Day 1 | Edinburgh

Arrive in Edinburgh; Transfer to your hotel is included, however, you are free to enjoy this beautiful city on your own. (Please note, hotel check-in is generally between 2 pm and 4 pm. If you are arriving into Edinburgh early - the hotel will be happy to hold your luggage until your room is ready).

Day 2 | Edinburgh - Keswick

In the morning, make your way to the Edinburgh Bus Station, St Andrew Square, Edinburgh for 8:15 am (If you booked a departure point transfer at time of booking, your driver will collect you as noted on your voucher). Depart Edinburgh at 8:45 am. We travel south through the Scottish Borders, with stunning views of the Galloway Hills and the Southern Uplands, on our way to the first stop of the day, the Victorian Spa town of Moffat. From Moffat, you continue south over the border into England and head to the historic Cumbrian market town of Penrith. Here, we will have the chance to get lunch and explore the ruins of Penrith Castle, which played a key role in defending the border from invading Scots. After lunch, we travel into the Lake District National Park, along the northern shores of Ullswater described as England’s most beautiful lake where we can take a forest walk to see the mighty Aira Force waterfall. We travel towards Keswick, stopping outside of the town to visit the mysterious Castlerigg standing stones, thought to have been built over 5,000 years ago and the scene of ancient rituals. We have a short journey into the lively market town of Keswick, where you will be dropped off at your accommodations and are then free to explore this charming town. (During July/early August this tour may stay in Windermere).

Day 3 | Touring continues!

After breakfast we head along the winding country lanes to traveling along the southern shores of Ullswater, taking stops to take in the majestic views of this beautiful lake. Continuing our journey south, over the narrow and winding Kirkstone Pass, we stop at Lake Windermere, where we have take a leisurely cruise on the lake or simply eat lunch while enjoying views of the mountains and lakes. After lunch, we travel around the southern tip of Windermere and on towards Coniston Water. Your next stop is at the picturesque conservation village of Hawkshead, where the poet William Wordsworth attended Grammar School. After free time to explore the village, we take the narrow country lanes north towards Grasmere, which Wordsworth described as “the loveliest spot that man hath found.” There is free time to visit Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage or enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden by the River Rothy. In the late afternoon, we return to Keswick.

Day 4 | End in Edinburgh

We are collected from our accommodations and head for the Whinlatter Forest Park, over the Whinlatter pass, and into some of the most dramatic landscapes that the Lake District has to offer. Our journey takes us through the rural village of High Lorton, along the quiet winding lanes to the shores of Crummock Water and Buttermere and on towards the Honister mountain pass. Stopping amongst the mountains, we have the opportunity to visit the old slate workings where a small number of Cumbrians continue to make their living. Following refreshments, we continue through the forests of Borrowdale, passing Derwent Water on our return to Keswick where there is free time for lunch and shopping. Following lunch, we begin our return journey by heading towards Penrith and then north towards the border. After crossing into Scotland, we stop in the town of Biggar, a royal burgh since 1415. From here, it is a leisurely drive through the rolling border hills back to Edinburgh. Arrival approximately 7:00 pm. Make your way independently to your pre-booked hotel for your last night in Edinburgh.

Day 5 | Edinburgh - Home

After breakfast, transfer from your hotel to the Airport for your return flight to the US.