Britain & Ireland Explorer
Snapshot
- 13 days
- Guided Tour
- London to London
- Multiple departures
From
$6,569*
per person twin share
Overview
his all-encompassing tour showcases the regal heritage of Edinburgh Castle, the stunning beauty of England’s Lake District, the historic grandeur of Durham’s Romanesque cathedral and the rolling hills of Pembrokeshire in Wales. Pay homage to the literary legacy of Shakespeare as you visit his birthplace in Stratford Upon Avon, tour the medieval Shambles of old York, admire the ancient border of the Roman Empire at Hadrian’s Wall and set sail from Holyhead to Dublin, on this journey through Great Britain and Ireland.
Departs from April - September 2024
The Insight Difference
With Insight, you'll enjoy the best experiences your destination has to offer – all included within one price. You'll travel in business class elegance to quality, handpicked hotels in the best locations on our luxury coaches. They're specially configured with fewer seats to offer 100% more legroom than standard touring coaches.
You'll meet new people, too. Whether you join us on your own, as a couple, or with friends and family, the small group that you travel with will share your passion for travel, culture and discovery. Many of our guests form lifelong friendships on Insight tours!
*Pricing is based on per person twin share on 21 April 2024 departure, correct as of 4 January 2024.
Highlights & Inclusions
Highlights
UNIQUE INSIGHT EXPERIENCES
Explore destinations with engaging Local Experts, gain special access to iconic sites and enjoy fun activities with our Unique Insight Experiences.
- Behind-the-Scenes Visit to Kildare's Irish National Stud Farm
- Hike through Killarney National Park
- Visit the House of Waterford Crystal
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® EXPERIENCES
Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences connect you with people, the planet and wildlife and promote the values of sustainable tourism.
- Farm-to-Table Lunch at Brookfield Farm
- Visit the Roman Baths
Inclusions
- 12 nights accommodation
- Explore destinations with engaging Local Experts, gain special access to iconic sites and enjoy fun activities with our Unique Insight Experiences.
- 12 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch with wine, 5 Dinners with Wine
- Tour director
- Transfers as mentioned in itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1 | Stratford and Medieval York
At 07:30, meet your Travel Director at the trip hotel in London and journey to Stratford, beautifully situated on the River Avon. Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare, full of interesting memorabilia and artefacts relating to his life. Continue on to York, where you walk within the old city walls to the crooked houses of the Shambles and see York Minster, Northern Europe's largest Gothic Medieval cathedral.
Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner with drinks and the opportunity to mingle over a pleasant evening of dinner and wine.
Meals: Dinner with Wine
Hotel: Hilton York.
Day 2 | Durham, Hadrian's Wall and Edinburgh
Stop in Durham to see the castle and Romanesque cathedral. Then view part of Hadrian's Wall, Britain's most impressive Roman monument, once spanning 80 miles from coast-to-coast, marking the northern frontier of the mighty Roman Empire. Cross the Scottish border to reach the elegant Scottish capital, Edinburgh.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Jury's Inn Edinburgh.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES (Additional Cost):
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
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.
Ceilidh Evening and Dinner at Ghillie Dhu - 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.
Day 3 | Scotland’s Capital of Culture
Journey down the Royal Mile to see the Palace of Holyroodhouse - official Scottish residence of His Majesty the King – before crossing over to New Town. Next, walk with your Local Expert inside Edinburgh Castle for spectacular views of the town and to see Scotland's Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg. The afternoon is free to shop on Princes Street. In the evening, select departures will enjoy the spectacle of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – a colourful mixture of historic battles and military manoeuvres with pipes and drums.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Jury's Inn Edinburgh.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES (Additional Cost):
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Royal Edinburgh - 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 social home in Scotland. Our Local Expert will bring its ancient stories to life before a leisurely visit through the social rooms of the palace.
Rosslyn Chapel - We’ll drive out of Edinburgh to the tiny village of Rosslyn, where we’ll hear the inside story of the famous Rosslyn Chapel from a Local Specialist. One of Scotland's most unusual 15th-century buildings, Rossyln is famed for its associations with the Knights Templar, the Masonic movement, and now 'The Da Vinci Code'.
Edinburgh - The Untold Story - 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.
Day 4 | St. Andrews and Inverness
Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife. Make your way to St. Andrews, home to the Old Course and birthplace of golf. Enjoy free time to explore. Perhaps stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was lmed? Your travels continue as you cross the Tay river. Travel via Blair Atholl and past the Grampian Mountains to the sparkling Spey Valley. Later, continue to Inverness and your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Hotel: Columba Hotel, Inverness.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES (Additional Cost):
Blair Castle - 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.
Day 5 | Loch Ness and Glencoe
In the morning, travel along Loch Ness and hear tales of the famous Nessie. Continue your journey through some of the most stunning scenery in all of Scotland, found in the region of Glencoe. Reach the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and admire the incredible scenery as you cruise what is arguably one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs, while enjoying a light lunch. Cross the English border before arriving at your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with Wine
Hotel: Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa, Windermere/Castle Green Hotel, Kendal.
Day 6 | The English Lakes to Chester
In the morning, discover the beauty of the Lake District. Continue to your hotel in Chester. In the afternoon, why not join The Beatles City Tour Optional Experience in Liverpool?
