Romantic Britain & Ireland - Classic Group

Romantic Britain & Ireland - Classic Group

74 Views
20 Days From

$8075

$6864

Romantic Britain & Ireland - Classic Group

20 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom

Visiting: London, Oxford, York, Lake District National Park, Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Inverness, Loch Ness, Lock Duich, Skye, Glasgow, Belfast, Dublin, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle, Waterford, Cardiff, Bath, Dartmoor, Stonehenge

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

B908ZN20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English
From: $8075 $6864 Operator discount: -$1211 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting landscapes of Britain and Ireland with the "Romantic Britain & Ireland - Classic Group" tour. This immersive experience takes you through the heart of England, Northern Ireland, and the United Kingdom, offering a blend of cultural exploration and scenic beauty. Discover the historic charm of Oxford, the literary legacy of Stratford-upon-Avon, and the medieval allure of York. Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the Cliffs of Moher and the mystical Stonehenge. Enjoy authentic dining experiences, including a traditional afternoon tea in Pitlochry and a Sunday roast in Killarney. With expert guides and comfortable accommodations, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure across iconic landmarks and hidden gems, from the vibrant streets of Dublin to the serene landscapes of the Lake District. Experience the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of these remarkable regions in style and comfort.

Highlights

  • Dartmoor National Park: Explore the history of stone circles and indigenous traditions with a Local Expert.

  • Set sail on a relaxing cruise from Plymouth harbor, where the pilgrims left over 400 years ago.

  • Visit the world-famous university town of Oxford and see its iconic spires and colleges.

  • Discover the life of William Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon and explore the town's Tudor houses.

  • Explore Edinburgh Castle and view the Scottish Crown Jewels and other historical artifacts.

  • Witness the incredible spectacle of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in August.

  • Visit the Cliffs of Moher and enjoy breathtaking views over the Wild Atlantic Way.

  • Experience the scenic beauty of the Ring of Kerry, one of the most beautiful drives in the world.

  • Walk around the mysterious megaliths of Stonehenge, standing for over 5,000 years.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To London

Location: London

Accommodation: Park Plaza Victoria, London.

Accommodation Name: The Clermont Victoria, London

Welcome to London. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free to enjoy a city that is famous for its pomp and pageantry. Perhaps relax with a walk along the Serpentine in Hyde Park or window shop in the elegant boutiques of Knightsbridge? Alternatively, you may want to stroll along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.

Day 2: Oxford And Stratford

Location: Oxford

Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Stratford-upon-Avon.

Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton, Stratford-upon-Avon, Stratford Manor.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Meet your Travel Director at 07:45 at the hotel in London. Depart for the famous university town of Oxford with its beautiful spires. With time at leisure, why not visit the world-famous Ashmolean Museum or browse through the local indoor market? Continue via pretty Cotswolds villages to Stratford-upon-Avon. Discover how William Shakespeare and his incredible works continue to shape society today when you visit his birthplace, full of interesting memorabilia and artefacts relating to his life. Tonight, join your Travel Director for dinner at a local pub.

Day 3: Lincoln And Medieval York

Location: York

Accommodation: Hilton York.

Accommodation Name: Hilton, York

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel through the heart of ‘Robin Hood Country’ on your way to visit Lincoln. Continue to York, once the Viking capital of Britain and one of England's oldest cities. Saunter along the Shambles to reach the York Minster, in the heart of this medieval gem. Your hotel lies within the walls facing Clifford’s Tower.

Day 4: The English Lakes To Edinburgh

Location: Lake District National Park

Accommodation: Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

Accommodation Name: Virgin, Edinburgh

Meals Included: Breakfast

Drive through the Lake District National Park, a scenic wonderland of rugged mountains and tranquil lakes, inspiring a host of English poets. Stop in Wordsworth’s village of Grasmere and see the poet’s grave in the churchyard. Cross the border at Gretna Green, where runaway lovers were married, and continue to the Scottish capital.

Day 5: Scotland’S Capital Of Culture

Location: Edinburgh

Accommodation: Macdonald Holyrood Hotel, Edinburgh.

Accommodation Name: Virgin, Edinburgh

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel down the Royal Mile to see the Palace of Holyroodhouse — official Scottish residence of His Majesty, The King - before crossing over to New Town. Walk with your Local Expert inside Edinburgh Castle for spectacular views of the town and see the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg.The afternoon is free to shop on Princes Street. In the evening, select departures will attend The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo — a colorful mixture of historic battles and military manoeuvres, complete with pipes and drums.

