group tours of uk

Get the Hottest Deals First!

United kingdom.

Regal. Charming. Scenic.

Comprised of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the United Kingdom definitely has dozens of reasons worth leaving home for. Mountains, valleys, hills and dales, forests and gardens, oh and no less than 25 UNESCO World Heritage sites scattered throughout, are but a few. You will find a slew of cathedrals, castles, palaces and country houses spanning history. Centuries of inspiring the world, influencing the arts, and forming natural beauty have developed this land into one great nation.

Destination Must-See's

A world in a city is a common way to describe the metropolis of London, the capital of England. A cultural melting pot of over 230 nationalities, London is the financial, political and cultural capital of the UK. It is booming with activity and bursting with sightseeing treasures. You’ll find historic highlights from the haunting Tower of London to the ornate Buckingham Palace and more modern attractions such as the world-famous Harrods department store and the towering London Eye.

The capital city and second most populous in Scotland, Edinburgh has been recognized for its historic and cultural attractions. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK after London. Great shopping, historic architecture and great Scottish whisky are just part of its allure. Its greatest draw is Edinburgh Castle. This sprawling medieval castle and fortress sits atop Castle Rock in the city center, dominating Edinburgh’s skyline.

Giant’s Causeway:

At the foot of the basalt cliffs on the coast of Northern Ireland’s County of Antrim lies the stunning Giant’s Causeway. Travelers flock to this UNESCO World Heritage site to experience the 40,000 massive dark columns rising from the sea. The natural phenomena has sparked legends of giants and magic, but its unique geology points to volcanic activity from over 50 million years ago. The Giant’s Causeway is a beautiful sight and the experience of a lifetime.

Cornwall, a region located on a peninsula in southwest England, is comprised of many different towns and villages that feature beautiful beaches and picturesque coastlines. Bordered by the Celtic Sea and the English Channel, one of its most popular towns is St. Ives. This seaside port town just north of Penzance on the coast of the Celtic Sea is known as the art center of West Cornwall and has a sub-tropical feel and beautiful beaches.

Destination Must-Do's

England’s Lake District:

Lose yourself in the natural beauty of this mountainous region in northwest England dotted with tranquil lakes. One of the picturesque villages in the region is Grasmere, once home of and inspiration to the romantic poet William Wordsworth. Perhaps you will take a sail on one of the lakes and take in the peaceful backdrop of lush green mountains, serene shorelines and pristine calm waters dotted with tiny islands.

Stonehenge:

Walk in the footsteps of so many before you when visiting prehistoric Stonehenge. This mysterious rock formation dates back to the Stone Age and remains one of the world’s most famous sites. Standing in the middle of the most dense complex of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments in England, Stonehenge is perhaps the most important prehistoric monument in England. The experience of seeing this timeless monument is not to be missed – it will surely be a highlight of your visit.

This large, deep freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands extends approximately 23 miles southwest of the city of Inverness. Loch Ness is best known for the alleged sightings of the Loch Ness monster. While Loch Ness is not the largest Scottish loch by surface area, it is the largest by volume, with its deepest point at 755 feet. Along the shore, you will find the ruins of Urquhart Castle. This once mighty site rests on the headwaters of Loch Ness and dates back as far as the 13th century.

Prepare to step back in time in the English countryside. The Cotswolds are roughly 25 miles across and 90 miles long, stretching from Stratford-upon-Avon to Bath. The region is known for its small towns and villages with homes made from golden colored Cotswold stone and grass roofs that sit among lush greenery and rolling hills. Stratford-upon-Avon is perhaps its most famous town. Lying along the River Avon, it’s famed for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare, one of the world’s great playwrights. Be sure to make a trip to see the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Expert Advice

Think “go to the right.” It is their natural flow of traffic even when it comes to walking. It is important to not only look both ways when crossing the street, but also when on an escalator, stand to the right. When walking down the street, stay alert and follow the flow – to the right.

Expect to be offered tea, a lot. The British love their tea and not only during afternoon tea, any time for any reason. But you should know there is a “proper” way to drink it. The rules are – sit up straight, do not blow on it, take small sips with your pinky down, and put the cup on the saucer between sips. Now you are prepared to sip away.

Bring a raincoat and umbrella, as it rains one out of three days in the UK. It does vary from region to region, but generally speaking, they are important items to have on hand at all times.

Featured Tours to United Kingdom

Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend

Discover Scotland

Discover Scotland featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

British Landscapes featuring England, Scotland and Wales

British Landscapes featuring The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The Shades of the English Countryside featuring London, Cornwall & The Cotswolds

Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Coasts & Countrysides of England with Edinburgh, Liverpool & London with Edinburgh, Liverpool & London

Brochures that Feature Our United Kingdom Tours

Find a travel agency.

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

• Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
• Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
• I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

View or Download

TTC family of brands

My Trafalgar

Destinations

Get Inspired

866 513 1995

Best of Britain

1391 reviews

Today's Deal

Save up to $502

Available Dates

Your itinerary

Dates & prices

14-Day UK Tour of England and Scotland

14 days, 3 countries and 23 cities

Accommodation

13 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 5 Dinners

View day-by-day trip itinerary

Explore the Best of Britain on this incredible trip across England, Scotland and Wales, and travel over the sea to the Isle of Skye. Imagine life as a Benedictine monk at Buckfast Abbey, feel the hope of brave pilgrims in Plymouth and be inspired by the beauty of Lake Windermere.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

Trip code: 

Low deposit from $200

Deposit protection

Free booking changes

Trip map & itinerary

Day by day itinerary

14 days itinerary trip from London to London visiting 3 countries and 23 cities

Download itinerary

Print itinerary

Expand all days

About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore London, Liverpool, the Isle of Skye and Edinburgh

Discover Bath, Plymouth, Cardiff, Chester, Glasgow and York

Visit the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge, the Roman Baths in Bath, Polperro, Buckfast Abbey, Glastonbury Abbey, the town of Ludlow, the Isle of Skye, Edinburgh Castle and Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon

View Eilean Donan Castle, Alnwick Castle used as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films, York Minster in York and Anne Hathaway's thatched cottage in Stratford-upon-Avon

See England's Dartmoor National Park and Lake District, Ben Nevis and Glencoe in the Scottish Highlands and the 18th green at St. Andrews

Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates

See Glencoe

Drive through this Highland village on Loch Leven.

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

The services of a Trafalgar Local Host when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel

Pick-up and drop-off when you stay at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel, booked through Trafalgar

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Frequently asked questions

Your search for ""

What is a definite departure?

A departure is shown as 'Definite Departure' once it has reached a minimum number of guests. That particular departure will definitely run, barring any extraordinary circumstances. We update these regularly, and you can book any departure. While it is highly unlikely a departure doesn't meet the minimum number of guests, you will be offered the best alternative dates or a full refund of any payment made if this is the case. If there are ever any changes to your departure, we will contact you.

How can I book flights for my tour? What about extra hotel nights?

You can add flights and extra hotel nights directly through Trafalgar, so that everything is taken care of, leaving you to relax and enjoy your tour. If you're booking online, once you've selected your travel dates and room type, you'll be offered an option to add extra hotel nights and flights. Alternatively, you can call us to book and one of our travel experts can advise on your options.

How much is the deposit for a Trafalgar tour?

On most of our departures, you can secure your trip today with a low deposit from just $200.

What are the different kinds of experiences available?

Each Trafalgar tour has a carefully-selected range of included experiences to help immerse yourself in a destination. But did you know that every tour also has a Be My Guest and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience? Be My Guest Experiences are the original local travel experience, letting you step into the lives of hosts who will share stories about their families and communities. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are conscious travel experiences that give back to the local communities, which support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our tours also include a selection of Optional Experiences which are available for an additional cost, allowing you to make your trip your own.

Can I join a Trafalgar tour as a solo traveller?

A guided tour is the perfect way to solo travel. You'll meet like-minded people traveling with Trafalgar, and you'll relax knowing you can travel with ease, forming genuine connections as you go. To find out more solo room types and pricing select your preferred departure date and continue to the next page.

Where can I find room options?

Once you've selected your preferred departure date, on the next step add the number of guests to review the available room options and find the one that suits you best.

How can I apply my past guest discount?

It's great to have you back on board - the loyalty of our guests means everything to us. To access your Global Tour Rewards discount, please confirm the name and date of your past trip once you've added your passenger details. The discount will be applied before you book.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

Find out more

Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

LIVE, UNEDITED & INDEPENDENT TRAVELER REVIEWS

Best of Britain trip reviews

#ttbestofbritain.

