Castles & Kingdoms

Expedition

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.

EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW

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.

highlights

Dining Summary

8 Dinner (D)
20 Breakfast (B)
5 Lunch (L)

Choice Highlights

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Bath: Visit the historic Roman Baths, which draw from Britain’s only natural mineral springs and gave the Georgian city its name. This remarkably preserved historic site was once a gathering spot for Romans to bathe and socialise over 2,000 years ago.
Bath: Visit the immersive Jane Austen Centre dedicated to the writer who lived here in the early 1800s and used the city as a setting for two of her novels. Learn about her life, her works and the Regency period from entertaining actors.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

York: Embark on a leisurely guided tour to the grand York Minster, an excellent example of Gothic architecture.
York: Get active and follow a Local Expert as you walk on the 13th century city walls and you soak up the spectacular views of River Ouse and the Old Town.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Edinburgh: Visit the 17th century Mary King's Close with a Local Expert, walk in the footsteps of former residents and unlock fascinating stories from Edinburgh's sometimes dark past.
Edinburgh: Try a wee dram of whisky as you embark on a tasting experience of this Scottish staple.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Belfast: Join a Local Expert and enjoy a panoramic tour as they explain the city's turbulent history, evolution and current prosperity. On this tour, you'll see the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont.
Belfast: Join a local artist and discover Belfast through its street art and learn how this art form plays an essential role in forging a new narrative for this progressive city.
Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse before it opens to the public and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
Dublin: Discover a world of flavours and create your own cocktail at Pearse Lyons Distillery, home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Ashford Castle: Take part in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland.
Ashford Castle: Join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old Castle, that was once the home of the Guinness family.

Additional Included Highlights

You will be escorted by one of our fine Travel Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests.
At every hotel, you'll be treated to seamless baggage handling, with prompt delivery inside your room.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
Complimentary airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travellers that arrive on the same flight. Complimentary, private train station transfers are included when train travel is included within the itinerary. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city of the itinerary, may be requested but are not guaranteed.

Exceptional Dining

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 flavours combined with modern techniques. Relax in the chic, yet informal atmosphere and enjoy the best of British cuisine.
York: Visit one of Britain's finest historic houses, Castle Howard. Enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea in the Grecian Hall.
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.
Belfast: On the banks of Strangford Lough in County Down, an area of outstanding natural beauty, step inside Tracey's Farmhouse, an enchanting cottage for a home hosted culinary experience. Get to know Tracey as she shows you around her organic farm and explains her cooking philosophy. Learn how to make traditional Irish soda bread before indulging in a seasonal, Farm-to-Table lunch. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience focuses on seasonal produce, organically grown ingredients and sourcing from the immediate community. Tracey's Farmhouse is actively practicing and encouraging the slow food movement and doesn't rely on air miles.
Dublin: Dine at a hand-picked gastropub in the heart of Dublin. Discover the favourite dishes of local people and enjoy a hearty meal in the unique ambiance of this thriving city.
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.
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. Savour 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.

