Hygieneprotocol

All guests travelling with Insight Vacations through December 31, 2022 are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, which may include a booster shot to keep the vaccination status current and valid, depending on the travel destination. Children not eligible for vaccination and/or booster at the time of travel must provide a verifiable and negative Covid-19 test result, taken within 72 hours prior to the start of the tour (taking time zones into consideration) for all tours departing until December 31, 2022. While highly recommended, COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are no longer required for guests traveling with us from January 1, 2023 onward. It is your client’s responsibly to comply with specific vaccine and/or booster requirements imposed by airlines and/or authorities in the destinations visited, as well as requirements for accessing restaurants and venues, which may be more restrictive than the above. No refunds will be given if they are unable to undertake some or all of their vacation due to failure to comply with these requirements.

Others

Choose between two carefully selected activities Killarney: Explore the scenery of Killarney National Park on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Killarney: Join a gentle hike with a nature guide in Killarney National Park and admire stunning mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. Stroll along the lake shore and past the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle and the famous Muckross Estate, a charming 19th Century mansion and grounds. Alternatively, enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Blarney: Visit the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate with a senior gardener. 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. Kildare: Horse racing is key part of Irish culture; and you’ll get a rare peek into it over your visit to the Irish National Stud. Set in Kildare at the breeding ground of champions and the birthplace of legends, explore the foaling unit, museum and the stallions that continue to make racing history. As the only stud farm in Ireland open to the public, learn the insights of horse-racing at a site whose former visitors include queens and presidents. 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. Bath: Visit the incredibly well-preserved Roman Baths. Discover 2,000 years of history and learn how this hub of culture is pioneering new educational investments to benefit the community. Its school educational program actively supports local schools and students to learn about the cultural heritage of the region. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education. Stratford-upon-Avon: Learn about the life of William Shakespeare, arguably history’s most famous writer, when you visit his birthplace. Then enjoy some time to explore this pretty town with its iconic Tudor houses. Durham: See the castle and Romanesque cathedral. Hadrian’s Wall: Stop to see part of the ancient wall that once marked the border of the Roman Empire. Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Expert as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse. Edinburgh: Visit Edinburgh Castle to view the Scottish Crown Jewels, Mons Meg and other artefacts with your Local Expert. Edinburgh: A hush descends and eyes turn to the castle. The skirl of the pipes rises and drums crack the night air as a tide of tunics and tartan flood from the drawbridge. For a limited time in August, witness the incredible spectacle of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. St. Andrews: Visit the university town where the famous beach scene from ’Chariots of Fire’ was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created. Inverness: See the River Ness, Inverness Castle and beautiful scenery as you explore the history of this Highland city. Loch Ness: Drive along the shores in search of the legendary monster. Grasmere: Learn about the life of the poet William Wordsworth and visit his grave. Conwy: See Conwy Castle, the magnificent medieval fortress still towering over the town after 700 years. Climb the restored spiral staircase, scale the great towers and walk a complete circle around the battlements. Admire the unbroken town walls of Conwy down and enjoy amazing views out across the craggy mountains of Snowdonia. The spectacular castle was built by King Edward I and his architect Master James of St George in just four years between 1283 and 1287. Holyhead: Set sail for Dublin across the Irish Sea. Dublin: See Dublin’s elegant Georgian squares, O’Connell Street and the Custom House with a Local Expert Cashel: See the Rock of Cashel where St. Patrick preached. Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation. Ring of Kerry: Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, as you journey the magical Ring of Kerry. This 111-mile circular route is the best place to admire Ireland’s scenic beauty and truly one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Waterford: Explore the town and see Reginald’s Tower and the remains of the city walls. Rosslare Harbour: Board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea. Cardiff: Learn more about Wales’ capital and cultural hub, Cardiff, as you enjoy an orientation of this vibrant city. Bath: During an orientation you will see the Royal Crescent, Pulteney Bridge and Bath Abbey. Stonehenge: Walk around the strange and awe-inspiring megaliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.

Guide

York: Your Travel Director will show you the York Minster, the city walls and the medieval Shambles during your orientation of the city. Chester: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the Jubilee Clock, the cathedral, city walls and famous black and white Rows.

