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2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price
New Year’s Eve tours don't get any better than this! Spend 7 days exploring Great Britain during the New Years Eve festivities. Travel through awe-inspiring landscapes, visit must-see attractions and learn all about the intriguing history of the area. Tick off Hadrian's Wall and Glencoe from your travel bucket list with the added opportunity of visiting the mysterious Stonehenge! Explore the Scottish Highlands, Lake District and Loch Ness. Plus, visit the historic cities of Cambridge and York! Enjoy proper pub fare and taste whisky with the locals. Then, ring in the New Year at Hogmanay in Edinburgh - a massive street festival and loads of fun!
Welcome to this incredible 7- day tour of Great Britain! Today, head to the English countryside for fresh air and scenic landscapes. Arrive in Cambridge and embark on a punting trip along the river in a traditional riverboat, taking in the stunning scenery and historic buildings in the most relaxing way. The final stop for the day is York. This city is a mecca for history buffs, and lovers of fine architecture and culture. Enjoy an orientation walking tour with your tour leader and gain a fascinating insight into the stories and history of the city. Tonight, enjoy a delicious group dinner at a local restaurant in York and celebrate the first night of this week-long tour of Great Britain!
Meals: Dinner
This morning the tour continues heading north to the spectacular Scottish Highlands. The first stop along the way is the iconic Angel of the North statue. Next is Hadrian's Wall, a defensive fortification constructed by emperor Hadrian across the final frontier of the Roman Empire in what was then the Roman province of Britannia. Afterwards, travel on to Gretna Green, a beautiful historic village in southern Scotland that is one of the world's most popular wedding destinations. Then, visit the famous Scottish city of Glasgow and soak up some festive cheer at the Christmas markets! Later this evening, arrive at the hotel in the Scottish Highlands and enjoy an included dinner.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Look out for Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak, on the way to Glencoe today. Travel through Glencoe and find out more about this spectacular valley which played host to a tragic massacre that happened hundreds of years ago. Next, make a photo stop in Loch Ness. Say “yes” to the optional cruise and see if you can spot ‘Nessie’, the mythical Loch Ness Monster, with an included celebratory drink in hand - the perfect way to kick off New Year’s Eve! Arrive in Edinburgh later today and check into the hotel. Tonight, look forward to an included dinner. Then, it’s time to get festive and celebrate Hogmanay (what Scots call the last day of the year) to ring in the New Year!
Meals: BreakfastDinner
Spend New Year’s Day experiencing the delights of Edinburgh! Welcome the first day of the year with free time to explore the city this morning. See the Old Town and New Town, wander down the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile and explore the Grassmarket. Admire the art galleries, statues and memorials as well as the impressive Gothic architecture. Enjoy free time this afternoon. Why not choose to see Edinburgh’s highlights on today’s optional which includes a visit to Holyrood Palace and the majestic Edinburgh Castle? This evening, choose to indulge in more celebrations with a festive three-course dinner in the heart of the new town.
Meals: Breakfast
Cross the border back into England today as the tour travels to Liverpool. Enroute, visit Carlisle, a historic cathedral city, and the beautiful town of Bowness-on-Windermere in the picturesque Lake District. Here, why not join the Winter at Windermere optional excursion for a local lunch and a cruise along the stunning Lake Windermere? Arrive in Liverpool in the late afternoon and enjoy a driving tour before checking into the hotel. This city is famous for being the home of The Beatles and two legendary football clubs! This evening is free to experience the local life. Why not pay a visit to the Cavern Club where the Beatles played hundreds of shows?
Meals: Breakfast
Embark on a driving tour of Liverpool this morning and see the city’s most famous sites associated with The Beatles! Next we travel to Stratford-upon-Avon - the birthplace of William Shakespeare, one of the world’s most famous playwrights. Learn more about this historic village on an orientation tour before using some free time to explore on your own. Choose to join the optional excursion and visit the home that Shakespeare grew up in before indulging in a traditional afternoon tea at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre! Afterwards, head to Wales and stop at a medieval castle on the way to the Welsh capital of Cardiff. Orientate yourself with the city on a driving tour before enjoying dinner at the hotel.
Meals: BreakfastDinner
This is the last day of our tour of Great Britain, and it's a day filled with excitement! Today’s first stop is Bath. This historic city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to sites such as the Roman Baths which can be explored on the optional excursion, as well as some of the finest architecture in Europe! Learn about the town on an orientation tour before travelling to the next stop; Stonehenge. This famous landmark is shrouded in myth and legend. Explore it on the optional Stonehenge excursion. Arrive back in London in the early evening. After a week of exploring amazing destinations across Great Britain, it’s the end of a memorable tour!