Journey Highlights

London: Your passionate Local Expert will lead you from Westminster to Piccadilly Circus as they recount fascinating tales of London and its famous landmarks. Pass by the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, and Trafalgar Square as you explore the English capital.
London: Step through history at Horse Guards Parade, the ceremonial grounds of St James Park in the shadow of Buckingham Palace. Discover the secrets of a cavalryman’s uniform in the Household Cavalry Museum before trying on the royal clothes yourself.
Stonehenge: Visit the mysterious circle of upright stones, the best known prehistoric site in Europe. Experience the lives led by Neolithic builders 3,500 years ago and admire the selection of archaeological treasures that have been unearthed in this place.
Bath: Be taken through the grand historic sights of Bath with a private orientation tour. See the majestic Royal Terrace, the inspiring architecture of Bath Abbey, and, the stately Pulteney Bridge, completed in 1774.
Bath: Join a Local Expert for an insightful tour revealing the town's history.
Cotswolds: Journey through the Cotswolds, one of the most quintessential and unspoiled regions of England, famous for gentle, rolling hillsides known as ‘wolds’, green river valleys and historic market towns, where time has stood still for over 300 years.
Stratford-upon-Avon: Fans of the famous playwright, William Shakespeare, will love exploring this vibrant town where he was born. This cultural centre still has many rows of attractive half-timbered houses that date back to the 16th century.
Ullswater: Enjoy a scenic cruise on one of England's most beautiful lakes.
Alnwick Castle: Join a Local Expert for an in-depth exploration of the 11th century castle, with its striking medieval architecture and see why it was featured in the Harry Potter films.
Edinburgh: A Local Expert guides you around magnificent Edinburgh Castle, perched on a black basalt outcrop. Discover the site’s 900-year history and take in the spectacular panoramic views over the city’s most famous landmarks.
Edinburgh: Wander along Princes Street with your Local Expert, past the Gothic Sir Walter Scott Monument, and continue down the old-world Royal Mile to the gates of Holyrood Palace, the principal residence of Scottish royalty since the 16th century, and the Queen’s official Edinburgh lodgings.
Belfast: Let your Local Expert guide you through the Titanic Belfast museum to see the poignant tribute to the ill-fated liner, now one of the world's leading attractions. Tread the site where the RMS Titanic was built and discover its fascinating history.
Giant's Causeway: Visit this astounding natural phenomenon on a private tour with a wildlife ranger. Hear more about the formation of the UNESCO World Heritage Site around 50 million years ago and the fantastic folklore that surrounds it. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience learn about the conservation efforts in place that support the natural habitat and animal populations.
Londonderry: Meet Ronan McNamara, the finest storyteller in Northern Ireland, with a tale for every corner of his hometown. Alongside Ronan, enjoy a tour of beautiful Londonderry, one of the finest walled cities in Europe.
Dublin: Join a student for a guided exploration of historic Trinity College, which was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. Visit the iconic Book of Kells, the beautiful manuscript hand painted by monks, that dates back to ca. 800 AD.
Dublin: Take a tour through the cobbled streets of Dublin with your Travel Concierge, who’ll share stories and facts about the local area. See O’Connell Street with the imposing General Post Office, the neo-classical Custom House and historic Dublin Castle.
Glendalough: Enjoy visiting Glendalough (the valley of two lakes) where a Local Expert will guide you through this early medieval monastic site, which has a rich history. The glacial valley also offers beautiful scenery to explore.
Cashel: Reputed to be where St. Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity in the 5th century, Cashel is a pretty medieval town where the High Kings once sat. See the spectacular Rock of Cashel, the well-preserved fortress that dates from the 11th century.
Blarney: Explore the grounds of Blarney Castle and its gardens built nearly six hundred years ago by the MacCarthy branch of the Kings of Desmond. See where so many have kissed the famous stone to get the legendary gift of the gab.
Ring of Kerry: Take in the beauty around you as you explore The Ring of Kerry on the Iveragh Peninsula, passing through whimsical coastal villages and magnificent landmarks such as Ross Castle. This scenic drive is one of the most famous in Ireland.
Dingle Peninsula: Enjoy a scenic drive around the dramatic Dingle peninsula, a magical landscape of sandy beaches and craggy sea cliffs. These winding roads and aesthetic ruins have inspired films such as "Ryan’s Daughter" and "Star Wars: Episode VIII".
Adare: Admire the beauty of the charming village of Adare during a village with your Travel Concierge. Famous for its thatched-roof cottages and pretty streets, this quaint haven offers idyllic photo opportunities.
Limerick: Delve into the history of Limerick, one of Ireland’s oldest cities, founded by the Vikings, during an orientation with your insightful Travel Concierge. You'll get to see St John’s Castle, St Mary's Cathedral and the Treaty Stone, signed in 1691.
Cliffs of Moher: Gaze across the waves of the Atlantic Ocean from the Cliffs of Moher as you stop along the Wild Atlantic Way. Call into the Visitor Experience and catch panoramic views from the 185-year-old O’Brien’s tower at the edge of the 800-foot cliffs.
Galway: Take in the lively atmosphere of this cultural destination on an orientation of Galway with your engaging Travel Concierge. You'll find bustling streets, fun boutiques and quirky art galleries in this quintessentially Irish harbour city. Don’t be surprised if someone bursts into song!
Ashford Castle: Arrive to the famous Ashford Castle, where you’ll be escorted over the drawbridge by a lone piper, in a manner fit for royalty. This haunting sound echoes the signal given to troops in battle announcing the end of the day.

