Britain and Ireland Discovery
24 Day Tour of England, Scotland & Ireland | Operated by InsightVacations
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24 Days
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5 Countries
England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Ireland, Wales -
42 Cities
London, Oxford, Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon, York, Lake District, Grasmere, Gretna Green, Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Culloden, Inverness, Loch Ness, Wick, Orkney Islands, Ullapool, Skye, Eilean Donan, Fort William, Glencoe, Glasgow, Londonderry, Belleek, Sligo Bay, Sligo, Connemara, Galway, Limerick, Adare, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle, Cork, Kilkenny, Dublin, Conwy, Chester, Cardiff, Bath, Plymouth, Dartmoor, Stonehenge -
34 Meals
23 Breakfasts, 10 Dinner with Wines, 1 Lunch -
Pace: Active
Faster paces with mix of 1–2-night stays in each location. Typically features 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve steep hills and uneven surfaces, such as cobblestones.
Trip Itinerary
At 08:00, meet your Travel Director at the trip's hotel in London. After a warm welcome, settle into your luxury coach and head westward through the green Chiltern Hills. Stop in Oxford, where your Travel Director will introduce you to the City of Dreaming Spires, home to the world's most famous university. With time at leisure, why not enjoy a visit to the renowned 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.
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 York Minster, the largest medieval church in northern Europe. Explore the maze of narrow streets to the topsy-turvy Shambles, where warped, overhanging timber-framed houses lean so far that they almost touch! Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Travel across the Yorkshire Dales and wild Pennines to the picturesque Lake District. A scenic wonderland awaits, with rugged mountains and tranquil waters that inspired 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.
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, see the Palace of Holyroodhouse - the official Scottish residence of His Majesty, The King and visit the castle, home of Mons Meg, the Stone of Destiny and the Honours of Scotland - Scotland's glittering Crown Jewels. 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? In the evening, select departures will attend the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo - a colorful mix of pipes and drums, dance and display, set against the floodlit backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife. Make your way to St. Andrews, home to the Old Course and birthplace of golf. Enjoy free time to explore. Perhaps stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed? Alternately, wander to St. Andrews University where the love story of Kate Middleton meeting her Prince Charming began. Cross the Tay and journey to Blair Atholl and pass the Grampian Mountains on the way to the sparkling Spey Valley. Stop at Culloden Moor, where Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army was finally crushed in 1746 and visit the Culloden Visitor Center. Travel to Inverness, where your centrally located hotel is set on the banks of the River Ness and looks up to Inverness Castle.
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. Your travels then follow the rugged coast north to the fishing port of Wick. Visit a whisky distillery to taste a wee dram 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 2.06 m, is the world's shortest street!
Start the day by boarding the ferry to the beautiful Orkney Islands where the countryside is breathtakingly majestic and the tranquillity supports a quieter pace of life. Here the hardy locals say they live ‘below the wind and above the water.’ Your Travel Director accompanies you as you visit the 5000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the old Norse Town of Kirkwall, the mysterious Ring of Brodgar, Kirkwall and the small chapel built by Italian prisoners during World War II.
Cross the Irish Sea, enjoying views of the Island of Arran along the way. Once you arrive in Northern Ireland, 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. Journey to the iconic Giant's Causeway, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Learn how the National Trust is enabling farming and biodiversity to work together, supporting both wildlife and quality food production. This geological masterpiece was 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'.
In the morning, meet Ronan, one of the nation's great storytellers, as he takes you inside Londonderry's well-preserved walls, still topped with cannons. Walk down steep Shipquay Street, with its elegant Georgian houses, to the Gothic Guildhall, and cross the border to see O’Donnell’s Castle in Donegal. Journey south to the Belleek Pottery & Visitor Center, nestled on the banks of the River Erne. Meet some of the specialist craftspeople and see artisan techniques in action during your visit. Then it’s on to your country retreat, set on the scenic shores of Sligo Bay.
Start the day with an exploration of Limerick where you will see King John's Castle, St. Mary's Cathedral and the Treaty Stone. As a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, meet John and Freda, passionate restaurant owners. Learn how their farm-to-table concept operates and enjoy a delicious meal made from fresh ingredients all sourced within a five-mile radius.
