UNITED KINGDOM (England, Scotland & Wales)

ENGLAND

WITHIN THIS SECTION I AM GOING TO INTRODUCE SEVERAL TRIPS TO THE UNITED KINGDOM:

 

1. NARROWBOATS in BRITAIN

NARROWBOAT

A narrowboat or narrow boat is a boat of a distinctive design, made to fit the narrow canals of Great Britain. 

No "driver's licence" is required to control a narrowboat in Britain. However, most people find it difficult without some training - narrowboats are heavy and slow to turn and they steer rather like a car in reverse.

Boat hire companies will take a novice through the basics. However, pre-reading will help to avoid the "helpless and stressed" feeling that unprepared hirers often report for the first few hours.   

We chose the "Kennet and Avon Canal" which runs 86.5 miles from High Bridge Reading, where it joins the River Thames, to Hanham Lock, where it joins the Bristol Avon. We just went to Bath, spent a  couple of days there and back.

The K&A Guide provides maps and an overview of the places you can visit along the Kennet and Avon Canal.

 

Whether you’re the adventurous type and hanker towards more energetic past times or you’re more at home in the pub with your favorite pint, the canals and rivers have something to offer. You simply moor up and take time making the most of activities such as walking, cycling, canoeing, fishing, eating and drinking in beautiful "PUBS" along the canals, etc.  

 

Canals and rivers offer accessible walking routes at all times of year. Aside from lock flights, your path is level and there’s little chance of getting lost! The unfolding scenery of a canal-side stroll also takes some beating. Where else could you find such a mix of wildlife, architecture, countryside and of course, the thing that brings it all to life, narrowboats.

Eating & drinking

What could be more relaxing than enjoying a drink by the canal and watching the towpath life saunter past? Canals and rivers are home to a wide range of pubs, restaurants and cafes. Whether you’re after tea and crumpets or something a little stronger, you'll be well catered for by the canal.  

Walking

Walking is one of the nicest ways to explore beautiful canals and rivers. Whether you fancy a 10 minute stroll or a vigorous all-day hike, by walking along the towpaths you’re guaranteed a traffic-free route and relaxing views of the water.  

Cycling

Cycling is a great way of seeing the network of canals and rivers and getting some exercise at the same time. If you’re planning a day out on your bike why not incorporate the canals into it? The towpaths offer traffic free routes next to some of the country’s most stunning waterside scenery.  

Canoeing

Exploring the canals and rivers by canoe can help you get fit, closer to nature and allows you to experience the waterways from a totally new angle.  

Fishing

Discover the tranquil pleasures of fishing Britain's canal and rivers, find fisheries near you and read the fishing guidelines.   

Attractions

If you're planning a day out and are looking for some inspiration then the Canal & River Trust’s waterways are a great place to start. With fascinating museums, unique heritage structures and family-friendly visitor attractions the canals and rivers are packed with places to explore.

LOCKS

A lock is a fascinating piece of engineering that allows boats to travel either uphill or downhill. Many rivers posed navigation problems for early river travelers. Locks were the solution that made these waters navigable.

Taking a canal or river boat is a unique experience not to be forgotten!!!

2. LAKE DISTRICT NATIONAL PARK

Historical places to visit: 

There are plenty of sites that you can visit! We’ve grouped them by area:

• Northern Lake District - including Keswick area
• Eastern Lake District - including Pooley Bridge and Ullswater areas
• Central Lake District - including Eskdale and Langdale
• South-eastern Lake District - including Windermere, Ambleside and Grasmere and Coniston areas
• Western Lake District - including Ravenglass, Gosforth and Broughton in Furness areas 

We chose the South-eastern Lake District 

Accommodation: a fantastic choice of Bed and Breakfast and guest houses.
 http://www.golakes.co.uk/accommodation/lake-district-bed-and-breakfast.aspx

Transport:

• A flight to Manchester or Liverpool with Ryanair or EasyJet.
• A rented car to go around the area. 

LAKE DISTRICT NATIONAL PARK 

Painters, writers and poets started exploring the Lake District in the mid-18th century in search of the picturesque and romantic notions of beauty. William Wordsworth (1770-1850) described the vale as ‘the loveliest spot that man hath ever found' and came to live here in 1799. He spent much time walking in the area, composing lines of poetry based on what he experienced.