Meals: Breakfast
Welcome to this incredible 7- day tour of Great Britain! Today, head to the English countryside for fresh air and scenic landscapes. Arrive in Cambridge and embark on a punting trip along the river in a traditional riverboat, taking in the stunning scenery and historic buildings in the most relaxing way. The final stop for the day is York. This city is a mecca for history buffs, and lovers of fine architecture and culture. Enjoy an orientation walking tour with your tour leader and gain a fascinating insight into the stories and history of the city. Tonight, enjoy a delicious group dinner at a local restaurant in York and celebrate the first night of this week-long tour of Great Britain!
Cambridge punting trip: Take part in the age-old Cambridge tradition of punting down the river on a punt (a long flat-bottomed boat). Cruise down the River Cam and take in the sights and surroundings along the way.
Walking tour of York: Take a walking tour around this historic walled city with your Expat Explore tour leader.
Dinner in York: Tuck into a delicious dinner at a local restaurant in York. Toast to the first night of this tour of Great Britain and get to know your fellow travellers over dinner this evening.
Dinner
Hotel
This morning the tour continues heading north to the spectacular Scottish Highlands. The first stop along the way is the iconic Angel of the North statue. Next is Hadrian's Wall, a defensive fortification constructed by emperor Hadrian across the final frontier of the Roman Empire in what was then the Roman province of Britannia. Afterwards, travel on to Gretna Green, a beautiful historic village in southern Scotland that is one of the world's most popular wedding destinations. Then, visit the famous Scottish city of Glasgow and soak up some festive cheer at the Christmas markets! Later this evening, arrive at the hotel in the Scottish Highlands and enjoy an included dinner.
Photo stop at the Angel of the North: Enjoy a stopover at this famous contemporary sculpture in the north of England. Be sure to snap some photos!
Photo stop at Hadrian's Wall: Visit the Roman fortification on the border between England and Scotland, constructed under the orders of Emperor Hadrian across the final frontier of the Roman Empire in what was then the Roman province of Britannia.
Visit Gretna Green: Found on the Scottish side of the border between England and Scotland, Gretna Green is a beautiful historic village that is one of the world’s most popular wedding destinations! This town is where lovers used to get married without their parent’s permission, many years ago, giving it a lasting legacy as a great spot to tie the knot.
Shop at Glasgow’s Christmas markets: Enjoy some free time in the vibrant Scottish city of Glasgow and soak up the festive spirit with a spot of shopping at the enchanting Christmas markets.
Spend the night in the Scottish Highlands: Enjoy an overnight stay in the heart of the iconic Scottish Highlands. Look forward to enchanting scenery and warm hospitality!
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
Look out for Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak, on the way to Glencoe today. Travel through Glencoe and find out more about this spectacular valley which played host to a tragic massacre that happened hundreds of years ago. Next, make a photo stop in Loch Ness. Say “yes” to the optional cruise and see if you can spot ‘Nessie’, the mythical Loch Ness Monster, with an included celebratory drink in hand - the perfect way to kick off New Year’s Eve! Arrive in Edinburgh later today and check into the hotel. Tonight, look forward to an included dinner. Then, it’s time to get festive and celebrate Hogmanay (what Scots call the last day of the year) to ring in the New Year!
Scenic drive through the Scottish Highlands: Cross your fingers and hope the weather's clear enough to catch a sight of the grandeur of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain.
Visit Glencoe: A spectacular Glen (Scottish for a deep valley in the Highlands) where the Massacre of Glencoe took place in 1692, one of the most fascinating yet tragic stories in Scotland’s history.
Visit Loch Ness: Will you be the person to spot the Loch Ness monster during a stop in what is said to be her home? Enjoy free time to explore, or take an optional cruise to see if you can spot her from the water.
Celebrate Hogmanay in Edinburgh: Celebrate the New Year with an included ticket to Edinburgh’s world-famous Hogmanay celebrations!
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
Toast to New Year’s Eve with an included drink while searching for the mysterious Loch Ness monster as you cruise on the famous loch!
Spend New Year’s Day experiencing the delights of Edinburgh! Welcome the first day of the year with free time to explore the city this morning. See the Old Town and New Town, wander down the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile and explore the Grassmarket. Admire the art galleries, statues and memorials as well as the impressive Gothic architecture. Enjoy free time this afternoon. Why not choose to see Edinburgh’s highlights on today’s optional which includes a visit to Holyrood Palace and the majestic Edinburgh Castle? This evening, choose to indulge in more celebrations with a festive three-course dinner in the heart of the new town.
Breakfast
Hotel
See the top sights of Edinburgh! Visit Calton Hill, Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle decked out for the festive season.
Kick off the New Year in Edinburgh with a delicious, three-course dinner at a stylish restaurant in the heart of St. Andrew Square.