Continue your journey through the land of song and legend via the picturesque thatched village of Adare, into County Kerry and onto your Killarney hotel. At night your Dine-Around Evening offers you authentic and intimate dining as you choose from a hand-picked selection of local restaurants, ranging in style and ambiance.
In the morning, 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 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 as you choose from a hand-picked selection of local restaurants, ranging in style and ambiance.
Cross the rugged Derrynasaggart Mountains this morning and head for Blarney. Visit the ruined 15th century castle that is home to the famous Stone of Eloquence. It is said that those whose lips caress the Stone of Eloquence 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.
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?
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.
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. 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. An exploration with your Travel Director will show you the well-preserved city walls, Jubilee Clock and impressive cathedral.
Continue through the countryside to the Welsh capital and see the Principality Stadium and Cardiff Castle.
Cross the soaring Severn Bridge to reach the elegant Georgian city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in amphitheater-style on the surrounding hills. An orientation of the city will show you the impressive Pulteney Bridge and gothic Bath Abbey, famous for the sculpture of angels climbing Jacob's Ladder. Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, pioneering new educational investments to benefit the community. Journey on to Somerset, see Wells Cathedral, as you make your way to Plymouth for the night.
Explore Dartmoor with Insight Choice. Choose to join a scenic exploration of Dartmoor National Park. Alternatively, cruise the scenic Plymouth harbor, where 400 years ago the Mayflower set sail for America. Back in Plymouth, enjoy a glass of wine and a delectable Celebration Dinner with your newfound friends as you toast to an inspiring journey.
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. Return to your hotel in London for a final evening at leisure.
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.
Price Includes
Dining Summary- - 23 Breakfasts (B)
- - 10 Dinner with Wines (DW)
- - 1 Lunch (L)
- See the spires and colleges of this world-famous university town.
- 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.
- Your Travel Director will show you the York Minster, the city walls and the medieval Shambles during your orientation of the city.
- Learn about the life of the poet William Wordsworth and visit his grave.
- Visit the spot where runaway lovers were married.
- Your Local Expert walks with you inside the walls of the Edinburgh Castle to view the Scottish Crown Jewels, Mons Meg and other artefacts.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- At the exciting Culloden Visitor Center, discover why the Battle of Culloden lasted only an hour yet changed the Highland way of life forever.
- See the River Ness, Inverness Castle and beautiful scenery as you explore the history of this Highland city.
- See the world's shortest street, Ebenezer Place.
- 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.
- Stop for a photo of this gorgeous castle.
- See the grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.
- Board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea.
- Enjoy a guided tour of the porcelain production process and meet some of the specialist craftspeople.
- 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.
- Fascinating stories and interesting locals take center 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.
- See King John's Castle, St. Mary's Cathedral and the treaty stone.
- Experience a village walk through the main street lined with thatched cottages.
- 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.
- 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.
- A Local Expert will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
- Board the ferry to return to mainland Britain.
- 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.
- During your orientation with your Travel Director see the Jubilee Clock, the cathedral, city walls and famous black and white Rows.
- Learn more about Wales' capital and cultural hub, Cardiff, as you enjoy an orientation of this vibrant city with your Travel Director.
- During an orientation you will see the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey.
- 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.
- Set sail on a relaxing cruise from Plymouth harbor, where the pilgrims left over 400 years ago.
- Get to know your fellow travelers during your Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant.
- Whiskys are known for their distinctive flavors, often bursting with the power and subtlety of the sea. Share a wee dram with a master distiller who imparts the age-old techniques.
- Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening.
- Visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's national drink.
- Celebrate the culmination of your travels in style with delicious wine and local cuisine.
- Soak up the scenery and hear intriguing tales of Nessie during a cruise.
- 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.
- 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.
- Visit the legendary Giant's Causeway, site of wonders. At the visitor center, 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. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
- 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.
- Visit the incredibly well-preserved Roman Baths. Discover 2000 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. The Roman Baths experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education.
- 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.
- Visit Kilkenny Castle with a Local Expert. On a guided tour, learn the history of this magnificent castle and that of the powerful family that came to call it home for so many centuries. Amble through the Picture Gallery, library, drawing room, nursery and bedrooms decorated in 1830s splendor as well as the rolling parkland formal terraced rose garden, woodlands and man-made lake.
