Britain & Ireland Explorer (Small Groups, 15 Days)

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Description

Summary

Starts
London
Duration
15 days
Languages
English

Description

Embark on a captivating 15-day journey through the United Kingdom and Ireland, immersing yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes of these enchanting lands. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and local experiences, from the pomp and pageantry of London to the tranquil beauty of the Scottish Highlands, the charming streets of Dublin to the ancient mysteries of Stonehenge. Enjoy exclusive access to world-class attractions, engage with local experts for insider knowledge, and savor authentic regional cuisine. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, this tour promises a wealth of experiences that will create memories to last a lifetime.

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Included

: 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.

Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

You may purchase transfers from/to London Heathrow and Gatwick airports on arrival and departure days, or when additional night accommodation has been booked through Insight Vacations. Alternatively, please make your own way from/to the airport.

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14 Breakfast (B)

4 Dinner with Wine (DW)

2 Lunch (L)

1 Dinner (D)

York: Enjoy a traditional Yorkshire dinner and the chance to get to know your fellow travelers.

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 favorite 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.

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14 night accommodation

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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: Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener. On your stroll enhanced by your expert’s insights, learn about the arboretum’s rare trees, mystical Druid rock formations and the Bog Garden boasting three 600-year-old yew trees.

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 utilize 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 program 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.

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.

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York: Your Travel Director will show you the York Minster, the city walls and the medieval Shambles during your orientation of the city.

Chester: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the Jubilee Clock, the cathedral, city walls and famous black and white Rows.

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Destinations

Photo of aerial view of the Church of the Holy Trinity, where Shakesphere is buried, River Avon, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, England.Stratford-upon-Avon
Photo of the waterfront at Waterford in Ireland.Waterford
Photo of beautiful landscape of Killarney, a city of Ireland.Killarney
Blarney
Highland - region in United KingdomInverness
London, England - Panoramic skyline view of Bank and Canary Wharf, central London's leading financial districts with famous skyscrapers at golden hour sunset with blue sky and clouds.London
York
County Durham
Photo of Cardiff, United Kingdom by Margaret DeckerCardiff
Photo of beautiful view of the old town city of Edinburgh from Calton Hill, United Kingdom.Edinburgh
Aerial view of Dublin city center at sunset with River Liffey and Samuel Beckett bridge in the middle. Bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava.Dublin
Photo of aerial View over St Andrews in Scotland.St Andrews
Cheshire West and Chester - region in United KingdomCheshire West and Chester

Map

Attractions

photo of view ofRoss Castle is a 15th-century tower house in County Kerry, Ireland.Ross Castle
Newham Grange Farm, Middlesbrough, North East England, England, United KingdomNewham Grange Farm
Photo of Guinness Storehouse, Popular Tourist Attraction in Dublin, Ireland.Guinness Storehouse
Gap of Dunloe, Dunloe Upper, Dunloe ED, Kenmare Municipal District, County Kerry, Munster, IrelandGap of Dunloe
Irish National Stud & Gardens, Tully East, Kildare ED, The Municipal District of Kildare — Newbridge, County Kildare, Leinster, IrelandIrish National Stud & Gardens
photo of Blarney Castle, Co.Cork, Ireland, home of world famous Blarney Stone .Blarney Stone
Falconry Kerry (in Killarney), Inchycullane, Kilcummin ED, Killarney Municipal District, County Kerry, Munster, IrelandFalconry Kerry (in Killarney)
Photo of the entrance to Dublin Zoo in the Phoenix park, Dublin. Opened in 1831 it covers an area of 28 hectares in the heart of Dublin City.Dublin Zoo
House of Waterford Crystal, Park, Waterford City Metropolitan District, Waterford, County Waterford, Munster, IrelandHouse of Waterford Crystal
Brú Ború Heritage Centre, Saint Patricksrock, Cashel Urban, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, County Tipperary, Munster, IrelandBrú Ború Heritage Centre
London StadiumLondon Stadium

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in London

  • London - Arrival day
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  • London Stadium
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Welcome to the vibrant city of London! After settling into your hotel, spend the afternoon exploring the city at your leisure. You might choose to stroll through the serene Hyde Park, browse the upscale boutiques of Knightsbridge, or walk along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Day 2: Stratford and York

  • Stratford-upon-Avon
  • York
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Depart from London and journey to the picturesque town of Stratford, nestled on the River Avon. Visit the birthplace of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare, where a treasure trove of memorabilia awaits. Continue to the historic city of York, where you'll explore the quaint Shambles and marvel at the grandeur of York Minster, England's largest medieval cathedral. Enjoy a warm welcome dinner with your fellow travelers.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Day 3: Durham and Edinburgh

