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Best of England & Scotland plus the Chelsea Flower Show

21 day escorted tour departs 04 May 2026

From London to the Highlands – Experience Scenic Countryside, Royal Heritage, and Stunning Gardens.

Discover the beauty, history and horticultural heritage of England and Scotland on this unforgettable escorted tour. Begin in London with iconic sights and a visit to RHS Wisley, before heading into the countryside to explore charming villages, stately homes and grand castles. Highlights include Churchill’s Chartwell, Hever Castle, Blenheim Palace, Castle Howard, Warwick Castle, the Lake District, and the spectacular landscapes of the Isle of Skye. Wander through the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh, and immerse yourself in living history at Hadrian’s Wall and York Minster. Our tour culminates in London with a full day at the world-renowned Chelsea Flower Show – a dream for garden lovers.

This carefully curated fully escorted tour combines guided sightseeing with moments of free time at leisure, offering a seamless blend of discovery and downtime. Featuring well-located hotels and many meals included, this is the quintessential UK experience – crafted for travellers who love history, gardens, culture, and stunning scenery.

Your tour highlights

  • Churchill’s Chartwell
  • Hever Castle
  • Blenheim Palace
  • Castle Howard
  • Warwick Castle
  • the Lake District
  • Isle of Skye.  
  • Full day at the world-renowned Chelsea Flower Show – a dream for garden lovers. 

Tour itinerary

May
04
AUCKLAND – DUBAI

Depart Auckland this evening on an Emirates flight to Dubai. 

May
05
DUBAI – LONDON

After a short stop in Dubai, we fly to London Heathrow Airport arriving around midday. Upon arrival we are met and transferred to our hotel. The rest of the day is free to rest and explore London from our centrally located hotel. This evening we will meet with our local tour director for a welcome drink, then the remainder of the evening is at leisure.  

Accommodation:  The Tower Hotel or similar  – 2 nights

May
06
DISCOVER LONDON

Today we explore the iconic sights and streets of London. We’ll see the famous landmarks of Big Ben, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London and Trafalgar Square then admire the Royal residence of Buckingham Palace and savour a taste of British pageantry during the Changing of the Guard (if operating). Next, we visit RHS Garden Wisleygifted to the Royal Horticultural Society in 1903 and since evolved into a world class garden. Accompanied by a guide we will explore the beautiful Bowes-Lyon Rose Garden and delight the senses with roses of all shapes, sizes, colours, and fragrances. Stroll through the picturesque orchard, the huge cathedral like Glasshouse and the Exotic Garden before returning to our hotel where this evening is at leisure.  

May
07
LONDON – WINCHESTER

After breakfast, we make our way to the Kent countryside and travel to the pretty village of Westerham where Winston Churchill watches over the neat village green. Here we visit Churchill’s residence of Chartwell, before making our way through brilliant yellow and green pastures to Hever Castle, known for its tragic tale of Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII. We cross the moat to explore the fortified manor house and stroll through the pretty gardens. We overnight in Winchester tonight and enjoy dinner together.  

Accommodation:  Voco Hotel or similar – 2 nights 

May
08
NEW FOREST EXCURSION & SALISBURY

A scenic drive through the New Forest brings us to Beaulieu to visit the Palace House and Abbey ruins and the collection of cars in the National Motor Museum. Later we travel to Salisbury, to see the 13th century Salisbury Cathedral, whose spire is the tallest in the land. After some free time, we visit nearby Wilton House, one of the finest stately homes in Britain. An in-house guide will introduce us to this property which features state rooms by Inigo Jones containing a world-famous collection of paintings. We then head back to our hotel for an evening at leisure. 

May
09
SHAKESPEARE’S STRATFORD-UPON-AVON

Today we journey north through the heart of England to the charming market town of Stratford-upon-Avon, forever linked with the life and legacy of William Shakespeare. On arrival, we step inside the birthplace of the Bard himself—a beautifully preserved timber-framed house where his story began. As we explore the rooms filled with Elizabethan character, we gain a deeper appreciation for the man who shaped the English language. Later, we settle into our welcoming hotel and enjoy dinner together. 

Accommodation:  Sunday Retreat Walton Hall or similar – 2 nights 

May
10
THE ENCHANTING COTSWOLDS

This enchanting day takes us across the beautiful Cotswold hills, a chocolate-box scene of golden stone villages with roses round the door! UNESCO World Heritage site Blenheim Palace, considered one of the greatest buildings of the English Baroque period, has been the residence of the Dukes of Marlborough, and birthplace of Winston Churchill. Here an in-house guide introduces us to the splendid Baroque architecture of the palace and the gardens designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. After our time at Blenheim Palace, we visit the gardens of Sudeley Castle, former home to another of King Henry VIII’s wives, Katherine Parr. This evening we dine together. 

