, or simply making the most of your time here, our Active England guides will be on hand to provide all the local knowledge you might need. Or if you’d prefer, feel free to simply indulge in some R&R at our accommodation, the luxurious Francis Hotel.

Accommodation for nights 7 & 8: Bath

We transfer to Cornwall, where we’ll spend the remainder of our grand tour enjoying golden beaches, rugged cliffs and pretty coastal villages. Beginning on the famous Camel Trail, our walk today takes us toward the gorgeous harbour town of Padstow. One of the most enticing destinations in all of Cornwall, and a famous culinary haven, we’ll take plenty of time to explore, before ending the day with a supper of freshly caught fish and chips on the harbour wall.

5 miles - Up to 200 ft elevation

Accommodation for nights 9 & 10: Padstow

Setting out from Padstow, today we head inland, walking upon the wild headlands that inspired Poldark, before winding our way back via Cornwall’s famous northern coastline. Walking the idyllic beaches of Polzeath and Daymer Bay, we’ll pass the partially buried St Enodoc Church, visit the small seaside village of Rock and catch the foot ferry across the glistening waters of the Camel Estuary back to Padstow. With our grand tour coming to an end, we’ll celebrate one last evening together with dinner at Rick Stein’s famous seafood restaurant.

 

 

Accommodation for nights 9 & 10: Padstow

After a relaxed breakfast, our guides will transport you to Bodmin Parkway railway station, where we say our farewells and provide any help you might need with your onward travel.