TOP 3 DESTINATIONS
City Breaks to Enjoy by Coach...
Britain’s cities have rich histories and vibrant communities, which makes them fascinating places to visit with a group. Here are three of our favourite destinations and a little bit about why you should visit:
London...
Even if you’ve never been to London before, you will be sure to recognise some of its famous landmarks. Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and The Tower of London are all historical monuments that you are going to want to see for yourself. Don’t forget your camera, so that you can grab a selfie with one of Her Majesty’s Guards, or take a photo out over the Thames while riding on the London Eye.
There are plenty of indoor pursuits to explore, as London is not renowned for its dry and sunny weather. Madame Tussauds gives you a chance to get up close and personal with the stars (albeit wax versions of the real things), while the London Dungeons will leave you quaking in your boots with live re-enactments of famous events in the capital’s history. Kids will love the London Aquarium, with its fantastic display of brightly coloured fishes, magnificent rays and fierce sharks; and then you can take them for a spin on one of the red open-topped buses to get the grand tour of what the rest of the city has to offer.
And while you are there, it would be criminal not to experience a west-end show, or a comedy performance. Or if music is more your thing, you can experience live bands nearly every night of the week. And make sure you take a trip down Oxford Street and Carnaby Street for the best shopping experience.
Oxford...
Just an hour and a half from London by coach, the City of Dreaming Spires is one of the most rewarding day trips in Britain. Wander between historic colleges, some of them more than 700 years old, and take in the views from the tower of the University Church.
The Bodleian Library and the Radcliffe Camera are among the most photographed buildings in the country, while the Ashmolean Museum holds treasures from ancient Egypt to the modern day. Film fans will recognise many corners of the city from famous films and TV series.
For a relaxed afternoon, try punting on the River Cherwell or browse the Covered Market. And because your coach is booked just for your group, it is easy to add Blenheim Palace or a drive through the Cotswolds on the same day.
These three cities really do represent some of the best Britain has to offer. So where will you visit first?
Edinburgh...
Travel north of London and experience the delight that is Edinburgh. Scotland’s beautiful capital city has so much to offer that you will never want to leave. With its own extinct volcanoes providing the backdrop to the city, and lush green parks that seem to stretch for miles, there are plenty of photo opportunities for those who want them.
The rolling hills are a great spot for those who enjoy a bit of trekking, and the views from the top are well worth the walk. But before you set off on your trip you’ll need some much-needed fuel in the form of a traditional Scottish breakfast. There are a variety of pubs and cafes that serve up haggis, eggs, bacon, sausage, white pudding, beans, mushrooms and tattie scones, and it is one meal of the day worth trying.
Shopaholics will love Victoria Street, with its numerous fashion boutiques and independent food stores, while those who delight in architecture will need to visit the Scott Monument – a spooky looking building dedicated to the memory of Sir Walter Scott.
And, of course, Scotland is a place full of culture. Take a trip to Edinburgh Castle, or wander through the Scottish National Galleries. You can visit one of the city’s many theatres or appreciate live music at one of the many gig venues. And if you visit at the right time of year you will get to experience the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the biggest arts festival in the world which lasts for nearly a month.