Britain and Ireland Panorama
Britain and Ireland Panorama
Britain and Ireland Panorama
19 Days Starting and ending in London, UK
Visiting: London, York, Edinburgh, Scottish Highlands, Isle of Skye, Scotland, Glasgow, Liverpool, Dublin, Galway, Cork, Ring of Kerry, Limerick, Waterford, Cardiff, Bath, Plymouth, Stonehenge
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BPANZN19
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
25 - 45
Age range:
6-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the rich cultural tapestry of Britain and Ireland with the "Britain and Ireland Panorama Summer 2024" tour. Starting in the vibrant city of London, this tour takes you through iconic landmarks and hidden gems across England, Scotland, and Ireland. Experience the charm of Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, the medieval allure of York, and the historic grandeur of Edinburgh. Delight in the scenic beauty of the Scottish Highlands, the Isle of Skye, and the picturesque Lake District. In Ireland, savor the taste of Guinness in Dublin, explore the rugged Ring of Kerry, and witness the craftsmanship at the House of Waterford Crystal. With expert guides, luxury accommodations, and immersive cultural experiences, this tour promises a comprehensive and enriching exploration of these storied lands.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive London
Location: London
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hilton Kensington
Welcome to the multicultural melting pot that is London – its culture and heritage shaped by the nations that once contributed to its great empire are found around every turn. Spend your day easing into the energy of a cosmopolitan city that effortlessly blends old and new and is the perfect springboard to a grand adventure through Britain and Ireland.
Day 2: Discover Historic London
Location: London
Accommodation Name: Hilton Kensington
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join your Local Specialist today to see the iconic sights, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, meandering through the picturesque Royal Parks, shopping for the best of British wares on Carnaby Street or delving into natural history and royal heritage at one of the many fascinating museums.
Day 3: Journey To Stratford-Upon-Avon And On To York
Location: York
Accommodation Name: Novotel Center or Leonardo Hotel Leeds
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meet your Travel Director this morning and travel to Stratford-upon-Avon. Venture through the lush green countryside of Warwickshire to Stratford-upon-Avon to delve into the lyrical legacy of one of the world's favorite writers. Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace and Visitor Center and see Anne Hathaway's cottage, before arriving in York. Wander along its cobbled Shambles and ancient city walls, and see the magnificent York Minster, one of the greatest cathedrals in the world. This evening, we join our Travel Director and travel companions for a delicious Yorkshire dinner in our hotel.
Day 4: Continue Through Northumberland To Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journeying through Northumberland National Park’s dramatic landscapes, we arrive at the remarkably intact ruins of the 12th-century Jedburgh Abbey en route to the enchanting Scottish capital, Edinburgh. Tickets to see the spectacular Edinburgh Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates.
Day 5: Discover Enchanting Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join your Local Specialist this morning for a sightseeing tour through Auld Reekie's elegant New Town, Princes Street and the Royal Mile, enjoying views of the exquisite Palace of Holyroodhouse and Arthur's Seat. Embark on a guided visit of Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock. Later, consider a traditional Scottish night out this evening, savoring up the flavors of haggis and exhilarating sounds of bagpipes which fill the air.
Day 6: Venture Into The Scottish Highlands
Location: Scottish Highlands
Accommodation Name: Laggan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, we travel across the Firth of Forth to St. Andrews to view its celebrated ancient university and explore centuries of golf heritage. Our next stop is Pitlochry on the banks of the Tummel River. You could choose to join an Optional Experience to visit Blair Castle, the ancestral home to the Dukes of Atholl. We continue to the Scottish Highlands, our home for two nights.
Day 7: Explore The Isle Of Skye
Location: Isle of Skye, Scotland
Accommodation Name: Laggan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Drive to the rugged coast of Scotland this morning, passing scenic Eilean Donan Castle. We cross to the Isle of Skye, admire the spectacular scenery before enjoying free time for lunch. A Local Specialist will take us on a journey to admire the remarkable Cuillin Mountain. Cross back to the mainland and continue past the lochs and glens of the Scottish Highlands.
Day 8: Onwards To Loch Lomond And Glasgow’S Rich Legacy Dive Into Culture
Location: Glasgow
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our first stop today is the World War II Commando Memorial, near Fort William, for views of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Continue south through the 'Glen of Weeping', paying tribute to the MacDonald clansmen who were massacred for failing to pledge allegiance to Scotland's new monarchs. Arriving in Glasgow, we enjoy an orientation tour including views of the Cathedral and magnificent George Square. We'll also visit the Necropolis where we’ll Dive Into Culture and gain insights into one of Europe's most important 19th-century burial grounds.
