Gems of Britain

Day 1: London - Cambridge - York - Darlington
We meet our Tour manager then drive to Cambridge, described as the "loveliest city in England" and home of one of England's finest universities. We walk among the colleges, including magnificent King's College, then on to York. Exploring inside the ancient city walls, we see the maze of narrow medieval streets (including the quaintly-named "Shambles") and the 13th century Minster, England's largest Cathedral. There's also time to browse in York's tempting shops before we continue to our hotel for dinner.

Day 2: Darlington - Jedburgh - Edinburgh
Scotland today, across the wild Northumberland moors. Our route leads us past the romantic ruins of Jedburgh Abbey and across the River Tweed, to reach Edinburgh, the historical capital of Scotland.

Day 3: Edinburgh - Gretna - Lake District - Chester
Our first stop is at a Scottish woolen mill, before continuing to Gretna Green, for centuries the destination of eloping English lovers. We witness the traditional 'anvil ceremony" in the blacksmith's shop, then cross the border into England. A scenic wonderland awaits us - the rugged mountains and tranquil dales of the Lake District, inspiration to a host of English poet, before arriving in Chester for our overnight stay.

Day 4: Chester - Stratford - London
First, the ancient Roman city of Chester, with its quaint "black and white: shopping arcades and enclosing walls. Next, a stop at the world famous Wedgwood China Factory, then on to picturesque Stratford upon Avon, home of William Shakespeare. We walk in the footsteps of the bard to visit his birthplace. Another scenic drive this afternoon takes us through the villages of the Cotswolds, with their thatched cottages, the prettiest part of the English countryside. Return to London at around 6:00 p.m. depending on traffic.