His most inspirational years were spent at Dove Cottage (1799-1808). He and his family then moved to the more spacious Allan Bank (1808-1811), followed by a short stint at the Rectory (1811-1814) and lastly to Rydal Mount (1814-1850). Fellow poets and writers, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Robert Southey and Sir Walter Scott, were frequent guests of the Wordsworths.

Once the new turnpike roads were completed in the late 18th century and the railway had arrived in Windermere in 1847, Victorian tourists came in their droves to experience the landscapes that had inspired the Lake Poets. Gradually Grasmere, Rydal and Ambleside acquired large new hotels to accommodate the new tourists, many dating from the late 19th century. The area was also sought out by wealthy businessmen seeking holiday homes amidst scenic splendour ,many of these fine houses have since been converted into hotels or guest houses.

WINDERMERE AND BOWNESS  

The linked towns of Windermere and Bowness at the heart of the Lake District have been an attraction for visitors since Victorian times. With the lake shore of Windermere so close, there is always something to do whatever the season - walking along the lakeside, enjoying panoramic views of the lake and mountains from several viewpoints, experiencing a whole host of water-based activities, luxuriating in the pleasures of travelling around the area by steamer, open-top bus or steam locomotive or discovering the lake for yourself by hiring a rowing boat, dinghy or cruiser. Away from the lake shore is a varied choice of heritage sites, historic houses, colorful gardens and other visitor attractions. 

Lake Windermere

This 17km-long lake is fed by the rivers Brathay and Rothay at its northern end and outflows into the River Leven at its southern end. The lake holds the largest population of goldeneye ducks in the Lake District and is also noted for a species of fish called Windermere Char - a ‘relic' fish from the last Ice Age, traditionally ‘potted' into dishes and eaten as a local delicacy.

Viewpoints

The short walk to Orrest Head is well worth the uphill effort, for at the top is an outstanding panoramic view of the lake and surrounding mountains. There are a number of ways of getting to the top all passing through Elleray Woods, noted for its varied bird and insect life.

Other nearby viewpoints can be found at Biskey Howe, Post Knott, Hammar Bank and Queen Adelaide's Hill. The latter was named after Queen Adelaide, consort of William IV, who disembarked from her boat at Millerground to walk up the hill in 1840. Cockshott Point, a rocky promontory jutting into Windermere, provides magnificent views over the lake.

The Cross Lakes Experience allows exploration without a car. Combining travel by lake steamers and launches, Mountain Goat and Stagecoach buses it allows travel between Windermere, Bowness, Hawkshead, Grizedale and Coniston. Seasonal service. For timetable information, telephone 015394 45161.

 

AMBLESIDE

Ambleside is in the very heart of the Lake District, at the head of Windermere and the foot of Kirkstone Pass. It is an ideal base to explore the lakes.

The tourist information Centre is in the heart of the town, and there is a regular bus service. Ambleside has great walks on the doorstep including Wansfell and the Langdales, you can also explore Windermere lake from Waterhead on a cruise. 

The variety of accommodation from lakeside hotels to small family run B&Bs, campsites overlooking the lake and self- catering cottages is excellent. There is also plenty to see and do and lots of great places to eat.

GRASMERE 

Grasmere, cradled in a vale in the heart of the Lake District, is crowned with magnificent fells and mountains all around.

It is sheltered by Helm Crag, otherwise known as ‘the Lion and the Lamb' one of Wainwright's favorite hills. The picturesque village has a lovely choice of accommodation and restaurants.  It is also home to Dove Cottage and the Wordsworth Museum. 

William Wordsworth's Gravestone

Just along the valley is the Vale of Rydal.  You can take a walk along Loughrigg Terrace or the Coffin Trail, overlooking Rydal Water.  Visit Rydal Mount and Hall, or learn English at the language school, Nab Cottage. 

Grasmere has long been associated with a spicy gingerbread, first made by Sarah Nelson using a secret recipe. Its reputation as a sweet delicacy was well known and became an attraction for Victorian travelers coming to see Wordsworth's grave. The old Gingerbread Shop next to the church still makes gingerbread to the traditional recipe, and now sells the famous confectionery all over the world.

