Romantic Britain & Ireland
Operated by: Insight Vacations
20 Days
Locations Visited
London, Edinburghm, Glasgow, Belfast, Killarney, Cardiff ...more London, Edinburghm, Glasgow, Belfast, Killarney, Cardiff-
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
London, Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon.
Meet your Travel Director at 07:45 and depart for the famous university town of Oxford with its beautiful spires. With time at leisure, why not visit the world-famous Ashmolean Museum or browse through the local indoor market? Continue via pretty Cotswolds villages to Stratford-upon-Avon. Discover how William Shakespeare and his incredible works continue to shape society today when you visit his birthplace, full of interesting memorabilia and artefacts relating to his life. Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner with drinks at a local pub.(Breakfast / Dinner with Wine)
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Day 3
Lincoln and York.
Travel through the heart of ‘Robin Hood Country’ on your way to visit Lincoln Castle, one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in England. Your exploration will include a chance to see one of the four remaining copies of the Magna Carta. Continue to York, once the Viking capital of Britain and one of England's oldest cities. Saunter along the Shambles to reach the York Minster, in the heart of this medieval gem. Your hotel lies within the walls facing Clifford’s Tower.(Breakfast / Dinner)
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Day 4
The English Lakes to Edinburgh.
Drive through the Lake District National Park, a scenic wonderland of rugged mountains and tranquil lakes, inspiring a host of English poets. Stop in Wordsworth’s village of Grasmere and see the poet’s grave in the churchyard. Cross the border at Gretna Green, where runaway lovers were married and continue to the Scottish capital.(Breakfast)
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Day 5
Scotland’s Capital of Culture.
Travel down the Royal Mile to see the Palace of Holyroodhouse - official Scottish residence of Her Majesty, the Queen - before crossing over to New Town. Walk with your Local Expert inside Edinburgh Castle for spectacular views of the town and see the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg. The afternoon is free to shop on Princes Street. In the evening, select departures will attend to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo – a colourful mixture of historic battles and military manoeuvres, complete with pipes and drums.(Breakfast)
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Day 6
St. Andrews and Inverness.
Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife and make your way to St. Andrews, passing the Old Course as you arrive where golf was born in the 15th century. Enjoy free time to explore, perhaps wander to St. Andrews University where the love story of Kate Middleton finding her Prince Charming began when her and Prince William were students here. Alternately, stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed. Your travels continue as you cross the Tay and journey to the charming Victorian resort town of Pitlochry, famous for its salmon run. Pass Culloden Moor, the scene of the defeat of Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite army in 1746. Stop at Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens, one of the only lived-in castles in Scotland, still inhabited by the same family since the 16th century. As guests of the castle you will be treated to an authentic Farm-to-Table experience, in the tradition of Scottish tea and scones. Continue on to stately Inverness, where your hotel is perfectly placed in the centre of town.(Breakfast / Afternoon Tea / Dinner)
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Day 7
Across the Sea to Skye.
Enjoy a journey of discovery on a private Loch Ness cruise. Soak up the scenery, historic monuments and intriguing tales of Nessie in the heart of Scotland's great glen. Afterwards, pause for a photo of Eilean Donan Castle, set idyllically on a headland on Loch Duich. Listen to tales of Flora MacDonald and her vain defence of the Bonnie Prince as you cross over the sea to Skye.(Breakfast / Dinner)
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Day 8
Loch Lomond and Glasgow.
Return to the mainland and drive to the World War II Commando Memorial in the shadow of Ben Nevis. Continue through Fort William to absorb the dramatic scenery of Glencoe, the Valley of the Weeping, where the dreadful massacre of the MacDonald's took place in 1692. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond, en route to Glasgow. Your Travel Director will show you the city’s grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo’s Cathedral.(Breakfast)
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Day 9
Across the Irish Sea to Belfast.