- Learn about the history of stone circles and indigenous traditions from your knowledgeable Local Expert and enjoy a scenic exploration across the rolling valleys of Dartmoor National Park. Alternatively, cruise the scenic Plymouth harbor, where 400 years ago the Mayflower set sail for America.
Optional Experiences
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Ceilidh Evening and Dinner at Ghillie Dhu (Available on Day 3)Experience the best of Scottish tradition at Ghillie Dhu, where we'll be welcomed by a Scottish piper and enjoy a welcome drink before settling in for a delicious three-course meal and live Ceilidh music. And you can't miss the iconic Piping in the Haggis ceremony, a true highlight of the Scottish experience.
Adult Price: £85 Royal Edinburgh (Available on Day 4)We’ll enjoy views of the Queen's Park and take in a spectacular panorama of Scotland’s Capital before arriving at Holyrood Palace - the King’s official home in Scotland. Our Local Expert will bring its ancient stories to life before a leisurely visit through the official rooms of the palace.
Adult Price: £44 Dinner In Edinburgh (Available on Day 4)
Edinburgh has more eateries per head than any other city in the UK and your Travel Director knows which ones shine and which ones to shun! Join your fellow companions for a fun evening out in this vibrant city. Visit a prized local restaurant for a delicious three course dinner with a glass of wine, beer or soft drink included.
Adult Price: £59 Edinburgh - The Untold Story (Available on Day 4)Walk Edinburgh's heart with your Local Expert, to hear about the ultimate loyal dog, grave robbers, executions and other untold stories. Stroll through the Wynds and Closes of the real Edinburgh and enjoy a drink in one of this city's most famous pubs.
Adult Price: £29 Blair Castle (Available on Day 5)Journey into the fascinating past with a visit to the ancestral home of the Dukes of Atholl. Brimming with treasures inside and out, magnificent Blair Castle is set in its own grounds against a backdrop of glorious scenery. During your visit, see how the castle has been transformed through the ages and learn how Queen Victoria's famous stay led to the creation of Europe's only private army.
Adult Price: £30 An Evening of Scots-Gaelic Culture (Available on Day 6)A rare opportunity to enjoy an introduction to the Gaelic culture that is so unique to the Highlands. Stories, song, music and Highland history await you in the warm atmosphere of a centuries-old Highland hostelry.
Adult Price: £33 Isle Of Skye Tour (Available on Day 8)A wonderful opportunity to experience the spectacular scenery of the Trotternish Peninsula with a Local Expert. Hear about the way of life on this remote inner Hebridean island, steeped in myth and legend. While touring the 'Isle of Mist' see the Old Man of Storr, the red and black Cuillin Mountains and picturesque Portree, the largest town on the Island. This is an opportunity not to be missed.
Adult Price: £24 Glasgow Dinner (Available on Day 9)In recent years, Glasgow has developed a fearsome culinary reputation. With its elegant and chic atmosphere, tonight's dining experience will feature one of the venues at the forefront of Glasgow's foodie scene. Enjoy an evening of Scottish fayre and experience the city's atmosphere at night.
Adult Price: £62 Guided Visit and Dinner at The Mackintosh at the Willow (Available on Day 9)Step inside the stunning surroundings of Mackintosh at the Willow after-hours and relax with a glass of prosecco. Explore the history of the tearoom and Glasgow in a private visit to our onsite interactive exhibition. Let our specialist guide tells you more about the building and immerse yourself in the magic of Mackintosh. Our guide will be on hand to answer any questions. Take a seat in the historic surroundings of the Original Willow Tea Rooms building and enjoy a delicious 3 course menu curated with the best Scottish produce and hand selected wine.
Adult Price: £73 Shannon Castle Banquet (Available on Day 12)Calling all Lords and Ladies! Please be seated for a delicious banquet in the great hall of the castle. In the splendor of a bygone age, entertainment is provided by the court butler, castle musicians and attendants of the medieval court. It won’t be long before you're making merry with the fine music, singing, dancing, good food and laughter. You'll be sure to take home warm memories of this delightful evening.