Accommodation

York: The Hilton York is situated within the city walls, close to the York Minster and the best this city has to offer. Edinburgh: Located in a Georgian terrace in the heart of the city, the Crowne Plaza Edinburgh - Royal Terrace is a short walk away Prince’s Street. Inverness: The traditional Columba Hotel provides enviable views over the River Ness and Inverness Castle. Bowness-on-Windermere: The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa is contained in a 17th century building and rests on the shores of Windermere, England’s largest lake. Chester: The Hallmark Hotel The Queen, Chester is set in a grand Victorian building and has just undergone a multi-million pound restoration. Dublin: Trinity City Hotel is situated on a historic site, in the heart of Dublin, adjacent to Trinity College Dublin. Killarney: In the heart of the town centre, the Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa overlooks Killarney National Park and is the perfect location to enjoy the stunning scenery and the local ’craic.’ Killarney: The 4-Star Killarney Avenue Hotel echoes old-world charm and is located in the heart of downtown Killarney. Waterford: Dooley’s Hotel Waterford has been family-run for generations and is conveniently located inside Waterford’s City Centre. Cardiff: Clayton Hotel Cardiff is located in the heart of the city on St. Mary Street, just a short walk from Cardiff’s premium sporting facility, Millennium Stadium.

Transport

: Enjoy the comfort of Insight’s luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches. Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available). 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.

Meals

14 Breakfast (B) 5 Dinner (D) 2 Lunch (L) York: Enjoy a traditional Yorkshire dinner and the chance to get to know your fellow travelers. Loch Lomond: Enjoy a light lunch and admire the oak woodlands and incredible scenery as you cruise one of Scotland’s most beautiful lochs, a favorite nature spot of the locals. Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland’s national drink. Killarney: Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening. Waterford: Celebrate the culmination of your escorted journey with wine, good cheer and palate-pleasing cuisine. County Tipperary: Meet entrepreneur Ailbhe and hear about her passion for sustainable farming. Learn about biodiversity, regenerative agriculture and the secret to crafting the most delicious honey on the island over a delicious Farm-to-Table lunch. Aibhe has been sharing her keen interest and experience in the various courses she has been running since 2015, putting sustainable farming at the heart of local education programs and contributing important research. Brookfield Farm’s various activities all support sustainable farming practices, organically certified activities, habitat protection and tree planting initiatives. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 & 12: Quality Education & Sustainable Production and Consumption.

Not included:

Flights

International and domestic flights not included.

Insurance

Insurance not included. Travel insurance is required for all of our tours.

Optional

Optional experiences are available on this tour for an additional cost and will be provided to you with your finalised travel documents.

Others

Arrival and departure airport transfers. Other meals, snacks and drinks. Pre and post tour accommodation. Single supplement (Optional).

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Day 1 Day 1: Welcome To London
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Welcome To 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 Day 2: Stratford-Upon-Avon And Medieval York
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Stratford-Upon-Avon And Medieval York

At 07:30, meet your Travel Director and journey to Stratford, beautifully situated on the River Avon. Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare, full of interesting memorabilia and artefacts relating to his life. Continue on to York where you walk within the old city walls to the crooked houses of the Shambles and see York Minster, England’s largest medieval cathedral. Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner.
Day 3 Day 3: Durham, Hadrian’S Wall And Edinburgh Relaxed Start
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Durham, Hadrian’S Wall And Edinburgh Relaxed Start

Stop in Durham to see the castle and Romanesque cathedral. Then view part of Hadrian’s Wall, Britain’s most impressive Roman monument, once spanning 80 miles from coast-to-coast, marking the northern frontier of the mighty Roman Empire. Cross the Scottish border to reach the elegant Scottish capital, Edinburgh.
Day 4 Day 4: Scotland’S Capital Of Culture
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Scotland’S Capital Of Culture

Journey down the Royal Mile to see the Palace of Holyroodhouse - ofﬁcial Scottish residence of His Majesty the King - before crossing over to New Town. Next, walk with your Local Expert inside Edinburgh Castle for spectacular views of the town and to see Scotland’s Crown Jewels and Mons Meg. The afternoon is free to shop on Princes Street. In the evening, select departures will enjoy the spectacle of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – a colorful mixture of historic battles and military manoeuvres with pipes and drums.
Day 5 Day 5: St. Andrews And Inverness
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: St. Andrews And Inverness

Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife. Make your way to St. Andrews, home to the Old Course and birthplace of golf. Enjoy free time to explore. Perhaps stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous ’Chariots of Fire’ scene was filmed? Your travels continue as you cross the Tay river. Journey via Blair Atholl and past the Grampian Mountains to the sparkling Spey Valley. Later, continue to Inverness and your hotel.
Day 6 Day 6: Loch Ness And Glencoe
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Loch Ness And Glencoe

In the morning, travel along Loch Ness and hear tales of the famous Nessie. Continue your journey through some of the most stunning scenery in all of Scotland, found in the region of Glencoe. Reach the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and admire the incredible scenery as you cruise what is arguably one of Scotland’s most beautiful lochs, while enjoying a light lunch. Cross the English border before arriving at your lakeside hotel.
Day 7 Day 7: The English Lakes To Chester Relaxed Start
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: The English Lakes To Chester Relaxed Start