Real moments from real travelers, creating the greatest travel stories they’ll ever tell

Or search for something else

Help & Info

WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Unedited Reviews

Our Destination Management Companies

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Updates

Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information

Travel Planning

Get Your Free Brochure

Travel Insurance

Booking Conditions

Trip Deposit Level

Recommendations

Trafalgar Tours Limited is a proud member of  The Travel Corporation  family of companies.

#SimplyTrafalgar

Travel House, Rue du Manoir St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 2JH

Selected Region

United States

United Kingdom

New Zealand

South Africa

Copyright 2024 Trafalgar. All rights reserved.

Terms and Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video.

Our Small-Group Tours:

Our small-group tours visit iconic destinations, but they also seek harder-to-reach locations. Navigate along narrow country roads, travel through the heart of history, hear local stories and create unforgettable memories!

Relax on our comfortable minibuses in the company of a friendly Driver-Guide. Escape London on one of our day tours or embark on an extended trip to explore the far-reaching corners of Britain.

Small-group tours, exploring Britain.

The go-tours way:

Small-groups guaranteed

Travel in small friendly groups of up to 16 guests per tour

Follow the country roads

Absorb the scenery as we travel along the scenic country roads.

Friendly Driver-Guides

Your all-in-one tour guide, minibus driver and friend on the road

Support the environment

We support environmental projects to help reduce the impact of our tours

Explore our tours:

Brighton & seven sisters tour, cotswolds tours, canterbury & dover cliffs tours, cornwall tours, lake district tours, wales tours, bath & stonehenge tours, clarkson's farm locations tour, guest feedback:.

‘Tour of a Lifetime’ There are not enough superlatives to describe how superb our tour was with Kevin via Go Tours. I can declaratively say it was the very best trip of my life. I highly recommend this company without hesitation. Tracy, Cornwall Tour

‘Blooms, Brew and Brilliant Glenn’ Calling all flower lovers, tea lovers, history lovers & anyone who wants a day of beauty away from the bustle of London. The Cotswolds is your Xanadu, and GO-Tours your comfortable, air-conditioned chariot…I would rebook with GO-Tours for another adventure with Glenn even if it were just a tour of the local Sainsbury’s. Heather, Cotswolds Tour

‘A very pleasant tour of Wales’ We thoroughly enjoyed our tour of Wales with Steve as our driver and guide. He was assiduous in his attending to the individual needs of our small group which made for a relaxed and friendly experience….We would unreservedly recommend this tour. David, Wales Tour

‘Excellent, Excellent, Excellent’ This trip exceeded our expectations in every way. We’ve toured by motor coach before, but this was a whole new (fun) dimension…I have nothing but praise for this little tour company. They work their butts off to give you a first-rate experience. Sally, Cornwall Tour

Small Group Tours

Explore beyond the beaten path.

Our group tours seek lesser-known tracks. The hidden locations and the stories that get overlooked. Driving deeper to unlock more out of the places so many call home, is what ignites our fire to return time and time again. Go beyond with a group tour this year and collect stories to last a lifetime

Small Group Tours to Ignite Your Curiosity

From the rugged landscapes a tour of Scotland can provide, to the historical greatness of an England trip , the enchanting emerald isle of Ireland and the mesmerising ruins located in Wales , our group tours are designed to quench your thirst for authentic, engaging travel experiences. Let our driver-guides take you there. Come rain or shine, we embark on unforgettable journeys. Just be sure to pack your waterproofs. Unlike our small-group tours, the British weather can not always be reliably sunny.      

Explore all our small group tours

Reasons You'll Love a UK & Ireland Small Group Tour

Explore in Style & Comfort

Driven around in a Mercedes 16-seat mini-coach , watch the horizons come into focus with every passing minute. Breathe in the unexpected and exhale any uncertainty, as you embrace the wonders of the British Isles, from sampling local cuisines to witnessing nature's greatest shows. But remember, the first rule of seeing a Highland coo … don’t ask to see a Highland coo.   

Safety in Numbers

There's a unique strength in numbers. Our small-group tours provide a safe, intimate setting that still allows for personalised experiences. The camaraderie, shared adventures, and combined curiosity of the group. All the qualities that enriches the journey, making your travel tour a tapestry of fascinating stories to take home and reveal in.

Add a Group Tour to Your Solo Travel Itinerary

Travelling alone doesn't mean you have to be on your own. Add a solo travel tour to your itinerary and start collecting legends from our driver-guides or lesser-known stories from the locals tucked away in a bustling pub. However the words grace your ears, know they’ve been on a journey themselves. Discover and listen for yourself by securing a place on a tour. 

Your Journey, Our Responsibility

We view our travels as a relationship between us, you, and the places we visit. Through our responsible travel initiatives , we strive to protect and conserve the beauty of our destinations, wherever we can. From volunteering and donating, to using small mini-coaches, all is in the hopes of protecting the places we love for future generations to enjoy.

Only Intrepid

1000s of experiences, over 100 countries.

Small group adventures that bring you the moments only Intrepid can offer. 

Only here. Only now. Only Intrepid. 

Ways to travel

10% off* selected adventures this year.

Book a 2024 trip today for fewer crowds, milder weather and 10% off* selected trips.

Get inspired on The Good Times

Chai Lord takes us into the culture of India’s national drink  

Finding strength in sisterhood at a cafe run by acid attack survivors in Agra 

At home in Japan: Making mochi and flipping tempura at a rural homestay

Time and place: Kapan’s Buddhist nunnery, Kathmandu

What it’s like to spend a day gorilla trekking in Uganda

Time and place: Hanoi Old Quarter Market, 5 pm

Slow drip: Vietnamese coffee culture

Slice of life: this Austrian cafe staffed by seniors hits the sweet spot

Why choose us

Travel plans change. We get it – and we're here to help! Learn all about our flexible booking options.

Connect and share experiences with a community of spirited explorers who care about the planet.

Whether near or far from home, your trip will be local led and full of unforgettable experiences, with everything taken care of.

• +44 (0) 7379089836 | [email protected]
• Itinerary Ideas
• Britain Small Group Tours
• England Small Group Tours
• Scotland Small Group Tours
• Wales Small Group Tours
• Ireland Small Group Tours
• Britain Rail Tours
• England Rail Tours
• Scotland Rail Tours
• Wales Rail Tours
• Britain Self Drive Tours
• England Self Drive Tours
• Scotland Self Drive Tours
• Wales Self Drive Tours

No products in the basket.

DISCOVER THE BEST OF BRITAIN WITH GREAT BRITISH JOURNEYS!

Join us on an exclusive, small-group tour and experience the wonders of every corner of this magnificent country. With our boutique tours, you’ll get up close and personal with the best of Britain and come away with memories that will last a lifetime. Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the UK in style!

The British Tour Company offers adventurous tours with a pinch of your preferences. Upon request, optional extra services may cover accommodation upgrades, arranged travel transfers, additional nights, special occasion gifts, private drivers, and more. Get to write the script of YOUR vacation, customizing it with the help of our countless daily offered options.

Until we meet, enjoy touring our website to glimpse our unique Britain tours.

Featured Tours

Blarney Castle, Kilkenny & Irish Whiskey- 3 Days

Best of Ireland Experience 11-Day Tour

Escape to the South West Tour- 5 Days

Ireland Explorer – 9 Days

Southern Ireland Discovery Tour- 7 Days

London to Edinburgh Adventure – 8 Days

The Isle of Wight Stonehenge Cornwall and the Southern Coast – 7 Days

Devon and Cornwall – 5 Days

Discover Wales – 5 Days

Tour Categories

Small Group Tours

Self Drive Tours

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Group Travel UK creates bespoke group tours and itineraries that fulfil your every need. Fully flexible and customisable, choose from an array of tours, attractions and experiences to bring your UK sightseeing adventure to life.

We pride ourselves on delivering the very best service for our guests. Whether you’re looking for school or educational trips, group travel tours for seniors, company trips, creating memories with family and friends, or taking advantage of our airport transfers, you can rely on our professionalism and expertise to guarantee an effortless experience.

We have a variety of day packages and multi-day packages to suit every need. Send us an enquiry today and let our experts create an unforgettable sightseeing experience just for you.