Day 6: St. Andrews And Inverness

Location: St. Andrews

Accommodation: Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness.

Accommodation Name: Kingsmills, Inverness

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife and make your way to St. Andrews, passing the world's oldest golf course as you arrive where golf was born in the 15th century. Enjoy free time to explore, perhaps wander to St. Andrews University where the love story of Kate Middleton finding her Prince Charming began when her and Prince William were students there. Alternately, stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed. Your travels continue as you cross the Tay and journey to the charming Victorian resort town of Pitlochry, famous for its salmon run. Stop at Atholl Palace and Gardens for a delicious cream tea. Originally opened in Victorian times, the hotel retains many of its traditional features.

Day 7: Across The Sea To Skye

Location: Inverness, Loch Ness, Lock Duich, Skye

Accommodation: The Dunollie Hotel, Broadford.

Accommodation Name: The Dunollie, Broadford

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy 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.Afterwards, pause for a photo of Eilean Donan Castle, set idyllically on a headland on Loch Duich. Listen to tales of Flora MacDonald and her defense of the Bonnie Prince as you cross over the sea to Skye.

Day 8: Loch Lomond And Glasgow

Location: Glasgow

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow.

Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu, Glasgow

Meals Included: Breakfast

Return to the mainland and drive to the World War II Commando Memorial in the shadow of Ben Nevis. Continue through Fort William to absorb the dramatic scenery of Glencoe, the Valley of the Weeping, where the dreadful massacre of the MacDonald's took place in 1692. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond, en route to Glasgow. Your Travel Director will show you Glasgow's grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo’s Cathedral.

Day 9: Across The Irish Sea To Belfast

Location: Belfast

Accommodation: Titanic Hotel

Accommodation Name: Titanic, Belfast

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bid farewell to Scotland as you cross the Irish Sea and continue your journey to the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast. Meet Hilda, your Local Expert, for a passionate city tour of Belfast including views of the City Hall, Queen's University, the Parliament Building at Stormont and murals in different locations indicating political sentiments of local residents. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore at your leisure.

Day 10: Dublin City Sightseeing. Relaxed Start

Location: Belfast, Dublin

Accommodation: Riu Plaza The Gresham

Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza The Gresham, Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel alongside the Mountains of Mourne before crossing the historic Boyne Valley, site of the battle where William of Orange defeated the forces of Catholic King James. Continue to Dublin, Ireland's 'fair city where the girls are so pretty,' and see O’Connell Street, Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, with your Local Expert.

Day 11: A Pint Of The 'Black Stuff'

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Riu Plaza The Gresham

Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza The Gresham, Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Experience Ireland's national and world-famous drink in the Guinness Storehouse. Gain a fascinating insight into the history and traditions behind its production. The rest of the day is yours to shop, continue sightseeing or maybe take an optional drive to the ruined monastic site of Glendalough.

Day 12: Galway, The Cliffs Of Moher And Limerick

Location: Dublin, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick

Accommodation: The George Hotel Limerick.

Accommodation Name: The George, Limerick

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel west to Galway, known as the City of the Tribes. Guided by your Travel Director, enjoy free time in this artsy, bohemian city. Cross the limestone landscape of the Burren, to the Visitor Center at the Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking vistas of the Clare Coast. Journey to the town of Limerick, nestled on the shores of the River Shannon.

Day 13: The Dingle Peninsula To Killarney Relaxed Start

Location: Limerick, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney

Accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.

Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

In the morning, your Travel Director will show you the 12th century St. Mary’s Cathedral, King John’s Castle and the Treaty Stone before setting off to Tralee. Enjoy more spectacular scenery as you make your way through the great cliffs, wide skies and ocean views of the Dingle Peninsula to Killarney. For dinner you are treated to a traditional Sunday roast, with all the trimmings.

Day 14: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start

Location: Killarney, Ring of Kerry

Accommodation: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.

Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

A delightful morning excursion will take you around the Ring of Kerry, where mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. Continue through Ireland’s highest mountain range, the MacGillicuddy Reeks, to the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. Meet John for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit his family-run seaweed farm on the Ring of Kerry. Learn about sustainable farming practices that protect the wild Irish Atlantic coasts. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to relax and enjoy. Maybe take the opportunity to ride a jaunting car around the lake or through the National Park?

