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Essential Britain (GC2026)

Code: GC-2026

A 12-Day Globus Tours tour starting from $3,499.00

Dates & Prices

Start Date End Date Brochure Price Action
2025-09-13 2025-09-24 3,899.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2025-09-20 2025-10-01 3,899.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2025-09-27 2025-10-08 4,219.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2025-10-04 2025-10-15 3,599.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2025-10-11 2025-10-22 3,799.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-04-04 2026-04-15 3,849.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-04-11 2026-04-22 4,429.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-04-18 2026-04-29 3,999.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-04-25 2026-05-06 3,999.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-05-02 2026-05-13 3,999.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-05-09 2026-05-20 4,599.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-05-16 2026-05-27 3,999.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-05-23 2026-06-03 3,999.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-05-30 2026-06-10 4,099.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-06-06 2026-06-17 4,099.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-06-13 2026-06-24 4,099.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-06-20 2026-07-01 4,099.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-06-27 2026-07-08 4,669.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-07-04 2026-07-15 4,099.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-07-11 2026-07-22 3,499.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-07-18 2026-07-29 4,049.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-07-25 2026-08-05 4,599.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-08-01 2026-08-12 4,299.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-08-08 2026-08-19 4,299.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-08-15 2026-08-26 4,299.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-08-22 2026-09-02 4,299.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-08-29 2026-09-09 4,599.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-09-05 2026-09-16 4,049.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-09-12 2026-09-23 4,099.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-09-19 2026-09-30 4,099.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-09-26 2026-10-07 4,429.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-10-03 2026-10-14 3,799.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
2026-10-10 2026-10-21 3,999.00 Get A Quote Best Value  
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Note: Departures appearing above in green are guaranteed to operate by the tour operator.

Airfare Disclaimer
A NOTE ABOUT AIRFARE: We encourage you to buy your airfare from the tour operator, because if your tour cancels then your airlines tickets will be covered. Purchasing flights separately at a lesser rate and incorporating it with a Non-Guaranteed Departure Date can result in loss of total cost of your flight investment. Depending on the fare rules, flights may be Non-Refundable and/or Non-Transferable. Neither the tour operator and/or Atlas Cruises & Tours will be held responsible for loss if a tour is cancelled for Lack of Participation.

Documents
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Necessary Travel Documents such as Passports and Visas is the responsibility of the traveler. Passports must be valid six months from your return travel date.

Globus Disclaimer - Indicates that this departure and vacation is available for early booking. Vacation upgrades and/or additions will not be available for early booking, as well as, any extra pre- or post-night pricing. With the exception of Journeys Club discounts, future travel promotions are not applicable and are not retroactive on early bookings. Offer reliant on space availability. Applies to new bookings only. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply. Please talk to a travel consultant for more details.

All prices are per person, double occupancy, subject to availability and are quoted in U.S. Dollars. These pages are not endorsed or supported by the tour operator in any way. All information presented is based on promotional material provided by the tour operator. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time by the tour operators. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. The prices on this website are not guaranteed. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in pricing. Please call us toll free at 1-800-942-3301 to confirm availability and pricing.

Escorted Tour Highlights

Countries Visited:

Canada, England, Europe, Ireland, Scotland, United States, Wales

Cities Visited:

See Description


Sightseeing Highlights

City Highlights

Overview

Title
Essential Britain

Vacation Overview
Thrones and scones. Hops and scotch. Rock stars and famous rocks. They 're all included on this enthralling and encompassing tour of Britain. Pack your tweed and tartans for the best of London and country, the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands, and the enchanting villages and valleys of Wales, and prepare to be swept away like a runaway bride at the elopement capital of Gretna Green. The castles and cathedrals of London, Edinburgh, and Cardiff, as well as the charming pubs on every corner, will steal your heart away. With visits to the baffling boulders of Stonehenge, the battlefield of Culloden Moor, Shakespeare 's birthplace of Stratford-upon-Avon, and The Beatles ' home city of Liverpool, this tour of Britain promises rocking discovery and enlightenment, not to mention honorary degrees in ancient history, English literature, and music appreciation.
PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Alnwick so you can plan your day your way.


