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Frazier Park, CA
Frazier Park, CA
Your whirlwind journey through the United Kingdom and Ireland launches in its exhilarating capital. After checking in, explore this multicultural city your way, embracing all the pomp and pageantry of Britain’s capital. Visit one of the many museums that reveal the history and culture of the world, pay your respects to Her Majesty or pop into your neighborhood ‘local’ for a pint or two to kickstart your exploration of Britain and Ireland in style.
This morning, meet your Travel Director and fellow travel companions for your whirlwind journey through Great Britain and Ireland. As the boroughs of the Old Smoke give way to the beautiful shires north of its skyscrapers, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through lush green landscapes bound for Shakespeare country. Visit Stratford-upon-Avon where you’ll come face to face with the legacy of England’s beloved bard before heading to York. Your Travel Director will take you for an orientation walk through its medieval streets to the sacred York Minster, where every piece of stained glass and limestone block was placed for the glory of God. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before you continue to your hotel in Bradford.
You’re in for a serene start to your morning as you wind your way through the limestone hills and valleys of the Yorkshire Dales. Rustic stone villages, sheep-filled pastures, castles and abbeys line your route to England’s celebrated Lake District. At Lake Windermere, an Optional Experience could take you back to the days of Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth who proclaimed the area 'the loveliest spot that man hath found'. Board an optional cruise on a boat, skimming the northern coastline, deserted islands and Wray Castle. Then cross the Scottish border and stop in Gretna Green where eloping couples would tie the knot over the anvil. Continue to Glasgow later today. Your afternoon orientation of this former industrial hub turned vibrant modern metropolis will include views of the cathedral, the River Clyde and George Square where many of Scotland’s most famous sons are immortalized in stone.
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Scenic Cruise on Lake Windermere -Enjoy a cruise on Lake Windermere to discover the beauty of the northern coastline, admiring picturesque homes, gardens and the neo-gothic architecture of Wray Castle along the water. You'll be left inspired as you encounter deserted islands, unique wildlife and scenic vistas as you explore the area beloved by famous writers Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.
Windermere Cruise and Steam Train Ride -Take in the glorious scenery of the Lake District as we cruise across England's largest lake, admiring beautiful homes, castles and more. Then, step back in time as we board the historic steam train from Lakeside to Haverthwaite, enjoying the thrill of riding the heritage railway and taking in scenic views as we travel.*
*Occasionally this experience will operate in reverse.
Glasgow City Evening -Discover the vibrant character and joy of Glasgow as the city transforms at night, heading out on the town with your Travel Director for an evening of good food, drinks and unique experiences. Home to cosy bars, a famous live music scene and historic Victorian architecture; Glasgow offers a delightful mix of venues for travellers to explore.
A day spent exploring Scotland’s exquisite capital will leave you in no doubt as to why it captured the hearts of Charles Dickens, Charlotte Bronte and even Queen Victoria. Your Local Specialist will reveal all the highlights of 'Auld Reekie'. View the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh Castle which watches over the city from Castle Rock. Exchange the medieval façades of the Old Town for grand Georgian- lined boulevards of the 18 century New Town. You’ll have some time to explore Edinburgh your way or consider joining one of two special Optional Experiences, visiting the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel or exploring what lies behind the impenetrable walls of Edinburgh Castle. This evening surrender to the skirl of bagpipes during an optional dinner in Stirling with views of its Castle and the Wallace Memorial by night.
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Edinburgh Castle Experience -Dominating the skyline of the city, Edinburgh Castle has stood strong on Castle Rock since the 12th century. Led by our Local Specialist, we'll pay a visit to the castle that is famous for being the most besieged place in Great Britain and one of the most attacked fortresses in the world. We’ll also see the crown jewels, known as the Honours of Scotland, and the National War Museum of Scotland.
Rosslyn Chapel -We’ll drive out of Edinburgh to the tiny village of Rosslyn, where we’ll hear the inside story of the famous Rosslyn Chapel from a Local Specialist. One of Scotland's most unusual 15th-century buildings, Rossyln is famed for its associations with the Knights Templar, the Masonic movement, and now 'The Da Vinci Code'.
A Stirling Evening -See Stirling Castle and the Wallace Memorial by night. One of the largest castles in Scotland, Stirling was once home to Mary Queen of Scots and boasts a fascinating history to uncover. A truly wonderful experience, you'll be piped in to your evening meal in the historic Scottish city and enjoy an evening of Scottish delights.
Your visit to Scotland culminates in a scenic drive along the Ayrshire coast, the rugged landscapes where Robert Burns, Scotland’s National Poet, was born and raised. Pass Ailsa Craig, the figurative stepping stone from Scotland to Ireland before boarding your short ferry crossing to Northern Ireland. You won’t dally in its trendy capital, but there’s time to see the City Hall, Queen’s University and the dock where the ill-fated Titanic was built. Head south to Dublin, your home for the next two nights. There’s no better way to embrace the energy of the city than joining an optional dinner at one of its most popular restaurant-pubs. Rub shoulders with the locals as you enjoy dinner and a solid dose of Irish craic.