Day 15: Blarney Castle And Waterford

Location: Killarney, Blarney Castle, Waterford

Accommodation: Granville Hotel, Waterford.

Accommodation Name: Granville, Waterford

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Visit the ruined 15th century Blarney Castle. Will you hang upside down from the ramparts to kiss the stone and ensure a lifetime of eloquence? Continue to the walled city of Waterford and see the 11th century Reginald's Tower. On your guided visit of the House of Waterford Crystal, you will meet an artisan and see their fine work.

Day 16: Across The Irish Sea To Cardiff

Location: Cardiff

Accommodation: Clayton Hotel, Cardiff.

Accommodation Name: Clayton, Cardiff

Meals Included: Breakfast

From Rosslare, take the ferry across the Irish Sea to Pembroke and continue on with a pleasant journey through the rural scenery of Pembrokeshire. Travel past the valleys of southern Wales to the capital, Cardiff, famous for its imposing castle and the brilliant Principality Stadium. Enjoy an orientation of the port city, upon the River Taff.

Day 17: Bath And Glastonbury

Location: Bath

Accommodation: The Imperial Torquay (Sea view rooms).

Accommodation Name: The Imperial Torquay (Sea view rooms).

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cross the Severn Bridge to reach the City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built above Britain's only thermal, mineral springs. Enjoy an orientation with your Travel Director, through the Georgian streets and crescents. Visit the Roman Baths and learn how this hub of culture is pioneering educational investments to benefit the community, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Your journey continues to mystical Glastonbury where you will see the abbey, reputedly the legendary burial place of King Arthur. Continue south, to reach the seaside town of Torquay.

Day 18: The Devonshire Coast

Location: Dartmoor

Accommodation: The Imperial Torquay (Sea view rooms).

Accommodation Name: The Imperial Torquay (Sea view rooms).

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Explore Dartmoor with Insight Choice. Choose to join a scenic exploration of Dartmoor National Park. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing cruise of Plymouth harbor and see the Mayflower Steps, Barbican, Royal Citadel and Plymouth Hoe. At dinner this evening, enjoy a fine selection of local dishes.

Day 19: Salisbury Plain And Stonehenge

Location: Stonehenge

Accommodation: Park Plaza Victoria, London.

Accommodation Name: The Clermont Victoria, London

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start the day by crossing the Salisbury Plain and stop to visit the mysterious megaliths of Stonehenge, the world's most famous prehistoric monument, its true meaning lost in the mists of time. Your escorted journey draws to a close on your return to London where the rest of the evening is at your leisure.

Day 20: Homeward Bound

Location: London

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.

What's Included

  • Meals

    The tour includes 19 breakfasts, 8 dinners, and 1 afternoon tea.

  • Activities

    Choose between two carefully selected activities during the tour.

  • Local Expert Guides

    Enjoy the insights and knowledge of local experts at various locations.

  • Transportation

    Transportation is provided throughout the tour, including a ferry crossing the Irish Sea.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided at various hotels throughout the tour.

  • Sightseeing

    The tour includes visits to numerous historical and cultural sites, such as Edinburgh Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, and Stonehenge.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities, such as a drive to the ruined monastic site of Glendalough, are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Gratuities

    Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from the tour start and end points are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style and comfort with a combination of scenic drives, ferry crossings, and a relaxing cruise on Loch Ness, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey across the picturesque landscapes of Britain and Ireland.

Accommodation

Experience comfort and elegance with stays at renowned hotels such as The Clermont Victoria in London, Mercure Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon, and Virgin Hotels in Edinburgh, offering a blend of modern amenities and historical charm throughout your journey.

Dining Summary

  • 19 Breakfast (B)
  • 8 Dinner (D)
  • 1 Afternoon Tea (AT)

Insight Experiences

  • Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.
  • Waterford: Visit Waterford Crystal to learn more about the art of crystal carving that has been practised here since the late 1700s. See master crafters utilize traditional cutting and blowing methods at one of the few remaining artisan workshops.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes unique experiences such as a seaweed foraging walk at Atlantic Irish Seaweed on the Ring of Kerry, a visit to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, and a chance to kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle.

  • Are there any special dining experiences during the tour?

