Wonders of Britain and Ireland
Encounter all the highlights and a few special surprises on this in-depth journey through England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Stand before the ancient stones of Stonehenge, feel the pride of the Welsh, explore Scotland’s grand cities and landscapes and sample a pint of the favorite local brew on a tour of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin.
The cosmopolitan capital of London rolls out its red carpet with all the pomp and pageantry you're unlikely to encounter anywhere else in the world. Spend the day ambling along its grand boulevards and past iconic sights as you familiarize yourself with the city's bustling atmosphere.
Join a Local Specialist today to explore the city's favorite landmarks. See Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace, before spending the rest of the day at leisure to delve into the city's history, culture, art and architecture.
Ponder the mysteries of the ancient megaliths of Stonehenge, before driving west to Bath to visit the Roman Baths. Cross the Severn Estuary to Cardiff, then view the Wales Millennium Center and the National Assembly at Cardiff Bay. Later, enjoy warm hospitality and traditional Welsh meal and drinks at a rousing dinner.
This morning, view the University of Wales, Principality Stadium, City Hall and the National Museum during your orientation of Cardiff. Enjoy some leisure time in this modern capital. Perhaps visit the Victorian Gothic fantasy of Cardiff Castle at the heart of the city. Cross the Irish Sea by ferry to the 'Emerald Isle' and travel to historic Waterford, where you'll dine in your hotel tonight.
Dive into Culture and watch the master crafters of the renowned House of Waterford Crystal. Then, kiss the Blarney Stone to acquire the 'gift of the gab', before traveling to the picturesque town of Killarney.
Today, experience the enduring beauty of Ireland's most scenic coastal drive around the Iveragh Peninsula – the emerald green hills, centuries-old stone villages and vivid blue seascapes provide an exquisite backdrop for your leisurely drive around what has become known as the Ring of Kerry. See Daniel O'Connell's Cahirsiveen, the fishing village of Waterville, the Black Valley and Moll's Gap with its panoramic views. Later, meet the O'Sullivan family at Molly Gallivan’s 200-year-old cottage, share a memorable Be My Guest experience.
Celtic art and history take center stage this morning as you visit the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary, the seat of Irish kings for centuries. Perched atop a limestone outcrop in the Golden Vale, the historic ruins house one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture in Europe. Arrive this afternoon in Dublin, where you'll Dive into Culture to discover the fascinating 250-year-old story of Guinness at its original home, the Guinness Storehouse. Then, top it off with a tasting in the Gravity Bar while enjoying the panoramic views of Dublin. This evening, consider joining an Optional Experience to enjoy the rousing sounds of an Irish cabaret.
This morning, join your Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour to see Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral and the stately Georgian Squares. The rest of the day is yours to soak up the cozy atmosphere of the Irish capital. Ramble through the buzzing streets of Temple Bar or visit Grafton Street, famous for its colorful street performers.
Board the ferry to Wales. Admire the spectacular landscape of Snowdonia National Park as you travel to the ancient city of Chester, with its characteristic Tudor Rows and medieval walls. Arrive later in Liverpool, the haunt of the 'Fab Four', joining your companions for a tasty dinner.
The beautiful landscape, which for centuries inspired the Romantic poets, provides a mesmerizing backdrop for your scenic drive from the lush green hills of Lancashire to the Lake District. Skirt the shores of England's largest lake, Windermere, as you travel through countryside made famous by poet William Wordsworth. Cross the Scottish border and visit the runaway wedding capital that is Gretna Green. This evening, you arrive in beguiling Edinburgh, where you'll spend the next two nights.
Join a Local Specialist this morning for a memorable sightseeing tour of Scotland's captivating capital, including a visit to Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city on Castle Rock. See Auld Reekie's Royal Mile and the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse in the shadow of Arthur's Seat, and admire the Georgian facades in Edinburgh's New Town. Tickets to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that align with performance dates.
Journey south to the medieval market town of Alnwick, with its impressive castle and Tenantry Column, upon which the Percy Lion sits and surveys the town. Marvel at the magnificent scenery as you cross Northumberland and the River Tyne at Newcastle en route to York, where you’ll walk through the charming Shambles, see the medieval walls and York Minster, one of the greatest cathedrals in the world.
Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace and Visitor Center in Stratford-upon-Avon to see where the 'Avon Bard' was born and raised. View Anne Hathaway's thatched cottage. This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner.
Journey to the Cotswolds this morning and visit the little churchyard at Bladon, where Sir Winston Churchill is buried. Arriving in Oxford, the oldest university city in the British Isles, you'll enjoy an orientation tour of the city to view the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library. Return to London this afternoon.
For now, it's time to say farewell to your travel companions at the end of a memorable holiday as you prepare to return home with treasured memories.