Luxury Hotels

York: Housed in the iconic former headquarters of the prestigious North Eastern Railway Company, the five-star Grand Hotel & Spa places you minutes away from museums, shops and the River Ouse.
Ashford Castle: The remarkable 800-year-old Ashford Castle is Ireland’s only Forbes five-star hotel and was once home to the Guinness family. With its spectacular surroundings, interiors, on-site dining and fantastic hospitality team, you’ll be greeted with a world-famous Irish Welcome at this beautifully restored hotel.

Personalize your day

Bath: Visit the historic Roman Baths, which draw from Britain’s only natural mineral springs and gave the Georgian city its name. This remarkably preserved historic site was once a gathering spot for Romans to bathe and socialise over 2,000 years ago.
Bath: Visit the immersive Jane Austen Centre dedicated to the writer who lived here in the early 1800s and used the city as a setting for two of her novels. Learn about her life, her works and the Regency period from entertaining actors.
York: Embark on a leisurely guided tour to the grand York Minster, an excellent example of Gothic architecture.
York: Get active and follow a Local Expert as you walk on the 13th century city walls and you soak up the spectacular views of River Ouse and the Old Town.
Edinburgh: Visit the 17th century Mary King's Close with a Local Expert, walk in the footsteps of former residents and unlock fascinating stories from Edinburgh's sometimes dark past.
Edinburgh: Try a wee dram of whisky as you embark on a tasting experience of this Scottish staple.
Belfast: Join a Local Expert and enjoy a panoramic tour as they explain the city's turbulent history, evolution and current prosperity. On this tour, you'll see the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont.
Belfast: Join a local artist and discover Belfast through its street art and learn how this art form plays an essential role in forging a new narrative for this progressive city.
Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse before it opens to the public and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
Dublin: Discover a world of flavours and create your own cocktail at Pearse Lyons Distillery, home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey.
Ashford Castle: Take part in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland.
Ashford Castle: Join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old Castle, that was once the home of the Guinness family.

VIP Experiences

London: You’re invited to the Tower of London to experience the Ceremony of the Keys, the oldest practiced military ceremony in the world. At your special after-hours visit you’ll get an inside look at the 700-year-old tradition that stood the tests of even the most tumultuous times.
York: Feeling like the star of a period drama, you’ll enter the 18th century mansion for a private tour of the house.
Dublin: Meet esteemed author Trevor White on a rare, personal after-hours tour of The Little Museum of Dublin, which he founded. You'll learn about his work, his life as a Dublin local and what it means to be a Dubliner.

Well-being

Our customised luxury coaches are sanitised before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customised luxury coaches.
Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travel Concierges, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Highlights

Dining Summary

8 Dinner (D)
20 Breakfast (B)
5 Lunch (L)

Choice Highlights

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Bath: Visit the historic Roman Baths, which draw from Britain’s only natural mineral springs and gave the Georgian city its name. This remarkably preserved historic site was once a gathering spot for Romans to bathe and socialise over 2,000 years ago.
Bath: Visit the immersive Jane Austen Centre dedicated to the writer who lived here in the early 1800s and used the city as a setting for two of her novels. Learn about her life, her works and the Regency period from entertaining actors.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

York: Embark on a leisurely guided tour to the grand York Minster, an excellent example of Gothic architecture.
York: Get active and follow a Local Expert as you walk on the 13th century city walls and you soak up the spectacular views of River Ouse and the Old Town.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Edinburgh: Visit the 17th century Mary King's Close with a Local Expert, walk in the footsteps of former residents and unlock fascinating stories from Edinburgh's sometimes dark past.
Edinburgh: Try a wee dram of whisky as you embark on a tasting experience of this Scottish staple.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Belfast: Join a Local Expert and enjoy a panoramic tour as they explain the city's turbulent history, evolution and current prosperity. On this tour, you'll see the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont.
Belfast: Join a local artist and discover Belfast through its street art and learn how this art form plays an essential role in forging a new narrative for this progressive city.
Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse before it opens to the public and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
Dublin: Discover a world of flavours and create your own cocktail at Pearse Lyons Distillery, home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Ashford Castle: Take part in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland.
Ashford Castle: Join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old Castle, that was once the home of the Guinness family.