    Yes, the tour offers several special dining experiences including a traditional afternoon tea at Atholl Palace in Pitlochry, a Sunday roast in Killarney, and a dinner at a local restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Transportation during the tour includes scenic drives, ferry crossings, and a relaxing cruise on Loch Ness, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey across the picturesque landscapes of Britain and Ireland.

  • What are some of the highlights of the tour in Scotland?

    In Scotland, highlights include visiting Edinburgh Castle to see the Scottish Crown Jewels, exploring the city of Edinburgh with a Local Expert, and witnessing the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in August. The tour also includes a visit to St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, and a cruise on Loch Ness.

  • What activities are available in Dartmoor National Park?

    In Dartmoor National Park, you can choose to learn about the history of stone circles and indigenous traditions from a knowledgeable Local Expert on a scenic exploration.

  • What is the significance of the Ring of Kerry experience?

    The Ring of Kerry experience includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience where you meet John, a seaweed advocate, for a seaweed foraging walk. This experience supports sustainable practices and the protection of Ireland's marine ecosystems.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

Reviews of this operator

Peggy Lindenborn  

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily

02-Nov-2021

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily is a delightful trip and our travel guides and driver, Enzo, Chris and Greg were amazing and made the trip very memorable. We saw so many places and had great experiences along the way! Thanks to them for such a wonderful vacation.!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Spain & Portugal

11-Jan-2023

Great itinerary, good pace, tour director was friendly and very knowledgeable and organised. Bus was very spacious and driver was great. Yes would recommend insight to friends and families

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Jacqueline Thornberry  

Scenic Iceland and the Northern Lights

31-Oct-2021

The number is our group was small which meant we got to know each other. Our tour guide, Laura Spiers, was excellent as was our driver. The food was good, and of course everything we saw in Iceland was beautiful and educational.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Kathryn Ronca  

Enchanting Canyonlands

08-Nov-2021

The trip was fantastic. Everything was well planned and exceeded my expectations. All insight personal were courteous helpful and professional Ann Manual and Kevin were a topnotch team There was attention to every detail and at all times felt safe and always a personal touch to the trip. The motor coach was clean and roomy and there was multiple wipe downs during the day All hotels were top notch and all staff at the hotels and restaurants were helpful and courteous I would recommend this trip as it gave you a fantastic view of the natural wonders of the the West.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Patrick Ong  

Italian Intermezzo

12-Jan-2023

This trip is absolutely amazing! Worth every Penny! Our Tour guide did not Disappoint.

Feefo Trusted Reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Sunday

Apr 29, 2025 - May 18, 2025
$8075 $6864

Operator discount: -$1211

Tuesday - Sunday

May 13, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$8095 $6881

Operator discount: -$1214

Tuesday - Sunday

May 27, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025
$8175 $6949

Operator discount: -$1226

Tuesday - Sunday

Jun 24, 2025 - Jul 13, 2025
$8295 $7051

Operator discount: -$1244

Tuesday - Sunday

Jul 08, 2025 - Jul 27, 2025
$8325 $7076

Operator discount: -$1249

Tuesday - Sunday

Jul 29, 2025 - Aug 17, 2025
$8975 $7629

Operator discount: -$1346

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 05, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025
$8975 $7629

Operator discount: -$1346

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 12, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025
$8975 $7629

Operator discount: -$1346

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 19, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025
$8975 $7629

Operator discount: -$1346

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 02, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
$8275 $7034

Operator discount: -$1241

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 16, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
$8150 $6928

Operator discount: -$1223

Tuesday - Sunday

Apr 28, 2026 - May 17, 2026
$8675

Tuesday - Sunday

May 12, 2026 - May 31, 2026
$8695

Tuesday - Sunday

May 26, 2026 - Jun 14, 2026
$8795

Tuesday - Sunday

Jun 23, 2026 - Jul 12, 2026
$8925

Tuesday - Sunday

Jul 07, 2026 - Jul 26, 2026
$8950

Tuesday - Sunday

Jul 28, 2026 - Aug 16, 2026
$9650

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 04, 2026 - Aug 23, 2026
$9650

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 11, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026
$9650

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 18, 2026 - Sep 06, 2026
$9650

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 01, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
$8895

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 15, 2026 - Oct 04, 2026
$8750

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 22, 2026 - Oct 11, 2026
$8550

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 29, 2026 - Oct 18, 2026
$8375

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Similar Tours