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Britain and Ireland Explorer (Premium)
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Britain and Ireland Explorer (Premium)
Operated by: Insight Vacations
15 Days from $4,496 per person
Locations Visited
London, Stratford-upon-Avon, York, Durham, Hadrian's Wall, Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Inverness, Loch Ness, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Windermere, Lake District National Park, Chester, Conwy, Dublin, Kildare, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle, Waterford, Cardiff, Bath, Stonehenge ...more London, Stratford-upon-Avon, York, Durham, Hadrian's Wall, Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Inverness, Loch Ness, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Windermere, Lake District National Park, Chester, Conwy, Dublin, Kildare, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle, Waterford, Cardiff, Bath, StonehengeBOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
✓ Lock in this trip with $250 deposit
✓ Refund Guarantee within 30 days of booking
✓ Flexible changes up to 60 days before your tour departs
✓ Lock in this trip with $250 deposit
✓ Refund Guarantee within 30 days of booking
✓ Flexible changes up to 60 days before your tour departs
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Day 1
Welcome to London
Welcome to London. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free to enjoy a city that is famous for its pomp and pageantry. Perhaps relax with a walk along the Serpentine in Hyde Park or window shop in the elegant boutiques of Knightsbridge? Alternatively, you may want to stroll along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.
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Day 2
Stratford-upon-Avon and Medieval York
At 07:30, meet your Travel Director and journey to Stratford, beautifully situated on the River Avon. Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare, full of interesting memorabilia and artefacts relating to his life. Continue on to York where you walk within the old city walls to the crooked houses of the Shambles and see York Minster, Northern Europe's largest Gothic Medieval cathedral. Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner with drinks and the opportunity to mingle over a pleasant evening of dinner and wine.
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Day 3
Durham, Hadrian's Wall and Edinburgh Relaxed Start
Stop in Durham to see the castle and Romanesque cathedral. Then view part of Hadrian's Wall, Britain's most impressive Roman monument, once spanning 80 miles from coast-to-coast, marking the northern frontier of the mighty Roman Empire. Cross the Scottish border to reach the elegant Scottish capital, Edinburgh.
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Day 4
Scotland’s Capital of Culture
Journey down the Royal Mile to see the Palace of Holyroodhouse - official Scottish residence of His Majesty the King - before crossing over to New Town. Next, walk with your Local Expert inside Edinburgh Castle for spectacular views of the town and to see Scotland's Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg. The afternoon is free to shop on Princes Street. In the evening, select departures will enjoy the spectacle of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – a colourful mixture of historic battles and military manoeuvres with pipes and drums.
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Day 5
St. Andrews and Inverness
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? Your travels continue as you cross the Tay river. Travel via Blair Atholl and past the Grampian Mountains to the sparkling Spey Valley. Later, continue to Inverness and your hotel.
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Day 6
Loch Ness and Glencoe
In the morning, travel along Loch Ness and hear tales of the famous Nessie. Continue your journey through some of the most stunning scenery in all of Scotland, found in the region of Glencoe. Reach the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and admire the incredible scenery as you cruise what is arguably one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs, while enjoying a light lunch. Cross the English border before arriving at your hotel.
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Day 7
The English Lakes to Chester Relaxed Start
In the morning, discover the beauty of the Lake District. Continue to your hotel in Chester. In the afternoon, why not join The Beatles City Tour Optional Experience in Liverpool?
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Day 8
North Wales and over to Dublin Relaxed Start
In the morning, step back into Roman times in Chester, where you see the city’s ancient encircling walls and remarkable 13th century black and white Rows. Continue through Wales, stopping at the massive Conwy Castle before crossing over to the Isle of Anglesey. The village with the longest name in Europe will be visible - see if you are able to read it aloud! From the port of Holyhead, set sail for Dublin in Ireland.
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Day 9
In Dublin’s Fair City
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.Later, become acquainted with Dublin’s elegant squares during sightseeing with a Local Expert. See famous O’Connell Street, the Custom House and Dublin Castle. For the rest of the afternoon, you are free to soak up the Irish atmosphere or browse the shops along Grafton Street.