Additional Included Highlights

You will be escorted by one of our fine Travel Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests.
At every hotel, you'll be treated to seamless baggage handling, with prompt delivery inside your room.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
Complimentary airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travellers that arrive on the same flight. Complimentary, private train station transfers are included when train travel is included within the itinerary. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city of the itinerary, may be requested but are not guaranteed.

Exceptional Dining

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 flavours combined with modern techniques. Relax in the chic, yet informal atmosphere and enjoy the best of British cuisine.
York: Visit one of Britain's finest historic houses, Castle Howard. Enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea in the Grecian Hall.
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.
Belfast: On the banks of Strangford Lough in County Down, an area of outstanding natural beauty, step inside Tracey's Farmhouse, an enchanting cottage for a home hosted culinary experience. Get to know Tracey as she shows you around her organic farm and explains her cooking philosophy. Learn how to make traditional Irish soda bread before indulging in a seasonal, Farm-to-Table lunch. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience focuses on seasonal produce, organically grown ingredients and sourcing from the immediate community. Tracey's Farmhouse is actively practicing and encouraging the slow food movement and doesn't rely on air miles.
Dublin: Dine at a hand-picked gastropub in the heart of Dublin. Discover the favourite dishes of local people and enjoy a hearty meal in the unique ambiance of this thriving city.
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.
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. Savour 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.

Journey Highlights

London: Your passionate Local Expert will lead you from Westminster to Piccadilly Circus as they recount fascinating tales of London and its famous landmarks. Pass by the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, and Trafalgar Square as you explore the English capital.
London: Step through history at Horse Guards Parade, the ceremonial grounds of St James Park in the shadow of Buckingham Palace. Discover the secrets of a cavalryman’s uniform in the Household Cavalry Museum before trying on the royal clothes yourself.
Stonehenge: Visit the mysterious circle of upright stones, the best known prehistoric site in Europe. Experience the lives led by Neolithic builders 3,500 years ago and admire the selection of archaeological treasures that have been unearthed in this place.
Bath: Be taken through the grand historic sights of Bath with a private orientation tour. See the majestic Royal Terrace, the inspiring architecture of Bath Abbey, and, the stately Pulteney Bridge, completed in 1774.
Bath: Join a Local Expert for an insightful tour revealing the town's history.
Cotswolds: Journey through the Cotswolds, one of the most quintessential and unspoiled regions of England, famous for gentle, rolling hillsides known as ‘wolds’, green river valleys and historic market towns, where time has stood still for over 300 years.
Stratford-upon-Avon: Fans of the famous playwright, William Shakespeare, will love exploring this vibrant town where he was born. This cultural centre still has many rows of attractive half-timbered houses that date back to the 16th century.
Ullswater: Enjoy a scenic cruise on one of England's most beautiful lakes.
Alnwick Castle: Join a Local Expert for an in-depth exploration of the 11th century castle, with its striking medieval architecture and see why it was featured in the Harry Potter films.
Edinburgh: A Local Expert guides you around magnificent Edinburgh Castle, perched on a black basalt outcrop. Discover the site’s 900-year history and take in the spectacular panoramic views over the city’s most famous landmarks.
Edinburgh: Wander along Princes Street with your Local Expert, past the Gothic Sir Walter Scott Monument, and continue down the old-world Royal Mile to the gates of Holyrood Palace, the principal residence of Scottish royalty since the 16th century, and the Queen’s official Edinburgh lodgings.
Belfast: Let your Local Expert guide you through the Titanic Belfast museum to see the poignant tribute to the ill-fated liner, now one of the world's leading attractions. Tread the site where the RMS Titanic was built and discover its fascinating history.
Giant's Causeway: Visit this astounding natural phenomenon on a private tour with a wildlife ranger. Hear more about the formation of the UNESCO World Heritage Site around 50 million years ago and the fantastic folklore that surrounds it. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience learn about the conservation efforts in place that support the natural habitat and animal populations.
Londonderry: Meet Ronan McNamara, the finest storyteller in Northern Ireland, with a tale for every corner of his hometown. Alongside Ronan, enjoy a tour of beautiful Londonderry, one of the finest walled cities in Europe.
Dublin: Join a student for a guided exploration of historic Trinity College, which was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. Visit the iconic Book of Kells, the beautiful manuscript hand painted by monks, that dates back to ca. 800 AD.
Dublin: Take a tour through the cobbled streets of Dublin with your Travel Concierge, who’ll share stories and facts about the local area. See O’Connell Street with the imposing General Post Office, the neo-classical Custom House and historic Dublin Castle.
Glendalough: Enjoy visiting Glendalough (the valley of two lakes) where a Local Expert will guide you through this early medieval monastic site, which has a rich history. The glacial valley also offers beautiful scenery to explore.
Cashel: Reputed to be where St. Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity in the 5th century, Cashel is a pretty medieval town where the High Kings once sat. See the spectacular Rock of Cashel, the well-preserved fortress that dates from the 11th century.
Blarney: Explore the grounds of Blarney Castle and its gardens built nearly six hundred years ago by the MacCarthy branch of the Kings of Desmond. See where so many have kissed the famous stone to get the legendary gift of the gab.
Ring of Kerry: Take in the beauty around you as you explore The Ring of Kerry on the Iveragh Peninsula, passing through whimsical coastal villages and magnificent landmarks such as Ross Castle. This scenic drive is one of the most famous in Ireland.
Dingle Peninsula: Enjoy a scenic drive around the dramatic Dingle peninsula, a magical landscape of sandy beaches and craggy sea cliffs. These winding roads and aesthetic ruins have inspired films such as "Ryan’s Daughter" and "Star Wars: Episode VIII".
Adare: Admire the beauty of the charming village of Adare during a village with your Travel Concierge. Famous for its thatched-roof cottages and pretty streets, this quaint haven offers idyllic photo opportunities.
Limerick: Delve into the history of Limerick, one of Ireland’s oldest cities, founded by the Vikings, during an orientation with your insightful Travel Concierge. You'll get to see St John’s Castle, St Mary's Cathedral and the Treaty Stone, signed in 1691.
Cliffs of Moher: Gaze across the waves of the Atlantic Ocean from the Cliffs of Moher as you stop along the Wild Atlantic Way. Call into the Visitor Experience and catch panoramic views from the 185-year-old O’Brien’s tower at the edge of the 800-foot cliffs.
Galway: Take in the lively atmosphere of this cultural destination on an orientation of Galway with your engaging Travel Concierge. You'll find bustling streets, fun boutiques and quirky art galleries in this quintessentially Irish harbour city. Don’t be surprised if someone bursts into song!
Ashford Castle: Arrive to the famous Ashford Castle, where you’ll be escorted over the drawbridge by a lone piper, in a manner fit for royalty. This haunting sound echoes the signal given to troops in battle announcing the end of the day.

