What if the dream of traveling like a local became a reality? Our Signature Trip explores regions of England and Wales that you might not have dared to discover on your own while enjoying the comfort and organization of a well-crafted holiday.
Your adventurous spirit will be delighted by the discovery of the most beautiful trails of England and Wales, combined in one trip: begin with the majestic peaks of Snowdonia in Wales, where rugged mountains and cascading waterfalls captivate the spirit of exploration. Explore the medieval charm of Chester, with its historic city walls and unique Tudor-style buildings. Journey onward to the Lake District in England, a tapestry of pristine lakes and picturesque valleys. Kayak through serene waters, discovering hidden coves and wildlife.
Highlights
Kayaking in Bala Lake
Snowdonia National Park
Lake District Sunset
Ambleside, Lake district
Day By day
Welcome to Britain, where your outdoor adventure begins. Your private driver awaits to transfer you to Reading train station, where you'll board the direct line train to Cardiff, and we welcome you to Wales. Cardiff, Wales's capital, combines historic charm with modern vibrancy. Its skyline features landmarks like Cardiff Castle, complemented by a lively waterfront. The city is a hub for Welsh educational institutions like Cardiff University and offers a diverse cultural and culinary scene. Cardiff's blend of heritage, green spaces, and a dynamic atmosphere makes it an inviting destination. If you want to discover the city from a fun perspective, we can arrange a Private "Doctor Who" Tour of the City: discover locations in the Welsh capital used in the hit TV series. Learn how Cardiff was used for intergalactic purposes and transformed to become New York, Pompeii, and more. Overnight: Cardiff
On the first full day of your luxury adventure, your hire car awaits, to take you out on the highway, leaving the hustle of Cardiff behind and escaping into the wide open spaces of Wales. Wind and weave your way through the scenic and breathtaking Brecon Beacons National Park, following the contours of the River Wye. Peel off along the way and head towards the brooding peaks and troughs of Snowdonia National Park - which covers much of the northern half of Wales - arriving at Bala Lake. Enjoy an afternoon of water activities, whether it's kayaking, paddleboarding, or even sailing. If you prefer, try your hand at fly-fishing with your very own 'ghillie.' As the evening light fades, revel in your surroundings with a delicious meal before heading off to dream of the adventures that await you. For your accommodation, we can tailor your stay from a snug lakeside guesthouse to the embrace of a historic and grand luxury estate. Overnight: Bala Lake
Cycling around Bala Lake in Wales offers a picturesque adventure. Begin your day breathing in fresh mountain air as you pedal along the scenic paths that hug the lake's shoreline. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Snowdonia hills and the serene waters of Bala Lake. Pause for a lakeside picnic, taking in the tranquillity of the lake and its beautiful surroundings. As you continue your journey, explore charming nearby villages, encounter friendly locals, and relish the sense of freedom that comes with cycling in this idyllic Welsh landscape. No visit to Bala would be complete without a ride on the Bala Lake Railway admiring the mountain vistas as you steam along the largest natural lake in Wales. Overnight: Bala Lake
Today, meet your private guide to explore the rugged beauty of the Snowdonia National Park, with its towering mountains, deep valleys, and pristine lakes. The iconic Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, stands as a majestic centrepiece. Hiking to its summit is a great adventure and rewards hikers with panoramic views of lush landscapes and distant coastlines. There are several trails to the summit, ranging from moderate walks to a classic airy ridge scramble, so the day can be tailored to how adventurous you want to be. Your guide will help you choose the right hike for you as well as giving you insights in Welsh life and culture. At the summit, the sense of accomplishment is matched only by the breathtaking vistas that unfold across Snowdonia and beyond. Celebrate your adventure back at your hotel with an exclusive drop of award-winning Welsh whiskey from the Penderyn distillery. Overnight: Bala Lake
Prepare yourself for a fully guided exhilarating canyoning adventure in the heart of Snowdonia's rugged playground. Descend deep gorges, navigating waterfalls and natural rock formations. The experience combines hiking, climbing, and swimming in the breathtaking Welsh countryside. Surrounded by lush landscapes, you’ll be immersed in the wild beauty of cascading water and hidden ravines. Our experienced professional guide will ensure a thrilling and safe day out that you won’t forget in a hurry! Overnight: Bala Lake
The next chapter of your luxury adventure in Britain takes you into England and the magnificent city of Chester, a great place to explore on your way to the Lake District. Chester is a city steeped in history, charm, and mystery. Explore its intact city walls, the oldest racecourse, and the largest Roman Amphitheatre in Britain. Delve into the 1000-year-old Cathedral, home to Europe's finest medieval carvings. Begin with a walk along the Chester's city walls, providing views of historic architecture. Discover the unique Rows, medieval shops housed in covered walkways, and peruse charming boutiques. Enjoy a leisurely boat trip along the scenic River Dee, taking in the picturesque surroundings. Conclude your day with a delightful traditional meal in one of Chester's cozy restaurants, savouring the city's rich blend of history and modernity. Overnight: Chester
Get ready for an awe-inspiring adventure, guided by our falconry team as you engage firsthand with majestic birds of prey during our extraordinary flying experiences. Choose between our immersive flying taster session, The Raptor Encounter, or the thrilling Eagle Adventure, ensuring unforgettable moments with these majestic birds that will stay with you forever! Return to your hotel for an afternoon of pampering and indulgence, enjoying the spa, luxurious treatments, and a gourmet afternoon tea to cap off the most amazing day. Overnight: Chester
