Apr 7 - Apr 25, 2025
Starting at
8,249
England/Scotland
Quintessential Britain
Program No. 12187RJ
Find out why Britain has fascinated generations of travelers as you explore Roman ruins in London, castles in North Wales, Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon and iconic Christ Church.
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19 days
18 nights
45 meals
17B 11L 17D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
6
Transfer to the Cotswolds: Stonehenge & Bath
Cirencester
7
Cotswolds Villages & Countryside
Cirencester
8
Shakespeare, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Hidcote
Cirencester
16
New & Old Towns, Free Time
Edinburgh
17
Perthshire, Scone Palace
Edinburgh
18
The Trossachs, Loch Lomond
Edinburgh
19
Program Concludes
Edinburgh
At a Glance
Piece together storied histories, rivalries and landscapes to experience quintessential Britain — from London to Bath, the villages of the Cotswolds to the dreaming spires of Oxford, the “bonnie banks” of Loch Lomond and the Scottish capital, Edinburgh. In each city and village, uncover the surrounding history, geography, culture, literature, houses and gardens, cathedrals and castles with local experts.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles; standing on city sidewalks. Stairs in historic buildings.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- View the recently rediscovered amphitheatre and ruins of Roman London.
- Explore the castles and history of mountainous Snowdonia in North Wales.
- Visit Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Kevin Flude
Kevin Flude lectures on the archaeology, history and museums at Central St. Martins College (University of the Arts, London) the University of Westminster and is an Honorary Lecturer at University College London. He is also the Director of the Old Operating Theatre Museum, a fascinating Museum in Central London. Kevin serves as a study leader for Road Scholar programs, putting to use his deep and broad experience in the museum world gained during his time at the Museum of London, the Victoria and Albert Museum and Oxford’s Research Laboratory for Archaeology and the History of Art.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Kevin Flude
View biography
Kevin Flude lectures on the archaeology, history and museums at Central St. Martins College (University of the Arts, London) the University of Westminster and is an Honorary Lecturer at University College London. He is also the Director of the Old Operating Theatre Museum, a fascinating Museum in Central London. Kevin serves as a study leader for Road Scholar programs, putting to use his deep and broad experience in the museum world gained during his time at the Museum of London, the Victoria and Albert Museum and Oxford’s Research Laboratory for Archaeology and the History of Art.
Suggested Reading List
(15 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Quintessential Britain
Program Number: 12187
Exploring English Castles, Evocative, Romantic and Mysterious True Tales of the Kings and Queens of the British Isles
A picturesque, coffee-table tour through the grandest castles in England, including Bodiam, Framlingham and Kenilworth. Morris' color photos are accompanied by legends and tales about each structure.
A Journey Through Tudor England
Through visits to Tudor England’s historic palaces, castles, theaters and abbeys, Suzannah Lipscomb brings to life the rich history of the Tudors.
Westminster Abbey
In a highly original pocket book, classicist and cultural historian Richard Jenkyns looks afresh at the celebrated church complex -- national cathedral, coronation church, royal mausoleum, burial place of poets, resting place of the great and of the Unknown Warrior, former home of parliament, place of Princess Diana's funeral.
Whisky, Kilts, and the Loch Ness Monster
Beginning and ending in Edinburgh and making stops at Glasgow, Culloden, Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and more, William Starr follows hilariously in the footsteps of Boswell and Johnson across Scotland.
Stone Voices, The Search for Scotland
Ascherson writes with verve and insight on the centuries-old impulse toward nationhood in Scotland in this absorbing portrait.
101 Beautiful Small Towns Britain
A lavishly illustrated and informative tour of Britain's beautiful and historic towns.
A Writer's House in Wales
In this extended essay, Morris uses her much-loved 18th-century house as a point of departure for a meditation on Welsh identity.
The Brontes, Wild Genius on the Moors: The Story of a Literary Family
Hailed as the first distinctive account of the Brontes, this tome incorporates information gleaned from manuscripts and never-before-used historical documents to present an accurate and fascinating portrait of one of England’s most famous literary families.
