18 Jun 2024
While it always been a perennial favorite destination for travelers, interest in travel to the United Kingdom this year is fueled by a plethora of activities including the new season of the hit series Bridgerton, The Crown, and even Taylor Swift's latest album, The Tortured Poets Department, which draws inspiration from the UK's rich literary history. According to a report by the U.K. Global Screen Fund and the British Film Institute, 66 percent of U.S. travelers begin their U.K. travel plans based on stage and screen draws such as Harry Potter, Game of Thrones and Downton Abbey.
Reflective of that, Kensington Tours, a leading luxury tour operator specializing in custom private guided travel, has reported an increase in demand of more than 20 percent for travel to the United Kingdom. This includes 33 percent specifically to Scotland, and a whopping 300 percent increase to Wales where television and film production is a major driver of tourism.
Kensington Tours' itineraries offer travelers the opportunity to experience the United Kingdom's timeless charm and contemporary allure, made even more enchanting by its recent pop culture prominence.
Whether they are history buffs, literary enthusiasts, or first-time visitors, travelers will find these meticulously crafted journeys promise an unforgettable adventure in unparalleled style and comfort.
Picture Perfect: Cinematic England & Wales
Celebrating the UK's allure as a jet-setting destination for fans of iconic films and TV shows, this trip spans London, Bath, Cardiff, and the Brecon Beacons, allowing travelers to uncover iconic film, movie, and literary sites alongside a knowledgeable private guide. From the storied charm of Hay-on-Wye, the legendary 'World's First Book Town,' to immersive experiences that follow in the footsteps of characters from the Regency balls of Austen and Bridgerton to the Time Lords in Cardiff, and from Sherlock to Shakespeare's London. From $7,425 per person for nine days.
Heart of England: London, Bath & Stonehenge
Offering a blend of vibrant city life, historical landmarks, and ancient wonders, this 7-day trip includes all the key sights of London on a private walking tour, including iconic landmarks such as St Paul's Cathedral and Buckingham Palace. Guests will also indulge in the quintessential British experience with Afternoon Tea, explore the wonders of the British Museum with a private guide, tour the captivating streets of Bath, renowned for its stunning Regency architecture which was home to Jane Austen. And, for fans of Bridgerton, they'll visit sites such as the Royal Crescent where the latest season of the popular series was filmed. From $7506 per person.
Literary Lake District & Yorkshire
For those who want to immerse themselves in the literary heritage and lush landscapes of York and the Lake District, a private guide will lead them through the Roman relics in Bath as well as the settings of timeless classics such as Wuthering Heights, The Secret Garden, Dracula, and The Tale of Peter Rabbit.
And, for something more modern, the charm of the locales helped inspire Taylor Swift's The Tortured Poets Department. As the name suggests, the best way to experience the Lake District is on a scenic boat ride. Priced from $9,780 per person for eight days.
Quintessential Cotswolds: London, Bath, Cotswolds, Oxford
Perfect for book lovers and literary enthusiasts, the quintessential Cotswolds itinerary offers a journey through the landscapes that inspired some of the world's greatest writers such as Jane Austen, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and William Shakespeare.
From the historic streets of Bath to the wonder and mystery of Stonehenge and a visit to the historic city of Oxford, home to the one of the world's most prestigious universities, this trip takes guests through the main centers of literary inspiration. Priced from $8,015 per person for seven days.
Inspired by the popularity of the Outlander series, Kensington's itinerary to Scotland includes an opportunity to marvel at Mrs. Baird's B&B in Falkland and take in the breathtaking landscapes and lochs of Glen Affric. Private guided tours of Edinburgh and Glasgow offer deep dives into Scottish culture and history, while an overnight stay at the stunning Inverlochy Castle adds an extra level of luxury to the journey.
Kaleidoscope of Scotland: Festivals, Highlands & Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Kaleidoscope of Scotland, a vibrant festival running from August 2-24, is perfect for those who love the energy of live theatre and performance. This trip includes an evening of Royal Marines and Highland dancing, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Scotland, learning the art of whisky-making with a tour and tasting at a historic 19th-century distillery, the history and beauty of the Scottish Highlands including an overnight stay in a castle.
Travel to Wales is becoming increasingly popular as more people discover its diverse landscapes and cultural richness. Cardiff, in particular, has gained attention as a dynamic city that often stands in for other locations in film and television. Just as Toronto frequently doubles for New York and Vancouver for Los Angeles, Cardiff has been the backdrop for numerous notable productions including the latest season of "Doctor Who" now premiering on Disney+, the second series of "Welcome to Wrexham" also on Disney+, Netflix's "Sex Education," BBC's "Sherlock," and even parts of the "Harry Potter" series.
Kensington Tours offers a comprehensive itinerary that includes London, Cardiff, Tenby, Aberystwyth, Anglesey, and the Brecon Beacons. Travelers can explore Wales' famed castles, ancient ruins, and quaint small towns with a private guide as well as indulge in local food and wine with tasting tours in Cardiff and a visit to a local vineyard. From $7,625 per person for nine days.
The release of the new Paddington movie is set to spark a surge in family travel to London, as fans of all ages are inspired to explore the city's iconic locations and beloved attractions. Kensington Tours has crafted a special experience tailored for families, offering a comprehensive and enchanting experience of London that includes visits to the city's signature sights on a privately guided tour, ensuring an intimate and educational adventure. Families will also enjoy an award-winning theatre experience with skip-the-line tickets to the acclaimed Matilda musical. Adding to the excitement, the package features a thrilling mystery adventure through the famous British Museum and a behind-the-scenes tour of the Harry Potter studio, unveiling secrets from the magical world. To top it all off, families will stay in specially chosen accommodations designed for comfort and convenience, making this a truly unforgettable London experience. Priced from $7,371 per person for seven days.
For more information, visit www.kensingtontours.com to connect with a Destination Expert for personalized and seamless trip planning.
