Britain & Ireland Discovery
Snapshot
- 22 days
- Guided Tour
- London to London
- Multiple departures
From
$10,975*
per person, Save $2200!
Highlights
Explore the British Isles on a 22-Day Guided Tour of England, Scotland & Ireland
Take a one-of-a-kind trip to the ancient Roman city of Bath, enjoy a private pint-pouring masterclass at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin and experience the majesty of Holyroodhouse Palace in Edinburgh. This 22-day tour of Britain and Ireland is brought to life by Local Experts, with an arsenal of immersive experiences. Visit Orkney Islands for a glimpse of Britain’s furthest northern reaches and the 1000-year-old Kirkwall Town, while Ireland’s medieval city of Kilkenny serves up the chance to experience hurling—a 3,000 year old Celtic sport. Prehistoric Stonehenge towers over England’s Salisbury Plains, where a tour unlocks some of the secrets held by these 5000-year-old monoliths, while the Viking city of York charms all with its maze of narrow streets and close quarter homes.
Departs April - September 2024
*Pricing based on 10th July 2024 departure. Already inclusive of savings
Receive an extra 5% off with past passenger discount
Inclusions
Inclusions
- 21 nights accommodation in Premium & Signature centrally located hotels.
- Many meals including authentic Signature Dining and breakfast daily.
- Signature Experiences & priority access.
- Touring with an experienced Travel Director.
- Travel throughout in First Class coaches with Business Class legroom.
- Airport transfers.
- Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxury, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- From time to time, your Travel Director will enchant you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- You may purchase transfers from/to London Heathrow and Gatwick airports on arrival and departure days, or when additional night accommodation has been booked through Insight Vacations. Alternatively, please make your own way from/to the airport.
Travel highlights
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- First Class accommodation
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Optional Experiences and free time
Itinerary
Day 1 - London to Stratford-upon-Avon
After a warm welcome, settle into your luxury coach and head westwards through the green Chiltern Hills. Stop in Oxford where your Travel Director will introduce you to the City of Dreaming Spires and home to the world's most famous university. With time at leisure, why not enjoy a visit to the world-famous Ashmolean Museum or browse through the local indoor market? Continue via pretty Cotswolds villages to Stratford-upon-Avon. Visit the half-timbered house where William Shakespeare was born, now a museum full of memorabilia relating to his life. Later, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers at a local restaurant for a warm and friendly Welcome Dinner with drinks and the opportunity to get to know each other over a pleasant evening.
Hotel: Swan's Nest Hotel, Stratford.
Meals: Dinner with Wine
Day 2 - Medieval York
A leisurely drive brings you to the historic city of York, its story going back to the time of the Romans and the Vikings. Inside the ancient city walls, see the York Minster, the largest medieval church in northern Europe. Explore the maze of narrow streets to the topsy-turvy Shambles, where warped, overhanging timber-framed houses lean so far that they almost touch! Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Hotel: Hilton York.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3 - By the Lakes to Edinburgh
Travel across the Yorkshire Dales and wild Pennines to the picturesque English Lake District. Here a scenic wonderland awaits - rugged mountains and tranquil waters, inspiration to a host of English poets including Wordsworth, Coleridge, Tennyson and Shelley. After a visit to Wordsworth’s grave in the village of Grasmere, cross into Scotland and stop briefly at Gretna Green. This is the famous spot where runaway lovers were married over the anvil at the blacksmith's shop. Then it’s on to the majestic Scottish capital. At night, select departures will attend the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo - a colourful mix of pipes and drums, dance and display, set against the floodlit backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Hotel: Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 4 - Scotland's City of Culture
Join a Local Expert for a trip along Princes Street to see the ornate Victorian Gothic monument to Sir Walter Scott. Walk the elegant 18th century New Town to see its classical Adam facades. Over in the Old Town, visit the castle, home of Mons Meg, the Stone of Destiny and the Honours of Scotland, Scotland’s glittering Crown Jewels. At the bottom of the Royal Mile, stands the Palace of Holyroodhouse - the official Scottish residence of Her Majesty, the Queen. The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps research your family tartan in the Tartan Centre or visit the art treasures in the National Gallery?
Hotel: Edinburgh Hotel Holyrood By Marriott
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 - The Highland Capital of Inverness
Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife and make your way to St. Andrews, passing the Old Course where golf was born in the 15th century. Enjoy free time to explore. Perhaps stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed? Alternately, wander to St. Andrews University where the love story of Kate Middleton meeting her Prince Charming began. Cross the Tay and journey to the charming Victorian resort town of Pitlochry, famous for its salmon run. Continue via Blair Atholl and pass the Grampian Mountains on the way to the sparkling Spey Valley. Stop at Culloden Moor, where Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army was finally crushed in 1746 and visit the Culloden Visitor Centre. Travel to stately Inverness, where your centrally-located hotel is set on the banks of the River Ness and looks up to Inverness Castle.