A Traveller's History of Oxford
A compact history of Oxford from settlement to the present, including its importance in medieval England, founding of the different colleges and brief period as Royalist capital. Tames also discusses the architecture of the colleges and includes biographies of illustrious alumni.
The Story of England
Beautifully illustrated with color pictures, chronological charts, royal genealogies and maps, this popular history of English politics, economics and culture from the Neolithic Age to the 1990s is an excellent travel companion.
Rob Roy
Adventure in the highlands of 18th-century Scotland starring the dashing outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor. Part of the "Penguin Classics" series, this book contains explanatory notes and an introduction that sets it in its historical context.
The Highland Clans
This excellent compact history of the Scottish Highland clans brings to life their leaders, traditions, families and heroic deeds with color illustrations, photos, a clan map and an alphabetical family list.
Notes from a Small Island
A farewell walking tour of England by an American expatriate who has decided to return home after two decades. Like all of Bryson's books, it's full of rich conversations, humorous anecdotes and amusing interactions.
Londoners, The Days and Nights of London Now As Told by Those Who Love It, Hate It, Live It, Have Left It, and Long for It
Drawing on the unforgettable stories of nearly 100 Londoners, Taylor provides a rich and vivid kaleidoscopic view of modern-day London through the diverse voices of the city's citizens who, regardless of whether they love or hate it, capture the heart and soul of one of the world's greatest cities.
The Age of Shakespeare
A remarkably concise, elegant overview of the world of Shakespeare in the Modern Library Chronicles series by the eminent British critic and scholar.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
19 days
18 nights
What's Included
45 meals (
17B, 11L, 17D
)
8 expert-led lectures
26 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
17 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive London, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
London
Meals:
L,D
Stay:
Radisson Blu London South Kensington
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.
Lunch:
In the hotel dining room, for those arriving by lunchtime, we will have a light lunch with coffee, tea and water. Other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Orientation, 5:00 p.m.: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This program is staffed with both a Group Leader, who will accompany us throughout the program and deal primarily with logistics, and a Study Leader who will lecture, conduct field trips, and serve as an information resource on program-related topics. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room, we'll have a 3-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure to unpack, relax, and prepare for the program ahead.
Day
3
The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, The London Eye
Location:
London
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Radisson Blu London South Kensington
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach and boat; driving about 9 miles, approximately 1.5 hours; boat ride about 3 miles, approximately 1/2 hour. Paved & cobbled courtyards, grass lawns, uneven stone and wooden floors; most upper floors and basements at Tower of London accessed only by stairs with handrails, including narrow spiral staircases; step-free access to Jewel House. Entrance & exit ramps at Westminster Abbey; 5 steps to the Cloisters, which can be avoided by using Cloister Entrance outside Abbey.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers a range of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes, cereals, cheese, cold cuts, yogurts, pastries, and toast, as well as milk, juices, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
We'll travel by motorcoach to the Tower of London, the City’s ancient defensive center. Built at the behest of William the Conqueror in 1097, the White Tower still stands guard over the Thames. It is here that monarchs, importunate princes, and lesser mortals were imprisoned and beheaded. Now the tower is best known as the repository of the world famous Crown Jewels, including the Koh-I-Noor and Cullinan Diamonds – two of the world’s most famous diamonds and worn in the crown of Queen Victoria. The Crown Jewels were remade for Charles II after the originals were melted down in the Civil War. They provide a spectacular insight into the power of the Royal Family throughout history.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
We will travel by boat along the Thames to Westminster, the center of British political power. Here we will see the exterior of the Houses of Parliament. We’ll then continue on to an expert-led field trip inside Westminster Abbey before a ride on the London Eye, the Ferris wheel built to celebrate the new millennium which affords spectacular views over the city. We’ll return to the hotel by motorcoach after our field trips.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions should you wish to further explore London.