In the morning, discover the beauty of the Lake District. Continue to your hotel in Chester. In the afternoon, why not join The Beatles City Tour Optional Experience in Liverpool?
Day 8 Day 8: North Wales And Over To Dublin Relaxed Start
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: North Wales And Over To Dublin Relaxed Start

Today, continue through Wales and see the massive Conwy Castle before crossing over to the Isle of Anglesey. The village with the longest name in Europe will be visible - see if you are able to read it aloud! From the port of Holyhead, set sail for Dublin in Ireland.
Day 9 Day 9: In Dublin’S Fair City
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: In Dublin’S Fair City

Experience Ireland’s national world-famous drink with a guided visit to the Guinness Storehouse. Gain a fascinating insight into the history and traditions behind its production.Later, become acquainted with Dublin’s elegant squares during sightseeing with a Local Expert. See famous O’Connell Street, the Custom House and Dublin Castle. For the rest of the afternoon, you are free to soak up the Irish atmosphere or browse the shops along Grafton Street.
Day 10 Day 10: From Dublin To Killarney
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: From Dublin To Killarney

Travel to Ireland’s premier thoroughbred horse breeding region for a fascinating, behind-the-scenes visit of the National Stud with an equine professional. You then visit the acclaimed 100-year-old Japanese Gardens, where you can ’journey through life.’ Cross the rolling pastures that encircle Tipperary to Brookfield Farm and join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Meet Ailbhe Gerrard, a passionate farmer and beekeper, who shares her secrets to crafting the most delicious and sustainable honey of the island over a delicious Farm-to-Table lunch. At night, your Dine-Around Evening offers authentic and intimate dining with your friends, from a hand-picked selection of fine local restaurants.
Day 11 Day 11: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start

In the morning, join a delightful trip around the Ring of Kerry, a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands and remote villages. Get a sense of the unhurried pace of Irish life as you pass through Ireland’s highest mountain range and make your way to the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. Explore Killarney with Insight Choice. Choose a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, join a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle, admiring the incredible scenery of the National Park. While there aren’t any mountains to climb, walkers should be fit, have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and rain gear.
Day 12 Day 12: Blarney Castle And Waterford
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Blarney Castle And Waterford

Explore Blarney with Insight Choice. Choose to climb up the ramparts and see the famous Stone of Eloquence. Alternatively, visit the lush gardens of the estate with a senior gardener. Travel on through the scenic port of Dungarvan to the historic walled city of Waterford, with its 11th century Reginald Tower. Enjoy a guided visit of the world-famous House of Waterford Crystal and meet a master craftsman. In the evening, after miles of fun and fascinating sights, spirits will be high during your Celebration Dinner. Toast to your newfound friends — Sláinte!
Day 13 Day 13: Across The Irish Sea To Cardiff
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Across The Irish Sea To Cardiff

From the port of Rosslare, board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea. A pleasant drive will then take you into the rural scenery of Pembrokeshire. Continue past the valleys of southern Wales to the capital, Cardiff, famous for its imposing castle and brilliant Principality Stadium.
Day 14 Day 14: Roman Baths And Stonehenge
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Roman Baths And Stonehenge

Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, pioneering new educational investments to benefit the community. Your journey continues across Salisbury Plain for a visit to mysterious Stonehenge - no-one can be sure why they were built, or even how prehistoric man could move such huge blocks of stone. Upon your return to London you are at leisure for the rest of the day.
Day 15 Day 15: Homeward Bound
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: Homeward Bound

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.

+12

15 days tour

Britain & Ireland Explorer (Classic, 15 Days)

This tour includes:

Not included:

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Itinerary of your trip Britain & Ireland Explorer (Classic, 15 Days)

Day 1: Welcome To London

Day 2: Stratford-Upon-Avon And Medieval York

Day 3: Durham, Hadrian’S Wall And Edinburgh Relaxed Start

Day 4: Scotland’S Capital Of Culture

Day 5: St. Andrews And Inverness

Day 6: Loch Ness And Glencoe

Day 7: The English Lakes To Chester Relaxed Start

Day 8: North Wales And Over To Dublin Relaxed Start

Day 9: In Dublin’S Fair City

Day 10: From Dublin To Killarney

Day 11: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start

Day 12: Blarney Castle And Waterford

Day 13: Across The Irish Sea To Cardiff

Day 14: Roman Baths And Stonehenge

Day 15: Homeward Bound

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