Hotel: AC Hotel Inverness by Marriott
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6 - Loch Ness to Wick
Start the day with 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. Your travels then follow the rugged coast north to the fishing port of Wick. Pause at the Old Pulteney Distillery to taste a wee dram of whisky and learn about the production of the national drink. Don't blink as you drive on to your hotel - you pass Ebenezer Place, which at 2.06 m, is the world's shortest street!
Hotel:The Norseman Hotel, Wick.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7 - Orkney Islands Experience
Visit the most northerly community on the British mainland, John O’Groats. Board the ferry to the beautiful Orkney Islands - where the hardy locals live 'below the wind and above the water.' Guided sightseeing includes visiting the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the mysterious Ring of Brodgar, Kirkwall and the small chapel built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II.
Hotel: The Norseman Hotel, Wick.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8 - Over the Sea to Skye
Relax and enjoy the stunning landscapes of lochs and mountains on your way to the fishing town of Ullapool. Continue alongside Loch Carron and through Glen Carron, before crossing to the magical Isle of Skye - the largest and most beautiful island of the Inner Hebrides. Hear the story of the song 'Over the Sea to Skye,' which tells of young Flora MacDonald and how she helped to rescue Bonnie Prince Charlie, who fled in disguise after his defeat at Culloden. Admire the scenic splendour on the way to your hotel in Broadford.
Hotel: Dunollie Hotel, Broadford.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9 - Loch Lomond to Glasgow
Return to the mainland to see remote Eilean Donan Castle, which under a clear sky offers a perfect reflection in its loch. Move on to the WWII Commando Memorial where there are views of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Continue on to the Valley of Glencoe, its dramatic peaks still echoing with the ghastly cries of massacred clansmen. Stop on the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond, known as the 'Queen of Scottish Lakes' according to Sir Walter Scott, before arriving in Glasgow.
Hotel: Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 10 - Walk in the Giant’s Steps on the way to Londonderry
Cross the Irish Sea, enjoying views of the Island of Arran along the way. Once you arrive in Northern Ireland, prepare yourself for miles of breathtaking beauty! The road clings to the coastline at the mouth of the famous Nine Glens of Antrim, alongside sandy beaches beneath towering basalt cliffs. Stop at the Giant’s Causeway, and hear the legends which surround this geological masterpiece, created by the cooling of lava which burst through the Earth’s crust millions of years ago. Continue to the ancient walled city of 'Derry'.
Hotel: Da Vinci's Hotel Derry, Londonderry.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11 - Belleek and Sligo Bay
In the morning, meet Ronan, one of the nation's great storytellers, as he takes you inside Londonderry's well-preserved walls, still topped with cannons. Walk down steep Shipquay Street, with its elegant Georgian houses, to the Gothic Guildhall, and cross the border to see O’Donnell’s Castle in Donegal. Journey south to the Belleek Pottery & Visitor Centre, nestled on the banks of the River Erne. Meet some of the specialist craftspeople and see artisan techniques in action during your visit. Continue to the churchyard at Drumcliff, the last resting place of Irish poet W.B. Yeats. Then it’s on to your country retreat, set on the scenic shores of Sligo Bay.
Hotel: Clayton Hotel, Sligo.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 12 - Galway and Limerick
Experience the beautiful rugged landscape of Connemara, a wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. Continue to Galway, where your Travel Director will show you St. Nicholas Cathedral, the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President John F. Kennedy. Move onto your hotel in Limerick, famous for rhymes, lace and Georgian houses.
Hotel: The George Boutique Hotel Limerick.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 13 - Adare to Killarney
Start the day with an exploration of Limerick where you will see King John’s Castle, St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Treaty Stone. Continue your journey through the land of song and legend via the picturesque thatched village of Adare, into County Kerry and onto your Killarney hotel.
Hotel: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa, Killarney.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 14 - Ring of Kerry Experience
In the morning, enjoy a trip around the Ring of Kerry, one of the world’s greatest scenic journeys. See towering cliffs, lush lakelands, remote villages, Ireland’s highest mountain range and the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. With time at leisure, perhaps hire a bicycle and take advantage of the many cycle trails that Killarney has to offer, around the lake or through the National Park? At night your Dine-Around Evening offers you authentic and intimate dining as you choose from a hand-picked selection of local restaurants, ranging in style and ambience.