Day
4
The British Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Guildhall
Location:
London
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Radisson Blu London South Kensington
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 13 miles, approximately 2 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 2.5 miles, periods of standing; paved streets and courtyards, some cobblestones; step-free access to all areas at British Museum, Guildhall and St Paul’s Cathedral.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will travel by motorcoach to the British Museum to explore world cultures, from prehistory to the present day. Our Study Leader will offer a brief on-site introduction to the museum, followed by time to explore the wealth of exhibits and galleries on our own. We will then regroup for the British Galleries, Stonehenge, and the Sutton Hoo collections, led by our Study Leader.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
Our field trip continues by motorcoach this afternoon to the Guildhall and St Paul’s Cathedral. The Guildhall was the administrative center of London for over 800 years. In 1988, the remains of London’s Roman amphitheater were discovered by archaeologists excavating ahead of the building of the Guildhall Art Gallery. Since 2002, these remains have been on show in a dedicated exhibition space beneath the gallery, which we’ll explore during our field trip. We will then explore St Paul’s Cathedral. Christopher Wren’s famous cathedral was built to replace the earlier medieval building which was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666. We will then board the motorcoach and ride to our dinner venue.
Dinner:
At a traditional London pub, we’ll have a 3-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
We’ll enjoy a panoramic motorcoach journey through London at night with expert commentary from our Study Leader.
Day
5
Oxford, Christ Church, The Ashmolean Museum
Location:
London
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Radisson Blu London South Kensington
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 110 miles, approximately 3.5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, some cobblestones; step-free access to all public areas at Ashmolean Museum, portable folding stools available in the galleries.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
Today’s full-day field trip takes us by motorcoach to Oxford, the City of Dreaming Spires. We’ll begin at Henry VIII’s Christ Church, where a local expert will lead us through the buildings and grounds of the college. Founded in 1546 and one of the largest of the Oxford’s 38 colleges, Henry’s Lord Chancellor Thomas Wolsey planned the impressive Great Quadrangle, the Tudor Kitchen, and the Great Hall. Christ Church is the cathedral seat of Oxford and occupies a 150-acre site in the center of the city. This includes the Meadow, a tranquil area of pasture bounded by the Rivers Isis and Cherwell. After exploring Christ Church, we’ll take an educational walk around the city center with our Study Leader.
Lunch:
At a local pub, we’ll have a 2-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We’ll continue on foot to the Ashmolean Museum, which upon its opening in 1683 was the world’s first university museum. It is named after Elias Ashmole, a 17th-century antiquarian who bequeathed his cabinet of curiosities to the university. The museum’s collection grew around this bequest, bolstered in subsequent years by donations from other noted collectors including the archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans. After an introduction by our Study Leader, we’ll have some time for independent exploration of the museum’s vast collection, which in addition to the wealth of archaeological material also includes works by world-renowned artists such as Michelangelo, da Vinci, Picasso, Turner and Titian. We will then return by motorcoach to the hotel in London.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
Transfer to the Cotswolds: Stonehenge & Bath
Location:
Cirencester
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Kings Head Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach and bus; driving about 200 miles, approximately 5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles, periods of standing; paved streets and paths, some cobblestones, grassy areas, ancient flagstone floors with some uneven and potentially slippery areas; comfortable walking shoes with good grip are recommended.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We'll bid farewell to London and depart by motorcoach for the picturesque Cotswold MArket Town of Cirencester, visiting the iconic Stonehenge and the Roman spa city of Bath on the way. Stonehenge has a world-class visitor center, housing quality permanent exhibitions. We’ll explore these exhibitions with our Study Leader, who will also lead us on a walk around the stones themselves, taking an English Heritage shuttle bus from the visitor center to begin the walk.
Lunch:
A packed lunch of sandwiches, fruit, and a drink or similar will be provided to make the most of this busy transfer day.
