Marvel at the prehistoric circle of vast monoliths of Stonehenge and learn about the primitive builders who created these enduring monuments. Stop in Salisbury, a charming old city where the cathedral boasts the tallest spire in England. Arrive in Tavistock, a market town on the edge of Dartmoor National Park in Devon. (B, D)

Travel to scenic Cornwall through the unspoiled beauty of Bodmin Moor; stop for photos at Jamaica Inn, built in 1750 and immortalized in Daphne du Maurier’s tale of daring smugglers. Visit the coastal village of Marazion to see the romantic outline of St Michael’s Mount, an island topped by a spectacular castle. In the old fishing town of St Ives, take a walking tour to see its cobbled streets, quaint cottages, art galleries, and surrounding sandy beaches. Enjoy time to explore before returning to a free evening in Tavistock. (B)

Explore Bath, a city of elegant Georgian buildings in a distinctive golden stone, beloved by visitors for centuries. Tour the wonderfully preserved Roman Baths, and then spend some time exploring this quintessentially English city. Cross the Severn Bridge into Wales, then on to your manor house hotel where you’ll dine this evening. (B, D)

Travel through the Brecon Beacons National Park to Hay-on-Wye, a town famous for its bookshops. Continue to Shrewsbury, a picturesque town near the English/Welsh border. Take a walking tour with the town crier to see black-and-white buildings that line the narrow streets. Travel through Cheshire to your hotel in Chester. (B, D)

Drive through the countryside of north Wales as you journey to Conwy, a medieval town dominated by a stunning medieval fortress, Conwy Castle. Tour this UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by Edward I in the 13th century, viewing its well-preserved walls, towers, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. In the ancient city of Chester, explore the Roman and medieval heritage on a walking tour. Your evening is free to explore this fascinating place as you wish. (B)

Travel through the glorious Lake District, which inspired Beatrix Potter’s children’s books. Visit the village of Grasmere, where Wordsworth lived and is buried. Pass through the village of Gretna Green as you cross the border into Scotland. Arrive at your hotel near Edinburgh, for dinner with your group. (B, D)

Explore central Edinburgh starting in the 200-year-old “New Town” with planned streets and elegant Georgian houses where many famous writers and inventors lived. See the Royal Mile with its narrow medieval houses, then tour Edinburgh Castle to see the Crown Jewels of Scotland. The rest of the day is free to explore the city as you wish. Departures from August 3 – 17 will attend the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo with reserved seats on the castle esplanade. (B)

Your tour ends after breakfast. (B) B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner>