United Kingdom Tours

Yes, the UK is a fascinating country to explore as a solo traveller. From the Viking heritage of York in northern England to the vibrant international communities of London, every region has its own unique story to tell.

To make your journey smoother, the UK Government advises arranging airport transfers in advance. That’s why joining a small group tour is an effortless option, as all of the logistics are already arranged for you. The country is relatively well-connected by public transport, and on our trips you'll be met either at the train station or airport (see trip page for specific details).

There are various international airports spread across the UK, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Edinburgh, Belfast, Glasgow and Aberdeen. If you're arriving into London, it's very well-connected with cross-country train services; as an idea, trains from London to Edinburgh takes around 4-5 hours.

In some cases it is convenient to take a train to the start of your trip. It's not all about flights – you can also travel by train; check out partnership with International Rail who can help you create your itinerary to the start (and/or end) of your trip.

For the majority of our tours, your tour leader will meet you at the airport or train station, where there's a free transfer included if you arrive on day one of the tour – but always check the trip page for specific details. 

Our small group trips use a mix of public and private transport, including ferries, allow you to travel at ease knowing that all the logistics have already been organised for you! Once you're in the UK, getting around is relatively straight-forward. The UK has an extensive public transport network including buses, trains and the London Underground (TfL) plus more. Many cities are highly walkable, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Fish and chips. Whiskey. A decent cup of tea. The UK offers both traditional cuisine and dishes with modern-twists, with a focus on hearty, warming flavours. There's also an exhilerating range of international food and drink, and vegetarians and vegans are well catered for. 

On our Northern Ireland tour you'll learn about Irish whiskey production with tastings at a local distillery. Across other UK trips, you can enjoy meals at local restaurants and have the chance to mingle with residents, adding authentic flavour to your journey. Many of our UK tours are Polar voyages, meaning that dining is primarily onboard the ship. 

Meal offerings vary depending on the vessel and itinerary, but typically include multiple courses, a selection of house wines, beers, and soft drinks, plus complimentary tea, coffee, and snacks throughout the day. Whether you're exploring on land or at sea, you’ll be well looked after with thoughtfully curated dining experiences. Find out more about the M/V Greg Mortimer ship here, and more about the M/V Sylvia Earle here. 

Make sure you tell us of any allergies or dietary requirements at the time of booking, and to remind your tour leader on day one of the tour.