Afternoon:
We'll continue on to Bath, where we will visit the well-preserved Roman baths and pump room. Around Britain’s only hot spring, the Romans built a magnificent temple and building complex that still flows with natural hot water and was regarded as the beating heart of Bath for centuries. In Roman times, Bath was known as Aquae Sulis, Sulis being a native deity syncretically identified with the Roman goddess Minerva. The hot springs here were dedicated to this goddess before the Roman occupation, and Roman authorities encouraged this worship. The baths complex that grew around the springs has provided a wealth of insight into Romano-British life and language, in the form of a collection of inscribed curse tablets that were cast into the sacred spring by people seeking divine justice for everyday thefts and slights. Following the visit, our Study Leader will lead a walk through Bath’s historic center before we journey onwards to Cirencester. On arrival, we'll check in at the hotel with time to relax and unpack before dinner.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room, we'll have a 3-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Cotswolds Villages & Countryside
Location:
Cirencester
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Kings Head Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 35 miles, approximately 1.5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, some cobblestones, grassy areas.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers a range of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes, cereals, cheese, cold cuts, yogurts, pastries, and toast, as well as milk, juices, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
At the hotel, our Study Leader will deliver two lectures, the first on the Cotswolds and the second on Shakespeare and Stratford. We'll then set out on a field trip by motorcoach to the countryside and villages of the Cotswolds, starting with Broadway before moving on to Stow.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
Our field trip continues to the lovely market town of Chipping Campden, which benefited greatly from the wool trade in the Middle Ages and was a center for the flourishing Arts and Crafts Movement in the early 20th century. After an introduction by our Study Leader, we’ll have some time to explore the town independently. We will then return to the hotel.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
We'll enjoy a visit to the heart of many British towns and villages – the local pub!
Day
8
Shakespeare, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Hidcote
Location:
Cirencester
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Kings Head Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 20 miles, approximately 1 hour total throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles, periods of standing; paved streets with some cobblestones, gravel and paved paths, grass lawns.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We'll take a field trip by motorcoach to Shakespeare’s hometown, Stratford-Upon-Avon. We'll immerse ourselves in the history of this ancient market town and the famous playwright’s life here on a fascinating educational walk led by our Study Leader. After the walk, we’ll have some time for independent exploration in the town.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
Our field trip continues to Hidcote Gardens, a garden created in the Arts and Crafts style by Major Lawrence Johnston. It is arranged as a series of outdoor rooms, each with a different character and separated by walls and hedges of many different species. We will then return to the hotel.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
Transfer to Chester, Ironbridge, Blists Hill
Location:
Chester
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hallmark Hotel The Queen, Chester
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 135 miles, approximately 3.5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 1.5 miles, periods of standing; paved streets with some steep areas sloping areas. Extent of walking and other activities during time for independent exploration according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We'll transfer by motorcoach to Chester, stopping on the way in the town of Ironbridge, one of the most important centers of the Industrial Revolution. Our Study Leader will lead us on an educational walk through Ironbridge, after which we’ll have some time there for independent exploration. We will also pay a visit to Blists Hill living museum, allowing us to travel back in time to the Victorian era.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like at Blists Hill.
Afternoon:
Our transfer to Chester continues. After checking in at the hotel, we will have a welcome to Chester and a lecture by our Study Leader introducing us to the county of Cheshire, Wales, and Snowdonia.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we'll have a 3-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
10
Snowdonia National Park, Conwy Castle
Location:
Chester
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hallmark Hotel The Queen, Chester
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 165 miles, approximately 4.5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 2.5 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, gravel, cobblestone and flagstone paths, steps without handrails to some areas at Conwy Castle.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We'll board the motorcoach for a full-day field trip through Snowdonia National Park. En route, our Study Leader will deliver a lecture describing the National Parks of Wales as we absorb the beautiful scenery. We'll continue on to the impressive medieval Conwy Castle. The castle’s royal apartments remain unchanged since medieval times, and its towers offer spectacular views across the mouth of the River Conwy.
Lunch:
At Anna’s Tea Room in Conwy, we'll have a 2-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We'll visit the Welsh Slate Museum in Llanberis to learn about one of the important industries in Welsh history. Those of us who are keen to stretch our legs may join our Study Leader on a short walk from the museum to the ruins of Dolbadarn Castle. We will then return to the hotel.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
11
Walking Field Trip of Chester, Free Time
Location:
Chester
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hallmark Hotel The Queen, Chester
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, some cobblestones. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We’ll set out from the hotel on a walking field trip through Chester led by a local expert. The remains of Roman and medieval buildings, including an amphitheatre and a castle, are visible throughout the historic walled city. We’ll finish our field trip with an exploration of Chester Cathedral, which was constructed between 1093 and the early 16th century, making it an excellent illustration of all major periods of medieval English church architecture.