Year Round Offers

  • Save by forming your own group of 5 or more
  • Triple Room Reduction Available for most tours
  • 10% Discount for Young Travelers 8-17 yrs old
  • Pay less for your second vacation in the same year

Essential Britain (GC2026) Day 1:
ARRIVE IN LONDON, ENGLAND Welcome to London! Uniformed Globus Hosts will be waiting to welcome you. Free time this afternoon.



Day 2:
LONDON-STONEHENGE-ILMINSTER-PLYMOUTH Secrets of the Stones LONDON Meet your Tour Director and travel companions at 8 am before departing for Stonehenge.
STONEHENGE Visit the prehistoric monument.
ILMINSTER [LF] Lunch at a local pub.
219 mi / 352 km (B,L)

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Quench your thirst with local ales and ciders while tasting traditional pub fayre prepared following century old recipes. Nothing eases homesickness like hearty cooked food concocted with care and love like grandma used to make. Just like home away from home!



Day 3:
PLYMOUTH. EXCURSION TO CORNWALL Legends of Land & Sea PLYMOUTH [LF] All aboard for a scenic cruise on Plymouth Sound. Enjoy a scenic drive through the West Country to Poldark 's Cornwall.
LOOE Visit the thriving fishing village and former smugglers ' port.
PLYMOUTH Free time this evening. (B)
42 mi / 70 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
EPIC RIDE Stunning views of Cornwall, the setting of Winston Graham's 'Poldark ' saga of Cornish life in the 18th century, will leave you breathless on a scenic drive through the West Country. Get carried away with a spectacular scenic cruise on Plymouth Sound, a magnificent inlet on the English Channel.



Day 4:
PLYMOUTH-GLASTONBURY-BATH-CARDIFF, WALES Timeless Kings & Thermal Springs GLASTONBURY Visit the town of the legend of King Arthur and the Holy Grail.
BATH Visit the excavations of the Roman Baths. (B)
184 mi / 295 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDS & LORE The Somerset town of Glastonbury is the site of King Arthur 's legendary quest for the mythical Holy Grail, the cup from which Jesus drank at the Last Supper. Hear how, while Arthur failed in his search, a noble knight named Galahad found the Holy Grail because of his pure heart.



Day 5:
CARDIFF-BUILTH WELLS-LLANGOLLEN-LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND Moor than Meets the Eye Take a scenic drive along the Taff Valley and through the Brecon Beacons National Park.
BUILTH WELLS Stop at the ancient market town.
LLANGOLLEN Visit the picturesque town.
LIVERPOOL Free time the remainder of the day. (B)
190 mi / 306 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Discover the extraordinary natural beauty of Brecon Beacons National Park while driving through its mountains, moors, and magnificent views. Look out for Welsh mountain ponies and sheep grazing in the wild and red kites gliding gracefully in the sky.



Day 6:
LIVERPOOL-GRASMERE-GRETNA GREEN, SCOTLAND-GLASGOW Songs, Sonnets & Secret Vows LIVERPOOL Visit The Beatles Story for a fascinating journey into the life and music of the Fab Four.
LAKE DISTRICT Take a scenic drive.
GRASMERE Visit Wordsworth 's beloved village, and sample [LF] the original Grasmere gingerbread.
GRETNA GREEN See where a Scottish blacksmith performed weddings for eloping young couples and [LF] join in a fun wedding re-enactment. (B,D)
236 mi / 380 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
TIMELESS TRADITIONS Love will find a way to sweeten the day with classic gingerbread in Grasmere, or by parents hot on the trail of runaway brides and grooms who crossed them (and the Scottish border) to get hitched in 18th-century Gretna Green. Hear how romance was forged by a blacksmith who helped eloping couples hammer out the vows.