Luxury Hotels

York: Housed in the iconic former headquarters of the prestigious North Eastern Railway Company, the five-star Grand Hotel & Spa places you minutes away from museums, shops and the River Ouse.
Ashford Castle: The remarkable 800-year-old Ashford Castle is Ireland’s only Forbes five-star hotel and was once home to the Guinness family. With its spectacular surroundings, interiors, on-site dining and fantastic hospitality team, you’ll be greeted with a world-famous Irish Welcome at this beautifully restored hotel.

Personalize your day

Bath: Visit the historic Roman Baths, which draw from Britain’s only natural mineral springs and gave the Georgian city its name. This remarkably preserved historic site was once a gathering spot for Romans to bathe and socialise over 2,000 years ago.
Bath: Visit the immersive Jane Austen Centre dedicated to the writer who lived here in the early 1800s and used the city as a setting for two of her novels. Learn about her life, her works and the Regency period from entertaining actors.
York: Embark on a leisurely guided tour to the grand York Minster, an excellent example of Gothic architecture.
York: Get active and follow a Local Expert as you walk on the 13th century city walls and you soak up the spectacular views of River Ouse and the Old Town.
Edinburgh: Visit the 17th century Mary King's Close with a Local Expert, walk in the footsteps of former residents and unlock fascinating stories from Edinburgh's sometimes dark past.
Edinburgh: Try a wee dram of whisky as you embark on a tasting experience of this Scottish staple.
Belfast: Join a Local Expert and enjoy a panoramic tour as they explain the city's turbulent history, evolution and current prosperity. On this tour, you'll see the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont.
Belfast: Join a local artist and discover Belfast through its street art and learn how this art form plays an essential role in forging a new narrative for this progressive city.
Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse before it opens to the public and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
Dublin: Discover a world of flavours and create your own cocktail at Pearse Lyons Distillery, home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey.
Ashford Castle: Take part in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland.
Ashford Castle: Join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old Castle, that was once the home of the Guinness family.

