Britain and Ireland Highlights Preview 2018

Day 1: Arrive London

Welcome to London. Relax after your flight or spend time exploring the city on your own.

Day 2: London – Stratford-upon-Avon – York – Harrogate

A scenic drive through beautiful countryside brings you to Stratford-upon-Avon. Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace and Visitor Centre. In the Viking city of York enjoy a walk along its historic streets. View the cobbled Shambles, the ancient city walls and the magnificent York Minster. Later, enjoy a Welcome Reception in a traditional pub.Full Breakfast, Welcome Reception

Day 3: Harrogate – Lake District – Gretna Green – Glasgow (2 Nights)

From quaint villages around the Yorkshire Dales National Park to the glory of the Lake District, your journey is scenic. Travelling past England's largest lake, Windermere, and through countryside that inspired the Romantic poets, you reach Grasmere. View the grave of William Wordsworth, buried at St. Oswald's Church. Cross the Scottish border and visit Gretna Green, where eloping couples would make their vows over the anvil. This afternoon your orientation tour of Glasgow includes views of the Cathedral and the magnificent George Square.Full Breakfast

Day 4: Edinburgh Excursion

Today visit Edinburgh. Your Local Specialist takes you on a sightseeing tour of this wonderful city, including a visit to Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city. See the Royal Mile, the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse in the shadow of Arthur's Seat and the new Scottish Parliament building. Admire the elegant Georgian architecture in the New Town. Later enjoy free time to explore at leisure, before returning to Glasgow for a delicious meal at a local restaurant.Full Breakfast, Regional Meal

Day 5: Glasgow – Belfast – Dublin (2 Nights)

Follow the rugged Ayrshire coast past the island of Ailsa Craig, the stepping stone from Ireland to Scotland, to board the ferry to Northern Ireland. View City Hall, Queen's University and the dock where the Titanic was built with your Local Specialist. Later arrive in Dublin, your home for the next two nights.Full Breakfast

Day 6: Dublin Sightseeing

See Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral and the stately Georgian Squares with your Local Specialist. Visit the Guinness Brewery for a Storehouse tour and tasting technique demonstration. Spend the rest of the day as you please. Why not explore Temple Bar or Grafton Street, famous for its street performers? This evening consider joining an Optional Experience to an Irish cabaret.Full Breakfast

Day 7: Dublin – Kildare – Kilkenny – Waterford

This morning gain a Cultural Insight into rearing world-class thoroughbreds when visiting the Irish National Stud Farm established in 1946. After a guided walk through the farm, take some time to stroll through the tranquil Japanese Gardens, regarded as the best in Europe. In Kilkenny, see the imposing medieval castle and enjoy free time for lunch. This afternoon enjoy a Cultural Insight when you visit the House of Waterford Crystal. Watch the master craftsmen at work during your tour of the workshop, and see the exquisite completed pieces in the showroom.Full Breakfast

Day 8: Waterford – Cardiff

Cross the Irish Sea to Wales by ferry, and continue your journey to Cardiff Bay to view the Millennium Centre and the National Assembly. View the historic Cardiff Castle and see the Millennium Stadium before arriving at your hotel. Tonight, join your Travel Director and travel companions for a memorable Be My Guest Farewell Dinner.Full Breakfast, Be My Guest Dining

Day 9: Cardiff – Bath – Stonehenge – London

Travel across the Severn Estuary into England and the glorious city of Bath. See splendid Georgian architecture during your orientation. Enjoy an included visit to the Roman Baths from which the city derives its name. In Wiltshire, visit the mysterious monolithic stone circle at Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, return to London.Full Breakfast

Day 10: Depart London

Say farewell to your travelling companions at the end of your holiday, as you prepare to fly home with wonderful memories.Full Breakfast