Overview

1. Day 1: Your Journey Begins.

   Board your overnight flight to Europe (please ask about our great deals).

2. Day 2: Welcome to London

   Check into your hotel, then there is time to relax, explore or shop.

   hotel:Amba Marble Arch/Grosvenor

3. Day 3: London, Oxford, Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon.

   This morning meet your Travel Director at the trip's hotel in London. After a warm welcome, settle into your luxury coach and head westwards through the green Chiltern Hills. Stop in Oxford where your Travel Director will introduce you to the City of Dreaming Spires and home to the world's most famous university. With time at leisure, why not enjoy a visit to the world-famous Ashmolean Museum or browse through the local indoor market? Continue via pretty Cotswolds villages to Stratford-upon-Avon. Visit the half-timbered house where William Shakespeare was born, now a museum full of memorabilia relating to his life. Later, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers at a local restaurant for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner with drinks and the opportunity to get to know each other over a pleasant evening.

   meal(s):DW

   hotel:Macdonald Swan's Nest, Stratford.

4. Day 4: Medieval York.

   A leisurely drive brings you to the historic city of York, its story going back to the time of the Romans and the Vikings. Inside the ancient city walls, see the Minster, the largest medieval church in northern Europe, then go exploring through the maze of narrow streets to the topsy-turvy ‘Shambles', where warped, over hanging timber-framed houses lean so far that they almost touch! Spend the rest of the day at leisure.

   meal(s):FB, D

   hotel:Hilton, York.

5. Day 5: Through the English Lakes to Edinburgh.

   Travel across the Yorkshire Dales and wild Pennines to the picturesque English Lake District. Here a scenic wonderland awaits - rugged mountains and tranquil waters, inspiration to a host of English poets including Wordsworth, Coleridge, Tennyson and Shelley. After a visit to Wordsworth's grave in the village of Grasmere, cross into Scotland and stop briefly at Gretna Green. This is the famous spot where runaway lovers were married over the anvil at the Blacksmith's shop. Then it's on to the majestic Scottish capital. 

   meal(s):FB

   hotel:Roxburghe/Crowne Plaza Royal Terrace, Edinburgh (2 nights).

6. Day 6: Edinburgh, Scotland's City of Culture.

   Join a Local Expert for a trip along Princes Street to see the ornate Victorian Gothic monument to Sir Walter Scott and the elegant 18th century New Town with its classical Adam facades. Over in the Old Town, visit the castle, home of Mons Meg, the Stone of Destiny and the Honors of Scotland, Scotland’s glittering Crown Jewels. At the bottom of the Royal Mile, stands the Palace of Holyroodhouse - the official Scottish residence of Her Majesty, the Queen. The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps research your family tartan in the Tartan Center or visit the art treasures in the National Gallery?

   meal(s):FB

   hotel:Roxburghe/Crowne Plaza Royal Terrace, Edinburgh.

7. Day 7: St. Andrews, Culloden and the Highland Capital of Inverness.

   Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife and make your way to St. Andrews, the home of golf. After some time to explore, cross the Tay and drive to the charming Victorian resort town of Pitlochry, famous for its salmon leap. Continue via Blair Atholl and over the Grampian Mountains to the sparkling Spey Valley. Travel to Culloden Moor, where Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army was finally crushed in 1746. Visit the Culloden Visitor Centre before continuing to stately Inverness, where your centrally-located hotel looks over the River Ness and up to Inverness castle.

   meal(s):FB, D

   hotel:The Columba Hotel, Inverness.

8. Day 8: Along the shores of Loch Ness to Wick.

   Start the day with a journey of discovery on a Loch Ness cruise. Soak up the scenery, historic monuments and intriguing tales of 'Nessie' in the heart of Scotland's great glen. Next, follow the rugged coast north to the fishing port of Wick. Pause at the Old Pulteney Distillery to taste a wee dram of whisky and learn about the production of the national drink. Don't blink as you drive on to your hotel - you pass Ebenezer Place, which at 2.06m, is the world's shortest street!

   meal(s):FB, D

   hotel:Norseman Hotel, Wick (2 nights).