Lunch:
At Chester Cathedral, we’ll have a 2-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Free time. This block of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
12
Transfer to York, Bronte’s Parsonage Museum
Location:
York
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
DoubleTree by Hilton York
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 150 miles, approximately 4 hours total driving throughout the day. Walking about 1.5 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, some cobblestones; upper floor of Parsonage accessible only by stairs.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will transfer by motorcoach to the delightful city of York. En route, we will pay a visit to the village of Haworth, home of the Brontë Sisters. We'll enjoy a lecture on the motorcoach about this famous literary family, preparing us for this afternoon’s field trip.
Lunch:
We will enjoy 2-course a plated meal at the Old White Lion in Haworth – a 300-year-old coaching inn, with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We’ll walk the short distance to The Parsonage, the Brontë Sisters’ lifelong home. After an introductory talk by a local expert, we’ll have some time to explore the historic house independently. We’ll then continue our transfer, with a lecture on York, Yorkshire, and the North by our Study Leader during the journey. We’ll check in to the hotel with some time to relax before dinner.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we'll have a 3-course plated and served meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
13
The Cathedral City of York, Free Time
Location:
York
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
DoubleTree by Hilton York
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, some cobblestones. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers a range of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes, cereals, cheese, cold cuts, yogurts, pastries, and toast, as well as milk, juices, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
We'll set out on an expert-led walk around the historic city of York, exploring the medieval city walls and atmospheric narrow streets including the Shambles.
Lunch:
We'll enjoy a traditional English lunch of fish and chips in York, with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Free time in York to explore this magnificent and ancient city, packed with history and culture. We may choose to visit York Minster Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
14
Castle Howard, Rievaulx Abbey
Location:
York
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
DoubleTree by Hilton York
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 60 miles, approximately 2 hours. Walking about 2.5 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, gravel paths, steps to some areas at Castle Howard and Rievaulx Abbey.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We will set out on a field trip by motorcoach to Castle Howard, built in 1699 and set on over 1,000 acres of parkland, lawns, woodland gardens, lakes, fountains, and magnificent rose gardens.
Lunch:
At Castle Howard, we will enjoy a 2-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We will travel onwards to the small village of Rievaulx, where we will enjoy a field trip to the ruins of the 13th-century Rievaulx Abbey. This Cistercian foundation was one of England’s grandest religious sites until its destruction in 1538, as part of King Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries. We will then return to the hotel.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
15
Transfer to Scotland, Scottish History, Hadrian’s Wall
Location:
Edinburgh
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Voco Edinburgh Haymarket
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 205 miles, approximately 5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 1.5 miles, periods of standing; gravel paths, grass lawns with some uneven areas, steps to some areas at Chesters fort.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We'll check out and board the motorcoach to begin our transfer to Edinburgh. We'll stop for a field trip to Chesters Roman Fort, considered the best preserved of the cavalry forts along Hadrian's Wall. The fort guarded a bridge across the River North Tyne, the remains of which can still be seen on the bank opposite the fort’s bathhouse. The museum at Chesters houses a great many stone altars from the Hadrian’s Wall area, providing a vivid insight into the complex religious lives of the soldiers from across the empire stationed on this frontier.
Lunch:
We will enjoy a 2-course plated meal at the George Hotel close to Chesters, with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Our transfer will continue, with a lecture on the motorcoach on the turbulent history of the Borders area. Fighting between Scotland and England was common throughout medieval times, and the settlements here often fell afoul of raids by "Border Reivers." On arrival in Edinburgh, we'll check in at the hotel and hear a second lecture from our Study Leader on other aspects of Scotland’s history.