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Day 10
From Dublin to Killarney
Travel to Ireland's premier thoroughbred horse breeding region for a fascinating, behind-the-scenes visit of the National Stud with an equine professional. You then visit the acclaimed 100-year-old Japanese Gardens, where you can 'journey through life.' Cross the rolling pastures that encircle Tipperary to Brookfield Farm and join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Meet Ailbhe Gerrard, a passionate farmer and beekeper, who shares her secrets to crafting the most delicious and sustainable honey of the island over a delicious Farm-to-Table lunch. At night, your Dine-Around Evening offers authentic and intimate dining with your friends, from a hand-picked selection of fine local restaurants.
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Day 11
Ring of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start
In the morning, join a delightful trip around the Ring of Kerry, a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands and remote villages. Get a sense of the unhurried pace of Irish life as you pass through Ireland’s highest mountain range and make your way to the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. Explore Killarney with Insight Choice. Choose a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, join a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle, admiring the incredible scenery of the National Park. While there aren't any mountains to climb, walkers should be fit, have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and rain gear.
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Day 12
Blarney Castle and Waterford
Explore Blarney with Insight Choice. Choose to climb up the ramparts and see the famous Stone of Eloquence. Alternatively, visit the lush gardens of the estate with a senior gardener. Travel on through the scenic port of Dungarvan to the historic walled city of Waterford, with its 11th century Reginald Tower. Enjoy a guided visit of the world-famous House of Waterford Crystal and meet a master craftsman. In the evening, after miles of fun and fascinating sights, spirits will be high during your Celebration Dinner. Toast to your newfound friends — Sláinte!
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Day 13
Across the Irish Sea to Cardiff
From the port of Rosslare, board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea. A pleasant drive will then take you into the rural scenery of Pembrokeshire. Continue past the valleys of southern Wales to the capital, Cardiff, famous for its imposing castle and brilliant Principality Stadium.
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Day 14
Roman Baths and Stonehenge
Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, pioneering new educational investments to benefit the community. Your journey continues across Salisbury Plain for a visit to mysterious Stonehenge - no-one can be sure why they were built, or even how prehistoric man could move such huge blocks of stone. Upon your return to London you are at leisure for the rest of the day.
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Day 15
Homeward Bound
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.
Price Includes
Dining Summary
- 16 Breakfast (B)
- 5 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- 1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Killarney: Enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys as you explore the lush scenery of Killarney National Park.
- 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.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- 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 are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts! Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
Authentic Dining
- York: In the evening, enjoy a Welcome 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.
Insight Experiences
- Kildare: Join a working member of the famous Irish Stud Farm for a private, behind-the-scenes visit of the stud where many legendary racehorses were bred. After, stroll through the finest Japanese gardens in Europe, designed by master horticulturalists, Tassa and Minoru Eida.
- 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.
- Waterford: Visit Waterford Crystal to learn more about the art of crystal carving that has been practised here since the late 1700s. See master craftsmen utilise traditional cutting and blowing methods at one of the few remaining artisan workshops.
Make Travel Matter
- 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. The Brookfield Farm experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education and UN Sustainable Development Goal 12: Sustainable Production and Consumption.
- Bath: 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 programme 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.
Top Rated Highlights
- 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.
- York: Your Travel Director will show you the York Minster, the city walls and the medieval Shambles during your orientation of the city.
- 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: Your Local Expert walks with you inside the walls of the Edinburgh Castle to view the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg.
- 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.
- Chester: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the Jubilee Clock, the cathedral, city walls and famous black and white Rows.
- 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.
- 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.
- Dublin: A Local Expert will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
- Cashel: See the Rock of Cashel where St. Patrick preached.
- Killarney: Enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys as you explore the lush scenery of Killarney National Park.
- Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation.
- Ring of Kerry: Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands and remote villages, as you journey the magical Ring of Kerry.
- 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 are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts! Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
- 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 with your Travel Director.
- Bath: During an orientation you will see the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey.
