Romantic Britain & Ireland (Classic, 18 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 18-day journey through the heart of the British Isles and Ireland, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. From the bustling streets of London to the serene beauty of the Scottish Highlands, this multi-day tour offers a perfect blend of iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Explore the historic cities of Oxford, York, and Edinburgh, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Ireland's vibrant cities and stunning countryside. With expert guidance, comfortable accommodations, and delightful local cuisine, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience. Whether you're strolling through medieval streets, cruising on Loch Ness, or savoring a traditional Irish cream tea, each day brings new adventures and discoveries. Join us for a journey that will captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories of this enchanting region.
Included
1 Afternoon Tea (AT)
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.
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.
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.
Ring of Kerry: Meet John, a seaweed advocate and educator for a seaweed foraging walk at Atlantic Irish Seaweed. Stroll along the shore learning about how they work to protect the fragile ecosystem of the wild Atlantic Irish coasts through their educational courses and passion for the local environment. Irish Atlantic Seaweed's environmental policy is to respect, enjoy and protect the natural wonders that surround them, and promote the sustainable use of Ireland's fragile marine ecosystems. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.
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.
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.
Pitlochry: Visit this town, famous for its salmon leap.
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.
Eilean Donan: Stop for a photo of this gorgeous castle built on an island in the Loch.
Fort William: Enjoy an excellent view of Ben Nevis from the World War II Commando Memorial.
Glasgow: See the grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.
Belfast: Meet Hilda, a true Belfast local, having lived in the same house her entire life. During your panoramic tour, hear about the history of the city and learn why Hilda is proud of its progress and current prosperity. You'll also see the City Hall, Queen's University, Parliament Building at Stormont and murals in different locations indicating political sentiments of local residents.
Dublin: See Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House with a Local Expert
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.
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.
Glastonbury: Explore the town rumored to be the resting place of legendary King Arthur and the Holy Grail, and location of one of the world's largest music festivals.
Stonehenge: Walk around the strange and awe-inspiring megaliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.
1 night: DoubleTree by Hilton Stratford
1 night: Hilton York
2 nights: Crowne Plaza Edinburgh - Royal Terrace
1 night: Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness
1 night: The Dunollie Hotel, Broadford
1 night: Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow
1 night: Europa Hotel, Belfast
2 nights: Clayton Hotel Charlemont, Dublin
1 night: The George Hotel Limerick
2 nights: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
1 night: Dooley's Hotel Waterford
1 night: Clayton Hotel, Cardiff
2 nights: The Imperial Torquay
8 Dinner (D)
17 Breakfast (B)
Stratford-upon-Avon: Savor British cuisine with dinner at a local restaurant.
Pitlochry: Atholl Palace, built as a Victorian Baronial retreat, is over 130 years old. The Palace plays host to your afternoon tea. You are welcomed into the banqueting room to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea accompanied by sandwiches, scones, Scottish shortbread and traditional Scottish tablet.
Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's national drink.
Killarney: There's nothing quite as homely as the Irish tradition of a Sunday roast, served with all the trimmings.
Killarney: Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening.
Torquay: Blend a little wine with great cuisine and good company for a rousing dinner.
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.
Cliffs of Moher: Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travellers. Visit the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. Gain insights from your Travel Director into the cliffs’ geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: London to Stratford-upon-Avon
- London
- Oxford
- Stratford-upon-Avon - Arrival day
- More
- Reading Museum
- More
Begin your journey in the vibrant city of London, where you'll meet your Travel Director. Depart for the historic university town of Oxford, renowned for its stunning architecture. Here, you can explore the Ashmolean Museum or enjoy the local market. Continue through the picturesque Cotswolds to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Discover the legacy of the Bard at his birthplace, filled with fascinating memorabilia. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a local pub.
Day 2 – Day 2: Stratford-upon-Avon to York
- Lincoln
- York
- More
Travel through the heart of England, passing through the legendary 'Robin Hood Country' to reach the historic city of Lincoln. Continue to York, a city steeped in history and once the Viking capital of Britain. Stroll through the medieval streets to the magnificent York Minster and Clifford's Tower, where your hotel awaits within the ancient city walls.
Day 3 – Day 3: York to Edinburgh
- Edinburgh
- More
Embark on a scenic drive through the Lake District National Park, a landscape that has inspired countless poets. Visit the charming village of Grasmere, home to the grave of poet William Wordsworth. Cross into Scotland at Gretna Green, famous for its romantic elopements, before arriving in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, the Scottish capital.
Day 4 – Day 4: Exploring Edinburgh
- Edinburgh
- More
Discover the historic charm of Edinburgh, starting with a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the King in Scotland. Continue to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views and see the Scottish Crown Jewels. Spend the afternoon shopping on Princes Street or exploring the city's rich history. In the evening, experience the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a spectacular display of music and pageantry.
Day 5 – Day 5: Edinburgh to Pitlochry
- St Andrews
- Inverness
- More
Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife, arriving in St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf. Explore the historic university and the scenic West Sands Beach. Continue to the Victorian resort town of Pitlochry, renowned for its salmon run. Indulge in a traditional cream tea at the historic Atholl Palace and Gardens, a charming hotel with Victorian elegance.