9. Day 9: Orkney Islands Experience.

   Visit the most northerly town on the British mainland, John O'Groats. Board the ferry to the beautiful Orkney Islands - where the hardy locals live ‘below the wind and above the water'. Guided sightseeing includes visits to the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the mysterious Ring of Brodgar, Kirkwall and the small chapel built by Italian prisoners of war during WWII. Return to your hotel for your evening meal.

   meal(s):FB, D

   hotel:Norseman Hotel, Wick.

10. Day 10: Ullapool and over the sea to Skye.

    Relax and enjoy the pristine landscapes of lochs and mountains on your way to the fishing town of Ullapool. Then drive alongside Loch Carron and through Glen Carron, before crossing 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, who fled in disguise after his defeat at Culloden. Admire the scenic splendour on the way to your hotel in Broadford.

    meal(s):FB, D

    hotel:Dunollie Hotel, Broadford.

11. Day 11: Along the Banks of Loch Lomond to Glasgow.

    Return to the mainland to see remote Eilean Donan Castle, which under a clear sky offers a perfect reflection in its loch. Move on to the WWII Commando Memorial for a chance to view Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Continue on to the Valley of Glencoe, its dramatic peaks still echoing with the ghastly cries of massacred clansmen. Stop on the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond, known as the 'Queen of Scottish Lakes' according to Sir Walter Scott, before arriving in Glasgow.

    meal(s):FB

    hotel:Radisson Blu, Glasgow.

12. Day 12: Walk in the Giant’s Steps on the way to Londonderry.

    Cross the Irish Sea, enjoying views of the Island of Arran on the way. Prepare yourself for miles of breathtaking beauty! The road clings to the coastline at the mouth of the famous 'nine glens of Antrim', alongside sandy beaches beneath towering basalt cliffs. Stop at the Giant's Causeway, and hear the legends which surround this geological masterpiece, created by the cooling of lava which burst through the Earth's crust millions of years ago. Continue to the ancient walled city of ‘Derry'.

    meal(s):FB, D

    hotel:Da Vincis, Londonderry.

13. Day 13: Belleek and Sligo Bay.

    Meet Ronan, one of the nation's great story tellers, as he takes you inside Derry's well-preserved walls, still topped with cannons, and down steep Shipquay Street, with its elegant Georgian houses, to the Gothic Guildhall. Cross the border to see O'Donnell's Castle in Donegal. Drive south to visit the Belleek Pottery centre, nestled on the banks of the River Erne. Meet some of the specialist crafts people and see artisan techniques in action during your visit. Continue to the churchyard at Drumcliff, the last resting place of Irish poet WB Yeats. Then it's on to your country retreat, set on the scenic shores of Sligo Bay.

    meal(s):FB, D

    hotel:Radisson Blu, Sligo.

14. Day 14: Connemara, Galway and Limerick.

    Experience the beautiful rugged landscape of Connemara, a wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. Continue to Galway and see St. Nicholas Cathedral, the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President John F. Kennedy. Move on to your hotel in Limerick, famous for rhymes, lace and Georgian houses.

    meal(s):FB

    hotel:George Boutique Hotel, Limerick.

15. Day 15: The Pretty Village of Adare to Killarney.

    An orientation tour shows you King John's Castle, St. Mary's Cathedral and the treaty stone. Continue through the land of song and legend via the picturesque thatched village of Adare, into County Kerry and your Killarney hotel.

    meal(s):FB

    hotel:Killarney Plaza, Killarney (2 nights).

16. Day 16: Ring of Kerry Experience.

    In the morning, enjoy a trip around the Ring of Kerry, one of the world's greatest scenic journeys. See towering cliffs, lush lakelands, remote villages, Ireland's highest mountain range and the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. With time at leisure, perhaps hire a bicycle and take advantage of the many cycle trails that Killarney has to offer, around the lake or through the National Park? At night your Dine-Around evening offers you authentic and intimate dining at a selection of local restaurants, ranging in style and ambience.

    meal(s):FB, DA

    hotel:Killarney Plaza, Killarney.