Day 9: Through The Lake District To Liverpool Connect With Locals
Location: Liverpool
Accommodation Name: Mercure Atlantic Tower
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Cross the border into England and Connect With Locals, joining Christine on her Cumbrian working farm for a Be My Guest lunch, before continuing your journey through the beautiful Lake District and its landscapes that have inspired poets and painters for centuries. See Lake Windermere, England's largest lake, before traveling to Liverpool, the haunt of Britain's ‘Fab Four'.
Day 10: Across The Irish Sea To Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Clayton Ballsbridge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The half-timbered Tudor Rows in Chester are our first stop today as we travel to Holyhead in North Wales to catch our ferry across the Irish Sea to Dublin.
Day 11: Admire Dublin’S Iconic Sights Dive Into Culture
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Clayton Ballsbridge
Meals Included: Breakfast
Dive Into Culture and visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's famous brew, before delving into Dublin’s iconic sights with a Local Specialist. See Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral and the stately Georgian Squares. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure or consider a trip to Glendalough. This evening you could choose to join an Optional Experience at an Irish Cabaret.
Day 12: On To Galway And Limerick
Location: Galway
Accommodation Name: Greenhills Hotel Conference and Leisure Center or The Inn at Dromoland
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to the West Coast and the vibrant cultural center of Galway, where you will have an opportunity to see Galway Cathedral and Eyre Square, with its tribute to former US president John F. Kennedy, before traveling to Limerick.
Day 13: Circle The Ring Of Kerry And On To Cork Stays With Stories
Location: Cork, Ring of Kerry, Limerick
Accommodation Name: Vienna Woods Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Admire Ireland's enduring scenic beauty on one of the most beautiful drives in the world, circling the spectacular Ring of Kerry.
Day 14: The Sights Of Blarney, Waterford And Wexford Dive Into Culture
Location: Waterford
Accommodation Name: Maldron
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the pursuit of acquiring the 'gift of the gab', we visit Blarney Castle where you might kiss the famous Blarney Stone, before stopping in Cobh for a walking tour with a Local Specialist. This seaside city was the final port of call for the tragic Titanic on its fateful voyage. This afternoon, we Dive Into Culture during a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal and witness talented master crafters at work.
Day 15: Ferry Across To Cardiff
Location: Cardiff
Accommodation Name: Clayton
Meals Included: Breakfast
We cross the Irish Sea to Wales and its capital, Cardiff, where we will see the Principality Stadium and view the Millennium Center, National Assembly and Cardiff Castle.
Day 16: Enjoy Bath, Glastonbury And Plymouth
Location: Bath
Accommodation Name: Copthorne or Mercure Rougemont
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the Severn Estuary to Bath, so named for the ancient Roman Baths that have made the city a popular retreat for centuries. Admire the elegant Georgian façades and visit the Roman Baths, before some free time to explore on your own. We wind our way to mystical Glastonbury to visit the 7th-century Abbey where King Arthur is believed to be buried. Later, we arrive in the city of Plymouth, our home for two nights.
Day 17: A Day Exploring Coastal Villages
Location: Plymouth
Accommodation Name: Copthorne or Mercure Rougemont
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The springboard to a 'New World' takes center stage as we start our day with an orientation of Plymouth. View the Mayflower Steps, where brave pilgrims embarked on their epic voyage to America, and see the Royal Citadel overlooking Plymouth Sound. Visit the fishing village of Polperro with its narrow streets and picturesque harbor, before enjoying a scenic drive through the brooding landscapes of Dartmoor, keeping a keen eye out for the area’s wild ponies. Our epic adventure through Britain and Ireland almost at its end, we join our travel companions and Travel Director for a memorable Farewell Dinner.
Day 18: Journey To Prehistoric Stonehenge And Return To London
Location: Stonehenge
Accommodation Name: Park Plaza Riverbank
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meander across the Salisbury Plain and visit the mystical ancient monoliths of Stonehenge, whose myths have yet to be fully revealed. We journey back to London this afternoon where we spend our final evening at leisure.
Day 19: Cheerio London
Location: London
Meals Included: Breakfast
Say a fond farewell to Britain and Ireland as you prepare to return home with treasured memories of your trip.
What's Included
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Local Host in London
The services of a Brendan Vacations Local Host when you stay at Brendan Vacations' recommended London hotel.
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London Transfers
Pick-up and drop-off when you stay at the Brendan Vacations recommended London hotel, booked through Brendan Vacations.
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Transport and Transfers
All transport and transfers shown.
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Expert Travel Director and Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver.
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Cherry-picked Hotels
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted.
