The best tours in England for all the family

A tour to remember

VisitEngland assesses tour and activities for the quality of the experience given to members of the public.

We’ve compiled some of our favourite tours across the country for you to explore during your next staycation, whether you're planning a short break or looking for new experiences closer to home.

City Sightseeing – Oxford

City Sightseeing Oxford offers bus and walking tours around Oxford, with stops at major landmarks such as Oxford Castle and Christ Church. Multilingual commentary is also available, and some packages include a walking tour. The tour is a fun, easy way to explore the city’s highlights.

Mountain Goat Tours and Holidays

Established in 1972, Mountain Goat Tours and Holidays is the original Lake District mini‑bus company, offering small‑group tours that venture off the beaten track to discover hidden gems. They also provide private tours, exclusive hire, short breaks and airport transfers for a flexible, tailored travel experience.

Magical Mystery Tour

The Magical Mystery Tour whisks visitors on a lively two‑hour journey through Beatles Liverpool, exploring the Fab Four’s childhood homes, iconic song locations like Penny Lane and Strawberry Field, and ending at the Cavern Club, all guided by expert commentary and iconic tunes.

Ullswater 'Steamers'

Located in the Lake District’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the award-winning Ullswater ‘Steamers’, has sailed England’s most beautiful lake for over 160 years. Its heritage cruises offer stunning scenery and easy links to iconic walking routes, making it an ideal way to explore this beautiful landscape.

The National Archives

The National Archives holds one of Europe’s most significant and comprehensive collections, preserving central government and law court records from the Norman Conquest to today. A treasure trove for researchers, it includes landmark documents such as the Domesday Book and millions of First World War records.

Fab 4 Taxi Tours

Discover Liverpool through an insightful Beatles Fab 4 Taxi Tour that delves into the band’s remarkable decade together. Guided by expert local cabbies, the tour visits key sites such as the Cavern Club and the group’s family homes, delve into who John, Paul, George and Ringo were as people, and offer a personal, engaging look at the lives behind the music.

Bath Bus Company Limited

The Bath Bus Company offers open‑top hop‑on, hop‑off tours across two routes, showcasing the city’s major landmarks with informative audio guides. Highlights include the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, Theatre Royal, and even a stop to enjoy an authentic Bath Bun at historic Sally Lunn’s.

Watatunga Wildlife Reserve

Located in Norfolk, Watatunga is a 170‑acre award‑winning wildlife reserve where endangered deer, antelope and birds roam freely across lakes, woodland and grassland. You can explore by expert-led safari tours in a self‑drive buggy, enjoying close‑up wildlife encounters in landscapes designed to mirror natural habitats – a unique experience every time.

Wembley Stadium Tours

The award‑winning Wembley Stadium Tour takes visitors behind the scenes of the UK’s largest sports and entertainment venue, exploring areas usually reserved for sporting and music legends. It offers an inspiring chance to relive historic moments, from England’s 1966 World Cup win to iconic concerts and events, while experiencing the stadium’s atmosphere firsthand.

Windermere Lake Cruises

Windermere Lake Cruises offers relaxing sailings on traditional steamers and modern launches, with 30–90-minute routes connecting Lakeland villages and major attractions. With flexible hop‑on, hop‑off stops, stunning fell views, and seasonal options to explore quieter shores, it’s an ideal way to experience England’s largest natural lake.