17. Day 17: Blarney Castle and Waterford.

    Cross the rugged Derrynasaggart Mountains this morning and head for Blarney. Visit the ruined castle, the home of the famous Stone of Eloquence, once kissed - never forgotten! Continue on to Cork, Ireland's second most populous city, built on the River Lee. See the City Hall and St. Finbarr's Cathedral, before a delightful coastal drive brings you to historic Waterford, with its 9th century Reginald's Tower and remains of the old city walls.

    meal(s):FB

    hotel:Dooleys Hotel, Waterford.

18. Day 18: Waterford Crystal, Kilkenny and Dublin.

    First admire the sparkling display of crystal on your guided visit to the world famous crystal factory and meet a master craftsman. Then drive to Kilkenny where you will experience first hand the ancient Celtic game of Hurling. Hear all about the world's oldest and fastest field game and learn first hand about the art of making the Hurley. Continue to Ireland's lively capital, Dublin, and spend a leisurely evening relaxing, exploring or taking in a famous Irish Cabaret show.

    meal(s):FB

    hotel:City Trinity Hotel, Dublin (2 nights).

19. Day 19: In Dublin’s Fair City.

    Before it opens to the public, experience Ireland's national and world-famous drink with a guided visit to the Guinness Storehouse. Gain a fascinating insight into the history and traditions behind its production and enjoy a tasting with a Guinness expert. Our sightseeing tour with a Local Expert shows Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, Irish President's home, O'Connell Street and The Customs House. The afternoon is at leisure.

    meal(s):FB

    hotel:Clyde Court/Clayton Cardiff Lane, Dublin.

20. Day 20: Across the Irish Sea via Conwy to Chester.

    Bid farewell to Ireland as you board the ferry to Wales. Cross the Isle of Anglesey (via the village bearing Britain's longest name), then continue over the Menai Straits for a stop in the walled market town of Conwy. Next, follow the north coast of Wales, to re-enter England at Chester. This fine town still boasts relics of its history as a Roman fortress, as well as the unique black and white shopping arcades known as the 'Rows'. Your sightseeing tour shows you the well preserved city walls, Jubilee Clock and impressive cathedral.

    meal(s):FB, D

    hotel:Best Western Premier Queen Hotel, Chester.

21. Day 21: Through the Welsh Marches to Cardiff.

    Follow the Welsh border to ancient Ludlow. This bustling town is still dominated by the massive castle, built to resist the frequent Welsh raids, while the medieval timber framed buildings and Georgian mansions reflect a later time of peace and prosperity. Continue through the countryside to the Welsh capital and see the Principality Stadium and civic buildings before checking in.

    meal(s):FB

    hotel:Clayton Hotel, Cardiff.

22. Day 22: The Roman City of Bath and Glastonbury.

    Cross the soaring Severn Bridge to reach the elegant Georgian city of Bath, built amphitheatre-style on the surrounding hills. An orientation tour shows you the impressive Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge, both built in mellow local stone. See the angels climbing Jacob's Ladder on Bath Abbey before visiting the Pump Room and ancient Roman Baths. Journey on to Glastonbury, known as the resting place of the legendary King Arthur and the Holy Grail. After some time to explore, continue on to the Cornish Countryside for the night.

    meal(s):FB

    hotel:St. Mellion International Resort, Saltash (2 nights).

23. Day 23: Plymouth and the Cornish Coast Experience.

    In the morning, cross the moorlands of Dartmoor, home to 'wild' ponies, on your way to maritime Plymouth. Numerous famous voyagers have set off from this ancient port and you will see the 'Mayflower Steps', from where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail for America. Visit a picturesque Cornish fishing village, where contraband was once landed in the dead of night. Experiences shared lead to lasting friendships. Back in Saltash, enjoy a glass of wine with your newfound friends at the delectable Celebration Dinner and toast to an inspiring journey of discovery. Cheers!

    meal(s):FB, CD

    hotel:St. Mellion International Resort, Saltash.

24. Day 24: Ancient Stonehenge to London.

    Travel across Salisbury Plain to visit pre-historic Stonehenge, whose strange and awe-inspiring monoliths are reputed to be up to 5,000 years old. In the afternoon, return to you London hotel.

    meal(s):FB

25. Day 25: Homeward Bound.

    Your journey draws to a close after breakfast this morning. 

    meal(s):FB