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Romantic Britain & Ireland

4.6Based on
20 daysDuration
Group TourJoin a group of travelers
48 peopleMaximum group size
5 - 99 yearsAge range for participants
EnglishGuide language
Easy
Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Highlights

Oxford: See the spires and colleges of this world-famous university town.

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.

Grasmere: Learn about the life of the poet William Wordsworth and visit his grave.

Edinburgh: Explore Edinburgh Castle with your Local Expert to see the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Mons Meg up close.

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: 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 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

St. Andrews: Spend time in St Andrews, a coastal university town shaped by old quadrangles, sea air and open links. Walk to the stretch of West Sands Beach where Chariots of Fire filmed its iconic scene, then look across the Old Course, regarded as the birthplace of modern golf.

Pitlochry: Visit this town, famous for its salmon leap.

Inverness: With your Travel Director, see the River Ness, Inverness Castle and beautiful scenery as you explore the history of this Highland city.

Loch Ness: Board your cruise on a loch stretching 37 kilometers through the Great Glen Fault, created by tectonic shifts millions of years ago. Its deepest point reaches 230 m (754 ft) and visibility is near zero due to peat content, conditions that have long inspired tales of Nessie, the elusive Loch Ness Monster. Pass Aldourie Castle and hear how this natural trench fuels both hydroelectric power and global fascination.

Eilean Donan: Stop for a photo of this gorgeous castle built on an island in the Loch.

Fort William: Stop at the World War II Commando Memorial near Fort William, where bronze figures stand against a sweep of Highland landscape. From this quiet hillside, you get one of the clearest views of Ben Nevis, its ridges rising sharply above the glen.

Glasgow: Led by your Travel Director, take an easy orientation through Glasgow, where broad streets and bold Victorian architecture set the tone. Pause in George Square to take in its statues and grand civic buildings before continuing to St Mungo’s Cathedral, its dark stone and soaring interior hinting at the city’s medieval roots.

Belfast: 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.

Dublin: See Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House with a Local Expert

Galway: 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.

Cliffs of Moher: 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.

Limerick: See King John's Castle, St. Mary's Cathedral and the treaty stone.

Killarney: Take a gentle orientation through Killarney as your Travel Director brings the town’s history to life. Streets lined with shopfronts, church spires and the curve of the surrounding mountains help you place the stories being shared.

Ring of Kerry: 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.

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.

Bath: During an orientation you will see the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey.

Bath: Visit the Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved ancient bathhouses in Northern Europe whose waters still flow today. Enjoy a personal exploration of the site, including the Sacred Spring, original Great Bath, temple remains and museum displays of artifacts uncovered on site. This complex offers a clear view of public bathing and religious practices during the Roman occupation of Britain nearly 2,000 years ago.

Glastonbury: 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.

Stonehenge: Walk around the strange, awe-inspiring megaliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.

Itinerary

From Shakespeare’s Stratford to the windswept cliffs of Ireland, this 20-day Romantic Britain & Ireland journey weaves a tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking vistas. Experienced travelers and families alike will delight in guided city walks through Oxford, Edinburgh, and Dublin, and scenic drives along the Lake District and the famed Ring of Kerry. Savor a traditional Sunday roast in Killarney, tour the House of Waterford Crystal, and steal a kiss at Blarney Castle. With a mix of group excursions and time for personal exploration, this adventure covers the must-sees and hidden gems of both countries. The USP: a thoughtfully crafted tour package that blends iconic landmarks with authentic local experiences, creating memories for travelers of all ages.

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.

Location Visited:London
Accommodation:The Clermont Victoria, London

day 2 - Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon

Meet your Travel Director at 07:45 at the hotel in London. 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 artifacts relating to his life. Tonight, join your Travel Director for dinner at a local pub.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:London, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon
Accommodation:Swan's Nest, Stratford-upon-Avon

day 3 - Lincoln and Medieval York

Travel through the heart of Robin Hood Country on your way to visit Lincoln. 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 Cliffords Tower.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Stratford-upon-Avon, Lincoln, York
Accommodation:Hilton, York

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 Wordsworths village of Grasmere and see the poets grave in the churchyard. Cross the border at Gretna Green, where runaway lovers were married, and continue to the Scottish capital.

Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:York, Lake District National Park, Edinburgh
Accommodation:Virgin, Edinburgh

day 5 - Scotlands Capital of Culture

Travel down the Royal Mile to see the Palace of Holyroodhouse ofcial Scottish residence of His Majesty, The King - 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 The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo a colorful mixture of historic battles and military manoeuvres, complete with pipes and drums.

Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Edinburgh
Accommodation:Virgin, Edinburgh

day 6 - St. Andrews and Inverness

Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife and make your way to St. Andrews, passing the world's oldest golf 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 there. 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. Stop at Atholl Palace and Gardens for a delicious cream tea. Originally opened in Victorian times, the hotel retains many of its traditional features.

Meals:Breakfast, Afternoon Tea, Dinner
Location Visited:Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Pitlochry, Inverness
Accommodation:Kingsmills, Inverness

day 7 - Across the Sea to Skye

Enjoy 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.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 defense of the Bonnie Prince as you cross over the sea to Skye.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Inverness, Loch Ness, Lock Duich, Skye
Accommodation:The Dunollie, Broadford

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 Glasgow's grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungos Cathedral.

Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Skye, Fort William, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Glasgow
Accommodation:Radisson Blu, Glasgow

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 of Belfast 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.

Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Glasgow, Belfast
Accommodation:Titanic, Belfast

day 10 - A pint of the 'Black Stuff' Relaxed Start

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. Experience Ireland's national and world-famous drink in the Guinness Storehouse. Gain a fascinating insight into the history and traditions behind its production.

Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Belfast, Dublin
Accommodation:Hilton, Dublin

day 11 - Dublin city sightseeing

This morning and see OConnell Street, Dublin Castle and St. Patricks Cathedral, with your Local Expert. The rest of the day is yours to shop, continue sightseeing or maybe take an optional drive to the ruined monastic site of Glendalough.

Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Dublin
Accommodation:Hilton, Dublin

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 Center 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.

Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Dublin, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick
Accommodation:The George, Limerick

day 13 - The Dingle Peninsula to Killarney Relaxed Start

In the morning, your Travel Director will show you the 12th-century St. Marys Cathedral, King Johns Castle and the Treaty Stone before setting off to Tralee and Dingle. 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.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Limerick, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney
Accommodation:Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa

day 14 - Ring of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start

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 Irelands highest mountain range, the MacGillicuddy Reeks, to the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. Meet John for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience as you visit his family-run seaweed farm on the Ring of Kerry. Learn about sustainable farming practices that protect the wild Irish Atlantic coasts. 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? At night, your Dine-Around Evening offers authentic and intimate dining with your friends, from a hand-picked selection of fine local restaurants.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Killarney, Ring of Kerry
Accommodation:Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa

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 an artisan and see their fine work.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Killarney, Blarney Castle, Waterford
Accommodation:Granville, Waterford

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.

Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Waterford, Cardiff
Accommodation:Clayton, Cardiff

day 17 - Bath and Glastonbury

Cross the Severn Bridge to reach the City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy an orientation with your Travel Director, through the Georgian streets and crescents. Visit the Roman Baths, Britain's only thermal, mineral springs. Your journey continues to mystical Glastonbury. Continue south, to reach the seaside town of Torquay.

Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Cardiff, Bath, Glastonbury, Torquay
Accommodation:The Imperial Torquay (Sea view rooms).

day 18 - The Devonshire Coast

Explore Dartmoor with Insight Choice. Choose to join a scenic exploration of Dartmoor National Park. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing cruise of Plymouth harbor and see the Mayflower Steps, Barbican, Royal Citadel and Plymouth Hoe. At dinner this evening, enjoy a fine selection of local dishes.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Torquay, Plymouth, Dartmoor, Torquay
Accommodation:The Imperial Torquay (Sea view rooms).

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.

Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Torquay, Stonehenge, London
Accommodation:The Clermont Victoria, London

day 20 - Homeward Bound

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.

Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:London
Romantic Britain & Ireland

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What's Included

Accommodation
The Clermont Victoria, London HotelSwan's Nest, StratforduponAvon HotelHilton, York HotelVirgin, Edinburgh HotelKingsmills, Inverness HotelThe Dunollie, Broadford HotelRadisson Blu, Glasgow HotelTitanic, Belfast HotelHilton, Dublin HotelThe George, Limerick HotelKillarney Plaza Hotel and SpaGranville, Waterford HotelClayton, Cardiff HotelThe Imperial Torquay (Sea view rooms). HotelPitlochry: Atholl Palace, built as a Victorian Baronial retreat over 130 years ago, hosts your afternoon tea. You’ll be welcomed into the banqueting room to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea accompanied by sandwiches, scones, Scottish shortbread and traditional Scottish tablet.
Meals
Breakfast (x19)Dinner (x8)Afternoon TeaStratford-upon-Avon: Savor British cuisine with dinner at a local restaurant.Torquay: Blend a little wine with great cuisine and good company for a rousing dinner.
Transport
Travel by coach
Guide
Experienced Driver Guide
Others
Choose between two carefully selected activitiesDartmoor National Park: Visit Dartmoor to learn about the history of stone circles and indigenous traditions from your knowledgeable Local Expert on a scenic exploration.Plymouth: Set sail on a relaxing cruise from Plymouth harbor, where the pilgrims left over 400 years ago.Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's national drink.Killarney: There's nothing quite as homely as the Irish tradition of a Sunday roast, served with all the trimmings.Killarney: Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening.Dartmoor National Park: Visit Dartmoor to learn about the history of stone circles and indigenous traditions from your knowledgeable Local Expert on a scenic exploration.Plymouth: Set sail on a relaxing cruise from Plymouth harbor, where the pilgrims left over 400 years ago.Blarney: 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.Waterford: 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.Ring of Kerry: 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. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Romantic Britain & Ireland

4.6

based on 14 reviews
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5
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AnonymousVerified Traveler
5.0 out of 5

You got to see so much and learn some important history.

A
AnonymousVerified Traveler
5.0 out of 5
E
Eric B.Verified Traveler
5.0 out of 5

You want to see the British isles/Ireland ? This is it. You will see it all. Plenty of time where needed. Most relaxed, easy going, effortless way possible. I was completely satisfied with the meals, the hotels, the coach, the guide. Everything.

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Nan C.Verified Traveler
4.0 out of 5

I loved every place we went to. Highlights for me were Edinburgh, Ireland, the Isle of Skye, Dartmoor, Torquay, the Roman Baths in Bath, Lincoln Cathedral, Stonehenge. We had informative and interesting guides, especially our guide in Widecombe. I would have liked to spend more time in some places, and sometimes felt rushed. The trip could easily have been twice as long. However, it did give me a wonderful overview of the loveliness and history of this part of the world.

R
Robert R.Verified Traveler
4.0 out of 5

The itinerary itself was fine. However, at times we felt rushed; we would have liked to have spent more time at some venues - e.g Edinburgh. However, we recognize that each person is different; some would like to spend more time at some venues, while others might like to spend less.

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Prompt reply to my questions which was helpful.
20 hours ago