CONISTON AREA

The area between lakes Windermere and Coniston is filled with a series of low, smooth sloped hills dominated by a large area of woodland, known slightly confusingly as Grizedale Forest. In reality the area is mainly set aside as an adventure playground by the Forestry Commission with many walks and cycle routes, a Go Ape tarzan style outdoor experience and a large Forestry Centre full of information. For those after walks on the open fells clearly it is not ideal but actually it is full of interest and offers an alternative for those not actually fixated by the fells. The west side of Lake Windermere is very quiet as is the east side of Coniston Water and there are some lovely areas of beach to wile away a summer’s afternoon. Tarn Hows is a famous landmark north of Grizedale, an artificial tarn created over a century ago by merging 3 smaller areas of water – now it is a beautiful spot, peaceful and well managed by the National Trust.

Coniston itself is one of my favorite villages in the Lake District. Somehow it has avoided the commercialism and traffic congestion of some of its larger neighbors and the pretty white washed cottages that make up the village add a peaceful air to it. Set between the higher fells of Coniston Old Man and the lake clearly helps by avoiding the sprawl of other villages as well as offering contrasting walking opportunities from the doorstep. The now disused Copper mines of the Old Man may also have helped create a community in the village and have added quite a scar to the fell but regardless worth a route around. I did in the middle of a November night of quite dreadful weather whilst being assessed on my Mountain Leader course so have never really looked on them with the affection others may have! Oddly the lake front is not one of the most attractive but non-motorized boats can be hired and a steamer runs the length of the lake in the summer months.

3. LONDON

London is definitely a must-see city. Depending on what you are used to, prices can be exceedingly high, and this can make the visit much less enjoyable. Since accommodation costs can make up a big fraction of the traveler's budget, the aim here is to get a feel of London, in as short a period as practical.

 

 
3 Days in London:

Day one

Get an Oyster card from the vending machines or from a newsstand. This will save you about half the cost of a one-way ticket on the tube and buses.

Bus tours are always a good way to get a feel of the city. The Original Tour ticket costs £23 for adults; it is a hop-on/off system, good for forty-eight hours. Three walking tours and a river cruise are thrown in.

Explore Trafalgar Square, taking the obligatory photographs. When ready, you can start the bus tour. While the bus tour allows for you to alight at any stop, I find it preferable to get an overview of the city first. The tour is short, lasting only 90 minutes. You can come back to any stop of interest either by another similar bus, or by public transportation. Try to arrive at the Tower of London at about 2-3 pm. Wait for one of the walking tours conducted by the Yeoman Warders, and follow the crowd as you get yelled at by a former British Army sergeant-major. After the end of his commentary at the chapel, you can explore the rest of the grounds. 

A quick bite at the restaurants near the Tower of London, and at about 7 pm, the Jack the Ripper walking tour begins at Tower Hill underground station, ending at about 9.30 pm.

Day two

The Change of Guard at Buckingham Palace is every other day. If you can, go and take a look at 11 am. The entire ceremony lasts about three hours, much of it behind the fence. A quick look of the guards marching in and out, followed by the horse guards is sufficient. 

After this, take a stroll down the park toward Westminster. Food can be purchased from a supermarket near the pier. Once done, get to the pier and on a riverboat cruise, seeing the sights of the Thames River. Get off at Greenwich (1 hour). Greenwich is a quiet small town, and the pace of life is noticeably slower. The Royal Observatory is a bit of a walk (30 min each way), but when you get there, you can see the Greenwich Meridian, and set your wristwatch by the displayed clocks. The museum is worth a visit as well. Don't bother taking the cruise back; you can use the Docklands Light Rail to get back to Tower Hill.

Greenwich

If you are inclined, you can have a comparatively cheap dinner at Chinatown (Leicester Square underground), followed by a show at the West End theaters. Be sure to purchase your ticket either online, or from the numerous half-price ticket booths around Leicester and Trafalgar squares earlier in the day. Make sure you receive your actual admission ticket.

Day three

Depending on your interests, you can go shopping on Oxford Street, or you can visit the many museums and galleries. Get to the airport/railway station early, and wave goodbye to expensive London. 

4. HISTORICAL CITIES

Thousands of years of history await in England’s oldest cities. Perfect for a short break or weekend away; step back in time to discover the country’s illustrious past.