Bid farewell to Scotland as you cross the Irish Sea and continue your journey to the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast. Meet Hilda, your Local Expert, for a passionate city tour including views of the City Hall, Queen's University, the Parliament Building at Stormont and murals in different locations indicating political sentiments of local residents.. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore at your leisure.(Breakfast)
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Day 10
Dublin city sightseeing.
Travel alongside the Mountains of Mourne before crossing the historic Boyne Valley, site of the battle where William of Orange defeated the forces of Catholic King James. Continue to Dublin, Ireland's 'fair city where the girls are so pretty,' and see O’Connell Street, Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, with your Local Expert.(Breakfast)
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Day 11
A pint of the 'Black Stuff'.
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 private masterclass where you will learn to pour the perfect pint. The rest of the day is yours to shop, continue sightseeing or maybe take an optional drive to the ruined monastic site of Glendalough?(Breakfast)
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Day 12
Galway, the Cliffs of Moher and Limerick.
Travel west to Galway, known as the City of the Tribes. Guided by your Travel Director, enjoy free time in this artsy, bohemian city. Cross the limestone landscape of the Burren, to the Visitor Centre at the Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking vistas of the Clare Coast. Journey to the town of Limerick, nestled on the shores of the River Shannon.(Breakfast)
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Day 13
The Dingle Peninsula to Killarney.
In the morning, your Travel Director will show you the 12th century St. Mary’s Cathedral, King John’s Castle and the Treaty Stone before setting off to Tralee via the picturesque thatched village of Adare. Enjoy more spectacular scenery as you make your way through the great cliffs, wide skies and ocean views of the Dingle Peninsula to Killarney. For dinner you are treated to a traditional Sunday roast, with all the trimmings.(Breakfast / Dinner)
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Day 14
Ring of Kerry Experience.
A delightful morning excursion will take you around the Ring of Kerry, where mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. Continue through Ireland’s highest mountain range, the MacGillicuddy Reeks, to the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to relax and enjoy. Maybe take the opportunity to ride a Jaunting Car around the lake or through the National Park? In the evening, you are invited to choose your own dining experience from a selection of restaurants in Killarney for your Dine-Around Evening.(Breakfast / Dinner with Wine)
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Day 15
Blarney Castle and Waterford.
Visit the ruined 15th century Blarney Castle. Will you hang upside down from the ramparts to kiss the stone and ensure a lifetime of eloquence? Continue to the walled city of Waterford and see the 11th century Reginald's Tower. On your guided visit of the House of Waterford Crystal, you will meet a master craftsman and see his fine work.(Breakfast / Dinner)
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Day 16
Across the Irish Sea to Cardiff.
From Rosslare, take the ferry across the Irish Sea to Pembroke and continue on with a pleasant journey through the rural scenery of Pembrokeshire. Travel past the valleys of southern Wales to the capital, Cardiff, famous for its imposing castle and the brilliant Principality Stadium. Enjoy an orientation of the port city, upon the River Taff.(Breakfast)
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Day 17
The Roman Bath and Glastonbury.
Cross the Severn Bridge to reach the City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built above Britain's only thermal, mineral springs. Enjoy an orientation with your Travel Director, through the Georgian streets and crescents. Visit the Roman Baths and see the incredibly well-preserved remains of one of the greatest spas of the ancient world, still flowing with the natural hot water from the springs. Your journey continues to mystical Glastonbury where you will see the abbey, reputedly the legendary burial place of King Arthur. Continue south, to reach the seaside town of Torquay.(Breakfast)
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Day 18
The Cornish Coast.
In the morning, travel to Plymouth to see the Mayflower Steps, the Barbican, Royal Citadel and Plymouth Hoe. Continue on to a quaint Cornish fishing village, before returning to Torquay across rugged Dartmoor. In the evening, enjoy a glass of wine with your Celebration Dinner - a fitting finale to your travels.(Breakfast / Dinner with Wine)
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Day 19
Salisbury Plain and Stonehenge.