• A unique afternoon tea experience in London
• Take in the famous sights on a classic double-decker bus
• Indulge in sweet and savoury treats with Prosecco
• Hire the whole bus exclusively for your group

• Stand in awe at Stonehenge
• Wander the fossil-strewn beaches of the Jurassic Coast
• Roam the distinctive craggy moorland landscape of Dartmoor
• Stroll through Exeter, and see the heights of its marvellous gothic cathedral
• Explore Tavistock’s religious and mining heritage
• See the significant religious and spiritual sites of Glastonbury
• Marvel at the Georgian architecture in Bath

• Admire unforgettable views in Rannoch Moor
• Be moved by the sheer beauty of Glencoe
• Experience Great Glen, a huge fault line through the Scottish Highlands
• Visit the small town of Fort Augustus
• Take an optional boat cruise on Loch Ness
• Enjoy classic views of Grampian Mountains
• Travel through Highland Perthshire
• London West End and Bankside
• Royal London
• Stonehenge & Bath
• Hampton Court & Windsor Castle
• Oxford & Stratford

• Visit the ancient city of Winchester
• Witness the iconic Neolithic stone structure known as Stonehenge
• Admire this distinctive craggy landscape of Dartmoor
• Stroll through the ancient Roman city of Exeter
• See Boscastle, one of the last remaining unspoilt harbour villages in the British Isles
• Admire Tintagel Castle
• Cruise through Land’s End
• Gaze upon St Michael’s Mount
• Experience St Ives, an artists’ haven for over 100 years
• Visit Glastonbury, a significant religious and spiritual site

• Private panoramic open-top bus tour around the heart of the city
• See the sights of London away from the crowds and in the comfort of your bubble
• Cruise passed some of London’s most iconic landmarks including Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Tower Bridge
• An entertaining way for kids to learn about the history of London
• Live English speaking guide

• VIP Return Transportation in an Electric Vehicle to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
• Vehicle fits up to 8 passengers
• Flexible return
• Up to 6 hours at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

• Enjoy breathtaking views from the luxury of your own Private Capsule up to 25 guest
• Exclusive check-in and priority boarding as you are escorted to your exclusive Private Capsule
• Thirty-minute experience high above London and the River Thames
• See London’s most famous landmarks including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and much more

• Visit many of London’s modern and historic landmarks
• See Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Windsor, Hampton Court and much more
• Full escorted by an English-speaking guide
• Tailor-made to suit your groups needs

• Edinburgh Castle
• Glasgow, Stirling and St. Andrew
• Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Tour

• An in-depth view into the historic and fun sides of London
• Also visit the famous Stonehenge, Bath, Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon  
• Overnight accommodation included

• Entry to Dover Castle
• Visit to the Canterbury Cathedral
• Visit to the Hastings Battle Abbey and Battlefield

• See Stirling Castle, the ‘Key to Scotland’
• Visit Aberfoyle, a picturesque village on the banks of the River Forth
• Explore Rob Roy Country, one of the most charming corners of Scotland
• Visit the picturesque Trossachs
• Admire the views of Loch Lomond and enjoy an optional cruise

• Visit the Welsh Borderlands and the Cambrian Mountains
• Cruise through Snowdonia National Park
• See Harlech Castle
• Admire New Quay and Cardigan Bay
• Explore Laugharne and its Dylan Thomas connections
• Visit Pembroke shire Coast National Park & the Preseli Mountains
• See St Davids, Britain’s smallest city
• Experience the quaint village of Castle Combe

Black Forest, Cuckoo Clocks and Gâteau! – NEW and IMPROVED

The Black Forest is renowned for its spruce and fir covered mountains, gentle valleys, spectacular gorges and picturesque villages.

Little Trains and Boats of Ireland Twin Centre - TRIED & TESTED

This exciting tour takes in some of Ireland’s finest scenery with a twist of curiosity and quirky interest.

North Devon Explorer

Visit the picturesque villages of Lynton and Lynmouth and explore the popular destinations of Ilfracombe and Bideford and much more.

Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines for Groups

Greatdays Group Travel’s Cruise team are experts in helping to book and get the most out of a cruise with Fred.Olsen for you and your group.

Exciting Announcements Coming to Disneyland Paris®

Disneyland® Paris has been undergoing works for the past year, preparing for the amazing new lands and attractions opening in 2026 onwards.

Greatdays Group Travel – Great Holidays for Groups

Greatdays Group Travel is one of the UK’s leading specialist tour operators. Established in 1985, we pride ourselves on not only high quality service but also unique and interesting group tours. Our friendly team organise quality customised tours for group travel from 12+ persons and tailor-made holidays for groups to London , the UK and Ireland , Disneyland® Paris , Europe and many Worldwide destinations by coach, train or air.

Not part of a group? If you’re an individual traveller, please click here .

UK & Ireland Group Travel

Day Trips & Group Entertainment

European Group Travel

Worldwide Group Travel

River Cruises

Cruises for Groups and Individuals

Disneyland® Paris for Groups

Education and Youth Groups

UK Incoming Tours

RHS Gardens

Incentive & Meetings for Groups

Really Interesting Tours

Greatdays Wholesale

Greatdays offer a trade only booking service for coach and tour operators or professional group travel organisers and we can provide single or multiple elements of a holiday.

Greatdays Holidays

Greatdays are able to offer a complete tailor-made booking service for group travel organisers with the help of one of our friendly consultants to assist you through the booking process.

Providing group travel since 1985

Greatdays Group Travel is one of the UK’s leading group travel tour operators . We have  extensive experience in both incoming and outgoing tourism serving London,   the UK, continental Europe and worldwide.

We offer competitive prices and inspiring group travel ideas and can organise accommodation in 3, 4 and 5-star hotels. Ferry crossings, flights, sightseeing, coach hire, transfers, guide services, theatre tickets and vouchers for visitor attractions and tourism suppliers, we can organise it all for you so you can kick back and enjoy your holiday.

Read more…

Destination: British Isles

Discover Great Britain and Ireland | Small Group Tours British Isles.

Immersed in rich history, vibrant culture, and breath-taking landscapes, Great Britain and Ireland stand as captivating destinations for travellers. Our small-group tours through the British Isles cater specifically to mature or senior travellers seeking to delve into the essence of Britain and Ireland through expertly guided intimate tours. Whether strolling through the historical sites of England, Scotland, and Ireland or retracing the footsteps of the Industrial Revolution, Odyssey Travellers’ meticulously curated tours offer an unparalleled exploration of the British heritage. While ensuring you visit iconic landmarks, we also pride ourselves on providing unique experiences that veer off the conventional tourist trails in our extensive collection of British tours.

Destinations

Channel islands 2 tours.

England 22 tours

Ireland 4 tours

Northern Ireland 3 tours

Scotland 15 tours

Wales 6 tours

Nestled in the picturesque British Isles, a small corner of the world with a significant global impact. For enthusiasts of English literature , iconic sites like Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, the Lake District , and Bath offer a literary journey through the realms of Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and the Romantic Poets. History buffs can explore medieval castles, the Tower of London, and St Paul’s Cathedral. In Scotland, immerse yourself in local culture with traditional delights like ‘neeps and tatties’, the Edinburgh military tattoo, and fine whiskey . Wales beckons with its charming yet often overlooked coastline, perfect for a leisurely walking tour.

Crossing over to Ireland via the St George’s Channel, Dublin unveils its historical gems such as the Book of Kells, O’Connell Street, and the majestic St Patrick’s Cathedral, providing insights into the country’s tumultuous past. Venture off the typical tourist trail to Northern Ireland, where the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway awaits. Throughout our travels, we carve out time to marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of the British Isles: the idyllic Cotswolds and its quaint villages in England, Wales’ rugged Snowdonia National Park , the captivating Scottish highlands with Loch Lomond, and Ireland’s natural wonders like the Cliffs of Moher and Killarney National Park along the Ring of Kerry.

Embark on an Odyssey tour to Scotland, Ireland, England, or Wales, each meticulously guided by a tour manager and often complemented by a local expert guide. Whether you are a first-time visitor exploring Ireland or a seasoned traveller venturing into the Scottish highlands, our dedicated tour directors craft detailed itineraries to ensure a seamless sightseeing experience. For those on walking tours spanning England, Scotland, and Ireland, your tour manager ensures a well-prepared excursion, from countryside hikes across rolling hills to leisurely breaks in charming villages. With over 100 departures annually, our small group tours of the British Isles cater to mature and senior travellers seeking enriching experiences in 2020-2021.

Articles about the British Isles

A Journey Through Britain's Roman Roads

Rome's roads constitute the most remarkable culmination of its technological, logistical and bureaucratic achievements. Even a brief understanding of their history and significance can enrich your experience walking tour of Britain.

