Britain & Ireland Explorer (Classic, 13 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 13-day journey through the captivating landscapes and rich histories of Britain and Ireland. This multi-day tour offers an immersive experience, taking you from the bustling streets of London to the serene beauty of the Scottish Highlands, and from the vibrant culture of Dublin to the tranquil lakes of Killarney. Discover iconic landmarks, explore charming towns, and indulge in local flavors as you traverse these enchanting lands. With expert guidance and comfortable accommodations at renowned hotels like Hilton or Sofitel (or similar), this tour promises a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable getaway, this tour offers something for everyone. Join us for an extraordinary journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the diverse heritage of these remarkable regions.
Included
12 nights in twin-share rooms at hand-picked hotels
5 Dinner (D)
12 Breakfast (B)
2 Lunch (L)
York: Enjoy a traditional Yorkshire dinner and the chance to get to know your fellow travellers.
Loch Lomond: Enjoy a light lunch and admire the oak woodlands and incredible scenery as you cruise one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs, a favourite nature spot of the locals.
Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's national drink.
Killarney: Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening.
Waterford: Celebrate the culmination of your escorted journey with wine, good cheer and palate-pleasing cuisine.
County Tipperary: Meet entrepreneur Ailbhe and hear about her passion for sustainable farming. Learn about biodiversity, regenerative agriculture and the secret to crafting the most delicious honey on the island over a delicious Farm-to-Table lunch. Aibhe has been sharing her keen interest and experience in the various courses she has been running since 2015, putting sustainable farming at the heart of local education programs and contributing important research. Brookfield Farm's various activities all support sustainable farming practices, organically certified activities, habitat protection and tree planting initiatives. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 & 12: Quality Education & Sustainable Production and Consumption.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Killarney: Explore the scenery of Killarney National Park on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
Killarney: Join a gentle hike with a nature guide in Killarney National Park and admire stunning mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. Stroll along the lake shore and past the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle and the famous Muckross Estate, a charming 19th Century mansion and grounds. Alternatively, enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
Blarney: Visit the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate with a senior gardener.
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.
Kildare: Horse racing is key part of Irish culture; and you'll get a rare peek into it over your visit to the Irish National Stud. Set in Kildare at the breeding ground of champions and the birthplace of legends, explore the foaling unit, museum and the stallions that continue to make racing history. As the only stud farm in Ireland open to the public, learn the insights of horse-racing at a site whose former visitors include queens and presidents.
Waterford: Visit Waterford Crystal to learn more about the art of crystal carving that has been practised here since the late 1700s. See master crafters utilise traditional cutting and blowing methods at one of the few remaining artisan workshops.
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.
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.
Durham: See the castle and Romanesque cathedral.
Hadrian's Wall: Stop to see part of the ancient wall that once marked the border of the Roman Empire.
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: Visit Edinburgh Castle to view the Scottish Crown Jewels, Mons Meg and other artefacts with your Local Expert.
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: See the River Ness, Inverness Castle and beautiful scenery as you explore the history of this Highland city.
Loch Ness: Drive along the shores in search of the legendary monster.
Grasmere: Learn about the life of the poet William Wordsworth and visit his grave.
Liverpool: Stay in the home city of The Beatles.
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.
Holyhead: Set sail for Dublin across the Irish Sea.
Dublin: See Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House with a Local Expert
Cashel: See the Rock of Cashel where St. Patrick preached.
Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation.
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.
Waterford: Explore the town and see Reginald's Tower and the remains of the city walls.
Rosslare Harbour: Board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea.
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.
Stonehenge: Walk around the strange and awe-inspiring megaliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.
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.
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.
York: Your Travel Director will show you the York Minster, the city walls and the medieval Shambles during your orientation of the city.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: London to York via Stratford-upon-Avon
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- York - Arrival day
- More
Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of London, where you'll meet your Travel Director. Embark on a scenic journey to Stratford-upon-Avon, the charming town on the River Avon, and explore the birthplace of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare. Discover fascinating memorabilia and artifacts that bring his story to life. Continue your travels to the historic city of York, where you'll stroll through the ancient city walls to the quaint Shambles and admire the grandeur of York Minster, the largest medieval cathedral in England. Conclude your day with a delightful evening of dinner and wine, mingling with fellow travelers.
Day 2 – Day 2: York to Edinburgh via Durham
- County Durham
- Edinburgh
- More
- Diggerland Durham
- More
Depart from York and make your way to the historic city of Durham. Here, you'll have the chance to admire the impressive Durham Castle and the Romanesque architecture of Durham Cathedral. Continue your journey northward, passing by the remnants of Hadrian's Wall, a testament to Britain's Roman past. Cross the border into Scotland and arrive in the elegant capital city of Edinburgh, where you'll spend the night.
Day 3 – Day 3: Exploring Edinburgh
- Edinburgh
- More
Begin your day in Edinburgh with a journey down the historic Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the monarch. Cross into the New Town and visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views and see the Crown Jewels of Scotland. Spend your afternoon shopping along the bustling Princes Street. In the evening, select departures will have the opportunity to witness the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a vibrant display of music and military tradition.