Cross the border back into England today as the tour travels to Liverpool. Enroute, visit Carlisle, a historic cathedral city, and the beautiful town of Bowness-on-Windermere in the picturesque Lake District. Here, why not join the Winter at Windermere optional excursion for a local lunch and a cruise along the stunning Lake Windermere? Arrive in Liverpool in the late afternoon and enjoy a driving tour before checking into the hotel. This city is famous for being the home of The Beatles and two legendary football clubs! This evening is free to experience the local life. Why not pay a visit to the Cavern Club where the Beatles played hundreds of shows?
Visit Carlisle: Enjoy a comfort stop and some free time in Carlisle, a cathedral city in Cumbria which holds great historical significance. Why not pay a visit to its castle, which was first built in 1092, or soak up some art, science and history at the Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery?
Visit the English Lake District: This is truly your chance to experience lunch with a view - enjoy the scenery of this beautiful part of England, and find a spot to enjoy lunch in Bowness-on-Windermere while surrounded by a scenic landscape. The beauty of the English Lake District inspired many renowned poets and writers such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.
Driving tour of Liverpool: Enjoy seeing some of Liverpool’s top sights on a driving tour of the city. Highlights include Anfield football stadium, Liverpool Cathedral, and the Albert Docks.
Breakfast
Hotel
Discover the stunning scenery around Windermere Lake at wintertime with a lakeside lunch and cruise.
Embark on a driving tour of Liverpool this morning and see the city’s most famous sites associated with The Beatles! Next we travel to Stratford-upon-Avon - the birthplace of William Shakespeare, one of the world’s most famous playwrights. Learn more about this historic village on an orientation tour before using some free time to explore on your own. Choose to join the optional excursion and visit the home that Shakespeare grew up in before indulging in a traditional afternoon tea at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre! Afterwards, head to Wales and stop at a medieval castle on the way to the Welsh capital of Cardiff. Orientate yourself with the city on a driving tour before enjoying dinner at the hotel.
Liverpool Beatles driving tour: Hop aboard the coach to see and learn about a variety of locations connected to The Beatles on an early morning Beatles Magical Mystery Tour!
Visit to Stratford-Upon-Avon: Make a stop in this quaint town, which is the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Wander the city during your free time, and view many of the Shakespearean attractions, including the 16th-century house where the famous writer grew up.
Castle photo stop: On the road to Cardiff, enjoy the chance for a short stop at the medieval Raglan Castle and capture some photos.
Orientation driving tour of Cardiff: Arrive in the Welsh capital, and go on a driving tour of the city. Your tour leader will show you all the best highlights before you head back to the hotel.
BreakfastDinner
Hotel
Visit the house where Shakespeare grew up and delight in a traditional afternoon tea at the Royal Shakespeare theatre!
This is the last day of our tour of Great Britain, and it's a day filled with excitement! Today’s first stop is Bath. This historic city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to sites such as the Roman Baths which can be explored on the optional excursion, as well as some of the finest architecture in Europe! Learn about the town on an orientation tour before travelling to the next stop; Stonehenge. This famous landmark is shrouded in myth and legend. Explore it on the optional Stonehenge excursion. Arrive back in London in the early evening. After a week of exploring amazing destinations across Great Britain, it’s the end of a memorable tour!
Bath Orientation tour: Learn all about Bath’s fascinating history and its top attractions, including the famous Roman Baths, with your tour leader.
Breakfast
Explore the remains of the great temple and bathing complex of the Roman Baths, once the finest religious spas in northern Europe!
Uncover the many mysteries of Stonehenge and get up close with this 5,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is definitely bucket list-worthy!
We partner with a range of hand-picked hotels in each destination. The hotels listed below are those we stay at most frequently. However, you may stay at different hotels of a similar standard.
A confirmed list of hotels is emailed to all travellers prior to their tour departure. To extend your stay in London, click here to book pre and post-tour accommodation through our partner Booking.com.
Unless marked as “Pre-Book”, all optional excursions can be booked on tour and paid for in cash (in the stated currency) to your tour leader. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Toast to New Year’s Eve with an included drink while searching for the mysterious Loch Ness monster as you cruise on the famous loch!
Start the New Year’s Eve celebrations early in the home of the mysterious Loch Ness monster. Enjoy a 1-hour cruise on the loch with an included glass of prosecco, whisky or soft drink in hand. Take in the sights and enjoy the serene surroundings. Have your cameras ready, as you may even spot old Nessie!
See the top sights of Edinburgh! Visit Calton Hill, Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle decked out for the festive season.
Experience Edinburgh’s top sites at Christmastime with your tour leader! Start in the city centre and make your way to the top of Calton Hill to admire the various monuments and panoramic views. Next, see Holyrood Palace - the official royal residence in Scotland! Afterwards, see the beautiful St Giles’ Cathedral and travel along the ancient Royal Mile in the heart of the Old Town. Finally, arrive at Edinburgh Castle with free time to explore. Wander the historic halls and enjoy a free guided tour!
