It has never left Scotland before, but next month, Orient-Express Trains and Cruises' Royal Scotsman will be making its first-ever trip across the border for a seven-day journey through Scotland, England and Wales. Highlights of the journey include England's Lake District, Chester, Portmeiron and Conway Castle in Wales, Bath, Oxford, Cambridge, Durham and York.
In addition to seeing the sights of the cities the train visits and admiring a continuing vista of gorgeous countryside, passengers on The Royal Scotsman can enjoy private off-the-train cocktail receptions, gala meals and experiences. The July 2010 grand tour of Great Britain will include:
* Private clay pigeon shooting and wildlife walk near Rothiemurchus
* Private, Highlander-guided tour of Culloden Battlefield
* Historian-led walking tour of medieval Chester
* Guided tours of Bath, Oxford, the Nene Valley Railway, Cambridge, Durham and York
* Lunch at Orient-Express' award-winning Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons near Oxford
* Visit to Alnmouth in Northumberland for a private viewing of Alnwick Castle and an exclusive farewell dinner.
The Royal Scotsman's Grand Tour of Great Britain departs Edinburgh on July 9 and is priced at $12,800 per person double occupancy, and $20,480 for a single. All meals, wines, an open bar and sightseeing excursions are included in the fare.