WINDSOR CASTLE

Windsor Castle is an official residence of the Queen and the largest occupied castle in the world. A Royal home and fortress for over 900 years, the Castle remains a working palace today.

You can get there by train from London Waterloo or London Paddington to Windsor, by car or coach "Green Line" operates daily services from Victoria Coach Station, London.

 

BATH

Bath is the perfect stopover for those with an interest in history and a cultural bent. The UNESCO World Heritage City has the Royal Crescent and Circus and stunning Georgian architecture wherever you look. Then there are world-class theatre shows, and the fabulous and newly-refurbished Roman Baths, the only hot springs in Britain.

 History and Heritage

The fact that the entire city has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status gives you some idea of Bath’s pedigree. The Romans were the first locals, and bequeathed those Baths to the city, while the eighteenth century Royal Crescent is still one of England’s most prestigious addresses. Throw in the Circus and Pulteney Bridge and you have enough to keep even the most backward-looking history buff in clover.

Royal Crescent

 Must See Attractions

For the best bath of your life be sure to indulge yourself at the Thermae Spa where you can reap the benefits of the mineral-rich waters like the Celts and Romans did over 2000 years ago. The open-air rooftop pool has incredible views across Bath as well.

STRATFORD-UPON-AVON

Let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: any visit to Stratford will inevitably be about celebrating the life and work of everyone’s favourite bard, William Shakespeare. You can retrace the playwright’s life from cradle to grave, visiting the historic buildings that the young playwriting tyro also frequented. Unsurprisingly, Stratford also has excellent theatres, making it an ideal place to witness those famous words being bought to life.

 

History and Heritage

Having such a famous son has meant that Stratford’s historic buildings have survived better than most. Just walking around this place is like taking a Tardis back through time. Enter the places associated with Shakespeare, and you’ll instantly feel the past come to life. Beyond Stratford you’ll find the farm where Mary Arden, Shakespeare’s mum, grew up and where these days you can experience what life was like on a 16th century farm.

William Shakespeare's Birthplace

 

Must See Attractions

You should plan your Shakespeare pilgrimage as carefully as a one of those sonnets he specialised in – there’s his birthplace, Mary Arden's farm, Anne Hathaway's Cottage, New Place and that’s just for starters. When you’ve taken in all those significant sites, head to the Holy Trinity Church and the bard’s final resting place for some quiet reflection.

Anne Hathaway's Cottage

 

CAMBRIDGE

Cambridge may be a small city but it still packs a punch. As well as that famous University, there are medieval streets and a thriving nightlife to explore, and the city’s compactness means you can easily explore its historic churches, bridges and museums on foot. And if you feel like that floating feeling, make sure you take a leisurely punt along the River Cam.

History and Heritage

As a Roman river crossing and a thriving Saxon market centre, Cambridge’s history encompasses more than the University. But the 31 historic colleges that make up this venerable institution, the first of which was established in 1284, dominate the town, and it would be madness not to spend some serious quality time checking out one of Europe’s finest collections of buildings.

Must See Attractions

Those with green fingers should head to the Botanic Garden to experience the impressive variety of plant species in display, while wing-nuts should head to the Imperial War Museum Duxford , which really brings history to life. The fan-vaulted ceiling of the iconic King's College Chapel is also well worth the admission price and the resulting neck strain.

OXFORD

Oxford is dominated by its world-famous university, with elegant spires pricking the skyline and impressive colleges at every turn. Having nurtured hundreds of great minds, England’s oldest University  and its museums are inspirational. But there’s more to the city than intellectual pursuits: with a lively music scene and raucous nightlife, there’s plenty of opportunities to let your hair down as well as massage those grey cells.

History and Heritage

With teaching starting in Oxford as far back as the 11th century, it’s no wonder that England’s oldest university has such a rarefied atmosphere and more than its fair share of history – soak it all up in any of the 38 colleges. If you’re feeling particularly brave descend into the 900 year old underground crypt at Oxford Castle  which has been detaining criminals since 1071.

Must See Attractions

Look out for Tolkien’s favorite tree at Oxford Botanic Gardens  or visit the Bodleian Library  for even more bibliophilic bliss. Spend the day at Winston Churchill’s birthplace, Blenheim Palace, and imagine yourself among the landed nobility of Queen Anne. Or retrace the footsteps of a Victorian prisoner and squeeze into a strait jacket at Oxford Castle Unlocked.

