Britain & Ireland Discovery (Classic, 22 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 22-day tour that takes you through the heart of Britain and Ireland, immersing you in the rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes of these enchanting lands. From the bustling streets of London to the tranquil Lake District, the rugged Scottish Highlands, the magical Orkney Islands, the charming Irish countryside, and the ancient mysteries of Stonehenge, this multi-day tour is a journey of discovery and adventure. Explore world-renowned universities, medieval castles, historic battlefields, and picturesque villages. Marvel at the architectural wonders of ancient and modern cities, and indulge in local delicacies. With comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and a meticulously planned itinerary, this tour offers an unforgettable travel experience.
Included
10 Dinner with Wine (DW)
21 Breakfast (B)
1 Lunch (L)
1 Dinner (D)
Stratford-upon-Avon: Savor British cuisine with dinner at a local restaurant.
Wick: Whiskies are known for their distinctive flavours, share a wee dram with a master distiller.
Killarney: Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening.
Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's national drink.
Plymouth: Celebrate the culmination of your travels in style with delicious wine and local cuisine.
jain, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, meat
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Killarney: Meet passionate restaurant owners John and Freda at their beautiful guesthouse in Killarney, where you'll hear more about their farm-to-table concept, while enjoying a delicious meal made from fresh ingredients sourced within a five mile radius. John and Freda have a policy that all food is sourced locally from farms and the coach of the Emerald Isle. On the farm they also grow and harvest all their own fruit and veg. They educate their visitors about sustainable consumption and the benefits of eating fresh homegrown produce. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption & Production.
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
Stratford-upon-Avon: The MacDonald Swan's Nest Hotel is a 17th century, riverside hotel with the town centre only a five minute walk away.
Highlands: Hotels in the Highlands area are mainly traditional and much simpler in style, typical of the region.
York: The Hilton York is situated within the city walls, close to the York Minster and the best this city has to offer.
Edinburgh: The Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel is located in the heart of Grassmarket in Edinburgh's city centre, just minutes from The Royal Mile.
Inverness: The traditional Columba Hotel provides enviable views over the River Ness and Inverness Castle.
Wick: The Norseman Hotel is nestled in the viking town of Wick, overlooking its river.
Isle of Skye: Boasting an incredible location by Broadford Bay, The Dunollie Hotel is set at the base of outstanding mountains.
Glasgow: The Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow features award-winning architecture, boasting a stunning atrium and rooms with wall-to-ceiling windows.
Limerick: The George Hotel Limerick is a modern, centrally-located boutique hotel and provides the perfect base for exploring what wonders Limerick has to offer.
Killarney: In the heart of the town centre, the Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa overlooks Killarney National Park and is the perfect location to enjoy the stunning scenery and the local 'craic.'
Waterford: Dooley's Hotel Waterford has been family-run for generations and is conveniently located inside Waterford’s City Centre.
Dublin: Trinity City Hotel is situated on a historic site, in the heart of Dublin, adjacent to Trinity College Dublin.
Chester: The Hallmark Hotel The Queen, Chester is set in a grand Victorian building and has just undergone a multi-million pound restoration.
Cardiff: Clayton Hotel Cardiff is located in the heart of the city on St. Mary Street, just a short walk from Cardiff's premium sporting facility, Millennium Stadium.
Cornish Countryside: Enjoy the best of Cornish hospitality at the plush St. Mellion International Resort, featuring a unique blend of contemporary style and unique facilities sprawled across 450 acres of peaceful countryside.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
York: Your Travel Director will show you the York Minster, the city walls and the medieval Shambles during your orientation of the city.
Sligo Bay: The area surrounding the town of Sligo was home to one of Ireland's most famous literary figures, the poet William Butler Yeats. On your journey into town, you’ll quickly see why Yeats was inspired by the scenic beauty of the area. Explore its rich medieval history as well as its shops on an orientation with your Travel Director.
Cork: Ireland's second city - "Rebel Cork" dates back to the 7th century. Your Travel Director will show you the Grand Parade and South Mall, along with City Hall and the Opera House on an insightful orientation tour encompassing the development of the religious settlement of St. Finbarr, to Viking raiding and settlement, to the creation of the Norman city and Merchant Princes. You’ll love learning the tales and history of this port city and enjoy hearing the lilt of the Cork accent.
Chester: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the Jubilee Clock, the cathedral, city walls and famous black and white Rows.