May
11
STRATFORD – THE LAKE DISTRICT

Travelling through the orchards of Worcestershire, we head for the border town of Ludlow with its impressive castle ruins. On through the remote Shropshire hills, we pass Wenlock Edge, celebrated in the poetry of A. E. Housman. Soon we reach historic Ironbridge Gorge, birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Take time to marvel at the 200-year-old Iron Bridge, before the smooth motorway carries us north to the stunning English Lake District. We gather together this evening for dinner. 

Accommodation:  North Lakes Hotel & Spa, Penrith or similar – 2 nights

May
12
WONDERS OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

A scenic wonderland of rugged mountains and tranquil waters, and an inspiration to a host of English poets awaits us today. We visit Wordsworth’s grave in the small churchyard at Grasmere, then admire the vast expanse of Windermere, largest of the lakes. Here we take a Windermere Cruise & Steam Train Ride , before we return to our hotel for an evening at leisure. The Cruise & Steam Train experience offers a delightful journey through the scenic Lake District, combining a tranquil boat cruise on Lake Windermere with a nostalgic ride on a historic steam train. 

May
13
THE LAKE DISTRICT, SOUTHERN LOWLANDS & EDINBURGH

We cross the Cumbrian Mountains and the Scottish border at Gretna – for years the destination of eloping English lovers. We have some free time for shopping before enjoying the contrasting beauty of the Southern Lowlands en route to Edinburgh. Here we discover the wonders of the plant kingdom in  The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh which form a remarkable haven of tranquillity within the city, as well as being a world- renowned centre for botanical science. 

Accommodation:  Apex City Hotel or similar  – 2 nights 

May
14
EDINBURGH, THE CAPITAL OF CULTURE

Today we join a local expert to explore the enchanting city of Edinburgh, where history and heritage meet vibrant culture. In the Old Town, pass the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the King. Drive along Princes Street to the ornate Scott Memorial, then see the 18th century New Town with its neoclassical Georgian facades. Venture up the Royal Mile to visit Edinburgh Castle , home of Mons Meg, the Stone of Destiny and Scotland’s Crown Jewels.  

The rest of the day is at leisure to soak up the atmosphere of one of the UK’s most iconic destinations – why not visit the art treasures in the National Gallery?

May
15
EDINBURGH – GLENCOE

Enjoy spectacular scenery en route to the Valley of Glencoe. With its striking peaks, wild landscapes, and sweeping glens, Glencoe offers a haven for native wildlife. Ongoing conservation efforts aim to preserve this remarkable natural environment for generations to come. We join a local ranger to learn about the protection of this rare ecosystem and the important work of reintroducing lost indigenous species to its flora and fauna.  

Accommodation: Skye accommodation – 2 nights 

May
16
ISLE OF SKYE

It’s ‘Over the Sea to Skye,’ the largest and most beautiful island of the Inner Hebrides. On the way to Broadford, hear romantic tales of how young Flora MacDonald helped rescue Bonnie Prince Charlie and see the dramatic Cuillin Hills. Enjoy the day taking in this charming island on the Misty Isle Boat Trip– a truly unique experience that explores this spectacular wild location in the company of local experts. Be entertained with fascinating tales and legends of the area as you cruise through outstandingly beautiful Highland scenery, with the chance to spot a variety of wildlife along the way. 

May
17
ALONG THE BONNIE BANKS OF LOCH LOMOND – GLASGOW

Today we make our way to Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city. On arrival an orientation drive through the city will introduce us to the city’s grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo’s Cathedral. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure to experience this vibrant city with its striking architecture, lively music venues and welcoming spirit.  

Accommodation:  Maldron Hotel or similar – 1 night 

May
18
GLASGOW – BORDER REGION & HARROGATE

Our journeys today travel through the Borders region to visit Abbotsford House, the 19th-century estate of Sir Walter Scott. This large turreted mansion now serves as a museum for the Scottish memorabilia and artifacts collected throughout his lifetime. We then head south, past Jedburgh Abbey, and over the border to visit Hadrian’s Wall. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, this remarkable structure stretches 73 miles across northern England and stands as the most iconic and best-preserved frontier of the Roman Empire – an enduring testament to Roman engineering and ambition. Our destination today is the town of Harrogate, a well-known spa since the 16th century and famous for its gardens. Tonight we enjoy a highlight dinner in a typical local inn. 

Accommodation:  Crowne Plaza Harrogate or similar – 2 nights 

May
19
FORTIFIED YORK & CASTLE HOWARD

After breakfast, we make the short journey to the walled city of York with its ancient walls, winding medieval lanes, majestic Minster and fascinating Viking history. Here we see the huge Minster, Britain’s largest medieval cathedral, and explore the maze of narrow streets including the ShamblesThis afternoon we visit the fabulous 18th century Castle Howard, with its tapestries and costume museum, before returning to our hotel in Harrogate. Dinner is included this evening.