Britain: First Industrial Nation

Britain: The First Industrial Nation In the mid-18th century, the Industrial Revolution was largely confined to Britain. Historians and economists continue to debate what it was that sparked the urbanisation and industrialisation that would change…

Britain’s National Trust role for successful small group history tours

Britain’s National Trust: Historic houses, gardens and natural wonders Britain is home to many attractions, many of them rich in the region’s history. Sites and artefacts are preserved beautifully, and kept safe from future development.…

British Village Icons: Definitive Guide for Travellers

Icons of the British Villages: Pubs and Cottages The British pub and cottage figure prominently in the image of a (often romanticised) quintessential “British village”. In this article, we will give special attention to these…

Dry Stone Walls: An Alternative History of the British Isles

Throughout the nation, from Yorkshire to Orkney, miles of moss-covered dry stone walls snake their way through the open land. You would be forgiven for not looking twice. However, dry stone walls offer an alternative route into the history of humanity in the British Isles.

Exploring Britain's Prehistoric Past: The Definitive Guide for Travellers

Article on Britain's neolithic past for small group educational tours for senior couples and mature solo travellers interested in learning about Standing stones, burial chambers , Skara Brae and Stonehenge or Beaker people.

When is the best time to go on your UK trip?

Spring (late March to early June) and autumn (September to November) are the optimal seasons to visit the United Kingdom. During these times, the weather is typically warm and dry, offering visitors the chance to witness the blooming of beautiful spring flowers or the vibrant changing of leaves in autumn. This period also allows tourists to steer clear of the busier summer months, enhancing their overall experience.

Why choose a small group tour?

Since 1983, Odyssey has been a distinguished provider of educational small group tours tailored for seniors , with group sizes typically ranging from 6 to 12 individuals, capped at a maximum of 18 travellers. Specializing in enriching educational, cultural, and heritage journeys, our programs are meticulously crafted to stimulate minds and push boundaries. Geared towards active and curious explorers, our tours offer a unique small group setting conducive to immersive learning experiences.

What's the accommodation like on a group tour?

In urban centres, Odyssey accommodates guests in conveniently situated 3-4 star hotels, offering convenient access to public transportation. For smaller communities or rural settings, our preference leans towards family-operated hotels or cosy guesthouses. For extended tours where guests remain in one place throughout the itinerary, we opt for serviced apartments to provide a comfortable and homely setting for our travellers.

What ages are the group holidays suitable for?

Odyssey Traveller specializes in catering to travelers aged 50, 60, 70, or 80 and above, whether they are exploring solo, with a partner, or in a group of friends. Your fellow travelers are likely to resonate with your interests, ensuring a shared experience in a setting of mutual understanding. Our programs are thoughtfully crafted with the mature traveler in focus. Even when journeying solo, you are never truly alone – during leisure time for exploration, there will be other solo travelers or couples eager to accompany you if you so desire. Notably, single travelers comprise about a third of our groups, with many becoming regular participants in our tours.

How big are the group sizes on your tours?

Odyssey specialises in educational small group tours , for seniors , typically groups between 6 to 12 people, and averages at 12 participants per tour, a mix of singles and couples.

First solo trip with Odyssey?

Odyssey provides a curated selection of authentic small group tours, which are strategically priced to mirror the intimate nature of these experiences. Unlike larger tour operators accommodating groups of 18 or more, our small group tours typically consist of 6 to 12 individuals. This ensures a personalized setting where travelers can relish evening meals together around a single dinner table. By prioritizing smaller group sizes, we prioritize creating an atmosphere where our clients can immerse themselves fully in the unique and engaging experiences we offer, rather than aiming for the economies of scale achievable with larger groups on coaches – an aspect of travel that distinguishes our tours at Odyssey.

Odyssey tours are genuinely based around;

• A Small group tour of less than 18 people for the mature traveller as holidays for a couple and holidays for solo travellers over 50.
• Knowledgeable local expert guides and a great tour leader who has an interest in the theme of the tour.
• Inclusive pricing, including all entrances, tipping and the majority of meals included. That means, no hidden extras with respect to cost. Transparent pricing of the single supplement for the single traveller.
• A learning based escorted tour with a like minded fellow traveller.
• Accommodation in 3 & 4 star hotels and self catering apartments.
• A blend of group learning, touring activities and free time to explore a place further, whether on a discovery or walking holiday program.
• No name badges or flags to follow when out and about.
• Travel to places that extend your learning and curiosity, often where others will not follow.
• Spending typically between 60 to 85% of the operating cost of the tour in the country visited, benefiting the local communities directly.

Do you have any other holidays that aren't with a group?

Odyssey welcome enquiries for private groups, at a minimum of 6 participants.

What is a small group tour?

Odyssey Travel’s small group tours typically span 2 to 3 weeks, with stays of 2 to 3 nights in each location at quality 3 or 4 star hotels. These escorted tours offer a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure time. Travelers have opportunities to break away from the group for a half or full day to explore independently or with companions before moving on to the next destination. For solo travelers over 50, Odyssey offers a wide selection of holidays, although they do not provide regular river cruises or specific solo travel tours.

Solo travelers booking Odyssey Travel tours will incur a single supplement fee, covering the cost of single occupancy accommodations with a double bed (single bed rooms are generally not available across Europe) or a single cabin on cruises. There are no extra charges beyond the single supplement for clients aged 50 and above booking solo travel packages, ensuring transparent pricing for all travelers.

Which countries do small group tours go to?

Odyssey Traveller offers an array of captivating tours spanning the globe, including Europe , The British Isles , Asia , Africa , The Middle East , and The Americas. Embark on an enchanting journey to witness the mystical Aurora Borealis in the remote corners of Norway, delve into the lush jungles of Madagascar to immerse yourself in its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, or marvel at the ancient splendor of Machu Picchu in South America. For those intrigued by history, partake in a thematic exploration of Britain’s historic canals and railways . If cruising is your preference, join our unforgettable venture through Mongolia and Russia, featuring a 10-night river cruise from Moscow to St. Petersburg, or set sail on the legendary Nile Rive r during our Egypt tour.

For travelers seeking adventures closer to home, we offer an exceptional selection of tours in Australia , ranging from Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territory to Kata Tjuta, Outback Queensland, Kangaroo Island, Tasmania, and New Zealand. Explore the scenic wonders of both the North and South Islands, including the majestic landscapes along the east coast, the geothermal marvels of Rotorua, the serene beauty of Milford Sound, and the adrenaline-pumping activities in Queenstown.

Join 22,383 like-minded travellers receiving our weekly newsletter.

• Switzerland
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States

Just Peru It!

Save 25% on 2025 Peru tours

An adventure travel company you can trust

Unforgettable experiences.

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

Expert tour leaders

Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small group tours

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Last minute adventures

It's not too late to book your summer getaway

Save 25% on Peru trips

Hike the Inca Trail or explore on a Classic Discovery tour

NEW: Explore Upgraded

Premium accommodation for extra comfort

Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Help fund solutions of the future

Please vote for us!

The Explorer: Read the latest issue

Read the summer issue of our exciting travel magazine

The adventure holiday experts

We've been taking small groups on adventure holidays for over 40 years., making unforgettable adventures.

Average customer rating:

Independent service rating based on

Recommended trips for you

Your wellbeing comes first.

Our flexible booking and safety policies mean you're protected with us.

Explore Flex

Explore has always been known for its flexible booking conditions and since the Coronavirus pandemic, we've gone even further to ensure you can continue to book your next adventure with confidence.

About Intrepid

Search Trips

There’s something poetic about masala chai. It’s a symbol of Indian culture and hospitality – and this sweet and spicy blend tastes even better in good company. So stop. Inhale. Take a sip. Share smiles, connect and watch the world go by. There’s no need to rush; as the locals know, good chai takes time.

Spilling the chai with Shrishti

It’s the moments between the mile markers. The serendipity of finding yourself in this place, at this moment, with these people.

Intrepid Travel’s small group adventures bring you into these moments with like-minded travellers and a locally based leader.

Only you. Only here. Only now. 

Only Intrepid.

Sometimes it's the littlest things in our travels that leave the biggest mark on us.

We are intrepid.

35 years of adventure

We're adventure travel experts with 35 years of travel under our belt and hundreds of trips to choose from.

We've been taking travellers around the globe and connecting people from all walks of life since 1989. Think immersive experiences, small groups, a legendary local leader and a travel style that respects local people and places.

