Walk the UK's Grand Tour across England, Wales and Scotland

Catching the train from London Paddington to the beautiful city of Oxford, we begin our grand tour of the UK by exploring the various iconic university colleges, punting on the Thames and strolling through the green open space of Port Meadow. Having soaked up the unique atmosphere of this historic city, our handpicked Active England guide will lead you on a stunning introductory walk into the Cotswolds. In the evening, we settle down in the charming market town of Moreton-in-Marsh, and enjoy our first dinner together as a group.

Winding our way through the quiet country lanes and over the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, our first stop today is the quintessential English town of Chipping Campden. From here, we continue on to Hidcote Gardens, internationally renowned for its collection of incredible outdoor “rooms.” We then hike up to Broadway Tower for a packed lunch, enjoying awe-inspiring views over 16 counties in England and Wales, before walking into the village of Broadway itself. Locally known as the ‘Jewel of the Cotswolds’, our guides will ensure you see the absolute best of this beautiful corner of England.

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 now 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 to Moreton-in-Marsh for our final evening in the Cotswolds.

We transfer 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 all this historic location has to offer, including a visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace and the church in which he’s buried, we’ll then transfer once again to the Brecon Beacons National Park for the Welsh leg of our grand tour.

We’ll spend the day walking through the beautiful Brecon Beacons, with views up towards the striking Pen Y Fan – the highest peak in South Wales, at 2,900 ft. After exploring this stunning landscape, we return to our hotel in Abergavenny. Set against the beautiful Black Mountains, this friendly little town is the perfect place to reward ourselves with a pint of local ale, before we settle in for our final evening in Wales.

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, you’ll quickly see why this particular peak is 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 for some well-deserved R&R.

Today’s itinerary takes us up Helvellyn. Officially voted England’s favourite walk, our guide will offer the choice of climbing all the way to the summit or hiking the lower slopes. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the popular tourist destination of Ambleside. Sitting at the head of Windermere, England’s largest natural lake, we’ll take a little time to rest up and visit some of the many local shops and cafés, before making our way back to Keswick for our final night in the Lakes.

We begin today with a transfer to Hadrian’s Wall, the world-famous Roman structure that stretches 73 miles from coast to coast. Hitting the trails, our route takes us from Housesteads, the most complete Roman fort in Britain, to Vindolanda, one of England’s most significant archaeological sites. Following the wall itself, we’ll have plenty of opportunity as we walk to marvel at what is undoubtedly one of England’s most dramatic landmarks, as well as to visit the recently felled Sycamore Gap tree.

Today we walk to some of Northumberland’s most magnificent castles. We visit Lindisfarne, the ancient site of England’s first Christian settlements, its location on a tidal estuary showcases Northumberland’s unparalleled coastline in all its glory. Finally, we end today’s hike at Bamburgh. Sitting high on an outcrop over the beach, with wonderful views over to the Farne Islands and back across the causeway to Lindisfarne, this particular castle is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular in the area. With our route complete, we end the day by transferring to Edinburgh.

For our last full day, we explore Scotland’s magnificent capital. With our Active England guide leading the way, we’ll soak up the unique atmosphere of this lively city, visiting iconic local landmarks such as the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, and walking post Holyrood Palace up the famous Arthur’s Seat. With our grand tour now drawing to a close, we’ll celebrate the end of our adventure with a final dinner together.

After a relaxed breakfast, our Active England guide will lead you to Edinburgh Waverley railway station, where we’ll say our farewells and provide any help you might need with your onward travel arrangements. We can also provide transfers to the airport.

Alternatively, extended tours are available on request for those eager to explore the breath-taking Scottish islands and highlands. If you would like to extend your tour, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.