Northern England & Edinburgh Explorer
Charming towns and train rides
Adventure is calling! This vacation takes you through the English countryside to the city of Edinburgh! From Chester, you'll enjoy overnights in Lancaster and Carlisle before reaching Edinburgh. Travel from city-to-city via scenic trains, and discover more of the beautiful countryside as you go. Each stop along your journey has much to offer in the way of history, architecture, and culture, so charge your camera and pack your walking shoes!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Machester (MAN), out of Edinburgh (EDI)
- Standard class rail from Manchester Airport to Chester
- 2 nights in Chester at the Mercure Chester Abbots Well Hotel or similar
- Standard class rail from Chester to Lancaster
- 2 nights in Lancaster at the Royal Kings Arms Hotel
- Standard class rail from Lancaster to Carlisle
- 2 nights in Carlisle at the Hallmark Hotel
- Standard class rail from Carlisle to Edinburgh
- 2 nights in Edinburgh at the Hilton Carlton Hotel Edinburgh or similar
- Departure transfer to Edinburgh Airport
- Breakfast daily
Great Ways to Explore
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See more of the UK during scenic train rides between cities.
Seek out the unbeatable shopping on the 700-year-old Chester Rows.
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Learn about Lancaster's famous witch trial as you walk the city's magnificent castle.
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Relax waterside in Carlisle, the City of Lakes.
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Seize your opportunity to try haggis in Edinburgh!
From country to city and everything in between, this 8-night vacation package takes you through beautiful Northern England & Edinburgh! Discover the scenic countryside, explore the historical significance of each town and city, and taste pints and whiskeys as you go!
After flying to Manchester, you'll take a train to Chester for the first stop of your vacation. Visit Chester Cathedral, the Rows shopping district, and take a Chester city walk. Continue on to Lancaster! If the weather is nice, consider a picnic in Williamson Park or a walk along Lancaster Canal! Be sure to visit the incredible Lancaster Castle for stunning architecture and hilltop views!
Next, a train ride will take you to Carlisle. Carlisle Castle and Cathedral are huge draws here. Carlisle has been significant since before Roman times, so you'll find an abundance of historical significance here! The final stop of your trip is Edinburgh! Taste some Scottish whiskeys, visit Edinburgh Castle, and reflect upon an incredible trip before flying home!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Machester (MAN), out of Edinburgh (EDI)
- Standard class rail from Manchester Airport to Chester
- 2 nights in Chester at the Mercure Chester Abbots Well Hotel or similar
- Standard class rail from Chester to Lancaster
- 2 nights in Lancaster at the Royal Kings Arms Hotel
- Standard class rail from Lancaster to Carlisle
- 2 nights in Carlisle at the Hallmark Hotel
- Standard class rail from Carlisle to Edinburgh
- 2 nights in Edinburgh at the Hilton Carlton Hotel Edinburgh or similar
- Departure transfer to Edinburgh Airport
- Breakfast daily
-
See more of the UK during scenic train rides between cities.
Seek out the unbeatable shopping on the 700-year-old Chester Rows.
-
Learn about Lancaster's famous witch trial as you walk the city's magnificent castle.
-
Relax waterside in Carlisle, the City of Lakes.
-
Seize your opportunity to try haggis in Edinburgh!
From country to city and everything in between, this 8-night vacation package takes you through beautiful Northern England & Edinburgh! Discover the scenic countryside, explore the historical significance of each town and city, and taste pints and whiskeys as you go!
After flying to Manchester, you'll take a train to Chester for the first stop of your vacation. Visit Chester Cathedral, the Rows shopping district, and take a Chester city walk. Continue on to Lancaster! If the weather is nice, consider a picnic in Williamson Park or a walk along Lancaster Canal! Be sure to visit the incredible Lancaster Castle for stunning architecture and hilltop views!
Next, a train ride will take you to Carlisle. Carlisle Castle and Cathedral are huge draws here. Carlisle has been significant since before Roman times, so you'll find an abundance of historical significance here! The final stop of your trip is Edinburgh! Taste some Scottish whiskeys, visit Edinburgh Castle, and reflect upon an incredible trip before flying home!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Manchester!
Touch down in England and make your way to your first accommodation in Chester! This city is overflowing with ancient Roman history and contemporary entertainment. Familiarize yourself with Chester as you peruse The Rows - an oasis of boutique shops, coffee shops, and unique architecture.
Train to Chester
Feel like royalty at this elegant, yet comfortable hotel in the heart of Chester. Just steps from the shops and restaurants on Eastgate Street, the Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel is the perfect place to escape from the city bustle. The Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel harmoniously marries Victorian tradition with modern luxuries. Each room is classically and tastefully decorated, and is equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, plush bedding, and more. Unwind with a gin cocktail at the classy bar, then treat yourself to a delicious dinner at the on-site restaurant.