Trips that dig deeper

Intrepid trips go beneath the surface to show you the hard-to-find spots and create hard-to-forget memories.

1000s of experiences, over 100 countries

Our immersive, locally led experiences bring you into the heart of a place alongside like-minded travellers.

Travel that gives back

The Intrepid Foundation gives back globally and our B Corp status is our dedication to creating positive impact.

Destinations

Trip Themes

Trip Styles

Go to intrepidtravel.com

As the sun rises on this Women's Expedition, Kathmandu sits in a quiet stillness – a rarity in these usually chaotic streets. But the halls of Khachoe Ghakyil Ling, a Buddhist nunnery on the city’s outskirts, are loud – it’s time for prayer (and chai).

Finding calm in Kathmandu

Marrakech is synonymous with sensory overload. But if you slow down and tune in to the everyday rhythm of local life – often found in the souks of the labyrinthine medina and the city’s vibrant main square – a distinctly Moroccan beat emerges.

Revel in the bazaar

Vietnam’s hallowed Halong Bay has a lesser-known neighbour. Sidestep the crowds, swap cruise boats for kayaks and explore the soaring limestone karsts, turquoise lagoons and secluded white-sand beaches of World Heritage-listed Lan Ha Bay.

Commuting the Cát Bà way

Lions and leopards aren’t the only predators that prowl the grassy plains of Kruger National Park. Fortunately, the Black Mambas, the world’s first women-only anti-poaching ranger unit, protect the Big Five from human hunters, while sharing their conservation know-how with safari-goers.

On patrol with the Black Mambas

South africa.

From giant tortoises to blue-footed boobies, evolutionary oddities abound in the Galapagos. With a passionate local leader and naturalist guide at your side you’ll spot penguins, marine iguanas and sunbathing sea lions. Learn about vital conservation work and leave feeling like a modern-day Darwin.

Finding yourself in the Galapagos

An under-the-radar alternative to Peru’s busiest trek, the newly-expanded Quarry Trail takes in the same soaring Andean peaks, equally epic ruins and the classic Machu Picchu finale. With more opportunities to connect with local communities and far fewer crowds, this is the true definition of off the beaten track.

The Inca Road less travelled

Join the community

Join the Intrepid community by subscribing to updates, offers, inspiration and stories from the road.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Frankie Beverly, Frontman of the Soul Group Maze, Is Dead at 77

A consistent hitmaker on the R&B charts for almost 50 years, he had announced just this year that he would be retiring.

By Derrick Bryson Taylor and Richard Sandomir

Frankie Beverly, the lead singer and songwriter of the soul and funk band Maze, whose songs, including “Golden Time of Day,” “Joy and Pain” and “ Happy Feelin’s,” provided the soundtrack to countless summer cookouts and family reunions for more than five decades, died on Tuesday. He was 77.

His death was announced in a statement by his family on his Instagram account . The statement did not say where he died or cite a cause.

“He lived his life with pure soul, as one would say, and for us, no one did it better,” the statement said. “He lived for his music, family and friends.”

Mr. Beverly had announced a farewell tour this year with a handful of dates. He had said that he would retire after going on the road one last time.

“Thank you so much for the support given to me for over 50 years as I pass on the lead vocalist torch to Tony Lindsay,” Mr. Beverly said in a statement to Billboard at the time. “The band will continue on as Maze Honoring Frankie Beverly. It’s been a great ride through the decades. Let the music of my legacy continue.”

With his smooth baritone, Mr. Beverly led Maze to success on the R&B charts and Black radio. But the band did not have a lot of crossover pop success.

“Frankie Beverly may be the biggest R&B star you never heard of,” J.D. Considine, the Baltimore Sun music critic, wrote in 1994.

That did not seem to bother him much.

“Yeah, I wish more people did know who I was,” he told Mr. Considine, “but if it’s at the expense of me giving up this thing we have, then I just have to wait until they find out. ’Cause whatever we have, whatever this thing is that we seem to have a part of, it’s a cult kind of thing.”

It would be difficult to count the number of artists who have cited Mr. Beverly’s music as inspiration or sampled from his ever-expanding playbook of infectious melodies and harmonies. Many have covered his work, some with more fanfare than others. His 1978 song “I Need You” was sampled in “Hustler’s Ambition” by 50 Cent, “Talk to Em” by Young Jeezy and “I Need U” by Lil Boosie and Webbie.

And Mr. Beverly’s song “Before I Let Go,” though not a big hit, was covered by Beyoncé on her live album “Homecoming” in 2019. In the New York Times podcast “Still Processing,” with Wesley Morris and Jenna Wortham, the song was described in 2021 as having “a unique ability to gather and galvanize,” becoming “a unifying Black anthem and an unfailing source of joy.”

Howard Stanley Beverly was born on Dec. 6, 1946, in Philadelphia. His father was a truck driver, and his mother ran the household.

He was influenced as a child by the music he heard in church, by R&B singers like Sam Cooke and Lloyd Price, and by the doo-wop group Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers.

“I was so blown away by Frankie that I changed my own name — my birth name is Howard!” he was quoted as saying in an online biography . “But after I heard Frankie and the guys, I was totally bitten.”

As a 12-year-old, he said, he toured the East Coast for about a year with the Silhouettes (who had a No. 1 hit with “Get a Job” in 1958) after they heard he could sing like Mr. Lymon. He then formed a few doo-wop groups of his own and recorded for one of the early record labels of the songwriter and producer Kenneth Gamble — who, with his partner, Leon Huff, would help create the sound known as Philly Soul.

Mr. Beverly transformed his group Butlers from a traditional vocal harmony ensemble into Raw Soul, which bore the influence of Sly and the Family Stone’s adventurous fusion of soul, rock and funk.

He and the other members of Raw Soul moved to San Francisco in 1972, but they initially had trouble finding success.

“We were going through hell,” Mr. Beverly told The St. Louis Post-Dispatch n 1978. “San Francisco was no Disneyland. It was real, with real hurts and heartaches. We didn’t have any bread and we were out in the street.”

They did manage to get booked at a few small clubs; at one of them, Marvin Gaye’s sister-in-law saw them perform and alerted Mr. Gaye to their talent. He took them out on tour in 1976 as an opening act and helped them get a deal with Capitol Records.

“He loved me like a little brother,” Mr. Beverly said of Mr. Gaye in the online biography, “and certainly working with him helped bring our demos back to life.”

Raw Soul changed its name before its first album, “Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly,” was released in 1977. It was the first of nine albums by the group to be certified gold, including the two-disc “Anthology” (1996).

Information about survivors was not immediately available.

In 2009, when they closed the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans for the 15th straight year, Ben Ratliff of The Times described the experience of listening to Maze:

“The band’s shows are rehearsed rituals, working up to a rare and special audience feeling: deep, sentient serenity, not the usual kind of lose-yourself pop catharsis. It’s done by repetitive funk in slow to medium tempos, without a lot of instrumental flexing; moderation is everywhere.”

As for Mr. Beverly, he added: “His voice was half-scorched, and some of the usual traces of Donny Hathaway and Sam Cooke weren’t coming through. But he managed by keeping it in the middle register and by adding small vocal gestures to the rhythm cycles — percussive uh-uhs and dibba-dibbas, gospel grunts.

“His lyrics are about joy and desire, but he works realism, as well as a horror of hurting anyone, into his euphoria.”

Derrick Bryson Taylor covers breaking and trending news and is based in London. More about Derrick Bryson Taylor

Richard Sandomir, an obituaries reporter, has been writing for The Times for more than three decades. More about Richard Sandomir

Foreign Office issues travel warning for 'sun-drenched' island group after dengue outbreak

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCDO) has issued a travel health warning for Britons heading to the 'new Canaries' after a spike in a painful illness carried by mosquitos

• 03:56, 12 Sep 2024

Brits dreaming of a getaway to the idyllic Cape Verde islands have been warned by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCDO) about a spike in cases of a mosquito-borne disease. The FCDO update issued on Wednesday specifically points to an uptick on three of the sun-drenched archipelago's largest islands, situated off the coast of west Africa.

The gorgeous mountainous volcanic islands of Santiago, Fogo, and Brava, each a popular spot for tourists, have all seen an uptick in case of dengue. A Foreign Office spokesperson has cautioned: "The Cape Verde government has raised the civil protection warning level for dengue on the islands of Santiago, Fogo and Brava."