Kick off the New Year in Edinburgh with a delicious, three-course dinner at a stylish restaurant in the heart of St. Andrew Square.
Kick off the New Year with a delicious, three-course dinner at a stylish restaurant in the heart of St. Andrew Square. This stunning square is a cornerstone of Edinburgh’s New Town and is surrounded by significant buildings. Look forward to a choice of starter, main course and dessert featuring a range of festive, international dishes. Vegetarian options are available. What could be a better way to start the New Year than with a hearty meal shared with new travel friends?
Discover the stunning scenery around Windermere Lake at wintertime with a lakeside lunch and cruise.
Bask in the beauty of Windermere Lake at wintertime! Enjoy an authentic British fish 'n' chips lunch at the quaint lakeside town of Bowness before setting off on a cruise to Lakeside Pier - the southernmost point of Lake Windermere. Sit back, relax and admire the spectacular woodland scenery while learning about the history of the area and its top attractions with an onboard commentary.
Visit the house where Shakespeare grew up and delight in a traditional afternoon tea at the Royal Shakespeare theatre!
Experience Stratford Upon Avon through a Shakespearean lens! Visit the house where William Shakespeare was born, grew up and played. He ate meals in the hall and he slept and dreamt in these rooms. Shakespeare also spent the first five years of married life in this house with his new wife, Anne Hathaway. Other famous writers have also visited here, including Charles Dickens, John Keats, Walter Scott and Thomas Hardy. After, enjoy a delicious, traditional afternoon tea at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Delight in classic British treats such as scones with clotted cream, cucumber sandwiches and more!
Explore the remains of the great temple and bathing complex of the Roman Baths, once the finest religious spas in northern Europe!
Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting some of the finest architectural sights in Europe, and undoubtedly one of the highlights is the Roman Baths. Around Britain's only hot springs, the Romans built the finest religious spa in northern Europe. This great temple and bathing complex still flows with natural hot water. The extensive remains and a Roman museum of international significance lie beneath the Pump Room and Abbey Church Yard in the centre of Bath.
Uncover the many mysteries of Stonehenge and get up close with this 5,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is definitely bucket list-worthy!
Tick off a bucket-list-worthy experience with a visit to Stonehenge, one of the most famous structures in the world! The prehistoric monument is shrouded in myth and legend. While nobody knows the exact purpose behind the 5,000-year-old mysterious circle of upright stones in southern England, the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site has been attracting visitors from around the world for centuries! Visit to see the enchanting site and learn the history, traditions and customs surrounding Stonehenge.
Please Note: This excursion can be booked prior to the start of your tour. This excursion is subject to availability and is non-refundable. Please email us to book.
2025 dates for this tour are now available to book online! Scroll down to view and pay just a 10% deposit to secure the lowest price
Start Date / End Date | Flexible Booking | Status | Price Per Person |
29 Dec 2024 - 04 Jan 2025 | Book now with low deposit | ||
29 Dec 2025 - 04 Jan 2026 | Book now with low deposit |
For pre-departure and visa information, as well as frequently asked questions regarding preparing for and travelling on this tour, please visit our Help Centre .
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If you’re wondering “What should I do for New Year?” Here is your answer! Expat Explore’s New Year’s Eve packages in Great Britain are packed full of great destinations, breathtaking landscapes, fascinating historical sites and world-famous New Year’s Eve celebrations! Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) in Edinburgh is a renowned street party full of festivities and fun! Edinburgh is definitely the place to be when celebrating New Year’s Eve in the UK.
The tour visits three countries: England, Scotland and Wales. It travels to top destinations across Great Britain, conveniently beginning and ending in the central travel hub of London.
The Great Britain New Year tour offers a number of highlights:
Is this the right tour for me?
This tour is perfect for travellers looking for a memorable way to ring in the new year! You’ll experience the unforgettable experience of Hogmanay in Edinburgh , one of the best places to stay for New Year in Scotland, along with an array of Great Britain’s top destinations included in the itinerary!
Where is good to go for New Year’s Eve in the UK?
Edinburgh in Scotland is the best place to be for New Year’s Eve celebrations in the UK!
What do the British do for New Years?
Family and friends gather to ring in the new year. The Hogmanay street party in Edinburgh is the most renowned celebration while huge events take place in other major cities across the UK, including London.
What are the best things to do in Edinburgh at New Year?
Once you have enjoyed the nighttime celebrations, Edinburgh is an incredible city in which to celebrate the first day of the new year! Explore the Old Town, visit the Castle, climb Calton Hill, stroll through the historic neighbourhoods and enjoy the welcoming Scottish hospitality!
If you are looking for a fun, affordable and convenient way to enjoy the new year, this group tour of Great Britain is a must!
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