YORK

York: so good they named it once. And like its American counterpart, York is a city crammed with impressive architecture, where Georgian mansions, Viking settlements, Gothic masterpieces, and Victorian, cobbled streets find themselves squeezed within the Roman walls. No wonder then that fans of Google’s street map voted York’s higgledy-piggledy Street The Shambles as Britain’s prettiest thoroughfare.

The Shambles

History and Heritage

2,000 years is a long time granted, but in those two millennia, York has been through a tumultuous time. Established by the Romans, it was ransacked by the Vikings, invaded by Saxons, attacked countless times by the Scots, and yet still had time to become a powerhouse of middle age Christianity (whose love of dungeons seems a little worrisome).

Must See Attractions

Stomp your best walking shoes to the Yorkshire Museum, home to an eclectic mix of artefacts ranging from Viking swords to a meteorite that nearly hit the city in 1881. Then learn about the harsh, gory world of yore at the York Dungeon, the JORVIK Viking Centre, or take a walk on the wild side with the Original Ghost Walk of York. Lastly, a visit to York is not complete without checking out the mesmeric York Minster, the biggest Gothic cathedral outside of Rome.

LINCOLN

Humble-but-happening Lincoln is home to one of England’s most unique historic quarters. The Romans knew it as Lindum Colonia. In their time, the city was one of four regional capitals in Britain. Drive to the city today and you could find yourself driving under what is reputedly the UK’s oldest Roman arch still open to traffic. You’ll also find a thriving university town with a sense of history that radiates from the very pavement beneath your feet.

Must See & Do

Quite rightly, Lincoln’s historic architecture seems like the mandatory first port of call of any trip to the city. To reach them, take a not-so-light stroll up aptly-named Steep Hill. Bear with it! The 15-minute walk is a chance to absorb the true age of the ancient city, and will take you to the Cathedral Quarter, a passage flanked by Lincoln’s famous castle and cathedral. 

For those tempted by more leisurely sightseeing, take in the city highlights with Tour Lincoln's open-top bus tours, you can board as many times as you like from the tour’s 12 different stops.

CANTERBURY

Canterbury is definitely worth a pilgrimage, whether to meet Chaucer’s colorful characters, explore fascinating history, visit the shrine of Thomas Becket, or just to eat, drink and merrily shop till you drop. Beyond the charms of the heritage city, you’ll find rugged coastline, the traditional seaside resort of Herne Bay and yet more fascinating history so come on, pilgrim, get travelling.

History and Heritage

The centre of English Christianity since 597 AD when Pope St Augustine did some serious reconverting, Canterbury is full of fascinating history. Between St Martin's Church, St Agustine's Abby and the Cathedral where Thomas Becket was gruesomely murdered back in 1170, there’s plenty of past to delve into. If you want to go even further back in time then head to the Roman Museum.

Must See Attractions

Complete your own pilgrimage to the shrine of St. Thomas Becket and admire the Cathedral’s gothic splendor before completing the World Heritage experience with a look around St Martin's and St Augustine's Abbey. Or take in the historic sites in style with a river tour along the Stour before heading to Herne Bay for sand beaches and seaside fun.

 

5. THE ISLE OF WIGHT

Cross the half a mile of water that separates the Isle of Wight from the mainland and you’ll discover dinosaur footprints, traditional seaside resorts, world-renowned sailing villages, idyllic countryside and miles of stunning coastline. And it couldn’t be easier to explore the island with over 500 miles of footpaths and plenty of award-winning beaches perfect for a cooling dip when the sun gets too hot.

History and Heritage

What do you get if you cross a dinosaur, a Roman villa and a monarch? Fascinating history, that’s what. As you wander the island’s coastline, you’ll come across the footprints and fossilised remains of dinosaurs that roamed the island over 120 million years ago. See where Charles I was imprisoned at Carisbrooke Castle, soak up maritime heritage at Cowes and explore the Roman Villa at Brading.

Must See Attractions

Take the spectacular Needles Park chairlift down past the coloured-cliffs to the attractions before joining a boat trip around the island's most famous landmark. Making the most of Undercliff’s microclimate, the Ventnor Botanic Garden is a horticultural haven for those passionate about plants.To experience the joy of steam head to Havenstreet and the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.