May
20
WARWICK CASTLE – LONDON

Today we travel south to visit Warwick Castle, with its magnificent medieval towers and ramparts. Our local guide will show us the chilling dungeon which contrasts with the splendour of the State Rooms and baronial Great Hall. From here we continue to London and check in for our two-night stay. This evening is at leisure however you may wish to take the opportunity to see a West End theatre show, a must do while in London!  (extra cost – not included).   

Accommodation:  Hilton London Kensington – 2 nights 

May
21
THE WORLD-FAMOUS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

This morning we enjoy a true highlight of the tour – a full-day visit to the world-famous Chelsea Flower Show. Held in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, this iconic event is the pinnacle of the horticultural calendar. Our general admission ticket allows plenty of time to wander through spectacular show gardens, admire imaginative floral displays, and explore the latest trends in garden design and planting. Garden lovers from around the world come to be inspired by cutting-edge concepts and timeless beauty. After a memorable day, we return to our hotel in London. We dine together for our final night in the United Kingdom.   

May
22
LONDON – DUBAI

We have a leisurely breakfast, then our hotel will store our luggage once we check out. We have a day at leisure in London before our early evening transfer to Heathrow Airport to check in for our onward flight home. We fly with Emirates to Dubai Airport arriving early morning on 23 May 2026.

May
23
DUBAI – AUCKLAND

Our Emirates flight to Auckland departs Dubai Airport mid-morning. 

May
24
ARRIVE AUCKLAND

We arrive Auckland International Airport mid-morning. After completing entry formalities, we will transfer to our home ports. 

Curated escorted journeys across the globe.

Experience the trip of a lifetime with like-minded travellers.
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Tour pricing:

from $21,950

per person twin/double share*

Single Supplement: $3,850.00
Total for Single $25,800

PLUS Airline taxes & surcharges (approximate): $650.00

*Images courtesy of Leisure Time Travel

To secure your place now:

Contact Us for details

Tour Inclusions:

  • Fully escorted from New Zealand by Leisure Time Travel
  • Door to door home collection & drop off service available from select areas.
  • Strata Lounge access at Auckland International Airport  
  • Return international economy flights:  Auckland – Dubai – London  
  • 17 nights quality hotel accommodation.  All rooms based on twin/double rooms, all with private facilities (single rooms available with surcharge) 
  • Tour admissions as per itinerary  
  • Meals where indicated on your daily itinerary  
    • 17 Breakfasts (B) 
    • 8 Dinners (D)  
    • In-Flight Meals (FM) on international sectors 
  • Welcome drink with tour director on arrival  
  • London sightseeing tour  
  • Guided tour of Bowes-Lyon Rose Garden at RHS Wisley 
  • Visit Hever Castle  
  • Explore the Palace House and Abbey ruins at Beaulieu  
  • National Motor Museum visit  
  • Guided tour of Wilton House 
  • Visit William Shakespeare’s birthplace  
  • Guided tour of Blenheim Palace  
  • Visit the gardens of Sudeley Castle  
  • Windermere Cruise & Steam Train Ride  
  • Edinburgh sightseeing tour  
  • Visit Edinburgh Castle  
  • Misty Isle Boat Trip at Skye  
  • Orientation tour of Glasgow  
  • Visit Abbotsford House 
  • See Hadrian’s Wall 
  • Castle Howard visit  
  • Tour of Warwick Castle with guide 
  • Full day general admission ticket to Chelsea Flower Show

Not included:

Airline taxes and surcharges – allow approx. $650 per person Meals and morning or afternoon teas which are not specified within the daily itinerary Drinks, telephone calls, and items of a personal nature Travel insurance Luggage handling at airports Gratuities to travel director, coach driver and local guides

Conditions:

Non-refundable deposit due at time of booking: $1,500.00 50% progress payment due Thursday 13 November 2025 Balance of tour payment due Tuesday 03 February 2026 *This tour must reach a minimum number of 15 passengers to proceed. The maximum size for the group is 20 passengers.
We loved our R&R in Ischia - hosts were fantastic as were the breakfasts and dinners we had there! Our favourite place on Ischia island was the very quaint village of Saint Angelo, another absolute must is dinner at Trattoria Il Focolare - amazing dining experience. We also absolutely loved our stay at Palazzo Del Duca in Matera so beautiful and OMG the breakfast!! Outstanding. So thank you Juliet all was fabulous, travel seamless as well - next adventure I will definitely be in touch.  
Italy June 2025, Jane & Stephen
We want to thank you most sincerely for organizing our epic trip to Europe, it went off without the slightest hassle or hitch. Your pick of hotel in the cities were spot on, nice and central, close to the metro. Many thanks for this trip of a lifetime.  
Europe, May & June 2025, John & Mary
We had a fabulous trip away. Insight and Avalon were just wonderful, couldn’t fault them at all. Thank you so much for all your input and help.
Europe in Winter, Nikki & Steve
Everything you organised worked really well. The timings and explanations on arrival at places was brilliant. The hotels were all handily located to centre of old towns. The 2 Intrepid Trips provided extra understanding of the areas as did the 3 day Hurtigruten cruise.
Scandinavia, Bronwyn & Gordon
The "Sea Cloud" experience was above expectation and more! All your plans worked perfectly and we enjoyed the Somewhere Boutique Hotel at Voulagemeni. Absolutely no problem with the flights. Our accommodation was more than adequate, food excellent and the service 5+ star. We would strongly recommend this 'once in a lifetime' experience.
Adriatic, Paul & Ann
Overall its was an absolutely amazing experience, thank you for all clear information you had given us, really helpful to figure out where is our hotel and how to move from one place to another. Thank you so much for organizing this trip and doing such a good job.
Europe, Ai Ngo and Adrian
We really enjoyed the cruise and this was certainly one of the highlights of the trip. The Azamara cruise was ideal being a smaller boat (and numbers of people) but still provided great service and entertainment. The cruise we did from Athens to Venice was perfect with a destination each day to visit and a great variety of places. I would certainly recommend this cruise company and this particular voyage option.
Europe, Rob & Nikki
We’ve had a fabulous time in Portugal, outstanding guide, great food and wine and the National Geographic tour was superb. What a wonderful country, lovely people and great sights.
Portugal, David & Jill
We had a fantastic day at Plitvice today - very wet and overcast but absolutely stunning and loved every minute of our 12kms walking and photographing!! Loving our hotel here too ... another perfect one thank you!
Croatia, David & Joss
Sandra and I are back at home now after a couple of great months away.  The whole trip was great, so thanks for your help with the bookings etc. No issues at all. We very much enjoyed the Rhine cruise with Viking. We couldn’t fault their service and effort, and are happy to recommend them to others.  
Europe, Murray & Sandra
The trip was fantastic thanks very much for all your input.  Everything worked seamlessly with the flights, accommodation, and car rentals that you booked for us.  The places you booked for us were all in a good location.   The cycle trip through Burgundy was also definitely a highlight. It was truly a trip of a lifetime with everything that we managed to squeeze in, and having a lot of it organised for us was a real treat.
Europe, Mike & Nicky
Our trip went very well. We loved Ireland with Back Roads, excellent guide and good group. We think of three things, its green, narrow roads and old stone fences! Very interesting history. Hurtigruten had ungraded us to Cabin 601, right at the front with three windows, nice and spacious so very enjoyable. We had rougher seas around the Hebredies and Orkneys but all good.
UK & Ireland, Barbara
Back safe and sound after a wonderful cruise and Greek Island stay. Barcelona amazing and our little hotel was perfect. So handy to everything. The Viking cruise was pure luxury . Food, cabin décor entertainment , just perfect. My favourite places visited were Sicily, all the Croatian coast, towns and villages. Our Greek island stay very good with nice family hotel. Not so keen on the ferry. Like being in a plane. Very quick! Business was great and it would be hard to fly any other way now. Anyway Ian thank you so much for organising a great holiday for us. Very much appreciated. I haven’t completely ruled out travelling again!!
Mediterranean, Lois
Thank you Peter for once again, your meticulous planning for us. The trains worked admirably and we had plenty of time for connections. It is sometime since we have travelled in Europe but we have had a fabulous time despite only three sunny days in UK and Europe. Free use of public transport in Basel and Geneva great. Oyster card worked well in London. Lauterbrunnen was Swiss fairytale. A three day pass meant we did heaps and the weather cleared on our last day so we enjoyed Jungfrau plus views of The Eiger. Lots of Indian tourists/ has featured in a Bollywood movie. Weather didn’t clear in Zermatt/ so didn’t see Matterhorn. Left 42 degrees in Dubai. Sunday breakfast up the Burj. Thanks Peter you are an excellent travel agent.
Holland & Switzerland, Alison
A big thank you for organising bookings for us. Everything went according to plan. Managed to catch everything, nothing delayed , except Easyjet which you kind of expect.
Europe, Lesley
We had an absolutely fabulous holiday.  I adored Switzerland, the people, the scenery, just everything.  Every day was better than the day before, couldn't fault anything. The hotels and transport were spot on.  Simon skied 5 days and I found plenty to do.  It was easy meeting people and exploring by myself. Thank you so much for all your organising.  This trip has given me so much confidence to explore other European countries and winter climates.
Switzerland, Lynne