Plymouth: During an orientation tour with your Travel Director, see Plymouth Hoe and the Citadel before continuing to the Barbican and Mayflower Steps. Afterward, explore a quaint Cornish fishing village.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Dartmoor National Park: Visit Dartmoor to learn about the history of stone circles and indigenous traditions from your knowledgeable Local Expert on a scenic exploration.
Plymouth: Set sail on a relaxing cruise from Plymouth harbour, where the pilgrims left over 400 years ago.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
Londonderry: There's no better way to experience sightseeing than with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, as he takes you on a tour inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.
Kilkenny: Visit Kilkenny Castle and learn about the powerful family that came to call it home for so many centuries.
Giant's Causeway: Visit the legendary Giant's Causeway, site of wonders. At the visitor centre, learn about the efforts to protect biodiversity and ecosystems, participating in habitat restoration. The National Trust charity has been undertaking replanting activities in Innisfree Farm, adjacent to the Causeway. By sowing a field of Herbal Ley seed mixes containing up to 17 different species, they have prioritized biodiversity and quality food production leaving a low carbon footprint. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
Bath: Visit the incredibly well-preserved Roman Baths. Discover 2,000 years of history and learn how this hub of culture is pioneering new educational investments to benefit the community. Its school educational programme actively supports local schools and students to learn about the cultural heritage of the region. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education.
Oxford: See the spires and colleges of this world-famous university town.
Stratford-upon-Avon: Learn about the life of William Shakespeare, arguably history's most famous writer, when you visit his birthplace. Then enjoy some time to explore this pretty town with its iconic Tudor houses.
Grasmere: Learn about the life of the poet William Wordsworth and visit his grave.
Gretna Green: Visit the spot where runaway lovers were married.
Edinburgh: Visit Edinburgh Castle to view the Scottish Crown Jewels, Mons Meg and other artefacts with your Local Expert.
Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Expert as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Edinburgh: A hush descends and eyes turn to the castle. The skirl of the pipes rises and drums crack the night air as a tide of tunics and tartan flood from the drawbridge. For a limited time in August, witness the incredible spectacle of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
St. Andrews: Visit the university town where the famous beach scene from 'Chariots of Fire' was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created.
Inverness: At the exciting Culloden Visitor Centre, discover why the Battle of Culloden lasted only an hour yet changed the Highland way of life forever.
Inverness: See the River Ness, Inverness Castle and beautiful scenery as you explore the history of this Highland city.
Loch Ness: Soak up the scenery and hear intriguing tales of Nessie during a cruise on one of Scotland's most famous lakes.
Wick: See the world's shortest street, Ebenezer Place.
Orkney Islands: Cruise to the windswept Orkney Islands on a full day guided journey. Come face-to-face with relics spanning human history, from pagan stone circles to reminders of wartime tragedy. Visit the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae.
Eilean Donan: Stop for a photo of this gorgeous castle built on an island in the Loch.
Glasgow: See the grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.
Cairnryan: Board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea.
Belleek: Enjoy a guided tour of the porcelain production process and meet some of the specialist craftspeople.
Galway: Fascinating stories and interesting locals take centre stage on your orientation of the historic heart of Galway. Visit the Lynch Memorial Window. Then make your way to the Church of St. Nicholas - the largest medieval parish church in Ireland in continuous use, Spanish Arch and Eyre Square.
Limerick: See King John's Castle, St. Mary's Cathedral and the treaty stone.
Adare: Experience a village walk through the main street lined with thatched cottages.
Ring of Kerry: Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, as you journey the magical Ring of Kerry. This 111-mile circular route is the best place to admire Ireland's scenic beauty and truly one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.
Dublin: See Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House with a Local Expert
Dublin: Board the ferry to return to mainland Britain.
Conwy: See Conwy Castle, the magnificent medieval fortress still towering over the town after 700 years. Climb the restored spiral staircase, scale the great towers and walk a complete circle around the battlements. Admire the unbroken town walls of Conwy down and enjoy amazing views out across the craggy mountains of Snowdonia. The spectacular castle was built by King Edward I and his architect Master James of St George in just four years between 1283 and 1287.
Cardiff: Learn more about Wales' capital and cultural hub, Cardiff, as you enjoy an orientation of this vibrant city.