Nestled on 12 acres of well-manicured grounds just two miles from Chester's historic center, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa Chester boasts luxurious amenities and old-world charm. Adjacent to the brick manor house and hall, you'll find a 19th century glass conservatory - a peaceful oasis right next door.
Open the door to your spacious room, where you'll find plush bedding, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, a refrigerator, and much more. Once you're all settled in, pamper yourself at the decadent on-site spa. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, steam your stresses away in the sauna, or keep up with your workout routine in the fitness center.
When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a lovely dinner at the on-site Marco Pierre White Steakhouse or unwind in the relaxed Garden Room and Terrace restaurant.
Stay at the Crowne Plaza Edinburgh - Royal Terrace for a quiet, modern hotel experience! Rooms include free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. Grab a snack at the Terrace Brasserie, or work out in the modern Techno gym. You’ll be close to landmarks like Calton Hill and Waterloo Place, and about 7 miles from Edinburgh Airport.
Day 2. Chester
Take today to explore the ciy's history. Start with a Chester Cathedral, which was founded in 1092 and is easy to reach thanks to its location in the heart of the city center.
After that, visit the remains of the Roman Amphitheater, which used to be the largest in all of Britain. A place that used to host top-tier entertainment and vigorous military training, the amphitheater dates back to the 1st century.
This evening, you might enjoy walking the city walls which are the oldest, longest, and most complete city walls in Britain. With all these sites within easy walking distance, you'll get to enjoy more sightseeing and less travel time.
Day 3. Chester - Lancaster
Say goodbye to Chester as you ride the rails toward Lancaster. Once you've arrived in Lancaster and checked into your hotel, hit the Maritime Museum for a peek into the history of shipbuilding and seafaring in the 18th century.
Train from Chester to Lancaster
Check-in - Royal Kings Arms Hotel
Stay at the newly renovated Royal Kings Arms Hotel. The property dates back to 1625 and offers guests an unforgettable visit. Feast your eyes on the hotel's impressive architecture and contemporary design, then visit the Brasserie Restaurant and Crypt Cocktail Lounge to feast on the hotel's award-winning cuisine. Visitors and locals alike can't resist stopping by the hotel to take in its elegant splendors.
Day 4. Lancaster
Let the city enchant you as you spend your only full day in Lancaster exploring its manifold offerings. Start your day with a visit to Lancaster Castle which holds 1,000 years of history. For centuries, this castle was a prison. Excluding London, Lancaster Castle saw more people hanged than anywhere else in England, earning the city the title of "the hanging town."
After, you might take a trip to the Ashton Memorial which is known as the Taj Mahal of the north. Lancaster has a tempting artisan food scene, so be sure to take advantage of every chance you get to taste something new!
Day 5. Lancaster - Carlisle
A scenic train ride will bring you from Lancaster to Carlisle. Carlisle links two world heritage sites and is rich with the heritage of the mighty Roman empire that used to cover the entire known world.
After you're settled into your hotel, check out the city's nightlife! Carlisle is filled with options for a quirky drinking and dining experience.
Train to Carlisle
Check-in - Hallmark Carlisle
Enjoy a Victorian-style hotel experience at Hallmark Carlisle! You'll enjoy quiet accommodation featuring high ceilings and big windows with lots of natural daylight. Modern interiors compliment the Victorian building, creating a unique and comfortable environment. Complimentary toiletries, flat-screen television, and free WiFi are included with your stay. Well-known for its Afternoon Tea, the hotel's restaurant also offers British and European dishes for breakfast and dinner. Room service is available 24/7 for all guests. Located right next to the main train station, you'll be able to access the surrounding cities with ease.
Day 6. Carlisle
If adventure activities catch your interest, today is the day to join the fun in the Lake District. Stretch your muscles with archery, paintball, horseback riding, and more!
This would also be a great day to visit Birdoswald Roman Fort on Hadrian's Wall. Not only will you be able to soak in the centuries of history and marvel at the empire which used to be home to over 1,000 Roman soldiers, you'll be rewarded with incredible views!
Day 7. Carlisle - Edinburgh
Wake up and throw on your kilt! Today, you'll cross over the Scottish border into the old-world city of Edinburgh. Upon exiting the train, you may feel like you're in the real-life film set of Harry Potter! While York inspired Diagon Alley, Edinburgh inspired many other parts of the series, as J.K. Rowling wrote much of the text in Edinburgh!
Check into your final hotel, then wander through the streets of the city! Do some shopping in the trendy New Town, then cross into the Old Town and admire colorful storefronts and castle-like architecture. Step into St Gile's Cathedral and feel yourself become overwhelmed with beauty.