Travellers are being advised to ensure they're vaccinated against Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid well in advance of their journey, at least eight weeks before jetting off to Cape Verde. The FCDO also warns that medical facilities on the islands are somewhat limited, with the main hospitals located in Praia on Santiago and Mindelo on Sao Vicente, with scarce medical resources on the islands.

The FCDO warning continued: "Medical facilities are particularly limited on the island of Boa Vista. The islands of Brava and Santo Antao do not have working airports, so medical air evacuation is extremely difficult."

According to the NHS , dengue fever is a mosquito-borne infection that typically isn't serious and tends to resolve on its own, but severe cases can require lengthy hospital stays. Dengue fever is prevalent in certain tropical areas worldwide, and there's a risk of catching it during specific times of the year, notably from spring to November, even in some southern European regions.

Despite this, dengue is not found in the UK and cannot be transmitted from person to person. Symptoms, which are similar to flu, usually appear four to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito.

They include:

• a high temperature
• a severe headache
• pain behind your eyes
• muscle and joint pain
• feeling or being sick
• swollen glands
• a blotchy rash made up of flat or slightly raised spots – this can affect large areas of your body

In rare cases, some people may experience a more severe form of dengue a few days after initial symptoms. Most individuals with dengue recover within a few days.

Symptoms of severe dengue include:

• severe stomach pain
• repeatedly being sick
• fast breathing
• bleeding gums or nose
• extreme tiredness (fatigue)
• being unable to relax (restlessness)
• blood in your vomit or faeces

MORE ON NHS Hospitals Flu Dengue fever Cape Verde Foreign Office

Can we send you the mirror travel newsletter with weekly travel news and inspiration.

Foreign Office 'do not travel' list of 17 countries UK government says to avoid

The World Population Review has published a list of the "worst countries to visit" for UK tourists, with 17 spots slapped with a 'do not travel' label by the Foreign Office

• 01:01, 10 SEP 2024
• Updated 07:11, 10 SEP 2024

Never miss Somerset's latest and breaking news again by signing up to our Daily Newsletter

We have more newsletters

A new list has been revealed, uncovering the 21 "worst countries" for UK tourists, with a few surprising inclusions potentially changing some Britons' travel plans. As the anticipation for next year's holiday season gains momentum, the World Population Review put forward a rather startling index titled the "worst places to visit" for those from the UK and US.

This daunting catalogue includes 17 locations already designated with a 'do not travel' advisory by the UK Foreign Office, citing reasons such as rampant conflicts, soaring crime statistics, and heightened worldwide tensions that make these places too perilous for British travellers.

The report explained: "Travel is highly subjective, with each individual's personal preferences influencing whether they think a given country is one of the worst countries in the world to visit (or live in) or one of the best countries to visit (or in which to study abroad).

"...However, in a handful of countries, visitors face an unsettlingly increased risk of being violently harassed or kidnapped, unlawfully imprisoned, seriously harmed, or even killed. These countries qualify as the worst countries in the world to visit."

For those interested and perhaps wary explorers, the full listing of these 21 intimidating nations is outlined below:

Afghanistan: When US troops with drew from Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban returned to power. Since then, strict new laws have been enforced, including a recent ban on women's voices and bare faces in public, according to AP . This reportedly covers all parts of day-to-day life, including celebrations, music and shaving.

The Foreign Office (or FCDO) has warned that the "security situation is volatile" and urged against travel to the country. Its advice adds: "There is a heightened risk of British nationals being detained in Afghanistan. If you are a British national and you are detained in Afghanistan, you could face months or years of imprisonment.

"FCDO’s ability to help you is extremely limited and support in person is not possible in Afghanistan."

Belarus: Under the leadership of President Alexander Lukashenko, Belarus is a staunch ally of Russia in its invasion of Ukraine . The Foreign Office warns that "you face a significant risk of arrest if you have at any time engaged in any activity now considered illegal by the Belarusian regime."

Once again, it also stressed that in 'the unlikely even that conflict starts' the 'FCDO’s ability to support British nationals will be severely limited'.

Burkina Faso: Located in West Africa, this nation is often plagued by terrorist activity and sudden outbreaks of violence. Kidnappings are also a risk, with the political situation incredibly 'unstable' within the country.

While the Foreign Offices advises against all travel to Burkina Faso, this does not include the capital, Ouagadougou. However, it insisted that travelling here should only occur for 'essential' reasons.

Central African Republic : Like Burkina Faso, there is no British Embassy in the Central African Republic and support is 'severely limited'. The Foreign Office warns against all travel to the nation which reportedly experiences a 'high threat' of terrorism despite no recent history of terrorism.

However, the warning does not include the capital, Bangui. "Tensions remain high following decades of violence between the Central African Republic government and rebel groups," Foreign Office advice reads. "The security situation could worsen without notice.

"Outside of Bangui, security conditions are extremely unstable. Armed groups continue to occupy areas in the north and south east of the country."

Haiti : Long-standing gang violence has left 80% of the capital, Port-au-Prince, under criminal control, making kidnappings a major concern. Meanwhile, areas like Bel Air, Carrefour, Cité Soleil and Martissant also commonly experience armed robberies, purse snatching and pickpocketing, according to the Foreign Office.

"People using cash machines have been targeted by criminals," Foreign Office advice reads. "Gangs, often on motorbikes, target people making withdrawals or leaving banks, particularly those travelling on foot."

Iran : Tensions between Iran and the West have escalated due to rising conflicts in the Middle East. The Foreign Office warns that "British nationals are at significant risk of arrest."

Iraq : Here, the risk of terrorist activity remains high, with airports, public transport and even markets among the previous targets of attacks. This has included suicide bombing attacks, shootings and even rocket launches, causing large-scale casualties.

"Foreign nationals are high-value targets for terrorists, insurgents and criminals," the Foreign Office stressed. "This includes those of non-western appearance. Indiscriminate attacks against public places and Iraqi civilians also occur."

Although travel here is not advised, this does not include the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Lebanon: The current situation in several Middle Eastern countries has prompted the Foreign Office to issue stark travel warnings. They've flagged Lebanon as unsafe "due to risks associated with the ongoing conflict between Israel , Lebanese Hezbollah, and other non-state actors."

It adds: "Tensions are high and events could escalate with little warning, which could affect or limit exit routes out of Lebanon. In the event of deterioration in the political or security situation, commercial routes out of Lebanon could be severely disrupted or cancelled at short notice, and roads across the country could be closed."

Libya: Since 2015, the Foreign Office has advised against all travel to Libya. It has described the local security situation as 'fragile', while warning that intense fighting may kick off 'without warning'.

"Any travel to, from or within Libya is at your own risk. If you are a British national in Libya, we strongly advise you to consider leaving," its advice adds.

Mali: Terrorism, kidnappings and gunfire are among the major risks faced by those who chose to visit this West African nation. Support for British nationals is also severely limited here and the laws drastically differ to those within the UK.

Niger: While the capital Niamey is not subject to a no-travel order, it's warned that other areas of Niger are high-risk. This is especially due to a threat of terrorism at transport hubs, shopping centres, national parks and various other locations.

Russia and Ukraine: In 2022, a devastating conflict erupted in Ukraine, as Russia launched a full-scale attack across a number of its cities. This has made both Russia and Ukraine perilous destinations for Western tourists.

In regards to Russia, the Foreign Office warns: "If you are detained in Russia, you could face months or years of imprisonment. Russia has a track record of targeting foreign nationals and holding them in detention as leverage over other countries. Our ability to assist you in these circumstances is extremely limited."

South Sudan: This African nation experiences an array of frequent dangers, ranging from armed conflicts to carjackings and kidnappings. The Foreign Office advises against all travel to South Sudan due to the risk of armed violence and criminality.

Sudan: Bordering South Sudan, this nation is also embroiled in military conflicts between rival factions. Violent crime is especially prevalent in its capital, Khartoum, but persists in other cities and areas too.

The Foreign Office adds: "There have been a number of recent incidents where British nationals and other westerners have been detained against their will."

Syria: Here, the civil war in the country is ongoing. Westerners are also often targeted by kidnappers. The World Population Review adds: "US citizens and other Westerners are often sought-after targets for kidnappers as well as the corrupt government, which may be responsible for the disappearance of more than 100,000 people."

Yemen: The Houthi Rebels still control much of the country. The Foreign Office says the country has "unpredictable security conditions".

The World Population Review has also cautioned against travelling to countries not on the no-travel list, including Myanmar , Israel, Palestine, and North Korea.