Bath: During an orientation you will see the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: London - Oxford - Stratford-upon-Avon
- London
- Oxford
- Stratford-upon-Avon - Arrival day
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- Reading Museum
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Begin your journey in the vibrant city of London. Travel through the lush Chiltern Hills to the historic city of Oxford, known as the City of Dreaming Spires. Explore the world-renowned Ashmolean Museum or browse the local market. Continue to the charming town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Visit the half-timbered house where the famous playwright was born, now a museum full of memorabilia. End the day with a warm welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2 – Day 2: Stratford-upon-Avon - York
- York
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Embark on a leisurely drive to the historic city of York, a city with a rich history dating back to the Romans and Vikings. Visit the York Minster, the largest medieval church in northern Europe, and explore the Shambles, a maze of narrow streets lined with overhanging timber-framed houses. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the city's many attractions.
Day 3 – Day 3: York - Lake District - Gretna Green - Edinburgh
- Edinburgh
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Journey across the Yorkshire Dales to the picturesque Lake District, a scenic wonderland of rugged mountains and tranquil waters. Visit the village of Grasmere, the resting place of the poet Wordsworth. Cross into Scotland and stop briefly at Gretna Green, famous for its blacksmith's shop where runaway lovers were married. Continue to the majestic Scottish capital, Edinburgh.
Day 4 – Day 4: Exploring Edinburgh
- Edinburgh
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Spend the day exploring the beautiful city of Edinburgh with a local expert. Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the King, and explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, home to Scotland's Crown Jewels. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps visiting the National Gallery or exploring your family tartan in the Tartan Centre.
Day 5 – Day 5: Edinburgh - St. Andrews - Inverness
- St Andrews
- Inverness
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Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife and visit St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf. Enjoy free time to explore the town, perhaps visiting West Sands Beach or St. Andrews University. Journey to Blair Atholl and pass the Grampian Mountains on the way to the sparkling Spey Valley. Stop at Culloden Moor, the site of the final battle of the Jacobite Rising, and visit the Culloden Visitor Centre. End the day in Inverness, a city set on the banks of the River Ness.
Day 6 – Day 6: Inverness - Loch Ness - Wick
Day 6: Inverness - Loch Ness - Wick
Start the day with a scenic cruise on Loch Ness, home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Travel north to the fishing port of Wick, stopping along the way to visit a whisky distillery where you can taste the national drink of Scotland. Don't miss the chance to see Ebenezer Place, the world's shortest street, as you drive to your hotel.
Day 7 – Day 7: Wick - Orkney Islands
Day 7: Wick - Orkney Islands
- Ring of Brodgar
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Board a ferry to the beautiful Orkney Islands, where the countryside is breathtakingly majestic. Visit the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae and the mysterious Ring of Brodgar. Explore Kirkwall, the old Norse town, and visit a small chapel built by Italian prisoners during World War II. Enjoy the tranquillity of the islands, where the locals live 'below the wind and above the water.'
Day 8 – Day 8: Orkney Islands - Ullapool - Isle of Skye - Broadford
Day 8: Orkney Islands - Ullapool - Isle of Skye - Broadford
Travel through stunning landscapes of lochs and mountains to the fishing town of Ullapool. Continue your journey to the magical Isle of Skye, the largest and most beautiful island of the Inner Hebrides. Hear the story of the song 'Over the Sea to Skye,' which tells of young Flora MacDonald and how she helped to rescue Bonnie Prince Charlie. Admire the scenic splendour on the way to your hotel in Broadford.
Day 9 – Day 9: Broadford - Glasgow
- Glasgow
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Return to the mainland to see the remote Eilean Donan Castle, which offers a perfect reflection in its loch under a clear sky. Visit the WWII Commando Memorial and view Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain. Continue to the Valley of Glencoe, known for its dramatic peaks and tragic history. Stop at Loch Lomond, known as the 'Queen of Scottish Lakes,' before arriving in Glasgow.
Day 10 – Day 10: Glasgow - Giant's Causeway - Derry
- County Londonderry
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Cross the Irish Sea, enjoying views of the Island of Arran along the way. Arrive in Northern Ireland and journey along the coastline at the mouth of the Nine Glens of Antrim. Visit the iconic Giant's Causeway, a geological masterpiece created by cooling lava millions of years ago. Continue to the ancient walled city of Derry.
Day 11 – Day 11: Derry - Donegal - Sligo
- Sligo
- Donegal
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- Donegal Castle
- Donegal Railway Heritage Centre
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In the morning, explore Londonderry's well-preserved walls with one of the nation's great storytellers. Visit O’Donnell’s Castle in Donegal and journey south to the Belleek Pottery & Visitor Centre, nestled on the banks of the River Erne. Meet some of the specialist craftspeople and see artisan techniques in action. Continue to your country retreat, set on the scenic shores of Sligo Bay.
