Castles & Kingdoms

21 days
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews  
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USTOA

Group Tour
From London to Edinburgh and over the Irish Sea to Belfast and Killarney this adventure across Ireland and Great Britain pairs iconic sights with once in a lifetime experiences. Join the Yeoman Warder at the Tower of London and bear witness to the Ceremony of the Keys, the oldest practiced military tradition in the world. In Northern Ireland, join a local ran...
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$16,844
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Overview

Trip type
Group Tour
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

What's this trip about?

    From London to Edinburgh and over the Irish Sea to Belfast and Killarney this adventure across Ireland and Great Britain pairs iconic sights with once in a lifetime experiences. Join the Yeoman Warder at the Tower of London and bear witness to the Ceremony of the Keys, the oldest practiced military tradition in the world. In Northern Ireland, join a local ranger to explore the spectacular Giant’s Causeway and in England, journey to the majestic 11th-century Alnwick Castle—known to many from the Harry Potter films. On Founder’s Collection departures, meet her Grace the Duchess of Northumberland for a private tour of the castle gardens followed by a seasonal lunch. The Activity Level of this tour is Balanced, meaning there is 1 to 3 miles of walking per day which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 24 people
Age range6 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityLondon
End CityShannon

Travel Themes

  • 50 plus
  • Cultural

Destinations

  • Europe
  • United Kingdom
  • England
  • Ireland

Activities

  • Culture
  • Luxury Travel

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1: Welcome to London

Your UK luxury tour begins with a private chauffeur to your five-star hotel, Rubens at the Palace. Here you are welcomed with the royal treatment from their red tail-coated doormen. Tonight, enjoy sumptuous British fare at the English Grill Restaurant.

The Rubens at the Palace, London.

Dinner

Day 2: Traditions and Treasures of London

Hear the bells of Big Ben and admire the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Enter bustling Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus before visiting the Household Cavalry Museum. After the sun sets and London lights up, you’re treated to a private, after-hours tour of the Tower of London and the historic Ceremony of the Keys.

The Rubens at the Palace, London.

Breakfast

Day 3: Stonehenge and Georgian Bath Relaxed Start

Savor a Relaxed Start of breakfast-in-bed if you choose, before standing in awe of mysterious Stonehenge, Britain's best-known UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself further into British history as you travel to Bath. Stroll the streets lined with Georgian architecture feeling as though you’ve stepped into a classic English novel.

Francis Hotel, Bath.

Breakfast

Day 4: Explore Bath Relaxed Start

Personalise your day in this charming town with a visit to the Jane Austen Center or visit the Roman Baths and Georgian Pump Room, Britain’s only natural hot springs. Share the highlights of your morning over locally sourced dishes at the Michelin-starred Olive Tree restaurant.

Francis Hotel, Bath.

Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon and York

Find yourself traveling through a storybook in the Cotswolds where rolling green hills welcome you into the valleys of these charming towns. Continue to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, and admire quaint Tudor cottages. Your day concludes in York wh...

Day 6: Medieval Wonders of York Relaxed Start

Step back into the Middle Ages in York joining an expert-led tour of the York Minster or a walk on the 13th-century city walls. Enter the stately Castle Howard through landscaped gardens before sitting down to a traditional English afternoon tea and private tour of the house.

The Grand Hotel & Spa, York

Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: The Wild and Poetic Lake District

Let the beauty of the Lake District inspire you as you cruise shimmering Ullswater Lake, taking in some of the best views of this region. Later, check into the lovingly restored country house overlooking Lake Windermere.

Merewood Country House Hotel, Lake District

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Alnwick Castle

Discover majestic Alnwick Castle’s magnificent interiors with a Local Expert before exploring Edinburgh's beautiful, walkable city. Should you visit during August, witness The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of the most spectacular military concerts and celebration of the history, heritage and colors of Scotland’s regiments.

Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh.

Breakfast

Day 9: Highlights of Beautiful Edinburgh

Explore the grounds of Edinburgh’s “castle on the hill,” as your guide unlocks more than 900-years of history. Personalise your afternoon visiting the 17th-century Mary King's Close or with a stimulating whisky tasting. After a private performance from a former bagpip...

Day 10: Edinburgh to Belfast

Journey to your luxurious hotel in Belfast for a relaxing three-night stay in the heart of the city center. Pop up to The Observatory bar where glittering views stretch into the distance. Get to know the tastes of the town at a local restaurant.

Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 11: Highlights of Belfast

Visit the world-class Titanic Museum for a vivid picture of the past , before customising your time in Belfast. Step out with Local Expert and explore the City Hall, prestigious Queen's University and Parliament Building at Stormont or meet a local artist to discover Belfast’s progressive street art.

Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.

Breakfast

Day 12: Giant's Causeway and Londonderry

Experience Northern Ireland's most spectacular geological wonder, the UNESCO Listed Giant's Causeway on a private tour with a Local Ranger. On arrival in Londonderry, Local Guide Ronan, one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, will captivate you with his deep knowledge of history and politics.

Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.

Breakfast

Day 13: Strangford Lough and Vibrant Dublin Relaxed Start

Sweet aromas and a slow food ethos await at Tracey's Farmhouse. Explore the organic farm and learn how to make traditional Irish soda bread before enjoying a farm-to-table lunch. Continue to Dublin for a tour of the city’s key sights including a tasting experience at ...

Day 14: A Truly Irish Experience

A visit to Trinity College unveils the 9th century Book of Kells. At a VIP, after-hours visit to the Little Museum of Dublin, sip prosecco with the founder before dinner.

Dylan Hotel, Dublin.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 15: Glendalough to Kilkenny Relaxed Start

After a Relaxed Start of breakfast-in-bed if you choose, explore Glendalough, the "glen of two lakes" with a Local Expert. Stroll Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile linking Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral. Your own historic residence, Lyrath Estate, is set within sprawling acres of lakes, gardens and woodlands.

Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny.

Breakfast

Day 16: Banter in Blarney

See classic Ireland in Cashel, famous for its medieval structures including the spectacular Rock of Cashel. Visit Blarney Castle to take part in the legend of kissing the Blarney Stone. This evening join the locals at a home hosted dinner with entertainment and dancing.

The Dunloe, Killarney.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 17: Scenic Ring of Kerry Relaxed Start

Journey into Killarney National Park, winding along the iconic Ring of Kerry. Travel back in time with a traditional jaunting car ride, enjoying views of Ireland's highest Mountain Range, the MacGillycuddy's Reeks. Explore the town of Kenmare before indulging in a gourmet lunch at the Park Hotel.

The Dunloe, Killarney.

Breakfast

Day 18: Exploring Limerick Relaxed Start

Admire dramatic mountains and windswept sands along Dingle Peninsula. In Adare, discover the charming thatched-roof cottages, castles and abbeys before continuing to Limerick to see the best of the city including St. Mary's Cathedral and Limerick's Treaty Stone.

The Savoy Hotel, Limerick.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 19: Regal County Mayo Relaxed Start

Breathtaking views continue through County Clare to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway. Your stay at the 5-star Ashford Castle begins with a royal welcome as a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge to this estate, once home to the Guinness family. Tonight, savor specialties from a seasonal menu at the Castle’s Cullen's at the Cottage.

Ashford Castle, Cong.

Breakfast, Dinner

Day 20: Majestic Ashford Castle Relaxed Start

Indulge in another Relaxed Start with the option of breakfast in-bed room service. Get acquainted with elegant birds of prey at the oldest established falconry school in Ireland or delve into the Castle’s history on a guided historical tour. Then treat yourself to a s...

Day 21: Depart Shannon

Conclude your travels in Ireland with a private transfer to Shannon Airport.

Breakfast

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Dates & Availability

Price From $14,562
Price per day$693
Last Updated: 4/26/2024
Start Date
Finish Date
Double Standard
Availability
09 May 2024
29 May 2024
$14,562
available
30 May 2024
19 Jun 2024
$14,612
available
01 Jun 2024
12 Jun 2024
$7,972
available
13 Jun 2024
03 Jul 2024
$14,682
available
15 Jun 2024
22 Jun 2024
$5,395
onRequest
15 Jun 2024
26 Jun 2024
$7,922
onRequest
27 Jun 2024
17 Jul 2024
$14,682
closed
13 Jul 2024
24 Jul 2024
$8,322
available
20 Jul 2024
27 Jul 2024
$5,125
available
01 Aug 2024
21 Aug 2024
$15,182
closed

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Luxury Gold.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Tour Operator

Luxury Gold

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Wherever you go, we'll delight and surprise you with amazing experiences, tastes, sights, sounds and people.

With specialist knowledge of exclusive VIP experiences, fine dining and luxury hotels, we are dedicated to bringing you journeys shaped by our family heritage of close to 100 years of high-end travel industry expertise and a total commitment to service.

You can unplug, relax, enjoy, open up to the charm of different cultures and let us take care of every little detail.