- Stonehenge: Walk around the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.
Dates & Prices
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.
Online Booking Process
Financing from $/month
Optional Add-Ons
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.
Edinburgh
Available on Day 2
Dinner In Edinburgh
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: £ 45
Available on Day 2
Scottish Dinner & Cabaret
Join us for a lively and memorable evening of traditional Scottish song, dance, tartan and bagpipes. In addition to wine and dinner, your kilted hosts will lead you through some of the best-loved Scottish music and songs. You'll learn a Highland dance or two and sample Scotland’s national dish - haggis. An exceptional Scottish experience!
Adult Price: £ 72
Available on Day 3
Edinburgh - The Untold Story
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: £ 25
Available on Day 3
Edinburgh's Most Haunted
Join our Ghouls and Ghosts to embark upon a scary and mirth-filled tour of Edinburgh's old town as never seen before! We'll enjoy a drink afterwards to calm our nerves before returning to the land of the living.
Adult Price: £ 29
Available on Day 3
Rosslyn Chapel
We’ll drive out of Edinburgh to the tiny village of Rosslyn, where we’ll hear the inside story of the famous Rosslyn Chapel from a Local Specialist. One of Scotland's most unusual 15th-century buildings, Rossyln is famed for its associations with the Knights Templar, the Masonic movement, and now 'The Da Vinci Code'.
Adult Price: £ 22
Available on Day 3
Royal Edinburgh
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: £ 39
Scottish Highlands
Available on Day 4
Blair Castle
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: £ 25
Liverpool
Available on Day 6
Liverpool & The Beatles City Tour
Join a local Blue badge guide to discover the home of The Beatles. With our Local Expert, we'll see famous sights associated with the Fab Four, along with Liverpool's two cathedrals and hear tales of emigration and the city's connection to the Titanic.
Adult Price: £ 19
Windermere
Available on Day 6
Windermere Cruise and Steam Train Ride
There is no better way to appreciate the scenic beauty of the English Lake District than a relaxing cruise and steam train ride. First take to the limpid waters of Windermere for a spectacular voyage, offering magnificent views of rugged mountains, secluded bays and wooded islands. At the southern end of the lake, your cruise connects with a steam locomotive for a nostalgic ride along the banks of the beautiful River Leven to Haverthwaite Station.
Adult Price: £ 27
Note: Occasionally this experience will operate in reverse.
Dublin
Available on Day 7
Dublin Dinner
Join us for some warm Irish hospitality 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 cosy atmosphere in which to enjoy your hearty pub meal.
Adult Price: € 51
Available on Day 8
Dinner & Irish Show
Over an excellent dinner of quality Irish food, enjoy an evening of comedy, dance, song and music, as Ireland’s musical history unfolds. The show will delight you long after the night has ended. You’ll be tapping your toes and joining in the fun, and it’s all wrapped up in the spirit of Irish humour. At the end of your meal, cap off one of Ireland’s best nights out with an Irish Coffee.
Adult Price: € 72
Killarney
Available on Day 10
Gaelic Roots
A tour de force of traditional Irish song, music and dance, Gaelic Roots showcases Ireland at its best. Using traditional instruments, Irish dance and time-honoured folk songs, this energetic show will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time.
Adult Price: € 34
Waterford
Available on Day 11
Waterford Walking Tour
Join an extremely knowledgeable and entertaining historian for an insightful walking tour of Ireland's oldest city. Meet a range of colourful characters and learn about the town's history from the arrival of the Vikings through to British rule as you stroll to various key sights. Afterwards, rub shoulders with the locals with a drink in a typical pub.
Adult Price: € 24
Cardiff
Available on Day 12
Cardiff Castle Tour
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 Anderson'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: £ 21
Available on Day 12
Pub Dinner
Visit a traditional country pub with its stone floors, real ale, and a cosy atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy a mouth-watering meal, featuring freshly-cooked traditional British food. During your meal, you'll enjoy a performance from a Welsh harpist.
Adult Price: £ 45
Available on Day 12
Welsh Evening
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: £ 69
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