Day 6 – Day 6: Pitlochry to Isle of Skye
Day 6: Pitlochry to Isle of Skye
Embark on a captivating Loch Ness cruise, where you'll hear tales of the legendary Nessie. Capture the beauty of Eilean Donan Castle, perfectly situated on a headland. Listen to stories of Flora MacDonald as you journey to the enchanting Isle of Skye, a land of rugged landscapes and rich history.
Day 7 – Day 7: Isle of Skye to Glasgow
- Glasgow
- More
Return to the mainland and visit the World War II Commando Memorial, set against the backdrop of Ben Nevis. Travel through the hauntingly beautiful Glencoe, known as the Valley of the Weeping. Enjoy a scenic drive along the banks of Loch Lomond before arriving in Glasgow. Discover the city's grand architecture, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.
Day 8 – Day 8: Glasgow to Belfast
- Belfast
- More
- Giant's Ring
- Cave Hill Country Park
- National Trust - Divis and the Black Mountain
- More
Bid farewell to Scotland as you cross the Irish Sea to Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland. Join your Local Expert for a passionate city tour, taking in sights like the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont. Explore the city's political murals and enjoy free time to discover Belfast at your own pace.
Day 9 – Day 9: Belfast to Dublin
- Dublin
- More
- Guinness Storehouse
- Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane
- St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
- Dublin Zoo
- More
Journey alongside the majestic Mountains of Mourne and cross the historic Boyne Valley, the site of a famous battle. Arrive in Dublin, Ireland's lively capital, where you'll explore iconic landmarks such as O'Connell Street, Dublin Castle, and St. Patrick's Cathedral with your Local Expert.
Day 10 – Day 10: Discovering Dublin
- Dublin
- More
- Guinness Storehouse
- Glendalough Cathedral
- More
Dive into the rich history of Ireland's national drink at the Guinness Storehouse, where you'll learn about its production and enjoy a tasting. Spend the rest of the day exploring Dublin at your leisure, or opt for a visit to the ancient monastic site of Glendalough, nestled in the Wicklow Mountains.
Day 11 – Day 11: Dublin to Limerick
- Galway
- Limerick
- Dublin
- More
- Cliffs of Moher
- More
Travel west to the vibrant city of Galway, known for its artistic and bohemian atmosphere. Enjoy free time to explore before crossing the unique limestone landscape of the Burren. Visit the Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Continue to Limerick, a city rich in history and culture, situated on the River Shannon.
Day 12 – Day 12: Limerick to Killarney
- Dingle
- Killarney
- Limerick
- More
- Treaty Stone
- King John's Castle
- Saint Mary's Cathedral
- More
Explore the historical treasures of Limerick, including St. Mary's Cathedral, King John's Castle, and the Treaty Stone. Journey through the stunning landscapes of the Dingle Peninsula, with its dramatic cliffs and ocean vistas, before arriving in Killarney. Enjoy a traditional Sunday roast dinner with all the trimmings.
Day 13 – Day 13: Ring of Kerry Excursion
- Killarney
- More
- Falconry Kerry (in Killarney)
- Ballyheigue Beach
- Kingdom Falconry
- More
Embark on a breathtaking excursion around the Ring of Kerry, where mountains, valleys, and lakes create a stunning landscape. Travel through the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain range, to the serene Lakes of Killarney. Visit a family-run seaweed farm and learn about sustainable practices. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore or relax in this picturesque setting.
Day 14 – Day 14: Killarney to Waterford
- Blarney
- Waterford
- Killarney
- More
- Reginald's Tower
- Blarney Stone
- House of Waterford Crystal
- More
Visit the legendary Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the Blarney Stone for the gift of eloquence. Continue to Waterford, Ireland's oldest city, and see the historic Reginald's Tower. At the House of Waterford Crystal, meet an artisan and witness the creation of exquisite crystal pieces.
Day 15 – Day 15: Waterford to Cardiff
- Cardiff
- More
Cross the Irish Sea from Rosslare to Pembroke, then journey through the scenic landscapes of Pembrokeshire. Arrive in Cardiff, the capital of Wales, known for its impressive castle and the renowned Principality Stadium. Enjoy an orientation tour of this vibrant port city, located on the River Taff.
Day 16 – Day 16: Cardiff to Torquay
- Bath
- Glasgow
- More
- Muchelney Abbey
- More
Cross the Severn Bridge to the historic city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Roman Baths and learn about their cultural significance. Continue to Glastonbury to visit the abbey, believed to be the burial place of King Arthur. End your day in the seaside town of Torquay, known for its stunning coastline.
Day 17 – Day 17: Exploring Dartmoor
- Glastonbury
- More
- Paignton Zoo
- Plymouth Naval Memorial
- More
Choose your adventure in Dartmoor. Opt for a scenic exploration of Dartmoor National Park, with its rugged landscapes and wild ponies. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing cruise of Plymouth Harbour, taking in sights like the Mayflower Steps and Plymouth Hoe. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner featuring local specialties.
Day 18 – Day 18: Torquay to London
- Salisbury
- London - Departure day
- More
Begin your day with a visit to the enigmatic Stonehenge, the world's most famous prehistoric monument. Contemplate its mysteries before returning to London, where your remarkable journey concludes. Reflect on the memories made and the sights seen as you return to your hotel in the bustling capital.
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