VIP Experiences

London: You’re invited to the Tower of London to experience the Ceremony of the Keys, the oldest practiced military ceremony in the world. At your special after-hours visit you’ll get an inside look at the 700-year-old tradition that stood the tests of even the most tumultuous times.
York: Feeling like the star of a period drama, you’ll enter the 18th century mansion for a private tour of the house.
Dublin: Meet esteemed author Trevor White on a rare, personal after-hours tour of The Little Museum of Dublin, which he founded. You'll learn about his work, his life as a Dublin local and what it means to be a Dubliner.

Well-being

Our customised luxury coaches are sanitised before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customised luxury coaches.
Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travel Concierges, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Trip details

Trip Type: Group Tour

Comfort: Deluxe

Travel Styles: Family, 55+, Luxury

Starts: London, United Kingdom

Finishes: Shannon, Ireland

Duration: 21 days

ITINERARY

1Day 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.

Accommodation: The Rubens at the Palace, London.
Meals: Dinner

2Day 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.

Accommodation: The Rubens at the Palace, London.
Meals: Breakfast

3Day 3: Stonehenge and Georgian Bath Relaxed Start

At mysterious Stonehenge, stand in awe of 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.

Accommodation: Francis Hotel, Bath.
Meals: Breakfast

4Day 4: Explore Bath Relaxed Start

Personalise your day in Bath at the Jane Austen Centre 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.

Accommodation: Francis Hotel, Bath.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

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

Travel through the charmed villages of the Cotswolds to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, and admire quaint Tudor cottages. Your day concludes in York where cobbled streets, classic tearooms and Gothic buildings lure you further into the past.

Accommodation: The Grand Hotel & Spa, York.
Meals: Breakfast

6Day 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.

Accommodation: The Grand Hotel & Spa, York.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

7Day 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.

Accommodation: Merewood Country House Hotel, Lake District
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

8Day 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 colours of Scotland’s regiments.

Accommodation: Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh.
Meals: Breakfast

9Day 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. A meal of fine dishes such as Scottish Border brisket of beef or poached fillet of sole, rounds off your final day, accompanied by music from a former bagpiper to the Royals.

Accommodation: Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

10Day 10: Edinburgh to Belfast

Journey to your luxurious hotel in Belfast for a relaxing three-night stay in the heart of the city centre. 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.

Accommodation: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

11Day 11: Highlights of Belfast

Join a Local Guide for a vivid picture of the past at the world-class Titanic Museum, 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.

Accommodation: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Meals: Breakfast

12Day 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.

Accommodation: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Meals: Breakfast

13Day 13: Strangford Lough and Vibrant Dublin

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 the Guinness Storehouse or create your own cocktail at Pearse Lyons Distillery.

Accommodation: Dylan Hotel, Dublin.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

14Day 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.

Accommodation: Dylan Hotel, Dublin.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

15Day 15: Glendalough to Kilkenny Relaxed Start

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.

Accommodation: Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny.
Meals: Breakfast

16Day 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.

Accommodation: The Dunloe, Killarney.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

17Day 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 Reeks. Explore the town of Kenmare before indulging in a gourmet lunch at the Park Hotel.

Accommodation: The Dunloe, Killarney.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

18Day 18: Exploring Limerick

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.

Accommodation: The Savoy Hotel, Limerick.
Meals: Breakfast

19Day 19: Regal County Mayo

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, savour specialties from a seasonal menu at the Castle’s Cullen's at the Cottage.

Accommodation: Ashford Castle, Cong.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

20Day 20: Majestic Ashford Castle Relaxed Start

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 tour. Then treat yourself to a spa or stroll the magnificent castle grounds. End the day dining in style at the esteemed George V Dining Room.

Accommodation: Ashford Castle, Cong.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

21Day 21: Depart Shannon

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

Meals: Breakfast

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A world of immersive journeys awaits you, each with VIP experiences, exceptional dining, magnificent hotels and a Travelling Concierge who’s there to tailor everything to your desires.