Scotland & England Family Multi-Adventure Tour
Castles & Countryside from Edinburgh to Yorkshire Dales
Hike sections of Hadrian’s Wall and discover the vibrant cycling culture of the Yorkshire Dales. From medieval castles to inviting pools at country estates, come have fun with us in the United Kingdom!
We rate our trips based on a range of activity levels from 1-5.
See this trip's Activity Options & Terrain for more details.
From $6,399/person
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Snapshots from the Trip
Trip at a Glance
Highlights
- Journey through two nations by bike and on foot, experiencing their rich history, beautiful moors and river valleys
- Cruise to the Farne Islands, a National Nature Reserve, to see a seal colony and thousands of seabirds
- Listen to traditional folk music and learn about handcrafted bagpipes
- Ride in the path of cycling legends in an area that hosted the 2014 Grand Départ of the Tour de France
- Share a unique falconry experience, learning to fly birds of prey and letting one perch gently on your outstretched arm
Sample itinerary. Trip details may vary by departure.
Start Edinburgh Airport & Travel Details
- Begin your adventure in the World Heritage city of Edinburgh
- Marvel at ancient castles and fortifications, the result of Viking and Roman invasions
- Cycle across the border between Scotland and England on peaceful country roads
- Discover Melrose Abbey and the charming town of Melrose, renowned for its ties to rugby
- Unwind in a luxurious castle-hotel with a lovely spa and stunning views
- Listen to a traditional musical demonstration by a local friend whose family has handcrafted bagpipes for generations
- Experience a memorable family dinner at a working farm, where we savor the fresh flavors of the land.
Nights 1-2
Luxury Hotel
A luxurious country estate nestled in the peaceful surroundings of the Scottish Borders, featuring elegant rooms with traditional décor and outstanding service. (spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- All aboard for an exciting day of sea life and castles!
- Set out on a cruise to the Farne Islands, a National Nature Reserve off of Northumberland’s coast and home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins and a large colony of grey seals
- Explore Seahouse Harbor before walking a white-sand beach along the North Sea
- Explore the moody and dramatic Bamburgh Castle, a fortress and film location of Indiana Jones and Macbeth
- Relax or splash in the pool at our exquisite hotel and spa retreat.
Night 3
Luxury Hotel
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Journey into the Yorkshire Dales, the site of such classic tales as Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights
- Hike along Hadrian’s Wall, passing drystone walls and fields of sheep
- Cycle the river valleys and delightful towns of Yorkshire Dales National Park, England’s mecca for cyclists
- Continue through looming green dales into Nidderdale, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, while kids enjoy some exciting outdoor activities at the expansive Swinton Estate
- Hop off the saddle and explore the quaint shops in the picturesque market town of Pateley Bridge
- Sip celebratory afternoon tea
- Learn about birds of prey and the ancient art of falconry from an expert
- Ramble through fields and dales and explore a folly of a Druid’s Temple
- Extend your vacation in Edinburgh or London, our fascinating gateway cities.
Nights 4-5
Luxury Hotel
This historic award-winning castle-turned-hotel boasts ornate ceilings and priceless art, as well as locally sourced fare and indoor, outdoor and hydrotherapy pools. (pool, spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
End York Airport & Travel Details
This trip has an activity level range of 2-4
The biking terrain includes rolling woodland with longer climbs to high moors and over mountain passes. Routes pass through villages, with short sections on traffic roads, gravel and cobblestones.
Kid-friendly routes are shorter and hilly in places, and alternate kids’ activities are available on days with longer rides. Some sections are on roads with traffic (riding is on the left side) and little shoulder, so kids should be comfortable riding with cars on the opposite side of the road and controlling speed on downhills.
Hiking routes may include rocky or muddy stretches.
Please note, because the hiking trails are inaccessible by road, van support may not always be available for the hikes. Also, due to Scotland's varied terrain, hikes may feel more challenging than the activity levels may suggest.
All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners
All accommodations on your Backroads trip
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Expertise and services of Backroads Trip Leaders
Kids' bikes, trailer bikes, carriers and kid-sized helmets
Bike fitting and equipment support throughout your trip
Lightweight carbon hiking poles
Backroads On Trip App with route maps, elevation profiles, daily snapshots and more
Additional local guides and experts, plus equipment for included activities as detailed in your itinerary
Exclusive activities, tours and cultural experiences, as detailed in your itinerary
All luggage transfers and porterage during your trip
Snacks and beverages between meals
Private cocktail and wine receptions on the first and last nights of your trip
Choice of Backroads cycling jersey, t-shirt or hat, plus water bottle and luggage tag
Detailed Travel Planner with destination tips and pre-trip information