Day 7:
GLASGOW-FORT WILLIAM-INVERNESS Landmarks, Lochs & Legends GLASGOW Orientation drive to see Glasgow 's landmarks, including the 12th-century cathedral, university buildings, and Georgian squares. Take a scenic drive past Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor, and Glen Coe.
FORT WILLIAM See the gateway to Ben Nevis, UK 's highest peak.
LOCH NESS Drive the length of the legendary lake en route to Inverness. (B,D)
178 mi / 286 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDS & LORE Survey the shores of famed Loch Ness for the chance to catch a glimpse of its mysterious Nessie. Hear of the folklore and firm believers in the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, which is said to swim in the shimmering waters.



Day 8:
INVERNESS-CULLODEN—PITLOCHRY-ST. ANDREWS-EDINBURGH Bravery, Birdies & Bagpipes CULLODEN MOOR See the battlefield.
PITLOCHRY Walk through the Victorian mountain resort.
ST. ANDREWS Visit the home of golf and the famous university town. (B)
202 mi / 326 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ICONIC FOOTSTEPS See the fairways and greens at the birthplace of golf, where legendary players of the Scottish game made history in the university town of St. Andrews.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
THE ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO Unpack your plaid! Edinburgh Military Tattoo performances included on departures August 1, 8, 15 and 22.



Day 9:
EDINBURGH Crown Jewels & Castle Views EDINBURGH Morning city sightseeing with a Local Guide includes the New Town, the Old Town, and a visit to Edinburgh Castle to see Scotland 's Crown Jewels. Free time. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT Ascend to Castle Rock to explore Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important historical strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, with a 1,100-year history as "the most besieged place in Great Britain.” Here, see the royal regalia and Scotland 's Crown Jewels.



Day 10:
EDINBURGH-ALNWICK, ENGLAND-YORK Lights, Camera, Alnwick! ALNWICK Visit Alnwick Castle, setting for many film productions. Choose between touring the castle or taking a stroll through the magnificent gardens.
YORK See York Minster and browse the shops of The Shambles. (B,D)
214 mi / 344 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOTS Visit Alnwick Castle to discover 700 years of English and family history of its owners, the Percy Family. Continuing the lineage of centuries of Dukes, Duchesses, and Earls whom have called the impressive castle home. The castle is a haven for movie and TV buffs as the filming location for many productions, including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. If nature is more to your liking, consider a visit to the splendid 12-acre Alnwick Gardens.



Day 11:
YORK-STRATFORD-UPON-AVON-LONDON Mr. & Mrs. Shakespeare STRATFORD-UPON-AVON See Anne Hathaway 's Cottage and visit Shakespeare 's Birthplace. (B)
255 mi / 410 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
A LEGEND SLEPT HERE Ah, young love! Even more true, as young Shakespeare 's fiancée was eight years his senior. See Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the family home where the bard 's wife-to-be was born and courted by young Will. Built more than 500 years ago, much of the original structure remains. Visit Shakespeare 's Birthplace and family home in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. Hear tales of Shakespeare 's family life, marriage, and children with a close look at fascinating artifacts in a world-class collection assembled by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.



Day 12:
LONDON Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)





All prices are per person, double occupancy, subject to availability and are quoted in U.S. Dollars. These pages are not endorsed or supported by the tour operator in any way. All information presented is based on promotional material provided by the tour operator. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time by the tour operators. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. The prices on this website are not guaranteed. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in pricing. Please call us toll free at 1-800-942-3301 to confirm availability and pricing.