What do you think? Let us know in the comment section below

• Most Recent

England Guided Tours & Trips

• Choose from 150+ England tours
• 1,800+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best fully guided England tour packages

Compiled by

Steff England travel expert at TourRadar

5-Day Devon & Cornwall Small Group from London

Stonehenge, devon & cornwall - 5 days, stonehenge, devon & cornwall (hotel) - 5 days, 2-day windsor, stonehenge, bath & oxford small-group tour from london, best of devon and cornwall (6 days), london explorer (8 days), london & iconic england tour - 6 days, cycle hadrian's wall - coast to coast, walk hadrian's wall highlights, bath, devon & cornwall small group rail tour.

“We loved it and our guide Dan had a wealth of knowledge and was a fantastic guide.” Brett Donald Partington, traveled in July 2024

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year
• Visit the historic Winchester, a former Anglo-Saxon capital
• Explore Launceston & wander the ruins of Tintagel Castle
• View Stonehenge, the most famous prehistoric monument

“Stops along the way were wonderful.” Marcia Goldman, traveled in June 2024

• Discover Dartmoor's wild landscapes
• Explore Winchester's historic sites
• Climb Glastonbury Tor for stunning views

• See King Arthur's legendary Tintagel
• Visit the iconic Stonehenge circles

“The journey was so lovely!” Cristina Macovei, traveled in March 2023

• Capture the charm of Castle Combe village
• Discover Oxford's prestigious colleges
• Uncover the mysteries of Stonehenge

“Really enjoyed the tour and all the history of the areas we visited. As a visitor from Australia there is so much to learn.” Helen Murphy, traveled in July 2019

• Coach / Bus
• Indulge in a dinner in a traditional English pub
• Admire the picturesque scenery of Lacock
• Wander through historic market towns

“Everything worked seamlessly. All of the sights were interesting and varied, and we had no need to drive.” Carol Weinberg, traveled in July 2017

• Visit Westminster Abbey and Kensington Palace
• See Big Ben and witness the Changing of the Guard
• Cruise the Thames and taste London Gin

“Great places visited. Plenty of time at each place.” Andre Rosenberg, traveled in May 2024

• Walking Adventure
• Enjoy a relaxing River Thames cruise
• Discover the ancient Roman Baths in Bath
• Check into Thistle London Marble Arch Hotel

“I had a very good holiday.” Carrie, traveled in May 2022

• Discover the Roman site of Vindolanda
• Visit Birdoswald Roman Fort on Hadrian's Wall
• Enjoy coastal views at Tynemouth Castle

• Hiking & Trekking
• Stroll through the village of Corbridge
• Discover Chester's Roman Fort and Museum
• Visit the ancient Vindolanda fort and museum

“Such a lovely part of Britain (Bath, Devon and Cornwall), the accommodations were wonderful.” Gail Sanderson, traveled in September 2023

• Visit Plymouth's museum and art gallery
• Explore Stonehenge with an expert guide
• Walk through St Ives' historic streets

More about England

Discover TourRadar

Liam Gallagher's son Gene to 'support Oasis' on reunion tour

According to sources, gene gallagher is set to play a big role in the upcoming oasis reunion tour.

• 09:37, 11 SEP 2024

Subscribe to our daily What's On newsletter to keep up with what's happening around Greater Manchester

We have more newsletters

Oasis fans are still waiting for confirmation from Oasis on who will be joining them on their huge reunion tour next year.

And while rumours have swirled since Liam and Noel Gallagher confirmed they would be reuniting for a string of UK and Ireland shows next summer, it's now thought that Liam's son is set to play a big role in their comeback tour after he was rumoured to have been involved in the band reforming.

Gene, 23, is reportedly set to support his dad and uncle Noel Gallagher on the sell-out tour next year with his own indie rock band called Villanelle. Gene has confided in friends and confirmed his group will be one of ten warm-up acts for the Britpop legends, according to The Mirror .

READ MORE: Oasis told to REFUND fans hit by ticket pricing nightmare

An insider claimed Gene, who has been confiding in those close to him to share the exciting news of his yet-to-be signed band's inclusion. "Gene is supporting Oasis," the source said.

The source, who spoke to the Mail Online, added: "He's been telling a few people and he's really excited. He loves playing with his dad and knows it will be huge for his music career."

In June this year, Liam Gallagher and former All Saints singer Nicole Appleton's son announced Villanelle would be heading out on their own UK headline tour. Hot on the heels of opening for Liam during his huge Definitely Maybe 30 Years tour , which was held at Manchester’s Co-op Live , Gene's band announced an eight-date UK tour including a Manchester homecoming show.

Villanelle’s UK tour will kick off in Glasgow on November 19, before reaching Manchester for a show at Night & Day on November 22. The band also opened for Seb Lowe during his show at Manchester’s O2 Ritz in April.

Alongside Gene, on lead vocals and guitar, the band is made up of guitarist Ben Taylor, bassist Jack Schiavo, and drummer Andrew Richmond. Their opening slot on Liam’s tour garnered rave reviews, with the Manchester Evening News saying they 'proved themselves to be quite the polished ensemble' during the first of the two Co-op Live shows.

It has also been suggested that Gene, along with Noel's daughter Anais, 24, played a big role in getting their dads speaking again to make the comeback happen. According to the publication, a source said: "Liam has seen the passion the younger generation have for the Oasis tracks. Some of them weren't even born when the band split.

"It hadn't dawned on Noel and Liam until recently that their own kids had never properly seen them together. They didn't want to wait until it was too late to show them why they are Britain's biggest band."

It comes as Oasis have been told to “do the right thing” and refund fans hit by inflated ticket prices. Yesterday, consumer group Which? criticised the band over failure to warn fans that ticket prices could rocket due to high demand.

A few weeks ago during the general sale for the band's 19 UK and Ireland shows, fans were shocked by the price of standard tickets for the reunion tour more than doubling from £148 to £355 on Ticketmaster under their 'dynamic pricing' system.

The ensuing backlash saw the Government and the UK’s competition watchdog to pledge they will look into the use of dynamic pricing. Which? said they have collected dozens of screenshots from fans who had tried to buy tickets – both before and after prices increased – none of which showed a warning message that Ticketmaster would increase prices during the sale.

Over the weekend, Oasis also sent out invites for a private invite-only ballot for their “final” Wembley Stadium dates, having extended their Live ’25 tour to include two more London shows on September 27 and 28.

• Manchester Music
• Liam Gallagher
• Noel Gallagher
• Most Recent

trending now in World News

Miss Switzerland finalist strangled to death, then 'pureed' in a...

7-year-old girl steals neighbor's husky, replaces him with...

"Como dice el dicho" actor James Hollcroft found dead at 26 days...

Israel offers safe harbor for Oct. 7 mastermind Yahya Sinwar in...

Oldest map of the world on nearly 3,000-year-old Babylonian...

Wagner Group lost veteran fighters during Mali ambush in setback...

Queen Elizabeth statue is a 'monstrosity' that 'does not...

Gordon Ramsay-trained top chef allegedly murdered by UK man in...

Wagner group lost veteran fighters during mali ambush in setback to russia’s africa campaign.

Among the dozens of Wagner mercenaries presumed dead after a lethal battle with Tuareg rebels during a desert sandstorm in Mali in July were Russian war veterans who survived tours in Ukraine, Libya and Syria, according to interviews with relatives and a review of social media data.

The loss of such experienced fighters exposes dangers faced by Russian mercenary forces working for military juntas, which are struggling to contain separatists and powerful offshoots of Islamic State and Al Qaeda across the arid Sahel region in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger.

The Mali defeat raises doubts over whether Moscow, which has admitted funding Wagner and has absorbed many of its fighters into a defense ministry force, will do better than Western and U.N. troops recently expelled by the juntas, six officials and experts who work in the region said.

By cross-referencing public information with online posts from relatives and fighters, speaking to seven relatives and using facial recognition software to analyze battlefield footage verified by Reuters, the news agency was able to identify 23 fighters missing in action and two others taken into Tuareg captivity after the ambush near Tinzaouaten, a town on the Algerian border.

Several of the men had survived the siege of Bakhmut in Ukraine, which Wagner’s late founder Yevgeny Prigozhin called a “meat grinder.” Others had served in Libya, Syria and elsewhere. Some were former Russian soldiers, at least one of whom had retired after a full-length army career.

Grisly footage of dead fighters has now circulated online, and some of relatives told Reuters the bodies of their husbands and sons had been abandoned in the desert. Reuters could not confirm how many of the men it identified were dead.

