The Best Bits Of The United Kingdom

If you like visiting traditional English gardens then there are plenty on offer in the UK. Enjoy a leisurely walk or a gourmet picnic in some of the most prestigious gardens such as England's Newby Hall and gardens, Castle Howard, formal terraces of Northumbria, Arley Hall and gardens, or the many historic homes in the south-east of England. Scotland's Royal Botanic Gardens and Malleny Gardens, both in Edinburgh, provide splendid displays of centuries-old hedges and old-fashioned roses that have to be seen to be believed. The Channel Islands have the most outstanding display of wildflowers while the National Botanic Garden of Wales, in Carmarthenshire, is home to the world's largest single span glasshouse. The International Rose Garden in Ireland's Belfast displays over 25,000 rose bushes. During summer, the fragrance as you walk through these gardens is one that must be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

If shopping is on your agenda then you are sure to love the offerings in England. London is surely one of the best shopping destinations in the world, particularly in the bustling Oxford and Regent Streets and Notting Hill. You are sure to find stunning one-of-a-kind outfits here, with a selection of designer boutiques, international labels and of course, the world-famous Harrods department store. For fine antiques, your best selections can be found throughout the historical villages in the East of England or Northamptonshire. The Northamptonshire region also offers a selection of specialty boutiques and delicious farmers markets, where you can purchase some of the freshest fine foods in all of Britain.

Of course, with all this shopping you are sure to need plenty of rest stops to replenish your energy, and you will find no shortage of delicious treats along your journey. While in Wales you will enjoy plenty of opportunities to indulge in some of the region's tastiest organic foods along with fresh venison. Meanwhile Scotland offers you a selection of working whiskey distilleries such as Benromach Distillery in Forres and the Glen Moray Distillery on the River Lossie in Elgin. Naturally you will be able to savour the fine malt whiskey these distilleries produce and even meet some of the local craftsmen.

Luxury trips are never complete without lots of pampering, and you can enjoy that throughout the UK. There are many day spas to choose from but if you are looking for absolute opulence, then Mayfair's exclusive Elemis Day Spa is just what you need. This lavish spa has been voted as Europe's Leading Day Spa and is sure to delight you. Many of the UK's five star resorts will also be only too happy to provide you with relaxing pampering treatments. While visiting England's West Country, a stay at The Cowshed is worthwhile. Pampering at this exquisite venue is only available to Babington House guests, but if you enjoying a luxury holiday in the UK then Babington House should also be on your itinerary. This superb venue boasts prestigious designer rooms along with its own private cinema and library.

The UK also offers visitors a vast range of events and activities throughout the year. The UK social scene is buzzing with something almost year-round, from the Edinburgh Tattoo, Ascot races, Buckingham Palace visits or a day at Wimbledon to watch the tennis, there is sure to be something ideal for you. Golf lovers will be fascinated by the high quality of golf courses in the UK, including The De Vere Belfry in Warwickshire, the hallowed Old Course at St Andrews in Scotland or Celtic Manor in Wales.

There are also numerous galleries and museums where you can immerse yourself in ancient artefacts and historical relics of the UK, not to mention some of the world's most prestigious art pieces and collectors' editions.

Where else can you experience theatre so abundantly as in Britain? While in London it is worthwhile ensuring you take in a West End show - these are often the talk of the town.

Throughout the cities and regional UK you are sure to encounter many other theatre, opera and cabaret productions, along with an abundance of live music and festivals.

Whether you choose to engross yourself in the historic wealth of the UK or its amazing shopping venues; the local art gallery or tranquil pampering at one of the many 5 star resorts, you're sure to bring back many precious memories of your UK luxury tour.