Adult Price: €89 Jaunting Car Ride (Available on Day 13)Experience the best of the Irish countryside on a traditional pony and trap ride through the beautiful Bourn-Vincent National Park. Formerly known as the Muckross Estate, this area became Ireland's first National Park in 1932. In 1981, the park was designated by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve, part of a network of natural areas which have conservation, research, education and training as primary objectives. During your journey, your Local Specialist shares insightful anecdotes about the area and Ireland.
Adult Price: €28 Gaelic Roots (Available on Day 13)The origins of Irish culture spring to life over a tour de force of traditional Irish song, music and dance at this Gaelic Roots show. Using traditional instruments, Irish dance and time-honored folk songs, this energetic show will have you tapping your feet and singing along. You’ll treasure experiencing the 2,000-year-old Gaelic culture over an evening out.
Adult Price: €37 Celtic Steps (Available on Day 13)Enjoy a spectacular evening of Irish music, song and dance performed by champion dancers and musicians and showcasing the music of Kerry and beyond. Beginning with as Irish Classic, ‘Siúil a Rún,’ thought to have originated in the 1800’s, the traditional Irish song tells a bittersweet tale of a woman lamenting her lover after his decision to embark on a military career. The performance then shifts to a series of fast and lively Irish reels with the introduction of the Celtic Steps Dance Troop followed by the waltz and energetic jig.
Adult Price: €43 Queenstown Story (Available on Day 15)Experience this intriguing port town, home to the world's second-largest natural harbor. We’ll visit stunning St Colman’s Cathedral and the Queenstown Story to hear about the town's past and discover how it became the single most important Irish port of emigration.
Adult Price: €29 Dinner & Cabaret (Available on Day 16)Ireland conjures of images of hearty meals and toe-tapping entertainment. Indulge in a bit of both over an evening of fine food and fun as Ireland’s history unfolds with comedy, song and dance. Get in the spirit joining in the show, elevated with a healthy dose of Irish humor. Enhance your evening sipping on an after-dinner Irish coffee.
Adult Price: €89 Dublin Dinner (Available on Day 17)
Join us for some warm Irish hospitality over a three course dinner in a family run pub, that was formerly the haunt of nobility and notorious highwaymen. Lovely exposed brick walls and dark wood make for a cozy atmosphere in which to enjoy your hearty pub meal.
Adult Price: €65 Irish Countryside & Glendalough (Available on Day 17)An afternoon drive takes you through the rural countryside of County Wicklow - the garden of Ireland. With our Local Expert, we'll pass through the pretty Wicklow Mountains to the picturesque setting of St. Kevin’s great 6th Century monastic site at Glendalough. Afterwards, we'll explore the monastic remains before returning to Dublin via the Great Sugar Loaf Mountain.
Adult Price: €34 Cardiff Castle Tour (Available on Day 19)Take an ‘insider’ look at this unique Castle started by the Romans 2,000 years ago where we have our own private tour. The refurbishments done in the 1800s have been described as outrageous to opulent, bogus to brilliant and some even say the architect, William Burgess, smoked his opium pipe too much! His influences include Arab and Islamic art, Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales and even Aesop's fables. In addition, we can walk on the battlements and climb the 1,000-year-old Norman keep for superb views over Cardiff.
Adult Price: £26 Welsh Evening (Available on Day 19)Join us for a lively night celebrating Welsh food and culture at a stunningly-renovated deconsecrated church in the heart of Cardiff. Enjoy a traditional and locally-sourced three-course meal whilst being entertained by Welsh stories, enchanting music and renowned Welsh singers.
Adult Price: £83 Cornwall Dinner (Available on Day 20)There can be nothing better than a delightful meal in a quintessential English country pub. Enjoy a three-course dinner of superb local food with wine. Cheers!
Adult Price: £51 Dartmoor Excursion And Dinner (Available on Day 20)A scenic drive across the mysterious moors takes us to the capital of the area, Princetown. Here we’ll see the infamous Dartmoor prison, before driving to a lovely old Inn for a drink and supper. Later, a Local Specialist will regale us with stories and legends about the area.
Adult Price: £68