6. CORNWALL

 

Discover the special places Cornwall is famous for; spectacular beaches; surf spots and surf schools; gorgeous gardens; cliff top walks; boat trips; and of course iconic attractions such as St Michael's Mount, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Minack Theatre, Land's End, King Arthur's castle and the Eden Project. But Cornwall will keep surprising you with the vast offer of new, different and fun things to do, even if you're a regular visitor, or a local. The National Trust in Cornwall has more than 25 historic places and gardens.

Tintagel Castle

For a magical day out in Cornwall, visit Tintagel Castle. The wonderful location, set high on the rugged North Cornwall coast, offers dramatic views out to sea, and its fascinating ruins and stunning beach cafe make it a perfect day trip.

Tintagel Castle is steeped in legend and mystery; it is reputed to be the birthplace of King Arthur, a legend which has endured through the years.

7. SCOTLAND

‘The tartan, haggis and shortbread image is out of date, especially with younger travelers,’ said Tom Hall, editor of Lonely Planet. He added that adventurous travelers were always looking for the next ‘big’ thing, for the ‘wow’ factor and that they were ‘very struck that Scotland appears in so many of the lists ranging from wild swimming to treks, ice climbing to island flights (…)’.

Explore Scotland, famous for its historic castles, traditional Highland games and beautiful lochs, and discover the setting of world-famous movies, the place for stylish shopping and the perfect stage for new and exciting events.

EDINBURGH

Visitors travel from all over the globe to see Edinburgh's Old and New Towns, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Edinburgh is packed full of fantastic attractions, culture hotspots and great shopping opportunities. The city’s compact nature makes it easy to fit a range of wonderful activities into one brilliant day out in Scotland’s capital. 

Edinburgh Castle, home to the iconic Stone of Destiny is a must see and is best toured first thing in the morning to beat the crowds who flock to this world famous attraction every day. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city from the castle’s position atop the volcanic Castle Rock, conveniently located near many open top tour bus routes. Why not spend the afternoon hopping on and off these tour buses whilst exploring the city’s other top attractions such as the iconic Scottish Parliament, the refurbished National Museum of Scotland, the royal Yacht Britannia and Edinburgh Zoo, home to the unmissable giant pandas? You can view a 360 degree panorama of the city projected via a giant periscope at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, a 150-year-old observatory on the Royal Mile. 

If you’re looking for an afternoon of retail therapy, Edinburgh provides a variety of shopping experiences to suit any taste, from the high-end fashion retailers on George Street to the weekly stalls of the award-winning Edinburgh Farmers' Market, the largest of its kind in Scotland. Princes Street Gardens sit below the magnificent castle and provide the perfect location for taking a well-earned break from your shopping and sightseeing.   

 After a busy day exploring Edinburgh, you can enjoy a dram of specially blended Scottish whisky and cuisine on a relaxing evening tour of the Scotch Whisky Experience. Here, you’ll learn all about the fascinating whisky making process before tucking into a delicious three course meal. A great way to walk off your meal is by taking a gentle stroll down the atmospheric Royal Mile or Grassmarket whilst exploring Edinburgh’s legendary nightlife, which is full of busy bars, pubs and restaurants. 

LOCH NESS, GLENCOE & THE HIGHLANDS TOUR

A fantastic tour to Loch Ness visiting a diverse range of classic Highland scenery including many 'must see' sights and the chance to go monster hunting on Loch Ness! Other highlights include dramatic Glencoe, mighty Ben Nevis, the Great Glen and Highland Perthshire

Highlights

• Loch Ness boat cruise
• Fort Augustus
• Caledonian Canal and the Great Glen
• Glencoe

Heading north from Edinburgh we pass the imposing ramparts of Stirling Castle and drive through the Trossachs, Rob Roy country. We cross the wilds of Rannoch Moor before stopping at dramatic Glencoe, scene of the infamous massacre in 1692. Our journey takes us through Fort William passing Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, before entering the Great Glen.

Arriving at Fort Augustus on the banks of Loch Ness, you can take a boat cruise on the loch, go for a walk or just relax by the Caledonian Canal in this charming Highland village.