Dinner:
At the hotel we'll have a three-course plated and served meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
16
New & Old Towns, Free Time
Location:
Edinburgh
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Voco Edinburgh Haymarket
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 5 miles, approximately 1 hour. Walking approximately 1.5 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, cobbled areas, hilly, steep terrain. Some steep cobbled areas at Edinburgh Castle; steps with handrails to vaults and One o’Clock Gun; Royal Apartments, David’s Tower, and prisons accessible only by steps. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers a range of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes, cereals, cheese, cold cuts, yogurts, pastries, and toast, as well as milk, juices, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
We'll enjoy a panoramic motorcoach exploration of Edinburgh's New Town, and a walking field trip through the medieval Old Town. Old Town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, narrow alleyways, and hidden courtyards, all amazingly well preserved and steeped in the city’s history. At its center is the Royal Mile, a remarkable street of Reformation-era tenement buildings, leading from the sea of Edinburgh Castle down to the grandiose Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
Free time. You may wish to visit Edinburgh Castle or Holyroodhouse. Entrance to the Castle and Holyroodhouse will be at your own expense.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
17
Perthshire, Scone Palace
Location:
Edinburgh
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Voco Edinburgh Haymarket
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 100 miles, approximately 3 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 2.5 miles, periods of standing; paved and gravel paths and courtyards, step-free access to public areas at Scone Palace available using alternative routes.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We'll depart by motorcoach for a full day field trip to Perthshire. We’ll begin at storied Huntingtower Castle, the seat of earls of the Ruthven and Murray families between the 15th and 18th centuries. In 1565, Mary Queen of Scots stayed in the castle during her honeymoon after marrying Lord Darnley, her second husband. As we explore the castle with our Study Leader, we’ll learn more of the plots and conspiracies that led to the castle’s seizure by the crown on two occasions. After visiting Huntingtower, we’ll continue by motorcoach to Scone Palace, where we’ll have lunch before the afternoon’s field trip.
Lunch:
At Scone Palace, we’ll have a light lunch of soup and sandwiches with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We’ll explore Scone Palace, the crowning place of Scottish kings, with our Study Leader. From Kenneth McAlpin, traditionally known as the first King of Scots, through Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Robert the Bruce, and Charles II – all were crowned here. We’ll return to the hotel by motorcoach after our field trips.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
18
The Trossachs, Loch Lomond
Location:
Edinburgh
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Voco Edinburgh Haymarket
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach and boat; driving about 150 miles, approximately 4 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 2 miles, periods of standing; varied terrain including woodland paths, paved streets, grassy areas.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
We'll set out early today by motorcoach for a full-day field trip to the Trossachs, some of the most beautiful scenery in Britain, and home to Highland hero Rob Roy and stunning Loch Lomond.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant - with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We'll continue our exploration of the Trossachs with a boat ride on serene Loch Lomond. We’ll then return to the hotel.
Dinner:
Hotel plated meal. Share favorite experiences with newfound friends during our farewell meal.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure tomorrow.
Day
19
Program Concludes
Location:
Edinburgh
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
45 Meals
17 Breakfasts
11 Lunches
17 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Oct 20, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025
- Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025 (London to Edinburgh)
- May 05, 2025 - May 23, 2025 (London to Edinburgh)
- Jun 16, 2025 - Jul 04, 2025 (London to Edinburgh)
- Jul 14, 2025 - Aug 01, 2025 (London to Edinburgh)
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- Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 19, 2025 (London to Edinburgh)
- Sep 15, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025 (London to Edinburgh)
- Oct 13, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025 (London to Edinburgh)
- Oct 20, 2025 - Nov 07, 2025 (London to Edinburgh)
- Apr 06, 2026 - Apr 24, 2026 (London to Edinburgh)
- May 04, 2026 - May 22, 2026 (London to Edinburgh)
- May 18, 2026 - Jun 05, 2026 (London to Edinburgh)
- Jun 15, 2026 - Jul 03, 2026 (London to Edinburgh)
- Jul 13, 2026 - Jul 31, 2026 (London to Edinburgh)
- Aug 10, 2026 - Aug 28, 2026 (London to Edinburgh)
- Sep 07, 2026 - Sep 25, 2026 (London to Edinburgh)
- Sep 14, 2026 - Oct 02, 2026 (London to Edinburgh)
- Sep 21, 2026 - Oct 09, 2026 (London to Edinburgh)
- Oct 12, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026 (London to Edinburgh)
- Oct 19, 2026 - Nov 06, 2026 (London to Edinburgh)
Participant Reviews
Based on 21 Reviews
Sort By:
This trip will open your eyes, all things U.K. R. Tawton. from Canada.