Hotel: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa, Killarney.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 15 - Blarney Castle and Cork
Cross the rugged Derrynasaggart Mountains this morning and head for Blarney. Visit the ruined 15th century castle that is home to the famous Stone of Eloquence. It is said that those whose lips caress the Stone of Eloquence are bestowed with the power to persuade, atter and coax. Continue on to Cork, Ireland's second most populous city, built on the River Lee. Enjoy a city tour before checking into your hotel.
Hotel: Maldron Hotel South Mall Cork City
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 16 - Kilkenny and Dublin
Admire the sparkling display of crystal on your guided visit to the world-famous House of Waterford Crystal, where you will meet a master craftsman. Travel to the medieval city of Kilkenny, home of the world's fastest field game. The ancient Celtic sport of Hurling is over 3,000 years old and Ireland's national sport. Meet a player who will share his passion through a demonstration of skills. Continue to Ireland’s lively capital, Dublin, and spend a leisurely evening relaxing, exploring or perhaps taking in a famous Irish Cabaret?
Hotel: Trinity City Hotel, Dublin.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 17 - In Dublin’s Fair City
Before it opens to the public, experience Ireland's national and world-famous drink with a guided visit to the Guinness Storehouse. Gain a fascinating insight into the history and traditions behind its production and enjoy a tasting with a Guinness expert. Then meet your Local Expert who will show the sights of the city, including Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O’Connell Street and the Custom House. The afternoon is at leisure.
Hotel: Trinity City Hotel, Dublin.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 18 - Across the Irish Sea to Chester
Bid farewell to Ireland as you board the ferry to Wales. Cross the Isle of Anglesey, via the village bearing Britain's longest name, and continue over the Menai Straits for a stop in the walled market town of Conwy to see the castle. Travel along the north coast of Wales and cross the English border to arrive at Chester. This fine town still boasts relics of its history as a Roman fortress, as well as the unique black and white shopping arcades known as the Rows. An exploration with your Travel Director will show you the well-preserved city walls, Jubilee Clock and impressive cathedral.
Hotel: Hallmark Hotel The Queen, Chester.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner
Day 19 - The Welsh Marches to Cardi
Head south as you follow the Welsh border to Ludlow. This bustling town is still dominated by the massive castle, built to resist the frequent Welsh raids, while the medieval timber-framed buildings and Georgian mansions reflect a later time of peace and prosperity. Continue through the countryside to the Welsh capital and see the Principality Stadium and Cardiff Castle.
Hotel: Clayton Hotel Cardiff.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 20 - Bath and Somerset
Cross the soaring Severn Bridge to reach the elegant Georgian city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in amphitheatre-style on the surrounding hills. An orientation of the city will show you the impressive Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge, both built in mellow local stone. See the angels climbing Jacob's Ladder on Bath Abbey before visiting the Pump Room and ancient Roman Baths to 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. Journey on to Glastonbury, rumored to be the resting place of legendary King Arthur and the Holy Grail. After some time to explore, continue on to the Cornish Countryside for the night.
Hotel: St. Mellion International Resort, Saltash.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Day 21 - Discover Dartmoor.
Explore Dartmoor with Insight Choice. Choose to join a scenic exploration of Dartmoor National Park. Alternatively, cruise the scenic Plymouth harbour, where 400 years ago the Mayower set sail for America. Back in Plymouth, enjoy a glass of wine and a delectable Celebration Dinner with your newfound friends as you toast to an inspiring journey.
Hotel: Crowne Plaza Plymouth/Copthorne Hotel Plymouth.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 22 - Ancient Stonehenge to London.
Travel across Salisbury Plain to visit the pre-historic and mysterious Stonehenge, where the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths are reputed to be up to 5,000 years old. Your discovery of Britain and Ireland concludes upon your return to the trip's hotel in London.
Meals: Breakfast
*Itinerary subject to changes.
* Term and conditions apply – please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
Prices subject to change with availability and prevailing exchange rates.
Advertised prices based on per person twin share unless stated otherwise.
Offers may be withdrawn at any time.
Prices are per person, twin share and land only. Single supplements apply. Advertised prices based on lead in travel from the 2018 Europe and Britain Brochure. Price reflects 7.5% Early Payment Discount valid only when trip is paid in full by 28 February 2018. Prices vary per departure date and are subject to availability and can be amended or withdrawn at any time. Early Payment Discount on all departure dates is subject to availability and can be withdrawn without notice. Conditions and restrictions apply. A non-refundable deposit of $200 per person is due within 7 days of booking and full payment for the trip is due by 28 February 2018 or 45 days before departure, whichever comes first. Visit insightvacations.com for full terms and conditions or talk to your local Phil Hoffmann Travel Agent.
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