Journey Beyond the Ordinary

We invite you to embark on a travel experience unlike any other. Join us as we explore exotic lands and distinctive destinations, in exquisite style and comfort. At Luxury Gold, it’s our pleasure to make your next journey extraordinary. Allow us to share our unparalleled wealth of expertise and insights, accumulated over nearly 100 years as leaders in luxury travel. We put our heart and soul into everything we do, taking care of every detail to ensure your Luxury Gold journey is perfectly planned, personalised, and truly unforgettable.

Enriching Travel Experiences

As one of The Travel Corporation’s (TTC) family of brands, Luxury Gold is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation and shares a collective desire to protect and conserve the stunningly beautiful environments, fascinating cultures and awe-inspiring communities of our natural world.

TreadRight is a not-for-profit organization that works tirelessly to ensure the environment and communities we visit remain for generations to come. Since 2008, TreadRight has supported more than 40 sustainable tourism projects worldwide, working with expert project partners who directly oversee these projects on the ground.

When travelling with Luxury Gold on select itineraries, you’ll see some of these incredible projects in action. In Perugia, experience one of the last remaining hand-weaving textiles in Italy, reminiscent of great medieval and renaissance textile traditions in Italy. In choosing Luxury Gold you are helping TreadRight continue its life-changing work.

 

About the company:

As the world leader in Luxury Small Group Journeys, Luxury Gold is redefining the New Golden Age of Travel. With the finest end to end travel experience, guests are spoilt with high end experiences in magnificent environments. Exceptional dining at sort after Michelin Star restaurants to unique street food experiences. Curated experiences with afterhours access, VIP experiences and the exclusive Founders Collections meet and greets with nobility, icons and royalty. Magnificent stays at world leading properties such as the Belmond and Red Carnation Hotels or unique Chalets or Private Game Reserve lodgings. Beyond these high-end experiences, guests every need is catered to by their 24/7 Travel Concierge who combine local knowledge with the ultimate black book of contacts to customize guest’s journey

Luxury Gold is part of the family-owned and run The Travel Corporation (TTC), driven by service for over one hundred years.

Why we love this operator
They understand that true luxury lies not only in lavish hotels and gourmet dining but also in the immersive experiences that leave a lasting memory.
What they’re known for
Specially curated small-group luxury worldwide tours with unique VIP experiences.

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Logistics

Accommodation

The Rubens at the Palace, London. Francis Hotel, Bath. The Grand Hotel & Spa, York Merewood Country House Hotel, Lake District Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh. Grand Central Hotel, Belfast. Dylan Hotel, Dublin. Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny. The Dunloe, Killarney. The Savoy Hotel, Limerick. Ashford Castle, Cong.,
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
  • 9 Dinner (D)
  • 20 Breakfast (B)
  • 4 Lunch (L)
  • London: Dine in style at the lavish English Grill Restaurant, just across the road from Buckingham Palace. Enjoy your Welcome Dinner prepared by executive chef Ben Kelliher using only the finest English produce and the same suppliers who serve the King’s kitchen.
  • Bath: Experience an exquisite Michelin-starred lunch at the Olive Tree restaurant. A fresh, seasonal menu, curated by award-winning Head Chef Chris Cleghorn, offers classic flavors combined with modern techniques. Relax in the chic, yet informal atmosphere and enjoy the best of British cuisine.
  • Dublin: Dine at a hand-picked gastropub in the heart of Dublin. Discover the favorite dishes of local people and enjoy a hearty meal in the unique ambiance of this thriving city.
  • York: Visit one of Britain's finest historic houses, Castle Howard. Enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea in the Grecian Hall.
  • Killarney: Join locals at their home this evening for dinner with entertainment and dancing.
  • Kenmare: Let your tastebuds be delighted with a delicious lunch at the historic Park Hotel, set among manicured gardens running to the lapping shores of Kenmare Bay.
  • Edinburgh: Enjoy meal of fine dishes made with local produce to rounds off your day in the Scottish Capital, accompanied by music from a bagpiper.
  • Belfast: Introduce yourself to Belfast the right way, with a hearty meal in a specially selected local restaurant.
  • Ashford Castle: Dine in the cozy surrounds of Cullen's at the Cottage, a traditional thatched cottage where you’ll be greeted with delicious aromas. Savor freshly-cooked local and international dishes in this former cinema, which premiered ‘The Quiet Man’ before Hollywood.
  • Ashford Castle: Celebrate in royal style amongst the chandeliers and panelled walls of the historic George V Dining Room, named for the monarch who dined here in 1906 when he was the Prince of Wales. Chef Philippe Farineau presents a delicious menu for your evening.
Age Requirements
6 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
luxury-G259MN19

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