Dinner in Dublin City -Famous for its heritage buildings and authentic local culture, Dublin is a charm-filled city for travellers to explore – and what better way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Irish capital than with an evening in one of the most locally loved restaurant-pubs? You'll enjoy dinner and experience the charming hospitality for which this part of the world is known.
You’re in for a 'grand' time in the Irish capital this morning as your Local Specialist shares all the highlights. See Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, founded in the 12 century. Its 43-meter spire makes this the country’s tallest church. See the stately Georgian Squares then spend the rest of the day on your own. Head down to Grafton Street or Temple Bar for a pint of the 'Black Stuff' or stroll along the Liffey through the heart of Dublin. This evening, an optional dinner and Irish show will have your toes tapping and taste buds craving another round of Irish coffee.
Experience the Ancient Monastic Site of Glendalough -Enjoy a visit to one of the most important monastic sites in Europe, which was built in the Early Medieval style and dates back to the 6th Century. Your Local Specialist will tell historic tales and show you around this sacred area, famous for its tranquil beauty amidst the rolling countryside of County Wicklow, the garden of Ireland.
Dublin Dinner and Cabaret -Take your tour of Ireland to the next level with an evening of fine food and toe-tapping fun in the vibrant city of Dublin. Watch as Ireland’s history unfolds before your eyes with comedy, song and dance in an interactive Irish Show. After indulging in a delicious dinner, you’ll top off the evening with a quintessential travel experience: drinking an Irish Coffee.
Continue through the splendid countryside bound for Kilkenny where you’ll see its beautiful 12 -century castle, an enduring symbol of Norman occupation. Later you’ll arrive in Waterford where a visit to the Waterford Crystal Showroom will reveal a wonderland of delicate crystal, from stemware to fine china. You’re in for a riveting history lesson when you join an Optional Experience for a walking tour with a Local Specialist and visit one of the area’s oldest pubs for a pint. Dinner tonight is at your hotel.
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Explore Waterford's History and Local Pub -Discover a world of Vikings and medieval legends in Waterford, where a Local Specialist will bring the historic era to life as they share thrilling stories and anecdotes. One traveller even described the tour as the “best history lesson ever”. Later, stop off for a drink in one of the area’s oldest pubs for a pint or drink of your choice.
Irish Folk Fun -Travel is all about immersing yourself in local culture – so, what better way to see the real Waterford than with an evening of authentic entertainment? Experience famous Irish hospitality in the best folk tradition, enjoying a drink while locals sing and play music for you with classic instruments like the fiddle, tin whistle and bodhrán drum.
Say your goodbyes to the 'Emerald Isle', crossing St. George’s Channel to Wales. Small in size but significant in stature, Wales is the fifth country on this journey across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Its vibrant capital is your final destination today. Here you’ll view the Millennium Center, the National Assembly and the historic castle at its heart. Climb the 900-year-old Norman keep and perhaps walk on the battlements during an optional private tour of Cardiff Castle this afternoon. This evening could see you venture into the Welsh countryside for dinner at a 14 - century inn or enjoy an evening of Welsh music, culture and humor at an Optional Experience.
Cardiff Castle Tour -Explore this unique castle on a private tour and hear tales about the eclectic refurbishments that blend cultural styles. Completed in the 1800s by architect William Burgess, his influences included Arabic art, Hans Christian Anderson's fairy tales and even Aesop's Fables. You’ll also walk on the battlements and climb the 1000-year-old Norman Keep for superb views over Cardiff.
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Welsh Evening -Step off the tourist trail and experience a unique evening in a Cardiff landmark, enjoying dinner and music inside a stunningly renovated deconsecrated church. Enjoy a delicious meal of seasonal Welsh specialties in this must-visit destination, with quality wine or soft drinks included. Listen to an enchanting harpist as you dine, before being entertained by the finest local singers.
Traditional Welsh Evening And Dinner -Join us for a travel experience you won't soon forget, with a traditional Welsh country dinner in a 14th Century thatched inn known as The Blue Anchor. Enjoy the cosy charm of the roaring fireplace and old stonework as you eat and sample local drinks, listening to the tranquil sounds of a Welsh harpist as they perform.
Cross the Severn Estuary into England and venture to Bath with its elegant Georgian architecture. The city’s healing waters saw it emerge as a wellness center as far back as Roman times. Next, head to Windsor to view the world’s oldest and largest continuously inhabited castle. There’s time for a quiet stroll along the banks of the river and shop for Royal souvenirs before arriving in London.
It’s time to close the curtain on your epic adventure across the England and Ireland. You’ll say a fond farewell to new friends as you prepare for your return journey home.
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