Tonight, catch some live folk music at a pub on the Royal Mile!
Train to Edinburgh
Experience true luxury at this stylish hotel nestled right on the Royal Mile. Dating back to the early 1900s, this historic Victorian building is an aesthetic icon of the city. Take advantage of its unique North Bridge location, which links Edinburgh's Old and New Town together. Shop the day away, treat yourself to a tasty bite at a cafe, walk over to Edinburgh Castle, or discover the city's vibrant nightlife.
After an exciting day, stroll back to the hotel and take a nap on your large, comfortable bed. Freshen up in the luxurious bathroom, use the hotel's free WiFi to share photos with family and friends back home, and catch up on some TV. When it's time to eat, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine at its elegant Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Restaurant. Enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed atmosphere that boasts glamorous decor and warm vibes. Looking for something a bit less formal? Head to the trendy on-site Nineteen Hundred Bar & Lounge and sip on a cocktail while you sample small plates. If both of these options sound like too much work, go ahead and stay cozy in bed. Room service will be there for you 24/7.
Named after the national newspaper that was originally located here, The Scotsman Hotel is an opulent homage to its fascinating history. Retaining several original features such as wood-paneled rooms, stained glass windows, and a marble staircase, the hotel immerses all of its guests in tasteful luxury. Sprawled over several floors and featuring incredible views of Edinburgh Castle, the character bedrooms are sure to make this a standout stay. Sample three different whiskeys paired with top-notch Scottish gastronomy with Dram & Scran at the Front Page Bar, or the hotel's bold take on afternoon tea at Club 43.
Relax and unwind at The Edinburgh Holyrood Hotel, nestled
right in the heart of historic Edinburgh. After a busy day of sightseeing in
the bustling city, you will find yourself only steps away from the comfort and
elegance that this hotel provides. Kick off your shoes and climb into your large,
comfortable bed, or stay up planning your next day, sitting in cozy armchairs
and using the hotel’s complimentary Wi-Fi. All 156 guestrooms are furnished to
the highest standard, featuring triple-glazed windows and boasting marble
bathrooms, creating a quiet, peaceful sanctuary in the middle of center city.
When it’s time to eat, indulge in a delicious, classically
Scottish meal at Acanthus, The Edinburgh Holyrood Hotel’s award-winning
restaurant that creates a perfect environment, as it sits just across from
Scottish Parliament and overlooks Arthur’s Seat. By selecting only the finest,
freshest ingredients that are locally sourced where possible, Acanthus is one
of the most exciting new restaurants in Edinburgh. There, you will be treated
to a sensational experience of specialty cocktails, delicious teas, and a
scrumptious breakfast, lunch, or dinner that captures the taste of Scotland.
Pamper yourself at the hotel’s Leisure Club and Spa, which offers
a perfect retreat from the liveliness of Scotland’s capital city. Find serenity in a variety of luxurious spa
treatments, take a swim in the 45-foot headed swimming pool, or work out all of
your stresses in the state of the art Technogym.
Enjoy the lively and modern decour during your stay at the Grassmarket Hotel. Rooms come equipped with TVs, iPod docks, wall-sized magnetic maps, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms featuring rainfall showers. This newly renovated hotel sitting comfortable within distance of Waverley Train Station and the Royal Mile.
Pubs, bars, clubs, restaurants, and plenty of opportunities for excellent shopping are all within walking distance of your hotel, as well as all of the shops of Princes Street. Old Town exploration and history make the area unique, just like its lodgings.
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's Old Town at the eclectic Stay Central Hotel. Located right on bustling Cowgate, you'll be just steps away from many sights and attractions including the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, and the Princes Street Gardens. Enjoy this hotel's funky yet stylish decor - be on the lookout for tons of interesting artwork, unique furniture, and fun board games.
When your legs are tired from exploring, head up to your spacious, comfortable room and take advantage of the hotel's luxurious amenities. Use complimentary WiFi to plan the rest of your trip, catch up on your favorite show on a flat screen TV, and relax in the rainfall-style shower.
Day 8. Edinburgh
Today's a great day to get spirited! After breakfast, make the most of your last day in the UK! Sniff out a distillery to tour and taste your way through the world's best Scotch whiskey.
If you haven't already, be sure to visit Edinburgh Castle! A hike up Arthur's Seat is another Edinburgh item to check off your list. Venture up hills of stunning greenery until you reach a landing of breathtaking views. The hike may be a bit of a workout, but the views will surely be worth it.
Day 9. Depart Scotland!
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and give Scotland the royal wave goodbye. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to the airport, then board your flight home!