Exploring Britain & Ireland 2024

Your tour opens in Edinburgh, the historic capital of Scotland, where rocky hills tower in the distance and the shadows of history can be seen around every corner. Discover Scotland’s capital and see how medieval crossroads blend seamlessly with a vibrant modern energy. This evening, delve into Scottish culture with a whisky inspired dinner highlighting the flavours of Scotland. (D)

Accommodation: Apex Grassmarket Hotel or similar – Edinburgh

Today get acquainted with Scotland’s regal capital on a locally guided city tour exploring both the Old and New Towns. Explore the Royal Mile and visit Edinburgh Castle, home of the Scottish Crown Jewels. (B)

Accommodation: Apex Grassmarket Hotel or similar – Edinburgh

Depart Edinburgh, travelling along the picturesque coastline of Northumberland. Visit the market town of Alnwick, known for its castle, and see the ‘Angel of the North’ statue. Continue south to York, with its historic city walls. (B)

Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton York or similar – York

Take in York’s rich and storied history when you join a local expert on a leisurely walking tour. Explore the quaint, narrow streets of the ‘Shambles’ that appear today almost as they did during the Middle Ages. At the heart of the city is its impressive Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. Venture inside and stand in awe of the seemingly endless sea of stained-glass windows. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring a tasting of Yorkshire ales. (B,D)

Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton York or similar – York

Board a high speed train en route to England’s bustling capital. Upon arrival, enjoy a traditional afternoon tea. Afterward, join a local expert for a panoramic city tour. At Westminster, see the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, continue to Buckingham Palace, the London home to Britain’s royalty since 1837, and the Tower of London. (B, T)

Accommodation: Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge or similar – London

Enjoy a day to explore this incredible city at your leisure. You may choose to take an optional excursion to Windsor Castle. Originally built to guard the city of London, Windsor Castle has been the home of kings and queens for nine centuries and is the oldest royal residence still in use today. (B)

Accommodation: Leonardo Royal Hotel London Tower Bridge or similar – London

Optional Excursion: Windsor Castle – $85 per person – must prebook 

Step into the formal world of the British Monarchy when you visit the stately and expansive Windsor Castle. His Majesty King Charles III uses Windsor as both a private home and as a Royal residence where formal duties of province are performed. Windsor’s 1,000 rooms comprise the largest inhabited castle in the world. It dates back to the 1070s, when William the Conqueror built the original wooden structure, now replaced by the grand stone edifices. Explore one of Britain’s most visited historic buildings, its precincts, and the Province Apartments, which house a delightful collection of Royal art treasures. Enjoy time for lunch in the quaint town of Windsor before heading back to London. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the castle that houses so much British history and lore is not to be missed!

Duration: Approximately 4.5 hours. Please note a minimum of 8 passengers is required. Transportation is included.

Travel to Stonehenge, the mysterious formation that dates back to the Stone Age. Explore various theories on how the colossal stones arrived at the location and their purpose. Continue to the elegant Georgian town of Bath to visit the Roman Bath Museum’s 2,000-year-old elaborate spas. Enjoy some time to stroll through Bath’s cobblestone streets and soak in its old-world atmosphere. Your day ends in the Welsh capital of Cardiff. (B)

Accommodation: Hilton Cardiff or similar – Cardiff

Join a local expert on a leisurely-paced walking tour of Cardiff. Learn about the city’s deep ties to the coal industry, its connection to ancient Rome and its famous Victorian shopping arcades. Tour Cardiff’s historic castle, an impressive structure that was once a Roman fort, a Norman castle, and an extraordinary Victorian Gothic fantasy palace.

This afternoon, it’s your choice! You may choose to accompany your Tour Manager to St. Fagan’s National Museum of History, an open-air museum chronicling the history, culture and architecture of the Welsh people –OR– enjoy time to explore Cardiff at your leisure. Tonight, dive into Wales’ rich cultural heritage when you join local artists for an evening of Welsh music, poetry and cuisine. (B, D)

Accommodation: Hilton Cardiff or similar – Cardiff

Take in the beautiful Welsh countryside en route to the coastal village of Fishguard. There, board the ferry for Ireland, crossing the Irish Sea. Upon arrival in Rosslare, travel to Waterford, your home for the evening. (B, D)

Accommodation: Granville Hotel or similar – Waterford

This morning, it’s your choice! Tour the House of Waterford Crystal factory featuring a fascinating visitor’s centre and a retail store housing the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world –OR– enjoy a leisurely-paced walking tour of Ireland’s oldest city and discover its rich Viking, Norman and Cromwellian history.

Later, travel to historic Blarney Castle. Make your way to the top of the castle, lie back and kiss the famous Blarney Stone. Legend has it that if you do, you will be blessed with the “gift of eloquence.” This evening it’s Diner’s Choice…tonight’s dinner is included and you’ll choose the perfect spot from a “menu” of Killarney’s great restaurants. (B, D)

Accommodation: Great Southern Killarney or similar – Killarney

This morning, explore Killarney National Park on a traditional jaunting car ride (weather permitting). Then, travel along the glorious Ring of Kerry where you’ll find some of Ireland’s most magical scenery. Marvel at the vistas created by windswept cliffs, rugged mountains, lakes and picturesque villages. Enjoy an evening in Killarney at your leisure. (B)

Accommodation: Great Southern Killarney or similar – Killarney

Today we venture through the “Golden Vale” en route to the awe-inspiring Rock of Cashel. Be amazed by its imposing facade and visit the spot where St. Patrick preached. Continue on to vibrant Dublin, Ireland’s cosmopolitan capital. (B)

Accommodation: Aloft Dublin City or similar – Dublin

Today, it’s your choice! Choose to ride with a local guide to see St. Patrick’s Cathedral, O’Connell Street, the General Post Office, and the historic Phoenix Park –OR– choose a walking tour of the city’s historic centre, exploring St. Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street, and the River Liffey. Either way, what follows is an afternoon to discover Dublin’s charms on your own.

Tonight, experience Ireland’s lively music and dynamic dancing during a fun-filled evening of Irish entertainment. (B, D)

Accommodation: Aloft Dublin City or similar – Dublin

 Depart today with many fond memories of lovely Britain and Ireland. (B)