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Porterage and Gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities.
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Hotel Tips and Taxes
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes.
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Meals
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals.
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Sightseeing and Extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing.
What's Not Included
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Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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International Travel
International flights to and from the tour are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries, including all transport and transfers shown, and enjoy a return ferry across the Irish Sea between Wales and Ireland.
Accommodation
Stay in carefully selected hotels such as the Hilton Kensington in London, Novotel Center in York, Holiday Inn in Edinburgh, and Clayton Ballsbridge in Dublin, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals. Additionally, there is a Be My Guest lunch on a Cumbrian working farm.
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Are there any special experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several special experiences such as a traditional Be My Guest lunch on a Cumbrian farm, a visit to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, and a workshop tour at the House of Waterford Crystal.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides all transport and transfers shown, including a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries, and a return ferry across the Irish Sea between Wales and Ireland.
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Will there be any guided tours during the trip?
Yes, the tour includes guided tours with Local Specialists in various locations such as London, Edinburgh, and Dublin. Additionally, there will be an expert Travel Director and professional Driver throughout the tour.
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Are there any optional experiences available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional experiences available during the tour, such as a traditional Scottish night out in Edinburgh and a visit to Blair Castle in the Scottish Highlands.
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What kind of accommodations can I expect on this tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted. On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
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Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, the itinerary includes free time in various locations such as London, Edinburgh, and Dublin, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
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What are some of the cultural highlights of the tour?
Cultural highlights of the tour include visiting the Necropolis in Glasgow, learning about the life of William Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon, and exploring the medieval Shambles in York.
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Are tips and gratuities included in the tour price?
Yes, all porterage and restaurant gratuities, as well as all hotel tips, charges, and local taxes, are included in the tour price.
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What kind of sightseeing is included in the tour?
The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras, such as a visit to Edinburgh Castle, a tour of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, and a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal.
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Is there seat rotation on the coach?
Yes, your Travel Director will implement a seat rotation system, whereby all guests will rotate their seats on the coach daily. This allows for everyone to experience the spectacular views from different seats, and you’ll have a better opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers.
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Is luggage handling provided?
On Guided Vacations and Private Chauffeur Vacations, all luggage handling is provided at no extra charge. One suitcase per person will be brought to your hotel room.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes! Our hotels are personally selected by Managing Director Catherine Reilly and personally known for their quality, impeccable service and comfort, with the majority of them having air-conditioning. Note: A few hotels may not have air conditioning due to the colder climate.
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What are the coaches like?
We pride ourselves on having the finest fleet of fuel-efficient, fully air-conditioned coaches – all with reclining seats and on-board restrooms. The high vantage point from your coach’s window means you can take in all the glorious scenery, whether it’s a vast rural landscape or an urban city center. We also have on board WiFi.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Brendan Vacations is an active supporter of the Treadright® Foundation, a not-for-profit organization established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than $2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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How many people will be on my trip?
You’ll find an average of 40 to 45 guests on trips throughout Europe.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided vacation with us is you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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Will I have free time?
Each itinerary offers the perfect balance of downtime and discoveries. We also give you the opportunity to tailor your trip with Optional Experiences.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. If you are travelling solo but would be happy to share your rook with another traveller of the same gender, we offer 'Twin-share' pricing on our trips. However, if you prefer the privacy of your own room, you can opt for our single supplement. The cost will depend on your trip and can be found in the pricing section of the itinerary.
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How much luggage can I bring?
On Guided Vacations, you can bring one suitcase per person with the dimensions of 76cm x 46cm x 25cm (30" x 18" x 10") and weight not exceeding 23kg (50 lbs) due to the limited space on the coach. You can also bring one piece of hand luggage, provided it is small enough to take on the coach and does not have telescopic handles.
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What is a Travel Director?
Our Travel Directors come from a variety of backgrounds, but they all share a passion for travel and their homelands. These experienced professionals show you what the guidebooks can't - a true insider's perspective of Ireland and Scotland. Each Travel Director has been through a bespoke training program, and many have at least five years' experience under their belt.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents (important information, itinerary and any relevant vouchers) will be provided 7-10 days prior to your trip's departure.
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What if I have special dietary requirements?
We can accommodate guests who are vegetarian and can assist with diabetic, gluten-free and other medically-recommended diets. Please advise us at time of booking. Unfortunately, we're unable to supply meals in accordance with strict religious requirements. We cannot provide salt-free, Kosher, Halal, requests for specific dietary supplements such as soy milk, and high protein or low-carb meals.
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Brendan Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brendan vacations charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 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.