The aristocratic pedigree of the 'Grand Tour' was established in 1933 with the celebrated Northern Belle 'land cruise'. Seventy years on there is no finer reminder of this elegant era, or more luxurious way to rediscover the glorious diversity that Britain has to offer, than from the comfort of the Orient-Express Northern Belle carriages.
Marvel at the beauty of the patchwork green fields of England, the heather-clad hills and crystal clear lochs of Scotland and the spectacular scenery of Wales. With a cultural itinerary that offers a thrilling insight into Britain's unique history, countryside and people, this epic seven-day tour will encompass grand cities, dramatic castles and breathtakingly remote regions.
Day 1 : (Friday) - London / York / Edinburgh
A traditional Scottish piper escorts you to the gleaming carriages of the Northern Belle at London's Victoria Station. A champagne brunch is served as you journey north.
On arrival at York you visit the superb stately home of Castle Howard, home for 300 years to the Howard family. Afternoon tea in the Grecian Halls is followed by a private visit to the house, which includes artworks by Van Dyck and Gainsborough. Alternatively, you may take a guided tour of the historical city of York including the magnificent York Minster and the Medieval Shambles with afternoon tea served at Betty’s Tea Rooms.
Re-board the train for dinner, served amid fine views of the historic cities of Durham and Newcastle. Upon arriving in Edinburgh transfer to your hotel for three nights.
Hotel:
The Caledonian , Edinburgh
Located in the heart of Edinburgh this 251 room, 5 star elegant hotel will cater for all your leisure needs.
Day 2 : (Saturday) - Edinburgh
After breakfast at the hotel a guided tour explores Scotland’s capital, a city of striking contrasts from the tall, dark buildings in medieval Old Town to classical architecture in Georgian New Town.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to take in such sights as Edinburgh Castle, the National Gallery and the Palace of Holyroodhouse or enjoy Edinburgh’s variety of shops and boutiques.
The evening is spent aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, once the floating home to Her Majesty The Queen and The Royal Family and host to many prestigious State and official occasions. You are invited to dine in style in the State Apartments.
Day 3 : (Sunday) - Oban & Isle of Mull
Your Scottish adventure continues as the Northern Belle journeys through the Scottish Highlands to Oban while brunch is served en-route. Sail across to the Isle of Mull where you’ll be welcomed at Duart Castle, ancestral home of the Laird of Lachalan, head of the McLean clan. This 13th century castle, set high atop a cliff, offers remarkable views of three intersecting sea lochs and serves as the ideal backdrop for a display of falconry.
A visit to a local distillery allows you to experience the age-old craft of whisky making first hand. Partake in a gourmet Scottish dinner aboard the Northern Belle as you travel back to Edinburgh.
Alternatively, you may prefer to sample one of the many golf courses for which Scotland is renowned. A private car takes you to a course close to Edinburgh and returns you later the same day. Dinner is provided at your hotel. (Pre-booking essential.)
Day 4 : (Monday) - Edinburgh / Chester
Departing Edinburgh after breakfast at the hotel, the train returns to England via the spectacular Scottish Borders. Lunch is served on board as you travel along the edge of the Cumbrian Fells, through the county of Lancashire and finally into Cheshire arriving at the walled city of Chester in the afternoon.
Chester is the historic gem of North West England and is the most complete walled city in Britain. There is plenty of time for a guided tour and to soak up the atmosphere. Dinner is served at your hotel where you will stay for three nights.
Hotel:
Chester Grosvenor, Chester
This 85 roomed hotel is set beside Chester's Roman walls. On its doorstep are the city's famous 'Rows', the medieval streets that house a wealth of specialist shops.
Day 5 : (Tuesday) - Wales / Portmeirion / Chester
This morning you enjoy brunch on board Northern Belle as you travel into Wales - the land of song. Travel through the breathtaking scenery of the Vale of Conway, Gwydyr Forest, past Dolwyddeland Castle high on a crag, and down to the former slate mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. A coach transfers you to the fascinating Italianate “village” of Portmeirion, created by Clough Williams-Ellis, which is a remarkable example of architectural imagination built on the shores of Cardigan Bay.
Later in the afternoon you may admire the skilled teamwork between shepherd and his dogs as one of the Welsh national champions at Sheep Dog Trials, puts his dogs through their paces. You’re certain to find this a fascinating event.
A delicious dinner is served on Northern Belle as you journey back through Wales to Chester. The finale to this wonderful day is an uplifting choral recital from Chester Male Voice Choir in the impressive sandstone Cathedral.
Day 6 (Wednesday) - Bath
After breakfast join the Northern Belle for a journey through the scenic heart of England, enjoying a light lunch en route to the golden city of Bath. Founded by the Romans as Aqua Sulis, Bath was made fashionable in the 18th century by the likes of “Beau Nash” and “Beau Brummel”. Today, Bath is Britain’s best preserved Georgian city. Your guide conducts you on a tour of this beautiful city including the splendid Abbey and Georgian terraces, culminating in a visit to the fascinating Roman Baths and Georgian Pump Room.
Enjoy some last minute shopping before rejoining the Northern Belle. A sumptuous dinner is served on board as the train journeys back to Chester.
Day 7 : (Thursday) - Chester / London
Breakfast at the hotel before boarding the Northern Belle for your final day of the Grand Tour. Your journey takes you through the “Black Country”, so named as the area was transformed by the industrial revolution of the 19th century. Today the many canals are an attractive reminder of its proud heritage. Rural Oxfordshire follows with its gentle rolling hills and pretty sandstone villages.
Enjoy lunch on board the train as countryside slowly gives way to metropolis. Sit back and reflect on the places you have visited, the people you have met, and the friends you have made All too soon, you arrive in London and it’s time to say farewell to new-found friends and the attentive staff of the Northern Belle – or is it only “see you soon”.
The Grand Tour of Great Britain
7 days / 6 nights : £3,360
Recommended Insurance £12.50 per person
Above price is per person based on shared accommodation in a superior room at The Caledonian, Edinburgh and The Chester Grosvenor, Chester.
Room upgrades information is available on request.
Price Includes:
- All travel on board the Northern Belle
- Three nights accommodation at The Caledonian, Edinburgh in a deluxe double/twin
- Three nights acccommodation at the Chester Grosvenor, Chester, in a superior queen double/twin
- Sightseeing visits and entertainment as described in the itinerary
- Table d’hôte meals and all drinks on board (house brands)
- Other meals as described in the itinerary
- Baggage handling
- Orient-Express Tour Guides throughout
Departure Date:
September 5.
Please note: All timings shown are for your
guidance only. Confirmed timings will be supplied with your travel
documents.
