From
From IntroductoryTo Challenging
Encompassing the diverse histories, cultures and landscapes of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom forms a destination so rich and so varied that it must sit prominently on any travel bucket list. While the region’s energetic cities need no introduction, many travellers are unaware of the breadth and the beauty of its landscapes.
With its medieval towns and sleepy fishing villages, ancient forests, dramatic coastline and scenic countryside dotted with castles, chateaux and Roman ruins, the UK is the perfect place to head out and explore by foot, bike or boat.
Here you can cycle through the rolling pastures and rugged moorland of the Scottish Highlands, explore the striking beauty of Northern Ireland’s rugged Causeway coast, follow the ancient path of Hadrian's Wall or trace the Welsh-English border along the Offa's Dyke Path. Hike the region’s idyllic interior and discover a complex coastline of windswept cliffs, lonely islands and pretty seaside towns.
Our broad program of active UK itineraries are tailored to get you deep into the heart of this very special corner of the world, regardless of your fitness or interests.
10Days
Moderate to Challenging
15Days
18Days
8Days
Moderate
6Days
Introductory to Moderate
Our active trips in the United Kingdom only include what you need like accommodation, meals, bikes on cycle trips, luggage transfers, maps and route directions on self guided trips and an experienced local guide for group trips, as well as the peace of mind that comes with complete backup and support.
On self guided trips you can expect to receive up-to-date and well researched route notes and maps, seamless luggage transfers and competitive pricing on all essential services. Many self guided trips also have daily departure dates, allowing you to enjoy the convenience and flexibility a self guided trip offers.
Cycling or walking, 2 star or 4 star, small groups or self guided, land or sea - we can help you explore the UK exactly the way you want.
Often family run, these charming hotels range from 2 to 4 stars and provide access to local living thanks to your hosts. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Where possible, we choose locations that add to your experience.
Simple yet rich in local character, the B&Bs chosen are clean, comfortable and run by hosts that help add to your experience.
Similar to bed & breakfasts, these family-owned accommodations are clean and comfortable. Rooms with en suites generally have a shower but no bath due to space. There may be a separate room with a bath tub.
Enjoy the cosy country setting and convenience of staying in a comfortable place that is attached to a restaurant or pub, usually on the ground floor with the rooms above.
Think of it as your floating hotel, where each day you experience a different sunrise and sunset location and you unpack only once. Berths range from two lower or bunk bed style but can be upgraded to larger berths with double beds. The bar and dining area is always a popular hangout at the end of each day's activity. The crew includes an onboard cook.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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Trek across England on Wainright's famous Coast to Coast Walk
Cycle through the rolling pastures and rugged moorland of the Scottish Highlands
Follow the ancient path of Hadrian's Wall or trace the Welsh-English border along the Offa's Dyke Path
Sail and cycle along Northern Ireland’s striking Causeway coast
Explore the dramatic scenery of the Inner Hebrides archipelago by bike and sailboat
Hike to the top of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain
Traverse Scotland’s craggy mountains, ancient forests, brilliant green glens and fjord-like lochs
Discover a complex coastline of windswept cliffs, lonely islands and pretty seaside towns steeped in history
In general, the UK has a cool and cloudy temperate oceanic climate. Northern Ireland, Wales and the western regions of England and Scotland tend to be mild, wet and windy. Even in summer, rainy days are not uncommon, and it can be very windy on the coast, so you have to be prepared for all weather conditions.
Eastern regions are drier, cooler and more prone to variations.
Northern regions are cool, wet, and have the biggest temperature ranges. Scotland’s weather varies from day to day and sometimes from hour to hour, and rainfall occurs in Northern England throughout the year (though more likely from October to April). The sunniest month is July.
The weather is generally warmer and more settled on England’s south coast than in other parts of Britain. The coastal villages can be rather crowded in high summer and are understandably popular, but you will also find many quiet areas whilst walking or cycling.
The Channel Islands have more sunshine hours than other parts of the UK, with temperatures ranging between 5-18 degrees Celsius / 41-64 degrees Fahrenheit in spring and autumn, and 15-25 degrees Celsius / 59-77 degrees Fahrenheit in summer (sometimes higher).
The UK is on standard GMT
English; both English and Scots Gaelic in Scotland; both English and Welsh in Wales
Pound Sterling
+44
Electricity in The United Kingdom is 230 Volts, at 50 hertz. The most common pin type is G (UK – 3 prong).
Visas not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www. schengenvisainfo.com/schengen-visa-countries-list/ for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements.
Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.
Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.
We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.
We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.