Romantic Britain and Ireland

Price Includes

Dining Summary

• - 19 Breakfasts (B)
• - 8 Dinner with Wines (DW)
• - 1 Afternoon Tea (AT)

Top Rated Highlights

• 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.
• Visit Lincoln Castle and admire one of the four remaining copies of the Magna Carta, which is over 800 years old.
• 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.
• 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.
• Visit this town, famous for its salmon leap.
• See the River Ness, Inverness Castle and beautiful scenery as you explore the history of this Highland city.
• Stop for a photo of this gorgeous castle.
• Enjoy an excellent view of Ben Nevis from the World War II Commando Memorial.
• See the grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.
• 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.
• A Local Expert will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
• 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.    
• Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travelers. Visit the Exhibition Center 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.
• See King John's Castle, St. Mary's Cathedral and the treaty stone.
• Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation.
• 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.
• Explore the town and see Reginald's Tower and the remains of the city walls.
• Board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea.
• 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.
• 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.
• Set sail on a relaxing cruise from Plymouth harbor, where the pilgrims left over 400 years ago.
• Walk around the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.

Authentic Dining

• Get to know your fellow travelers during your Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant.
• Visit Blair Castle and Gardens, which has been home to the Atholl family for over seven centuries, and tour the ballroom to learn about the history of the estate. Relish a delicious afternoon sipping on freshly brewed coffee or tea and tasting homemade scones with berry jam and sweet cream.
• Visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's national drink. 
• There's nothing quite as homely as the Irish tradition of a Sunday roast, served with all the trimmings.
• Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening.
• Blend a little wine with great cuisine and good company for a rousing end of tour Celebration Dinner.

Insight Choice

• Soak up the scenery and hear intriguing tales of Nessie during a cruise.

Make Travel Matter

• 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. This experience directly supports UN Global Goal 14: Life Below Water.
• 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.

Insight Experiences

• 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.
• Visit Waterford Crystal to learn more about the art of crystal carving that has been practised here since the late 1700s. See master crafters utilize traditional cutting and blowing methods at one of the few remaining artisan workshops.
• 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.

Dinner In Edinburgh (Available on Day 3)

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 3)

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 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 Ceilidh Evening and Dinner at Ghillie Dhu (Available on Day 4)

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 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 Isle Of Skye Tour (Available on Day 6)

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 7)

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 7)

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 Titanic Experience (Available on Day 8)

Follow the story of this ill-fated ship and her people, from the launch in this very city. Explore the exhibition in this stunning award-winning building, on the former site of the shipyard where Titanic was built.

Adult Price: £25 Historic Pub Walk and Supper (Available on Day 8)

This evening, our Local Expert will take us on a leisurely walk through the changing heart of Belfast. We'll view Street art inspired by the murals of the past and experience the renewal of this vibrant city through the history of its best-known pubs. We'll finish with supper in a Victorian pub, famed for its home-cooked fare.

Adult Price: £49 Exclusive Walk with a Street Artist (Available on Day 8)

An exclusive private tour of Belfast's Street Art, with one of the Artists. Often Street art was used in Belfast to mark territory, but something transformative is happening. This new Art speaks of love, laughter, anger, beauty and defiance, but most of all it speaks of Belfast and the place it is becoming. We finish with a drink in one of the city's most famous pubs.

Adult Price: £33 Dinner & Cabaret (Available on Day 9)

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 Irish Countryside & Glendalough (Available on Day 10)

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 Dublin Dinner (Available on Day 10)

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 Shannon Castle Banquet (Available on Day 11)

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 Gaelic Roots (Available on Day 12)

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 12)

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 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 Waterford Walking Tour (Available on Day 14)

Join an extremely knowledgeable and entertaining historian for an insightful walking tour of Ireland's oldest city. Meet a range of colorful 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: €28 Cardiff Castle Tour (Available on Day 15)

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 Pub Dinner (Available on Day 15)

Visit a traditional country pub with its stone floors, real ale, and a cozy 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: £63 Welsh Evening (Available on Day 15)

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