Family Festive Itinerary

Your driver will meet you in the Arrivals Hall at London Heathrow (he will have a sign with your name on it) and provide private chauffeur service to your chosen London hotel.

Settle into your luxury accommodation in the heart of London, perfectly positioned to explore the festive magic of the British capital.

The rest of your first day is at leisure to recover from your journey and explore the neighborhood at your own pace.

Begin your day with a comprehensive Royal London tour, discovering the grandeur and pageantry of Britain's royal heritage. Visit iconic landmarks including Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Changing of the Guard.

In the afternoon, enjoy a panoramic tour of London's most famous sights, taking in the festive decorations that transform the city into a winter wonderland. See the Christmas lights on Regent Street and Oxford Street, and marvel at the spectacular holiday displays.

Experience London's holiday spirit as the city prepares for Christmas, with twinkling lights, festive markets, and seasonal cheer around every corner.

Travel to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and an official residence of His Majesty The King. Explore the magnificent State Apartments, still used today for state occasions, and see Queen Mary's Dolls' House, a masterpiece of design.

Experience the enchantment of a horse-drawn carriage ride around the historic town of Windsor, taking in the festive atmosphere and picturesque winter scenery.

Enjoy a quintessentially British afternoon tea at Windsor Castle, complete with delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of festive pastries.

Attend an Evensong Carol Service in St. George's Chapel, a truly magical and moving experience as the choir's voices echo through the historic chapel.

Step back in time at Hampton Court Palace, the magnificent Tudor palace that was once home to King Henry VIII. Explore the grand State Apartments, the Great Hall, and the historic Tudor kitchens.

Enjoy an exclusive private tour in Tudor costume with one of the palace's expert guides, bringing the history of this remarkable place vividly to life. Learn about the daily lives of Henry VIII and his six wives in an immersive and entertaining experience.

Wander through the famous Hampton Court maze and discover the beautiful palace gardens, which take on a special charm in winter.

Experience the magic of the palace's Christmas festivities, with special seasonal decorations that recreate the Tudor Christmas celebrations of centuries past.

Take a full-day privately guided tour to the historic city of Oxford, home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Walk through the ancient college courtyards, visit the Bodleian Library, and see the locations used in the Harry Potter films.

Continue to Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. This magnificent baroque palace is set in over 2,000 acres of landscaped parkland designed by Capability Brown.

Marvel at the State Rooms filled with priceless works of art and tapestries. During the festive season, the palace is decorated with spectacular Christmas displays, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Return to London for Christmas Eve dinner at your hotel or at one of London's finest restaurants.

Enjoy a relaxing Christmas Day at your leisure. Many hotels offer special Christmas Day lunches with all the traditional trimmings, or you may choose to explore London's peaceful streets on this special day.

Optional: Join a Charles Dickens Christmas walking tour and discover the London of Victorian Christmas past. Walk in the footsteps of Scrooge and Tiny Tim, and learn about the traditions and customs that Charles Dickens helped to popularize.

Experience the unique atmosphere of London on Christmas Day, when the bustling city takes a peaceful pause and the festive spirit fills the air.

This is your day to relax, reflect, and celebrate the holiday season in one of the world's most iconic cities.

Celebrate Boxing Day with a visit to the historic Borough Market, one of London's oldest and most renowned food markets. Sample artisan cheeses, fresh pastries, and gourmet treats from around the world.

Embark on Paddington Bear's Marmalade Trail through London, visiting filming locations and discovering the magical world of everyone's favorite bear from Peru. This delightful walking tour is perfect for families.

Visit Hamley's, the world's oldest and largest toy store on Regent Street. Experience the wonder and excitement as you explore seven floors of toys, games, and entertainment.

Stroll through the Christmas markets at Southbank, enjoying mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and browsing unique gifts and crafts along the Thames.

Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the world's most diverse collection of living plants. During the festive season, Kew Gardens transforms into an illuminated wonderland with the spectacular Christmas at Kew light trail.

Walk through glasshouses filled with exotic plants from tropical rainforests and arid deserts. Climb the iconic Treetop Walkway for stunning views across the gardens and London beyond.

In the evening, attend a special performance at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. Experience world-class ballet or opera in one of the world's most prestigious performing arts venues, beautifully decorated for the festive season.

End your evening with a stroll through the charming streets of Covent Garden, where street performers entertain beneath the twinkling Christmas lights.

After breakfast, depart London for Edinburgh by First Class train, enjoying the scenic journey through the English and Scottish countryside. Your reserved seats ensure a comfortable and relaxing journey north.

Arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland's historic capital, where your private driver will transfer you to your luxury hotel. Known as the 'Athens of the North,' Edinburgh is a city of stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Take an afternoon tour of Edinburgh's city centre, exploring the medieval Old Town and the elegant Georgian New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Walk along the famous Royal Mile and see Edinburgh Castle perched dramatically on its volcanic rock.

Enjoy dinner at one of Edinburgh's excellent restaurants, perhaps trying traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, Scottish salmon, or Aberdeen Angus beef.

Begin your day with a magical Harry Potter walking tour of Edinburgh. Discover the cafes where J.K. Rowling wrote the Harry Potter books, visit the graveyards that inspired character names, and see the school that influenced Hogwarts.

Explore the inspiration behind Diagon Alley in Victoria Street's colorful shops, and learn how Edinburgh's medieval closes and wynds influenced the magical world of Harry Potter.

Visit the Edinburgh Chocolatarium for an interactive chocolate-making experience. Learn about the journey from cocoa bean to chocolate bar, and create your own personalized chocolate treats to take home.

Spend the afternoon exploring Edinburgh's Royal Mile, visiting the many shops, museums, and historic sites along this famous street that connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Visit Edinburgh Castle, Scotland's most iconic fortress, perched high on Castle Rock overlooking the city. Explore the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the National War Museum. Don't miss the One O'Clock Gun, fired daily (except Sundays) since 1861.

Take a day trip to Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's grandest castles and a key stronghold in Scottish history. The castle has been magnificently restored to reflect its grandeur during the reigns of the Stewart kings and queens.

Learn about famous Scottish heroes William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, whose victories in the Scottish Wars of Independence are closely tied to Stirling's history.

Return to Edinburgh in the evening for ice skating at the Christmas market in Edinburgh's New Town. Glide across the ice beneath the stars with Edinburgh's magnificent Georgian architecture as your backdrop.

Experience Hogmanay, Edinburgh's world-famous New Year's Eve celebration! Edinburgh's Hogmanay is considered one of the greatest New Year celebrations on Earth, featuring a spectacular street party, live music, and fireworks.

Spend the day at leisure, perhaps visiting some of Edinburgh's excellent museums, shopping on Princes Street, or enjoying afternoon tea at your hotel.

As evening approaches, join the festivities as the city comes alive with music, dancing, and celebration. The atmosphere is electric as thousands gather to welcome the New Year in true Scottish style.

At midnight, witness the spectacular fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle, followed by traditional renditions of 'Auld Lang Syne.' Join in the Scottish tradition of 'first-footing' and toast the New Year with the warmth and hospitality Scotland is famous for.

After a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a gentle morning walk to recover from the Hogmanay celebrations, your private driver will transfer you to Edinburgh Airport for your international departure.

As you bid farewell to Scotland, take with you unforgettable memories of a magical festive journey through two of Britain's greatest cities - from London's royal pageantry and Christmas traditions to Edinburgh's historic grandeur and spectacular Hogmanay celebrations.

End of services with memories to treasure forever from your extraordinary Family Festive adventure.