6-Nights England & Scotland: Lake District to Edinburgh
VBT Bicycling Vacations · 6 days
If you’re looking for a cycling trip to England and Scotland that takes you far from the madding crowd, this is the one! With VBT’s insider access to remote corners of the British Isles, we’ll lead you over hill and dale through some of the most coveted regions of England and Scotland—including rides through the rugged, scenic Lake District, the remote and pristine expanse of Kielder Forest, and the sweeping vistas of the Honister Pass. Discover the ancient history of the British Isles during a stop at Hadrian’s Wall and the ancient Roman settlement of Vindolanda, as well as a memorable ride to the ancient Neolithic monument at Castlerigg Stone Circle. Pedal the charming, verdant valleys of Scotland, and enjoy the epitome of Scottish opulence at the Peebles Hydro Hotel, a Tweed Valley jewel featuring a luxury spa, Victorian baths, sauna, steam room, and on-site distillery. Along the way, our local British trip leaders unlock the region’s best-kept secrets: hidden shops, delightful restaurants, and the best place to find an authentic pint of English lager.
Tour Highlights:
- View the Castlerigg Stones, a circle of neolithic standing stones with panoramic views
- Hear the history of the early 19th-century “Lake Poets” come alive with a local guide
- Stroll atop Hadrian’s Wall and see the excavations at Vindolanda Roman Fort & Museum
- Spin along a gently rolling route through Kielder Water and Forest Park
- Savor Scotland’s national dish, haggis—accompanied by a dram of Scottish whiskey, of course!
- Marvel at the trees in Dawyck Botanical Gardens as you cycle the Border Country
What's Included
- 6 nights in small country estates
- 12 meals: 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners
- Custom VBT Bike and Helmet
- Two Local, Bilingual Trip Leaders
- Support Vehicle
- Luggage Transportation
- Ride with GPS and Daily Route Notes
- Welcome Reception
- Facilitated Cultural Experiences
- Your Choice of VBT Branded Gear for Your Adventure
Air
Itinerary
Hexham
Grange in Borrowdale
Keswick
Edinburgh
Excursions
Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh - 8 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
You will first head up to Edinburgh Castle, where you will see the 'Honours of Scotland', or the Scottish Crown Jewels, and have the opportunity to admire striking views across the city. Drive along the Royal Mile to the imposing Holyrood Palace*, the Queen's Official Residence in Scotland.
Continue the Royal theme this afternoon, with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia. Built in Scotland, and now permanently moored here, this famous ship hosted many official voyages during her working life. Your guide will bring the Royal Yacht Britannia’s intriguing history to life prior to the short transfer back to your cruise ship.
*You will tour the staterooms of the palace if no member of the Royal Family is staying here at the time.
- Privately guided tour of Edinburgh Castle
- Visit Holyrood Palace (Subject to Royal Visit)
- Discover the history of the Royal Yacht Britannia
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
- Private transport by BMW 7 Series or similar for 1 or 2 passengers or Viano (6 passenger seats) or similar for 3, 4, or 5 passengers or Sprinter for 6 passengers.
- Expert local guide for stated sightseeing 8 hours in Edinburgh
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
- Supplement for public holidays
- Anything not specifically mentioned in the “Inclusions” list above.
Edinburgh: Introducing Edinburgh - 4 hours
— Optional Private Excursions
The capital city of Scotland is undoubtedly one of the most dramatically-situated cities in Europe; this setting has had a profound effect on its historical development and today your expert local guide unravels these themes on a half-day sightseeing tour. The focal point of the city is Edinburgh Castle, a royal fortress that symbolises the Scottish nation and is home to the 'Honours of Scotland', the oldest set of Crown Jewels in the British Isles. From the impressive military installations there are stunning views of the city. The Royal Mile stretches down on from castle through the 'Old Town' of Edinburgh, at the heart of which is St. Giles Cathedral. This fascinating Gothic church is topped by a fine medieval spire in the shape of a crown. At the foot of the Royal Mile is Holyrood Palace, the Queen's Official Residence in Scotland*. The palace's neighbour is the much more recent Scottish Parliament Building; its striking contemporary designs are in eye-catching contrast to the classical style of the palace.
*Tour of palace staterooms is included if no member of the Royal Family is present at time of visit
Highlights:
- Take in the stunning views of the city from Edinburgh Castle, a royal fortress home to the oldest set of Crown Jewels in the British Isles
- At the foot of the Royal Mile see Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament Building
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning / Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Penrith
Peebles
Terms & Additional Information
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.