Day 12 – Day 12: Sligo - Connemara - Galway - Limerick
- Galway
- Limerick
- Sligo
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- Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway
- Connemara National Park
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Experience the beautiful rugged landscape of Connemara, a wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. Continue to Galway, where you'll see St. Nicholas Cathedral, the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President John F. Kennedy. Move onto your hotel in Limerick, famous for its rhymes, lace and Georgian houses.
Day 13 – Day 13: Limerick - Adare - Killarney
- Adare
- Killarney
- Limerick
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- Adare Town Park
- King John's Castle
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Explore Limerick, where you'll see King John's Castle, St. Mary's Cathedral and the Treaty Stone. Continue your journey through the picturesque thatched village of Adare, into County Kerry and onto your Killarney hotel. In the evening, choose from a selection of local restaurants for an authentic and intimate dining experience.
Day 14 – Day 14: Exploring Killarney
- Killarney
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Enjoy a trip around the Ring of Kerry, one of the world's most scenic journeys. See towering cliffs, lush lakelands, remote villages, Ireland's highest mountain range and the peaceful Lakes of Killarney. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps hiring a bicycle to explore the many cycle trails around the lake or through the National Park.
Day 15 – Day 15: Killarney - Blarney - Cork
- Blarney
- Cork
- Killarney
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- Blarney Stone
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Cross the rugged Derrynasaggart Mountains and head for Blarney. Visit the ruined 15th century Blarney Castle, home to the famous Stone of Eloquence. It is said that those who kiss the stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Continue on to Cork, Ireland's second most populous city, built on the River Lee. Enjoy a city tour before checking into your hotel.
Day 16 – Day 16: Cork - Kilkenny - Dublin
- Kilkenny
- Dublin
- Cork
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- Kilkenny Castle
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Travel to the medieval city of Kilkenny to visit Kilkenny Castle. With a Local Expert, learn how the castle was built in 1195 after the Norman Conquest of Ireland and admire its beautifully restored Victorian era rooms. Continue to Ireland's lively capital, Dublin, and spend a leisurely evening relaxing, exploring or perhaps taking in a famous Irish cabaret.
Day 17 – Day 17: Exploring Dublin
- Dublin
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- Guinness Storehouse
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Experience Ireland's national, world-famous drink with a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. Gain a fascinating insight into the history and traditions behind its production. Then meet your Local Expert who will show you the sights of the city, including Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O’Connell Street and the Custom House. The afternoon is at leisure.
Day 18 – Day 18: Dublin - Conwy - Chester
- Conwy
- Cheshire West and Chester
- Dublin
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- Chester Zoo
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Bid farewell to Ireland as you board the ferry to Wales. Cross the Isle of Anglesey, via the village bearing Britain's longest name, and continue over the Menai Straits for a stop in the walled market town of Conwy to see the castle. Travel along the north coast of Wales and cross the English border to arrive at Chester. Explore the city with your Travel Director, visiting the well-preserved city walls, Jubilee Clock and impressive cathedral.
Day 19 – Day 19: Chester - Cardiff
- Cardiff
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- Millennium Stadium
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Continue through the countryside to the Welsh capital, Cardiff. See the Principality Stadium and Cardiff Castle. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the city's many attractions.
Day 20 – Day 20: Cardiff - Bath - Plymouth
- Bath
- Glastonbury
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- Muchelney Abbey
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Cross the soaring Severn Bridge to reach the elegant Georgian city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths and see the impressive Pulteney Bridge and gothic Bath Abbey. Journey on to Somerset, see Wells Cathedral, as you make your way to Plymouth for the night.
Day 21 – Day 21: Exploring Plymouth
- Plymouth
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- Paignton Zoo
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Explore Dartmoor with Insight Choice. Choose to join a scenic exploration of Dartmoor National Park or cruise the scenic Plymouth harbour, where 400 years ago the Mayflower set sail for America. Back in Plymouth, enjoy a glass of wine and a delectable dinner with your newfound friends as you toast to an inspiring journey.
Day 22 – Day 22: Plymouth - Stonehenge - London
- London - Departure day
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Travel across Salisbury Plain to visit the prehistoric and mysterious Stonehenge, where the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths are reputed to be up to 5,000 years old. Your discovery of Britain and Ireland concludes upon your return to the hotel in London.
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