  • County Durham
  • Edinburgh
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  • Newham Grange Farm
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Today, stop in the city of Durham to admire its magnificent castle and Romanesque cathedral. Journey on to view a section of Hadrian's Wall, a remarkable Roman monument that once stretched across the width of Britain. Cross the Scottish border to reach the elegant capital city of Edinburgh.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Day 4: Exploring Edinburgh

Day 4: Exploring Edinburgh

Embark on a journey down the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the King. Cross over to New Town and explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, home to Scotland's Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. Enjoy free time in the afternoon for shopping or further exploration. In the evening, select departures will have the opportunity to witness the spectacle of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Day 5: St. Andrews and Inverness

  • St Andrews
  • Inverness
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Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife and journey to St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf. Enjoy free time to explore, perhaps taking a stroll to West Sands Beach, made famous in the film 'Chariots of Fire'. Continue your journey across the Tay river, passing through Blair Atholl and the Grampian Mountains to reach the sparkling Spey Valley. Later, arrive in the city of Inverness, where you'll check into your hotel.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Day 6: Loch Ness and Loch Lomond

Day 6: Loch Ness and Loch Lomond

Begin your day with a journey along the shores of Loch Ness, home to the legendary Nessie. Continue through the breathtaking scenery of Glencoe to reach the beautiful banks of Loch Lomond. Enjoy a scenic cruise on one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs while savoring a light lunch. Cross the English border to arrive at your lakeside hotel.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Day 7: Lake District, Chester, and Liverpool

  • Cheshire West and Chester
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Discover the natural beauty of the Lake District in the morning before continuing to the city of Chester. In the afternoon, you have the option to join The Beatles City Tour in Liverpool, exploring the iconic band's hometown and its influence on their music.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Day 8: Isle of Anglesey and Dublin

  • Dublin
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Travel through Wales, passing the imposing Conwy Castle and crossing over to the Isle of Anglesey. Try your hand at pronouncing the name of the village with the longest name in Europe! From the port of Holyhead, set sail across the Irish Sea to Dublin, the vibrant capital of Ireland.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Day 9: Discovering Dublin

  • Dublin
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  • Guinness Storehouse
  • Dublin Castle
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Experience Dublin's world-famous drink with a guided visit to the Guinness Storehouse, where you'll learn about the history and traditions behind its production. Later, explore Dublin's elegant squares and see famous landmarks like O'Connell Street, the Custom House, and Dublin Castle. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps browsing the shops along Grafton Street.

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Day 10

Day 10 – Day 10: Tipperary and Brookfield Farm

  • Dublin
  • Killarney
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  • Irish National Stud & Gardens
  • Castleview Open Farm
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Travel to Ireland's premier thoroughbred horse breeding region for a behind-the-scenes visit of the National Stud. Visit the acclaimed 100-year-old Japanese Gardens, where you can 'journey through life'. Cross the rolling pastures to Brookfield Farm, where you'll meet a passionate farmer and beekeeper who will share her secrets to crafting delicious and sustainable honey over a Farm-to-Table lunch. Enjoy an intimate dining experience in the evening at a local restaurant.

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Day 11

Day 11 – Day 11: Ring of Kerry and Killarney

  • Killarney
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  • Ross Castle
  • Gap of Dunloe
  • Falconry Kerry (in Killarney)
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Join a delightful trip around the Ring of Kerry, a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, and remote villages. Experience the unhurried pace of Irish life as you pass through Ireland's highest mountain range and make your way to the tranquil Lakes of Killarney. Explore Killarney with a choice of a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car or a gentle hike along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle. Enjoy an intimate dining experience in the evening at a local restaurant.

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Day 12

Day 12 – Day 12: Blarney and Waterford

  • Blarney
  • Waterford
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  • Blarney Stone
  • House of Waterford Crystal
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Explore Blarney, where you can choose to climb the ramparts to see the famous Stone of Eloquence or visit the lush gardens of the estate. Travel on to the historic walled city of Waterford, home to the 11th-century Reginald Tower. Enjoy a guided visit of the world-famous House of Waterford Crystal and meet a master crafter. In the evening, celebrate your journey with a festive dinner.

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Day 13

Day 13 – Day 13: Cardiff

  • Cardiff
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From the port of Rosslare, board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea. A scenic drive takes you into the rural landscapes of Pembrokeshire and the valleys of southern Wales. Arrive in Cardiff, the capital of Wales, known for its impressive castle and the state-of-the-art Principality Stadium.

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Day 14

Day 14 – Day 14: Bath and Stonehenge

Day 14: Bath and Stonehenge

Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths, a fascinating historical site. Your journey continues across Salisbury Plain for a visit to the mysterious Stonehenge, an ancient monument whose purpose remains a mystery. Return to London, where you'll have the rest of the day at your leisure.

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Day 15

Day 15 – Day 15: Departure from London

  • London - Departure day
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Your unforgettable 15-day tour of the United Kingdom and Ireland comes to an end after breakfast. Safe travels!

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