Bid farewell to Chester and say hello to the delights of the Lake District in northern England for the next part of your outdoor exploration of England and Wales. Located in the northwest of England, this National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site is a national treasure where you’ll discover shimmering lakes, rolling hills, and charming villages. Today you'll explore Ambleside, a quaint village bordered by Lake Windermere. Its cobbled streets are lined with cozy cafes, traditional pubs, and outdoor shops. Surrounded by lush greenery, Ambleside serves as a gateway to hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, providing a perfect base for exploring the natural wonders of the Lake District. Whether cruising on the lake or hiking the fells, Ambleside offers a serene escape in the heart of this breathtaking national park. Stay in a country house retreat, offering a haven of peace to unwind and rejuvenate. Overnight: Ambleside
Embark on a personalized adventure with a private guided walk in the heart of the Lake District, tailored to accommodate all abilities. Traverse scenic paths and discover the region's natural beauty with an experienced guide leading the way. Whether it's a leisurely lakeside stroll or a more challenging hillside hike, you’ll enjoy informative commentary on the area's history and ecology while relishing breathtaking vistas, interspersed with a picnic lunch. This inclusive experience ensures a memorable and accessible exploration of the Lake District's diverse landscapes. All this walking makes for thirsty work, and there is no place like the ‘Old Dungeon Ghyll’ pub in the Langdale Valley to refresh those dry mouths. Uncover the history of the many walkers and climbers who have made this iconic watering hole famous. Overnight: Ambleside
Kayaking in England's Lake District is a magical experience. Escape the hustle of daily life, as you glide serenly across tranquil lakes, accompanied by the gently lapping water against the bow of your kayak and the calls of birds overhead. Discover hidden coves or uninhabited islands like the characters from Authur Ransome’s Swallows and Amazons (set in the Lake District) as you set out on your very own mini adventure. Encounter wildlife in their natural habitat — swans, ducks, and, who knows, perhaps deer, otters, or eagles along the shoreline. Suitable for all skill levels, the Lake District's varied lakes, from expansive Windermere to intimate Derwentwater, offer diverse kayaking experiences. As the sun sets, relish Lake District's renowned breathtaking beauty as you enjoy your beautiful accommodation and a traditional English meal. Overnight: Ambleside
Your luxury adventure in England's Lake District takes a more relaxing turn as your private guide leads you to the enchanting locations frequented by Beatrix Potter, where her timeless tales come to life. Explore her former home, Hill Top, nestled in the picturesque village of Near Sawrey, and stroll through vibrant gardens that inspired her stories. Visit the charming village of Hawkshead, a source of inspiration for Potter's illustrations and characters, including the beloved Peter Rabbit. After this immersive tour, indulge in a serene cruise on Lake Windermere, the largest body of water in the Lake District. As the boat glides gracefully across the shimmering waters, offering breathtaking views of lush landscapes, feel the gentle breeze as you absorb the tranquillity that inspired Beatrix Potter's beloved tales. Overnight: Ambleside
It is time to bid farewell to the Lake District and make your way to the return point of your hire car (closer airports are Glasgow and Manchester, only a 2-hour drive). As your luxury adventure in England and Wales concludes, we thank you for choosing our services. Safe travels, and many happy memories for your return home. Congratulations to the Adventurer in you!
EXCLUSIVE
accommodation
Boutique hotels, unique lodgings, and authentic houses... our team will carefully handpick your accommodations while traveling with us
Our Expertinsight
“This signature trip can easily be adapted to suit your particular interest and level of activities. Whether you prefer your feet firmly on the ground or you’re happier in the water we can adapt this active outdoor trip to suit you and your interests. Both National Parks – Snowdonia and the Lake District – are sufficiently large that you can spend several weeks let alone a few days in either walking, climbing, kayaking, or canyoning, and not cover the same ground twice! So, tell us what you like or what adventure you would like to try, and we’ll do the rest. The great thing about both National Parks is that there are many cultural delights and cozy hotels close at hand at the end of the day. I spent much of my twenties walking and climbing the mountains of both these wonderful parks of England and Wales and it would be my pleasure to let you in on a few secrets to make sure you get the best out of your trip such as experiencing the best cuppa, taking in a lecture by a famous mountaineer or enjoying some of the best beaches in the whole of Britain!”
William, Local Expert
Testimonials
Our trip was positively flawless, and the service while we were "en route" on our trip was responsive and helpful. The locations and activities that Jane recommended and help to orchestrate were spot on, and enabled us to feel far more like "travelers" than tourists. We enjoyed every aspect of our Wales vacation!
Laura & Scott F.
We had an awesome and seamless experience. We enjoyed especially the kayaking! I am so happy to have had Sarah's help! I could not have done this alone.
Mary Ann T.
We are
a full-service Tour Operator and our trips generally include:
accommodation, transportation, visits, immersive experiences, personal crafting, unique roadbook creation and assistance on the ground (meals & flights excluded). Please note that this trip price will vary based on factors such as your hotel preferences, your favourite transportation mode, whether you want to take part in shared group activities or private experiences, travel dates, and more. To receive a customized quote for your tailor-made trip, please reach out to us directly.