Day 4 – Day 4: From Edinburgh to Inverness via St. Andrews
- St Andrews
- Inverness
- More
Cross the Firth of Forth into the picturesque region of Fife and arrive at St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf. Enjoy free time to explore the historic town, perhaps taking a stroll to the famous West Sands Beach. Continue your journey through the scenic landscapes of Blair Atholl and the Grampian Mountains, arriving in the beautiful Spey Valley. Conclude your day in the charming city of Inverness, where you'll settle into your hotel for the night.
Day 5 – Day 5: Inverness to Loch Lomond
Day 5: Inverness to Loch Lomond
Embark on a scenic drive along the legendary Loch Ness, where you'll hear captivating tales of the elusive Nessie. Continue through the breathtaking landscapes of Glencoe, renowned for its dramatic scenery. Arrive at the picturesque Loch Lomond, where you'll enjoy a leisurely cruise on one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs, accompanied by a light lunch. Cross the border back into England and settle into your lakeside hotel for a relaxing evening.
Day 6 – Day 6: Discovering the Lake District and Liverpool
- Cheshire West and Chester
- More
Set out to explore the stunning beauty of the Lake District, a region renowned for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil lakes. Continue your journey to the vibrant city of Liverpool, where you'll check into your hotel. In the afternoon, consider joining an optional Beatles City Tour to delve into the musical heritage of this iconic city.
Day 7 – Day 7: From Liverpool to Dublin via Conwy and Holyhead
- Dublin
- Cheshire West and Chester
- More
Depart Liverpool and journey through Wales, stopping to admire the formidable Conwy Castle. Continue to the Isle of Anglesey, where you'll pass by the village with the longest name in Europe, Llanfairpwllgwyngyll. From the port of Holyhead, set sail across the Irish Sea to the vibrant city of Dublin, where you'll spend the night.
Day 8 – Day 8: Exploring Dublin
- Dublin
- More
- Guinness Storehouse
- Dublin Zoo
- More
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Dublin with a guided visit to the Guinness Storehouse, where you'll learn about the history and production of Ireland's iconic beverage. Discover the city's elegant squares and landmarks, including O'Connell Street and Dublin Castle, with the help of a Local Expert. Spend your afternoon soaking up the lively atmosphere or shopping along Grafton Street.
Day 9 – Day 9: From Dublin to Tipperary
- Killarney
- Dublin
- More
- Irish National Stud & Gardens
- Brú Ború Heritage Centre
- More
Travel to the heart of Ireland's thoroughbred horse breeding region for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the National Stud. Explore the serene Japanese Gardens, a century-old masterpiece that symbolizes life's journey. Continue through the lush pastures of Tipperary to Brookfield Farm, where you'll enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Meet Ailbhe Gerrard, a dedicated farmer and beekeeper, and savor a delicious Farm-to-Table lunch featuring sustainable honey. In the evening, enjoy a Dine-Around experience at a selection of fine local restaurants.
Day 10 – Day 10: Exploring the Ring of Kerry and Killarney
- Killarney
- More
- Ross Castle
- Falconry Kerry (in Killarney)
- Kingdom Falconry
- More
Embark on a scenic tour around the Ring of Kerry, a breathtaking route featuring towering cliffs, lush lakelands, and quaint villages. Experience the relaxed pace of Irish life as you travel through the country's highest mountain range to the tranquil Lakes of Killarney. In Killarney, choose between a horse-drawn jaunting car ride with local jarveys or a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle, taking in the stunning scenery of the National Park.
Day 11 – Day 11: From Killarney to Waterford via Blarney
- Killarney
- More
- Blarney Stone
- House of Waterford Crystal
- More
Explore the enchanting village of Blarney, where you can choose to climb the castle ramparts and kiss the famous Stone of Eloquence or wander through the lush gardens with a senior gardener. Continue your journey through the scenic port of Dungarvan to the historic city of Waterford. Here, you'll enjoy a guided tour of the renowned House of Waterford Crystal and meet a master craftsman. Celebrate your journey with a festive dinner, toasting to new friendships.
Day 12 – Day 12: From Waterford to Cardiff
- Cardiff
- More
- Millennium Stadium
- More
Board a ferry from the port of Rosslare and cross the Irish Sea to the scenic landscapes of Pembrokeshire. Continue your journey through the valleys of southern Wales to the vibrant capital city of Cardiff. Discover the city's iconic landmarks, including the imposing Cardiff Castle and the impressive Principality Stadium, before settling into your hotel for the night.
Day 13 – Day 13: From Cardiff to London via Bath and Stonehenge
- Bath
- London - Departure day
- More
Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths in the city of Bath, where you'll gain insight into the ancient world's spa culture. Continue your journey across Salisbury Plain to the enigmatic Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument shrouded in mystery. Conclude your exploration of Britain and Ireland as you return to London, where your unforgettable journey comes to an end.
Similar tours
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.