BRITAIN AND IRELAND DELIGHT
Price
Duration
Min People
Tour Type
Tour Code
CS-EU
Overview
The best of Britain and Ireland is served up on this 8 day adventure crisscrossing five different countries. See landscapes that have inspired poetry, medieval monuments to God and stony fortresses that housed royals, soldiers and important artefacts. You’ll wind your way through the Yorkshire Dales, wander down Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and discover a bit of the craic in Dublin, before Waterford crystal, Celtic tales and a fairy-tale castle or two complete your journey.
Included/Excluded
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- City orientation tours
- Ferry across the Irish Sea from Scotland to Northern Ireland and Ireland to South Wales
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- Audio headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
- Extensive variety of Choice Optional Experiences
- Many meals and daily breakfasts included
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
Day 1 | London – Stratford-upon-Avon – York – Bradford (Meals: Dinner)
- Scenic drive through lush green landscapes from London to Shakespeare country.
- Visit Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare.
- Orientation walk through the medieval streets of York with the Travel Director.
- Explore York Minster, a sacred cathedral with intricate stained glass windows.
- Dinner at a local restaurant.
- Transfer to the hotel in Bradford.
Day 2 | Bradford – Lake District – Gretna Green – Glasgow (Meals: Breakfast)
- Serene morning drive through the limestone hills and valleys of the Yorkshire Dales.
- Passing rustic stone villages, sheep-filled pastures, castles, and abbeys along the route.
- Arrival in England’s Lake District, celebrated for its natural beauty.
- Optional Experience: Cruise on Lake Windermere, offering a glimpse into the area’s charm as praised by Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.
- Crossing the Scottish border and a stop at Gretna Green, famous for eloping couples.
- Arrival in Glasgow, a former industrial hub turned vibrant modern metropolis.
- Afternoon orientation tour featuring views of the cathedral, the River Clyde, and George Square.
- George Square, where many of Scotland’s famous figures are commemorated in statues.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Scenic Cruise on Lake Windermere –
- Cruise on Lake Windermere to explore the beauty of the lakeshore.
- Admire picturesque homes, gardens, and the neo-gothic architecture of Wray Castle.
- Encounter unique wildlife and enjoy scenic vistas.
- Explore an area beloved by famous writers Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.
- Adult: 26.00 GBP.
Steam Train Ride and Windermere Cruise –
- Cruise across England’s largest lake in the Lake District.
- Admire beautiful homes, castles, and more during the cruise.
- Board the historic steam train from Lakeside to Haverthwaite.
- Enjoy the thrill of riding the heritage railway.
- Take in scenic views during the train journey.
- Adult: 31.00 GBP.
* Occasionally this experience will operate in reverse.
Glasgow City Evening –
- Experience the vibrant character of Glasgow at night.
- Join your Travel Director for an evening of good food, drinks, and unique experiences.
- Glasgow offers cosy bars, a famous live music scene, and historic Victorian architecture.
- Delightful mix of venues for travellers to explore.
- Adult: 58.00 GBP.
Day 3 | Edinburgh excursion (Meals: Breakfast)
- Explore Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh, with a Local Specialist.
- Discover the Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse, and Edinburgh Castle.
- Marvel at Arthur’s Seat and the medieval façades of the Old Town.
- Experience the grand Georgian-lined boulevards of the 18th-century New Town.
- Enjoy free time to explore Edinburgh at your own pace.
- Consider joining one of two Optional Experiences: visiting Rosslyn Chapel or exploring Edinburgh Castle.
- Optional dinner in Stirling with views of its Castle and the Wallace Memorial by night available.
- Hotel: Ibis City Centre.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Edinburgh Castle Experience –
- Visit Edinburgh Castle, a dominant feature on Castle Rock since the 12th century.
- Led by a Local Specialist, explore the castle known for being the most besieged place in Great Britain.
- View the crown jewels, known as the Honours of Scotland, during the visit.
- Explore the National War Museum of Scotland within the castle premises.
- Adult: 38.00 GBP.
Rosslyn Chapel –
- Depart from Edinburgh to the village of Rosslyn.
- Hear the inside story of Rosslyn Chapel from a Local Specialist.
- Explore Rosslyn Chapel, one of Scotland’s most unusual 15th-century buildings.
- Learn about its associations with the Knights Templar, the Masonic movement, and its mention in ‘The Da Vinci Code’.
- Adult: 27.00 GBP.
A Stirling Evening –
- Experience a nighttime visit to Stirling Castle and the Wallace Memorial.
- Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s largest castles, was once home to Mary Queen of Scots.
- Learn about the fascinating history of Stirling Castle.
- Enjoy an evening meal in the historic Scottish city.
- Be piped in for your evening meal.
- Indulge in an evening of Scottish delights.
- Adult: 54.00 GBP.
Day 4 | Glasgow – Belfast – Dublin (Meals: Breakfast)
- Embark on a scenic drive along the Ayrshire coast, known for its rugged landscapes.
- Explore the birthplace and childhood landscapes of Robert Burns, Scotland’s National Poet.
- Pass by Ailsa Craig, a notable landmark in the area.
- Board a short ferry crossing to Northern Ireland.
- In Northern Ireland, take a brief tour of its trendy capital, with visits to City Hall, Queen’s University, and the dock where the Titanic was built.
- Continue south to Dublin, where you’ll stay for the next two nights.
- Optional dinner available at one of Dublin’s popular restaurant-pubs, offering a chance to mingle with locals and enjoy Irish cuisine and entertainment.
- Hotel: Dublin One Hotel/Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Dinner in Dublin City –
- Immerse yourself in the charm-filled atmosphere of Dublin, renowned for its heritage buildings and authentic local culture.
