Tours Christmas & New Year Tours Great Britain New Year

Great Britain New Year

Countries: 3 Days: 7 Per Day: US$ 182
Start Point:London
End Point:London
Transport:Private coach
Accommodation:Hotel
Ages:10 - 75+
WasUS$ 1,510
From US$ 1,275
check-greenFlexible booking: 30-day money-back guarantee

Price per person in twin share room

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

More reasons to book with us

  • Flexible bookings: 30-day money-back guarantee & free date changes
  • Low deposit secures your booking
  • Services of your Expat Explore tour leader
  • Pay the remaining balance off in instalments
  • FREE Wi-Fi in hotels

Summary

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!

Highlights

  • Celebrate Hogmanay (New Year's Eve) in Edinburgh
  • Visit historic cities of Cambridge and York
  • Explore Liverpool, home of The Beatles
  • Experience the Scottish Highlands

Start Point

Outside Novotel London Greenwich hotel | 06:30 AM
Hotel lobby at Holiday Inn Express London - Greenwich | 07:00 AM

End Point

Outside Hotel Novotel at Greenwich station | 06:00 PM
DAY 1: Start of tour in London - Cambridge - York

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

DAY 1: Start of tour in London - Cambridge - York

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!

Experiences

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.

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 2: Gretna Green - Glasgow - Scottish Highlands

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.

Experiences

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!

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation

Hotel


DAY 3: Glencoe - Loch Ness - Edinburgh (New Year’s Eve)

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!

Experiences

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!

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 4: Edinburgh: Free Day (New Year’s Day)

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, do things the Scottish way and enjoy a pint or dram of whisky with the locals!

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 5: Edinburgh - Lake District - Liverpool

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?

Experiences

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.

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 6: Liverpool - Stratford-Upon-Avon - Cardiff

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 checking into the hotel for the night.

Experiences

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.

Meals

BreakfastDinner

Accommodation

Hotel

On Tour Excursions

DAY 7: Bath - Stonehenge - London

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!

Experiences

Bath Orientation tour: Learn all about Bath’s fascinating history and its top attractions, including the famous Roman Baths, with your tour leader.

Meals

Breakfast

On Tour Excursions

What's Included

Accommodation

  • 6 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
  • Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)

Meals

  • 6 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners
    *Vegetarian options available for all meals on request

Transport

  • Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard 
  • Any public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)

Tour Leader

  • Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
  • Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details

20 Experiences!

  1. Go punting down the River Cam in Cambridge
  2. Stroll through the historic streets of York
  3. Enjoy a group dinner in York
  4. Visit the Angel of the North statue
  5. Take a photo at Hadrian’s Wall
  6. Visit world famous wedding destination Gretna Green
  7. Shop at Glasgow’s Christmas markets
  8. Spend a night in the Scottish Highlands
  9. Drive through the Highlands and spot Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak
  10. Marvel at the beauty of the Highlands in Glencoe
  11. Glimpse the beauty of Loch Ness
  12. Experience Hogmanay in Edinburgh
  13. Visit Carlisle, an important historic city
  14. Experience the beauty of the English Lake District
  15. Embark on a Liverpool driving tour with your tour leader
  16. See Liverpool spots connected to The Beatles
  17. Explore Stratford-Upon-Avon; home of Shakespear
  18. Enjoy a photo stop at a medieval Welsh Castle
  19. Experience Cardiff on a driving tour
  20. Discover Bath on an orientation walking tour

Accommodation

Hotels are chosen closer to departure date. We do use a variety of hotels in each destination, so you may stay in a hotel different to that listed here.

Yorkshire

Photos of the tour

Optional Excursions

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.

Dates & Rates

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

Our pricing model: Whether you book early or take advantage of our special promotions, you’ll always get fantastic value when you choose to travel with us.
Years
Start Date / End DateFlexible BookingStatusPrice Per Person
29 Dec 2024 - 04 Jan 2025Flexible booking date for 2024-12-29Book now with low depositUS$1,510 US$1,275
29 Dec 2025 - 04 Jan 2026Flexible booking date for 2025-12-29Book now with low depositUS$1,510 US$1,365

Number of travellers

Payment option

Flexible booking: flexible booking

Additional Information

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 .

Additional Information Help Centre

Reviews

Reviews powered by: Power Reviews

16 reviews
S
Sam Pedro Verified Buyer 2024-01-12
Amazing Experience and a must go tour.
It was a fantastic experience and highly recommended tour. We had a very nice time in the tour and we enjoyed the places we visited in Scotland and Wales. We celebrated Hogmanay (New Year Eve) in Edinburgh which was fabulous. Thanks to our Tour Leader Mike who guided us throughout the tour and gave us a quite impressive picture of Great Britain.
T
Travel Bug Verified Buyer 2024-01-06
Trip of a Lifetime
Wow. What a trip. So much to see in a week. The views were stunning. There were 50 of us on the tour and it felt like a big ole wacky but lovable family. Minty our driver was a hoot!!!
L
Leeza Verified Buyer 2024-01-05
Amazing Experience
We had an amazing tour.
D
Dizzy Verified Buyer 2024-01-05
Great Britain Whirlwind Tour
This tour was awesome! We awoke most mornings by 0530 to get loaded, breakfast, and hit the road! Being winter it was dark from around 1630-0800 each day so we were able to catch up on a bit of sleep on the road. Our leader spent time orienting us and taking care of most housekeeping tasks on the road which helped make the best use of our on the "ground" time. There was so much to see and so many beautiful sites! Never enough time to see everything.
P
Patrick Verified Buyer 2024-01-04
Wonderful holiday in the UK
Participated in my first ever tour with Expat Explore. The trip was wonderfully laid out and covered a wide array of sites and activities through the itinerary. The optional excursions enhanced the trip at a reasonable price and really highlighted some things we may not have otherwise seen. Mike and Minty were a great combo of tour leader and bus driver and made the trip memorable and fun, and excited me to look into other expat tour!! Highly recommend to anyone who wants a survey of the UK!!

Why this tour?

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:

  • Ring in the New Year in Edinburgh! Scotland’s capital city is world-famous for its Hogmanay street party festival which you’ll experience on this tour. 
  • Experience breathtaking natural scenery across Great Britain, including the picturesque Scottish Highlands and ruggedly beautiful Glen Coe in Scotland, as well as the stunning Lake District National Park in England.
  • Enjoy classic British experiences including a traditional pub lunch and Scottish whisky tasting. 
  • See the famous Loch Ness and Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest peak. 
  • Visit historic towns and cities such as York, Cambridge, Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon and Gretna Green.
  • Explore Liverpool (home of The Beatles!), Cardiff and Fort William. 

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!