Our return journey takes us past shimmering Loch Laggan before climbing over the wild and lonely Drumochter Pass. Heading south, we enter Perthshire, a land of forests, rivers and mountains. We view the spectacular Forth Bridges before arriving back in Edinburgh around 8pm.

A cruise on the mysterious and beautiful Loch Ness is an unforgettable experience, offering you the chance to catch a glimpse of Nessie. The boat uses the very latest hi-tech colour sonar and underwater imaging systems to enhance the hunt. Cruise duration is approximately 1 hour.

WALES

Perched on the rocky fringe of western Europe, Wales packs a lot of physical beauty into its small mass of land: its mountain ranges, lush valleys, ragged coastline, old-fashioned market towns and ancient castles all invite long and repeated visits. The culture, too, is compelling, whether in its Welsh- or English-language manifestations, its Celtic or its industrial traditions, its ancient cornerstones of belief or its contemporary chutzpah. Wales is the most beguiling part of the British Isles. Wales remains brittle and brutal enough to be real, and diverse enough to remain endlessly fascinating.

THINGS NOT TO MISS:

1. Conwy: One of north Wales’ finest walled medieval towns, Conwy contains over two hundred listed buildings within its tight grid.

2. Cadair Idris: The dominant mountain of southern Snowdonia, Cadair Idris is a magnificent beast chock-full of classic glacial features.

3. Aberystwyth: The capital of sparsely populated mid-Wales, Aberystwyth is a breezy and bright university and seaside town surrounded by luscious countryside.

4. St Davids Cathedral: The heart of Welsh spirituality, St Davids Cathedral is at Wales’ westerly extremity and has drawn pilgrims for a millennium and a half.

5. Mawddach Trail: Ride or walk this easy trail beside Wales’ finest estuary, the Mawddach, crossed by the 2253ft rail and foot bridge into Barmouth.

6. Carreg Cennen Castle: The most romantic ruin in Wales, Carreg Cennen Castle sits in glorious isolation amid pastures grazed by Welsh longhorns.

7. Pembrokeshire Coast Path: Break up this path around some of Wales’ wildest coastal scenery into a series of day walks, or tackle the full 187 miles in one big push.

8. St Fagans National History Museum: An unmissable chronicle of Welsh life, featuring period buildings from all over the country.

9. Snowdon: Hike one of half a dozen demanding tracks to the top of Wales’ highest mountain – or take the train and sup a beer at the summit café.

10. Cardiff Bay architecture: The wonderful Wales Millennium Centre and National Assembly Building are just two of many striking modern structures around the rejuvenated Cardiff Bay. Cardiff, Wales’ Capital city. Easy to explore on foot you can visit the free National Museum Cardiff, spectacular Cardiff Castle and see the impressive Millennium Stadium all within the city centre.

Wales Millennium Centre

11. Portmeirion: The grandest folly of them all, Portmeirion is a gorgeous visual poem that will melt the hardest heart.

12. The Wye Valley: Soak up the pastoral beauty of this wonderful valley and sense why Wordsworth was so moved as you wander past Tintern Abbey.

13. The Valleys: Colourful terraces of housing, hunkered down under the hills, are the hallmark of Wales’ world-famous Valleys, the old mining area in the south.

14. Abergavenny’s food: Sample some of the best morsels Wales has to offer in this gastronomic hotspot or, better still, time your visit to coincide with September’s food festival, among the best in Britain.

15. Aberglasney: Rescued from near-terminal decay, these formal gardens in the Tywi Valley are a perfect counterpoint to the nearby National Botanic Garden of Wales.

16. Llandudno: North Wales’ most genteel seaside resort, Llandudno spreads languidly around the bay beneath the ancient rock plug of the Great Orme.

17. Brecon Beacons: The rambling moors of the Brecon Beacons are perfect for wild, lonely walks with thundering waterfalls and limestone caverns as destinations.

18. Caernarfon Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in the whole of Wales  and one of the most impressive castles in the whole of the UK.

The ceremony of 'investiture' (effectively a 'crowning', or giving the Prince his formal title) takes place in Caernarfon Castle. Charles, Prince of Wales, received his title here in 1969.

From Wales you can take a ferry to Ireland. There are several routes from http://www.aferry.com/ferries-to-ireland.htm  Being Holyhead to Dublín the shortest 1,50h.