— Review left September 22, 2024
If you are interested in British history, this program is for you! Total immersion in lots of the highlights you've read about all your life.
— Review left September 4, 2024
A very informative and fun trip through Great Britain. We visited sites that showcased the history and culture of Great Britain. We also experienced quintessionally British food such as fish and chips, high tea, etc. It was lots of fun and I highly recommend this trip.
— Review left July 8, 2024
I loved this trip! For years I have read books that take place in England, and it was so fun to finally be in those places! The guides were interesting and helpful and the food was delicious. Britain is so beautiful. The roads do not have billboards and signs, so you have views of the lovely green landscape. The less well known towns, like Broadway and Chester, and York, have great history, great architecture, and beautiful green spaces. Just be ready to stand for long periods of time!
— Review left July 2, 2024
If you enjoy Springtime, going on the Quintessential Britain in April was fabulous. We drove through cities and countrysides where blossoms, blooms and cute baby lambs were abundant. Bring a rain coat and a desire to experience the refreshing views.
— Review left May 2, 2024
Quintessential Britain met and exceeded my expectations!!! It was tiring but you saw everything!!! I just wish we could have seen a William Shakespeare play. But there is just so much time.
— Review left April 27, 2024
Excellent program that combines in-depth education with a variety of on-site experiences; qualified, supportive leadership that makes participants comfortable. And no language barrier!
— Review left April 27, 2024
Knowledgeable Study Leaders, wonderful Group Leader, well-organized agenda/transportation/meals - we learned a great deal and were very well taken care of on the QB program.
— Review left November 9, 2023
The Quintessential Britain program gives a fantastic overview of Britain. If you have strong a interest in a particular area, you may wish to choose a program that focuses there. This program covers a lot, so it is more of an overview than an in-depth exploration. The trip was well-organized. The food and lodgings are first rate. It requires stamina, so if you are not able to do a lot of walking, you may prefer another program. Road Scholar is a great program and I recommend it to anyone who wants to learn as they travel.
— Review left September 7, 2023
What a fantastic trip!! Our study leader, Kevin Flude, was extremely knowledgeable about all things Britain. His talks and walks through villages, castles, etc were interesting and often humorous and it was obvious he had a real love of teaching and poured his heart into us. Our guide, Caroline Mossie was caring for the welfare of the group and did much behind the scenes work to make it go smoothly and to help us develop a good group spirit (which she achieved). We enjoyed our fellow travelers immensely. We appreciate the amount of time and effort that went into planning this terrific trip. The trip has been constantly improved over the years as new adventures have been added. Highlights included visit to a garden in the Cotswolds, hearing an evensong in a huge Chester Cathedral, a walk on the moors near Emily Bronte's house and visit to the Bronte parsonage, poetry reading by Kevin, a visit to the church where Shakespeare is buried, and playing a game of skittles at a local pub. This trip is 5 stars out of 5, and one of the best we have ever taken. It was our first Road Scholar trip, and we are looking forward to taking more. Richard and Barbara
— Review left June 3, 2023
I really feel that we saw a great deal of the UK and went to places I would not have thought to go on my own. This was an excellent educational experience, and humbling since, as Americans, we think we know and understand the culture of the British Isles. But I learned a great deal from our instructors who were both very knowledgable and professional. I look forward to returning soon.
— Review left October 31, 2022
Enjoyable trip. Variety of sites so everyone should find something to interest them.
— Review left October 17, 2022
The Quintessential Great Britain tour was a great educational experience. Pacing was good, made easier by staying more than one day in a location. The Group Leader cared about our experience throughout the trip. The instructors were knowledgeable and responsive to our questions. There is always more to see that we had time for, but we learned a lot and are motivated to return some time.
— Review left September 22, 2022
This is an outstanding program. It feels complete and truly "quintessential." I highly recommend it.
— Review left July 12, 2022
I just returned from Quinessential Britain after waiting an extra year due to Covid--and it was definitely worth the wait. We saw and learned about such a variety of places, and the staff was beyond measure.