- Spend the evening at one of the city’s most beloved restaurant-pubs.
- Enjoy dinner and experience the charming hospitality that Ireland is known for.
- Adult price: 64.00 EUR.
Day 5 | Dublin sightseeing and free time (Meals: Breakfast)
- Join your Local Specialist for a tour of Dublin’s highlights, including Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
- Admire the 43-metre spire of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the tallest church in Ireland.
- Explore the stately Georgian Squares with your guide.
- Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, exploring Dublin on your own.
- Visit popular spots like Grafton Street or Temple Bar for a taste of local culture.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the Liffey River through the heart of Dublin.
- In the evening, consider joining an optional dinner and Irish show for entertainment and Irish cuisine.
- Hotel: Dublin One Hotel/Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Experience the Ancient Monastic Site of Glendalough –
- Explore one of Europe’s significant monastic sites, built in Early Medieval style dating back to the 6th Century.
- Your Local Specialist will provide insights into the historic significance of the site and guide you through its sacred areas.
- Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the surroundings, set amidst the rolling countryside of County Wicklow, known as the garden of Ireland.
- Adult: 33.00 EUR.
Dublin Dinner and Cabaret –
- Experience an evening of fine dining and entertainment in Dublin.
- Witness Ireland’s rich history through comedy, song, and dance in an interactive Irish Show.
- Enjoy a delicious dinner as part of the experience.
- Conclude the evening with a quintessential travel experience: savoring an Irish Coffee.
- Adult: 88.00 EUR.
Day 6 | Dublin – Kilkenny – Waterford (Meals: Breakfast, Dinner)
- Journey through splendid countryside towards Kilkenny.
- Explore Kilkenny and witness its beautiful 12th-century castle, symbolizing Norman occupation.
- Proceed to Waterford for a visit to the Waterford Crystal Showroom, showcasing delicate crystal creations ranging from stemware to fine china.
- Optionally join a walking tour with a Local Specialist and visit one of the area’s oldest pubs for a pint, for a riveting history lesson.
- Dinner tonight will be at the hotel.
- Hotel: Treacy’s.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Explore Waterford’s History and Local Pub –
- Explore Waterford’s history and medieval legends with a Local Specialist.
- Learn thrilling stories and anecdotes from the historic era.
- Experience what one traveler described as the “best history lesson ever.”
- Stop off for a drink in one of the area’s oldest pubs for a pint or drink of your choice.
- Cost: Adult: 28.00 EUR
Irish Folk Fun –
- Experience authentic entertainment in Waterford.
- Immerse yourself in famous Irish hospitality.
- Enjoy live music played by locals with classic instruments like the fiddle, tin whistle, and bodhrán drum.
- Cost: Adult: 32.00 EUR.
Day 7 | Waterford – Cardiff (Meals: Breakfast)
- Say goodbye to the ‘Emerald Isle’ and cross St. George’s Channel to Wales.
- Wales is the fifth country on this journey across the United Kingdom and Ireland.
- Arrive in Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales.
- View the Millennium Centre, the National Assembly, and the historic castle at the heart of Cardiff.
- Optionally, climb the 900-year-old Norman keep and explore the battlements during a private tour of Cardiff Castle in the afternoon.
- In the evening, consider venturing into the Welsh countryside for dinner at a 14th-century inn or enjoy an evening of Welsh music, culture, and humor with an Optional Experience.
- Hotel: Copthorne.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Cardiff Castle Tour –
- Explore Cardiff Castle on a private tour.
- Hear tales about the eclectic refurbishments that blend cultural styles.
- The castle was completed in the 1800s by architect William Burgess.
- Influences included Arabic art, Hans Christian Anderson’s fairy tales, and even Aesop’s Fables.
- Walk on the battlements and climb the 1000-year-old Norman Keep for superb views over Cardiff.
- Adult: 24.00 GBP.
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Welsh Evening –
- Experience a unique evening in a Cardiff landmark.
- Enjoy dinner and music inside a stunningly renovated deconsecrated church.
- Indulge in a delicious meal of seasonal Welsh specialties.
- Quality wine or soft drinks included.
- Listen to an enchanting harpist as you dine.
- Be entertained by the finest local singers.
- Adult: 78.00 GBP.
Traditional Welsh Evening And Dinner –
- Traditional Welsh country dinner in a 14th Century thatched inn known as The Blue Anchor.
- Enjoy the cosy charm of the roaring fireplace and old stonework.
- Eat and sample local drinks.
- Listen to the tranquil sounds of a Welsh harpist as they perform.
- Adult: 62.00 GBP.
Day 8 | Cardiff – Bath – Windsor – LondonMeals: Breakfast
- Cross the Severn Estuary into England.
- Venture to Bath with its elegant Georgian architecture.
- Explore the city’s healing waters, which saw it emerge as a wellness centre in Roman times.
- Head to Windsor to view the world’s oldest and largest continuously inhabited castle.
- Enjoy a quiet stroll along the banks of the river and shop for Royal souvenirs.
- Arrive in London later where your epic holiday comes to an end.
- Stratford-Upon-Avon Visit the town of Shakespeare’s birth
- York View York Minster and the Shambles
- Glasgow View Glasgow Cathedral and George Square on your orientation tour
- Edinburgh Sightseeing with your Local Specialist to Princes Street, the Royal Mile and the Castle
- Belfast See Belfast City Hall and Queen’s University
- Dublin Sightseeing with your Local Specialist to see St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christchurch Cathedral and Trinity College
- Kilkenny View Kilkenny Castle and gardens
- Waterford Visit the Waterford Crystal Showroom
- Cardiff See the Principality Stadium and view Cardiff Castle
- Bath Visit the Georgian spa town
- Windsor View the Royal Castle