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: The Queen at Chester, BW Premier Collection by Best Western.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES (Additional Cost):
Windermere Cruise and Steam Train Ride - There is no better way to appreciate the scenic beauty of the English Lake District than a relaxing cruise and steam train ride. First take to the limpid waters of Windermere for a spectacular voyage, offering magnificent views of rugged mountains, secluded bays and wooded islands. At the southern end of the lake, your cruise connects with a steam locomotive for a nostalgic ride along the banks of the beautiful River Leven to Haverthwaite Station.*
Liverpool & The Beatles City Tour - Join a local Blue badge guide to discover the home of The Beatles. With our Local Expert, we'll see famous sights associated with the Fab Four, along with Liverpool's two cathedrals and hear tales of emigration and the city's connection to the Titanic.
Day 7 | North Wales and over to Dublin
In the morning, step back into Roman times in Chester, where you see the city’s ancient encircling walls and remarkable 13th century black and white Rows. Continue through Wales, stopping at the massive Conwy Castle before crossing over to the Isle of Anglesey. The village with the longest name in Europe will be visible - see if you are able to read it aloud! From the port of Holyhead, set sail for Dublin in Ireland.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Trinity City Hotel/The Morgan Hotel, Dublin.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES (Additional Cost):
Dublin Dinner - 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 cosy atmosphere in which to enjoy your hearty pub meal.
Day 8 | In Dublin’s Fair City
Experience Ireland's national world-famous drink with a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. Gain a fascinating insight into the history and traditions behind its production. Later, become acquainted with Dublin’s elegant squares during sightseeing with a Local Expert. See famous O’Connell Street, the Custom House and Dublin Castle.
For the rest of the afternoon, you are free to soak up the Irish atmosphere or browse the shops along Grafton Street.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Trinity City Hotel/The Morgan Hotel, Dublin.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES (Additional Cost):
Dinner & Cabaret - Over an excellent dinner of quality Irish food, enjoy an evening of comedy, dance, song and music, as Ireland’s musical history unfolds. The show will delight you long after the night has ended. You’ll be 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.
Day 9 | From Dublin to Killarney
Travel to Ireland's premier thoroughbred horse breeding region for a fascinating, behind-the-scenes visit of the National Stud with an equine professional. You then visit the acclaimed 100- year-old Japanese Gardens, where you can 'journey through life.' Cross the rolling pastures that encircle Tipperary to Brookeld Farm and join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Meet Ailbhe Gerrard, a passionate farmer and beekeeper, who shares her secrets to crafting the most delicious and sustainable honey of the island over a delicious Farm-to-Table lunch. At night, your Dine-Around Evening offers authentic and intimate dining with your friends, from a hand-picked selection of ne local restaurants.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch with Wine, Dinner with Wine
Hotel: Killarney Plaza / The Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney.
Day 10 | Ring of Kerry Experience
In the morning, join a delightful trip around the Ring of Kerry, a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands and remote villages. Get a sense of the unhurried pace of Irish life as you pass through Ireland’s highest mountain range and make your way to the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. Explore Killarney with Insight Choice. Choose a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, join a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle, admiring the incredible scenery of the National Park. While there aren't any mountains to climb, walkers should be fit, have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and rain gear.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Killarney Plaza / The Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES (Additional Cost):
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Gaelic Roots - A tour de force of traditional Irish song, music and dance, Gaelic Roots showcases Ireland at its best. Using traditional instruments, Irish dance and time-honoured folk songs, this energetic show will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time.
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.
Day 11 | Blarney Castle and Waterford
Explore Blarney with Insight Choice. Choose to climb up the ramparts and see the famous Stone of Eloquence. Alternatively, visit the lush gardens of the estate with a senior gardener. Travel on through the scenic port of Dungarvan to the historic walled city of Waterford, with its 11th century Reginald Tower. Enjoy a guided visit of the world-famous House of Waterford Crystal and meet a master craftsman. In the evening, after miles of fun and fascinating sights, spirits will be high during your Celebration Dinner. Toast to your newfound friends — Sláinte!
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Hotel: Granville Hotel, Waterford.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES (Additional Cost):
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.
Day 12 | Across the Irish Sea to Cardi
From the port of Rosslare, board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea. A pleasant drive will then take you into the rural scenery of Pembrokeshire. Continue past the valleys of southern Wales to the capital, Cardi, famous for its imposing castle and brilliant Principality Stadium.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Clayton Hotel, Cardi.
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES (Additional Cost):
* You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Cardi Castle Tour - 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 Anderson'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 Cardi.
Welsh Evening - Join us for a lively night celebrating Welsh food and culture at a stunningly-renovated deconsecrated church in the heart of Cardi. Enjoy a traditional and locally-sourced three-course meal whilst being entertained by Welsh stories, enchanting music and renowned Welsh singers.
Pub Dinner - Visit a traditional country pub with its stone floors, real ale, and a cosy 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.
Day 13 | Roman Baths, Stonehenge and London
Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, pioneering new educational investments to benefit the community. 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 below.
Your journey continues across Salisbury Plain for a visit to mysterious Stonehenge - no-one can be sure why they were built, or even how prehistoric man could move such huge blocks of stone. Your exploration of Britain and Ireland draws to a close upon your return to the hotel in London.
Meals: Breakfast
* Term and conditions apply:
All pricing subject to change and availability.
Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise.
Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change.
Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies.
Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
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