— Review left July 9, 2022
Outstanding experience. Wonderful mix of activities that presented the diversity of Great Britain. Our group leader (Dave Praill), along with our two study leaders (Kevin and Chris) did an excellent job of providing an educational and enjoyable adventure. I particularly loved the time in York (the Wall, the Minster, and celebrating the Queen's Platinum Jubilee) and in Scotland (Loch Lomond, the Forth Bridge, the Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel). So many sights, so much history! This was a delightful introduction to this fascinating country. Highly recommend this trip as the best introduction to England, Scotland and Wales.
— Review left June 16, 2022
My wife and I truly enjoyed this program. We learned so much about the history of the United Kingdom and experienced many highlights. The small group (we only had 12 due to Covid concerns) allowed us to bond in a very good way. Out team leader and subject matter experts were all excellent. Of course there were a few bumps in the road, but overall a wonderful and memorable experience.
— Review left June 12, 2022
Overall an enjoyable and informative program. Kevin Flude, Carole Flynn and Chris Green were more than competent. Carole was in control of logistics with good humor, patience and exceptional competence. Kevin is exceptionally knowledgeable with a nice touch of self-deprecating humor and storytelling skill. Chris was very good in her mastery of London. On the negative side, there should NEVER be two consecutive days of 5+ hours on a bus, regardless of what you believe Covid testing mandates. The transfer to Edinburgh followed by a day trip to Loch Lomond were a disaster. Think about the health of travelers who are in their 70's & 80's with their feet down on a transport for c. 12-14 hours over a 30 hour period.
The first day following the transfer to Edinburgh should always be an orientation in that city, irrespective of the testing schedule. Plan a trip to the Castle or the National Museum on the morning of the testing day. The Loch Lomond day was probably a waste anyway. Consider a day trip to Glasgow, since it's only c. 45 miles away and more vital to the (industrial) economic life of the last 150 years in Scotland and it faces Ireland and the western hemisphere. A trip to a links course (St. Andrews perhaps) or a distillery or a wool mill? Any or all would have been preferable.
Bob Fottler
Sarasota, FL
— Review left June 5, 2022
The Quintessential Britain was an excellent tour. It was particularly outstanding due to the high quality group leader Roslyn Bradley and the scholarly study leaders Kevin Flude and Chris Green. Because the three of them enjoyed being with each other added to our fun.
Ros was gracious to all in the group with a light humor and a caring attitude for each person. She made sure we all got together in evenings which made it easy for us to get to know our fellow travelers. By the end of the tour we all felt we were friends with each other and with our tour leaders.
Kevin and Chris both have a remarkable amount of knowledge about each site we visited, the full history of England and and of each locale. During the bus rides lectures or talks they each were brilliant. It was similar to being in a graduate school course. They provided us pure intellectual enjoyment.
We have a few comments for what we believe would improve the tour. We would have liked to have another day in both London and Edinburgh. We do not know how to suggest an extra day in London, but we feel an additional day in Edinburgh is necessary in that we only had one day there. We would recommend eliminating the full day visit to Scone Palace.
Also, we were disappointed we had so little time in the Ashmolean Museum. It seemed we were rushed out of the museum only to stand around for a long time.
Once again, we have the highest praise for Ros, Kevin and Chris. Absolutely A+.
Jack Perry and Nancy Croce
— Review left October 14, 2019
If you want to see the high points of the geography of the United Kingdom and learn its history with humor and insight, I would recommend this tour for you. I am even more interested now than when I started this tour and I was already excited about it.
— Review left May 25, 2019
It's been 5 months since I returned from Quintessential Britain.
Even so, memories of wonderful experiences, amazing sites, informative lectures, and conversations with new friends continue to pop into my mind and leave me wanting more.
This trip is a wonderful opportunity to see and experience so many different parts of the UK - ancient places, modern cities and pastoral countrysides, breathtaking scenery, and on and on.
19 days is a long time, but worth the effort.
I'm ready to do it again - just have to pick one the 20 possibilities on my ever-growing Wish List.
I love Road Scholar trips and am becoming a more comfortable solo traveler each time.
— Review left March 15, 2019