Margarita Goncharova said her son, Vadim Evsiukov, 31, was first recruited in prison where he was serving a drug-related sentence in 2022. He rose through the ranks in Ukraine to lead a platoon of 500 men, she said. After coming home, he worked as a tailor but struggled with survivor’s guilt and secretly traveled to Africa in April to join his former commander, she said.

“He wanted to fly to Africa many times. I discouraged him as much as I could,” Goncharova said in an interview with Reuters. “I told him ‘fate has given you a once-in-a-million chance. You can start your life again, you’ve won such a crazy lottery’.”

The Russian Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Wagner did not respond to requests for comment for this story.

After Prigozhin died in August last year, Wagner employees were invited to join a newly created group called the Africa Corps, under the defense ministry, “to fight for justice and the interests of Russia,” according to the Africa Corps channel on social-media platform Telegram.

On the channel, Africa Corps says about half its personnel are former Wagner employees who it allows to use Wagner insignia. Wagner’s social media channels remain active.

The Russian government has not publicly commented on the Tinzaouaten battle.

Mali’s armed forces-led government said the defeat had no impact on its goals. The Malian Armed Forces “are committed to restoring the authority of the state throughout the country,” army spokesman Colonel Major Souleymane Dembele told Reuters.

Wagner has acknowledged heavy losses in the Mali ambush but gave no figure. The Malian army, which fought alongside the Russians, also did not give a toll. Tuareg rebels, who are fighting for an independent homeland, said they had killed 84 Russians and 47 Malians.

Reuters could not independently establish how many were killed in battle. One video, out of more than 20 sent to Reuters by a Tuareg rebel spokesman, showed at least 47 bodies, mostly white men, in military-style uniforms lying in the desert. Reuters verified the location and date of the video.

Mikhail Zvinchuk, a prominent blogger close to the Russian defense ministry, said on social media platform RuTube in August that the defeat showed Wagner fighters who arrived from Ukraine had underestimated the rebels and the Al Qaeda fighters.

MISSING IN ACTION

Wagner-linked Telegram accounts named two of the dead as Nikita Fedyakin, the administrator of The Grey Zone, a popular Wagner-focused Telegram channel with over half a million subscribers, and Sergei Shevchenko, who the accounts described as the unit commander. 

Reuters could not verify the identity of Shevchenko.

Reuters separately identified 23 Wagner operators missing in Mali via relatives who posted in an official Wagner Telegram chat group, checking the names against social media accounts, publicly available data and facial recognition software. All the relatives received calls from Wagner recruiters on Aug. 6 to notify them their men were missing in action, they said in the chat group.

Lyubov Bazhenova told Reuters she had no idea her son Vladimir Akimov, 25, who had briefly served in Russia’s elite airborne forces as a conscript, had signed up. She was angry with Wagner for sharing no further information about his fate or the whereabouts of his body. She said letters to the prosecutor’s office, defense ministry and foreign ministry had gone unanswered.

Facial-recognition software was used to identify another two men captured by Tuareg fighters, based on photographs and videos of the ambush site published by Tuareg sources. The Tuareg rebels posted videos and photos of the two captives on social media. Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane, a spokesman for the rebel alliance, confirmed the men were in rebel captivity as of late August.

One of the missing fighters, Alexei Kuzekmaev, 47, had no military experience, his wife Lyudmila Kuzekmaeva told Reuters.

“Neither my hysterics, nor tears, nor persuasion – nothing helped. He just confronted me a month before he left home. He said ‘I bought a ticket and will be leaving.'”

Among the most experienced men was Alexander Lazarev, 48, a Russian army veteran who served in wars against Chechen separatists in the 1990s and 2000s, according to his wife’s posts in the Wagner channel.

She declined to comment. Lazarev appears in many photos on the Russian Facebook equivalent VKontakte wearing military uniform, with symbols linked to several army subdivisions.

PARASTATAL MERCENARY FORCE

Democratic governments in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger were overthrown in a series of coups since 2020 driven by anger with corrupt leaders and a near decade of failed Western efforts to fight insurgencies that have killed thousands and displaced millions.

The military juntas have kicked out French and U.S. troops and U.N. peacekeepers.

In Africa, Wagner emerged in Sudan in 2017 as the deniable face of Russian operations. Its enterprises soon ranged from protecting African coup leaders to gold mining and fighting jihadists. Wagner is also active in the Central African Republic. It first appeared in Mali in late 2021.

Wagner’s fortunes rose and fell last year. In May, the group led Russia to its first significant Ukrainian battlefield victory in almost a year with the capture of Bakhmut. But after his criticism of Russian military leaders and his effort to lead a rebellion weeks after the Bakhmut victory, Prigozhin died in a fiery plane crash in August. The Kremlin has rejected as an “absolute lie” U.S. officials’ claim that Putin had Prigozhin killed.

Eric Whitaker, the top U.S. envoy to Burkina Faso until retiring in June, who previously served in Niger, Mali and Chad, said the Putin administration has achieved complete control over the Wagner brand in the post-Prigozhin era.

“Africa Corps earns (the Russian government) hard-currency payments from host governments for its services and also gains a significant source of revenue from gold derived from its activities in the Sahel,” he said.

Russian mercenary activity soared in Mali after Africa Corps was formed, according to data from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED), a U.S.-based crisis-monitoring group. Based on media reports and social media documenting, the data shows violent events linked to Russian mercenaries rose 81% and reported civilian fatalities rose 65% over the past year, compared to the year before Prigozhin’s death.

Start your day with all you need to know

Morning Report delivers the latest news, videos, photos and more.

Thanks for signing up!

Please provide a valid email address.

By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .

Never miss a story.

Wagner does not publish recruitment figures. Jędrzej Czerep, an analyst at Warsaw-based think tank Polish Institute of International Affairs, estimated that around 6,000 Russian mercenaries serve in Africa, while three diplomatic sources said about 1,500-2,000 were in Mali.

“When Africa Corps started to promote and recruit, they were flooded with applications,” said Czerep.

“Being sent to one of the African missions was seen as far safer than Ukraine,” he said.

Tuareg spokesman Ramadane said the rebel alliance was preparing for more clashes.

Further losses could eventually drive Russia out, said Tibor Nagy, the top U.S. envoy to Africa in 2019, when Wagner withdrew from northern Mozambique months after around a dozen of its men were killed during a conflict with an Islamic State affiliate.

“They were out of there very quickly,” said Nagy.

Wagner has not publicly commented on its plans in Mali.

Advertisement

Warner Hotels announces line-up of stars for 2025 breaks

Kenny Thomas, Russell Watson and YolanDa Brown are among the big names along with Brian Conley and singer David Essex

• 11:19, 10 SEP 2024

Want the best food, film, music, arts and culture news sent straight to your inbox?

We have more newsletters

Warner Hotels has announced its entertainment line-up for 2025, along with new Broadway-style shows, comedians and theatre breaks. Kenny Thomas, Russell Watson and YolanDa Brown are among the big names set to appear at Warner Hotels next year, along with the return of TV legend, Brian Conley and singer David Essex OBE.

The artists will perform across Warner Hotel’s 16 adult-only hotels, including its latest addition, The Runnymede on Thames, which will offer live music venues, bars and lounges, and three-course dining options. There will also be theatre shows on offer from the best of Bob Marley to tributes to other music icons including ABBA, Michael Jackson and George Michael.

Music fans will also be able to enjoy over 140 festival-themed breaks throughout the year, with everything from pop anthems to Motown melodies.

Warner Hotels is celebrating the 2025 line up with a host of offers, including free room upgrades on January to March breaks, lowest price guarantee and £20-per-person deposits on breaks booked before September 30.

The offers are available across 16 locations in the UK, including the Grade II listed Cotswolds retreat, Heythrop Park, and castle in the heart of Shakespeare’s England, Studley Castle.

Each break includes bed, breakfast and three-course dining, alongside activities such as archery by day and live entertainment each night.

Head of entertainment, Matt Williams, said: “Our 2025 line-up is shaping up to be one of our most exciting yet – with a host of world-class entertainers ready to take centre-stage, including chart-topping musicians and renowned comedians.

“Whether you want to dance the night away to your favourite artist, or take in the culture of a Broadway-style theatre performance, we know our guests love the flexibility of choosing a break that suits their needs – with the comfort of knowing everything is included at a great price.”

Bookings for 2025 are now open. For more information visit www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk/

• Most Recent