Start the day by crossing the Salisbury Plain and stop to visit the mysterious megaliths of Stonehenge, the world's most famous prehistoric monument, its true meaning lost in the mists of time. Your escorted journey draws to a close on your return to London where the rest of the evening is at your leisure.(Breakfast)
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Day 20
Homeward Bound.
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.(Breakfast)
Price Includes
Included Insight Services
- Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxury, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- From time to time, your Travel Director will enchant you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- 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.
Authentic Dining
- Stratford-upon-Avon: Get to know you fellow travellers as you join your Travel Director at a local pub for your Welcome Dinner.
- Ballindalloch: Visit one of the few remaining inhabited castle's of Scotland and be treated to a Farm-to-Table Scottish Tea and Scones.
- Dublin: Before it opens to the public, visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's national drink. Experience a private masterclass and learn to pour the perfect pint.
- Killarney: There's nothing quite as homely as the English 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 end of tour Celebration Dinner.
- Dining Summary: 19 Breakfasts (B), 1 Afternoon Tea (AT), 5 Dinners (D) and 3 Dinners with Wine (DW) all with tea or coffee.
Insight Experiences
- Belfast: Meet Hilda, a true Belfast local, having lived in the same house her entire life. During your panoramic tour, hear 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.
Stay in Style
- Stratford-upon-Avon: The Stratford is an award-winning boutique hotel in the centre of this historic town.
- York: The Hilton York is situated within the city walls, close to the York Minster and the best this city has to offer.
- Edinburgh: Located in a Georgian terrace in the heart of the city, the Crowne Plaza Edinburgh - Royal Terrace is a short walk away Prince’s Street.
- Inverness: The traditional Columba Hotel provides enviable views over the River Ness and Inverness Castle.
- Isle of Skye: Boasting an incredible location by Broadford Bay, The Dunollie Hotel is set at the base of outstanding mountains.
- Glasgow: The Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow features award-winning architecture, boasting a stunning atrium and rooms with wall-to-ceiling windows.
- Belfast: The Europa Hotel is located in the heart of Belfast City Centre and offers elegant décor, a contemporary bistro and a relaxing piano bar.
- Limerick: The George Hotel Limerick is a modern, centrally-located boutique hotel and provides the perfect base for exploring what wonders Limerick has to offer.
- Killarney: In the heart of the town centre, the Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa overlooks Killarney National Park and is the perfect location to enjoy the stunning scenery and the local 'craic.'
- Waterford: Dooley's Hotel Waterford has been family-run for generations and is conveniently located inside Waterford’s City Centre.
- Cardiff: Clayton Hotel Cardiff is located in the heart of the city on St. Mary Street, just a short walk from Cardiff's premium sporting facility, Millennium Stadium.
- Torquay: The Imperial Torquay is perched on a cliff top overlooking the English Channel and was a favourite haunt of Agatha Christie, who wrote about it in several of her novels.
Top Rated Highlights
- 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.
- Oxford: See the dreaming spires and colleges of this world-famous university town.
- Stratford: Visit the timber-framed building where Shakespeare was born and grew up.
- Lincoln: Visit Lincoln Castle and admire one of the four remaining copies of the Magna Carta, which is over 800 years old.
- York: Your Travel Director will show you the York Minster, the city walls and the medieval Shambles during you orientation of the city.
- Grasmere: Learn about the life of the poet William Wordsworth and visit his grave.
- 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 Queen, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
- Edinburgh: Walk with a Local Expert inside the walls of Edinburgh Castle to view the Scottish Crown Jewels, Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg.
- St. Andrews: Visit the town where Prince William met Kate Middleton. See the Old Course where golf was invented.
- Pitlochry: Visit this town, famous for its salmon leap.
- Inverness: See the River Ness, Inverness Castle and take in the scenery around you as you hear about the beauty and history behind Inverness.
- Loch Ness: Soak up the scenery and hear intriguing tales of Nessie during a cruise.
- Eilean Donan: Stop for a photo of this gorgeous castle.
- Fort William: Enjoy an excellent view of Ben Nevis from the World War II Commando Memorial.