Globus Tours

Globus Tours

Meals
10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinner

Hotels:

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge
London, United Kingdom
Situated opposite Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge places guests at the heart of central London. Dining option include Brasserie Joël, Ichi Sushi & Sashimi, 1WB Lounge & Patisserie, and Primo Bar. The hotel also boasts a fitness center with a 15-meter pool and Mandara Spa. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel.
Rating: Superior First-Class

Park Plaza Waterloo
London, United Kingdom
The 494-room property is situated within walking distance of top London attractions, including the London Eye, the London Dungeons and the Imperial War Museum. The Florentine Restaurant serves a Brasserie-style menu; the bar features the best of British bubbles and craft beers as well as a range of signature cocktails; and for a relaxing cup of coffee, head to the illy Caffè bar. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre and a heated swimming pool. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel.
Rating: Superior First-Class

Crowne Plaza Plymouth
Plymouth, United Kingdom
A modern hotel with sea views overlooking Plymouth Hoe. Thanks to Sleep Advantage® programme, guests enjoy a good night's rest, with premium bedding, quiet zones and a guaranteed wake up call. There is Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill with sea views and Drakes Bar and Lounge. Guests can workout in the gym or wind down in the heated pool. There's also an outdoor garden for those who prefer to enjoy the fresh air.
Rating: Superior First-Class

Holland House hotel Cardiff by Sunday
Cardiff, United Kingdom
Holland House Hotel Cardiff by Sunday is a modern hotel situated in the vibrant capital city of Wales, Cardiff, with 165 bedrooms. All of the sights and attractions of Cardiff are within walking distance such as the iconic Millennium Stadium and Cardiff Castle.
Rating: Superior First-Class

Pullman Liverpool
Liverpool, United Kingdom
Guests will enjoy the conveniences of this central hotel and its bar, lounge, and Marco Pierre White Wheelers of St. James Oyster Bar & Grill Room. All guestrooms are bright, modern, and luxurious, and come with blackout curtains, minibar with complimentary mineral water, 55" TV with SKY TV channels, tea and coffee making facilities, iron and ironing board, robe and slippers, waterfall shower, and luxury toiletries. There is free 5G Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
Rating: Superior First-Class

Clayton Hotel Glasgow
Glasgow, United Kingdom
The hotel is situated on Clyde Street overlooking the beautiful River Clyde and just a 10 minutes' walk from George Square, and Glasgow's main shopping streets, art galleries, bars and restaurants. All rooms are air-conditioned and include King Koil mattresses for an enhanced sleep experience, HD TVs with Chromecast, WIFI and complimentary use of fitness suite.
Rating: Superior First-Class

AC Hotel by Marriott Inverness
Inverness, United Kingdom
Where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth, AC Hotel Inverness, the largest hotel in the city, offers modern accommodation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. This perfectly positioned hotel is only a short walk from Inverness Railway Station and the finest shopping and sightseeing spots. Our thoughtfully designed guest rooms offer modern decor, flexible workspace, free Wi-Fi, a smart TV and plenty of space to unwind or focus before your meeting in a calm environment. The perfect blend of form and functions for a stay in Inverness. Start the day with a European-style breakfast and end it with hand crafted cocktails at the AC Lounge. The restaurant completes the offer with tapas-style bites and local flavors, perfectly paired with iconic views across the river. After a long day of exploring the legend of Loch Ness, let us pour you a glass of our signature gin tonic whilst you welcome a moment of tranquility on our riverside terrace. Unfold an enriching stay in one of Scotland¿s most picturesque cities.
Rating: Superior First-Class

Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
A fine 3 star Edinburgh hotel, ideally located in the city center's popular Princes Street. Mercure Edinburgh City Princes Street Hotel has great views of Edinburgh Castle. The 158 stylish rooms all have internet access and satellite TV. Princes Dining Room and Bar are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as for light snacks and drinks.
Rating: First-Class

Mercure York Fairfield Manor
Skelton-York, United Kingdom
One of the most tranquil hotels in York, set in 6 acres of private grounds on the outskirts of the historic walled cathedral city and the banks of the River Ouse. All 89 comfortable bedrooms have HD TV, tea and coffee making facilities and complimentary WIFI.
Rating: First-Class


All prices are per person, double occupancy, subject to availability and are quoted in U.S. Dollars. These pages are not endorsed or supported by the tour operator in any way. All information presented is based on promotional material provided by the tour operator. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time by the tour operators. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. The prices on this website are not guaranteed. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in pricing. Please call us toll free at 1-800-942-3301 to confirm availability and pricing.

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