If you’re thinking about a trip to the UK, chances are you’re thinking about adding a touch of royalty to your travel plans.
Back-Roads Touring may just have the perfect small group tour for you encompassing the castles and palaces, lavish gardens, abbeys and more.
The Royal Tour of Britain is an immersive nine-day tour highlighting the best of the UK.
From Edinburgh to York, Oxford to London, the culture, architecture, history and royal connections are laid out in front of you making for the trip of a lifetime.
Cobblestone streets of Edinburgh
One of the first stops on the tour after spectacular Edinburgh is St Andrews University. One of the world’s top academic institutions, the attraction for visitors is the magnificent architecture and beautiful grounds. Later, it’s on to one of Queen Victoria’s favourite picnic spots at Loch Muick in Ballater. It is said that some members of the royal family still visit this tranquil place.
Purchased by Prince Albert in the 1850s, Balmoral Castle is still the summer castle of the Queen. Admire the beauty of this mega-fortress with its classic turrets and manicured lawns, before making your way to a place of worship for the Royal Family, Crathie Church.
Balmoral Castle
Every British monarch has worshipped here since Queen Victoria.
There are plenty more royal attractions to see in Scotland, including the 400-year old Braemar Castle, the imposing mountain-top fortress Edinburgh Castle that overlooks the city and a more recent attraction, the royal yacht, HMY Britannia. Launched in 1953, the 5,800-tonne vessel sailed the world for the sitting monarch before decommissioning in 1997.
This adventure delves deep into Britain’s history and culture. In England, we celebrate ‘Great British Puddings’ and trace the footsteps of writers and poets. While in North Wales and Scotland, our journey highlights grand castles and plenty of spectacular scenery.
Heart of England
Discover the back streets of Oxford, The Cotswolds, Bath and Avebury and immerse yourself in the world of some of history’s greats.
French Barge Cruising
Rich and refined, Burgundy is as elegant and enticing as the fine wines produced there. But this tour shines a more voluminous light on the famous French region where the food and wine are but an accompaniment to the other great attractions found here.
ANZAC Western Front
Follow in the footsteps of heroes with an expert guide as you trace some of the most significant battlefields in Australia’s wartime history.
Enchanting Italy
Southern Italy arouses the senses. Step back in time in Naples, to the days of the Roman Empire. Tour ancient cities and marble temples, and explore pastel-hued villages on the Amalfi Coast, all while savouring exquisite regional cuisine.
Corners of Cornwall
From windswept moors and wild coastlines to historic cities and picture-perfect fishing villages, discover Cornwall and its many attractions. The region’s maritime heritage, rural beauty and culinary offerings will delight all who visit. Your tour provides plenty of free time too for independent discovery.
The Emerald Isle
Discover Ireland from north to south starting with the legendary Giant’s Causeway and Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. Your Back Roads tour will take you through charming Irish villages and across rugged peninsulas, where sweeping views of the Wicklow Mountains create a dramatic setting for your Emerald Isle adventure.
An afternoon free to explore in York, this walled city in England’s north-east offers an extensive array of historic attractions to visit. The tour’s second day in York will take in landmarks like York Minster, the stunning Gothic cathedral that dominates the city’s skyline.
History and literary enthusiasts will undoubtedly enjoy the Royal Tour of Britain as it continues to Stratford-Upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. On the River Avon, the charming town is a joy to explore. Walk across the river on historic Clopton Bridge, see the famous writer’s home and birthplace and visit the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
William Shakespeare’s house
Oxford and London are undoubtedly the crown jewels when it comes to royal attractions. From the stately buildings and grounds of Oxford University to London, where history, politics, entertainment and culture converge, the tour ends on some high notes.
Home of the reigning monarch, a tour of Buckingham Palace is first on the London tour agenda. The city tour continues with a look at St. James’ Palace, Clarence House and more. Equally fascinating, the tour of Kensington Palace includes a visit to the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain as well as Albert Memorial.
Topping off the tour, a visit to Windsor Castle makes for a breathtaking finish. The centuries-old castle is one of Queen Elizabeth’s favourite weekend retreats and during her great, great grandmother’s reign, it was used often for royal entertainment engagements.
MORE BACK-ROADS TOUR YOU’LL LOVE
England, Scotland, Wales
This adventure delves deep into Britain’s history and culture. In England, we celebrate ‘Great British Puddings’ and trace the footsteps of writers and poets. While in North Wales and Scotland, our journey highlights grand castles and plenty of spectacular scenery.
Heart of England
Discover the back streets of Oxford, The Cotswolds, Bath and Avebury and immerse yourself in the world of some of history’s greats.
French Barge Cruising
Rich and refined, Burgundy is as elegant and enticing as the fine wines produced there. But this tour shines a more voluminous light on the famous French region where the food and wine are but an accompaniment to the other great attractions found here.
ANZAC Western Front
Follow in the footsteps of heroes with an expert guide as you trace some of the most significant battlefields in Australia’s wartime history.
Enchanting Italy
Southern Italy arouses the senses. Step back in time in Naples, to the days of the Roman Empire. Tour ancient cities and marble temples, and explore pastel-hued villages on the Amalfi Coast, all while savouring exquisite regional cuisine.
Corners of Cornwall
From windswept moors and wild coastlines to historic cities and picture-perfect fishing villages, discover Cornwall and its many attractions. The region’s maritime heritage, rural beauty and culinary offerings will delight all who visit. Your tour provides plenty of free time too for independent discovery.
The Emerald Isle
Discover Ireland from north to south starting with the legendary Giant’s Causeway and Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. Your Back Roads tour will take you through charming Irish villages and across rugged peninsulas, where sweeping views of the Wicklow Mountains create a dramatic setting for your Emerald Isle adventure.
An Australian / American travel writer, Todd Sturm contributes travel and airline related feature articles for well known travel brands, including Australia's top national lifestyle magazine. Todd has also worked in the airline industry on both sides of the Pacific. His travel passions range from airlines, cruises and luxury hotels, to national parks, historic sites and off-the-beaten-track adventures.