- Glasgow: During your orientation with your Travel Director, drive past the civic buildings and St. Mungo’s Cathedral.
- Dublin: You Local Expert will show you famous O’Connell Street, Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
- Galway: An orientation with your Travel Director will show you the Lynch Memorial, Church of St. Nicholas, Spanish Arch and Eyre Square.
- Cliffs of Moher: Stop by the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs.
- Limerick: See King John’s Castle and St. Mary’s Cathedral.
- 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: It is said that those whose lips caress the Stone of Eloquence are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax.
- Waterford: Explore the town and see Reginald’s Tower and the remains of the city walls.
- Waterford: Meet a master craftsman on your guided visit of the world-famous House of Waterford Crystal.
- Rosslare: Board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea.
- Cardiff: During an orientation with your Travel Director, see the castle and Principality Stadium.
- Bath: The Roman Baths have existed for over 2,000 years and are now one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the world. Learn the importance of this historic site, still used as a center for bathing and socialising.
- Bath: During your orientation of the city, your Travel Director will show you the Georgian houses, the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey.
- Glastonbury: Pass the ruined Abbey where King Arthur is allegedly buried when you visit this town, famous for its yearly music festival.
- Plymouth: During your orientation tour with your Travel Director see Plymouth Hoe, the citadel and continue to the Barbican and Mayflower Steps. Then head out to explore a quaint Cornish fishing village.
- Stonehenge: Walk around the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.
- Scenic Drives: Fall in love with incredible scenery and countryside as you pass the Cotswolds, English Lake District, Scottish Highlands, Loch Duich, Isle of Skye, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Mountains of Mourne, Boyne Valley, the Burren, Dingle Penisula, MacGillicuddy Reeks Mountain Range, Pembrokeshire, valleys of south Wales, Severn Bridge and Dartmoor.
Dates & Prices
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Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place every year in August.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, often referred to as "the most spectacular show on earth," is an exciting celebration showcasing the best of Scottish music, dance, and military pageantry. In 2019 it will take place in Edinburgh from August 2nd to August 24th, and is sure to draw entertainers and spectators from around the world.
Tickets and arrangements have been included on these select departures. Book early as they will sell out quickly!
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
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: £40
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: £60
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: £27
Royal Yacht Britannia
This magnificent ship has hosted some of the most famous people in the world. But, above all, Britannia was home to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family. For four royal couples, Britannia was to provide a honeymoon sanctuary before the onset of married life in the world's most photographed family. Now berthed in Leith, you are welcomed on board to discover the heart and soul of this most special of Royal residences.
Adult Price: £23
Skye
Isle Of Skye Tour
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: £15
Glasgow
Glasgow Dinner
In recent years, Glasgow has developed a fearsome culinary reputation. With its elegant and chic atmosphere, this restaurant is very much at the forefront. In the hub of Glasgow's vibrant cosmopolitan capital, enjoy an evening of Scottish fayre and experience the unique atmosphere of the city at night.
Adult Price: £40
Dublin
Dinner & Irish Cabaret
Over an excellent dinner of quality Irish food, enjoy a nonstop show of comedy, dance, song and music. Ireland’s musical history unfolds in a cabaret that will delight you long after the night has ended. The cast will have you 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: €71
Irish Countryside & Glendalough
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: €25
Limerick
Shannon Castle Banquet
Calling all Lords and Ladies! Please be seated for a delicious banquet in the great hall of the castle. In the splendour of a bygone age, entertainment is provided by the court jester, 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: €73
Killarney
Celtic Steps
Enjoy a spectacular evening of Irish music, song and dance performed by champion dancers and musicians and showcasing the music of Kerry and beyond.
Adult Price: €36
Jaunting Car Ride
Clip-clop your way through Killarney National Park, the first Irish National Park and a land of lakes and lore. A local "jarvey" will inform us of the history, legends and folklore of this beautiful setting while aboard one of these famous carts.
Adult Price: €21
Waterford
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: €23
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