Romantic Britain & Ireland - Small Group
Romantic Britain & Ireland - Small Group
$9175
Romantic Britain & Ireland - Small Group
20 Days Starting and ending in London
Visiting: London, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Lincoln, York, Lake District National Park, Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Pitlochry, Inverness, Loch Ness, Lock Duich, Skye, Fort William, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Glasgow, Belfast, Dublin, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle, Waterford, Cardiff, Bath, Glastonbury, Torquay, Plymouth, Dartmoor, Stonehenge
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SB908ZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
25 - 45
Age range:
6-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Tour Overview
Nurture your soul on this romantic tour of Oxford’s cobbled alleyways, Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse. Spanning the stunning Lake District, Britain’s yesteryear Viking capital of York, Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford and William Wordsworth’s home village of Grasmere, this three week tour has it all. In Ireland, the lofty Cliffs of Moher offer truly stunning vistas, while the Dine Around in Killarney experience serves up a traditional Sunday roast dinner—with all the trimmings. The journey through the Ring of Kerry boasts breathtaking views of mountains fading into the distant sea and after a stop at the famous kissing stone in Blarney Castle, Local Experts add some extra sparkle with a personal tour through the House of Waterford Crystal.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To London
Location: London
Accommodation Name: The Clermont Victoria, London
Welcome to London. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free to enjoy a city that is famous for its pomp and pageantry. Perhaps relax with a walk along the Serpentine in Hyde Park or window shop in the elegant boutiques of Knightsbridge? Alternatively, you may want to stroll along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.
Day 2: Oxford And Stratford
Location: London, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon
Accommodation Name: Mercure Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Meet your Travel Director in London before depart for the famous university town of Oxford, with its beautiful spires. With time at leisure, why not visit the world-famous Ashmolean Museum or browse through the local indoor market? Continue via pretty Cotswolds villages to Stratford-upon-Avon. Discover how William Shakespeare and his incredible works continue to shape society today when you visit his birthplace, full of interesting memorabilia and artefacts relating to his life. Tonight, enjoy a warm and friendly dinner with drinks at a local pub.
Day 3: Lincoln And Medieval York
Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, Lincoln, York
Accommodation Name: Hilton York
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel through the heart of ‘Robin Hood Country’ on your way to visit Lincoln. Continue to York, once the Viking capital of Britain and one of England's oldest cities. Saunter along the Shambles to reach the York Minster, in the heart of this medieval gem. Your hotel lies within the walls facing Clifford’s Tower.
Day 4: The English Lakes To Edinburgh
Location: York, Lake District National Park, Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Virgin, Edinburgh
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive through the Lake District National Park, a scenic wonderland of rugged mountains and tranquil lakes, inspiring a host of English poets. Stop in Wordsworth’s village of Grasmere and see the poet’s grave in the churchyard. Cross the border at Gretna Green, where runaway lovers were married, and continue to the Scottish capital.
Day 5: Scotland’S Capital Of Culture
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Virgin, Edinburgh
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel down the Royal Mile to see the Palace of Holyroodhouse — official Scottish residence of His Majesty, The King - before crossing over to New Town. Walk with your Local Expert inside Edinburgh Castle for spectacular views of the town and see the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg.The afternoon is free to shop on Princes Street. In the evening, select departures will attend The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo — a colorful mixture of historic battles and military manoeuvres, complete with pipes and drums.
Day 6: St. Andrews And Inverness
Location: Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Pitlochry, Inverness
Accommodation Name: Kingsmills, Inverness
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife and make your way to St. Andrews, passing the world's oldest golf course as you arrive where golf was born in the 15th century. Enjoy free time to explore, perhaps wander to St. Andrews University where the love story of Kate Middleton finding her Prince Charming began when her and Prince William were students there. Alternately, stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed. Your travels continue as you cross the Tay and journey to the charming Victorian resort town of Pitlochry, famous for its salmon run. Stop at Atholl Palace and Gardens for a delicious cream tea. Originally opened in Victorian times, the hotel retains many of its traditional features.
Day 7: Across The Sea To Skye
Location: Inverness, Loch Ness, Lock Duich, Skye
Accommodation Name: The Dunollie, Broadford
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a journey of discovery on a Loch Ness cruise. Soak up the scenery, historic monuments and intriguing tales of Nessie in the heart of Scotland's great glen.Afterwards, pause for a photo of Eilean Donan Castle, set idyllically on a headland on Loch Duich. Listen to tales of Flora MacDonald and her defense of the Bonnie Prince as you cross over the sea to Skye.
Day 8: Loch Lomond And Glasgow
Location: Skye, Fort William, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, Glasgow
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu, Glasgow
Meals Included: Breakfast
Return to the mainland and drive to the World War II Commando Memorial in the shadow of Ben Nevis. Continue through Fort William to absorb the dramatic scenery of Glencoe, the Valley of the Weeping, where the dreadful massacre of the MacDonald's took place in 1692. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond, en route to Glasgow. Your Travel Director will show you Glasgow's grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo’s Cathedral.
Day 9: Across The Irish Sea To Belfast
Location: Glasgow, Belfast
Accommodation Name: Titanic, Belfast
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to Scotland as you cross the Irish Sea and continue your journey to the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast. Meet Hilda, your Local Expert, for a passionate city tour of Belfast including views of the City Hall, Queen's University, the Parliament Building at Stormont and murals in different locations indicating political sentiments of local residents. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore at your leisure.
Day 10: Dublin City Sightseeing. Relaxed Start
Location: Belfast, Dublin
Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza The Gresham, Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel alongside the Mountains of Mourne before crossing the historic Boyne Valley, site of the battle where William of Orange defeated the forces of Catholic King James. Continue to Dublin, Ireland's 'fair city where the girls are so pretty,' and see O’Connell Street, Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, with your Local Expert.
Day 11: A Pint Of The 'Black Stuff'
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Riu Plaza The Gresham, Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Experience Ireland's national and world-famous drink in the Guinness Storehouse. Gain a fascinating insight into the history and traditions behind its production. The rest of the day is yours to shop, continue sightseeing or maybe take an optional drive to the ruined monastic site of Glendalough.
Day 12: Galway, The Cliffs Of Moher And Limerick
Location: Dublin, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick
Accommodation Name: The George, Limerick
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel west to Galway, known as the City of the Tribes. Guided by your Travel Director, enjoy free time in this artsy, bohemian city. Cross the limestone landscape of the Burren, to the Visitor Center at the Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking vistas of the Clare Coast. Journey to the town of Limerick, nestled on the shores of the River Shannon.
Day 13: The Dingle Peninsula To Killarney Relaxed Start
Location: Limerick, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney
Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning, your Travel Director will show you the 12th century St. Mary’s Cathedral, King John’s Castle and the Treaty Stone before setting off to Tralee. Enjoy more spectacular scenery as you make your way through the great cliffs, wide skies and ocean views of the Dingle Peninsula to Killarney. For dinner you are treated to a traditional Sunday roast, with all the trimmings.
Day 14: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start
Location: Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Killarney
Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
A delightful morning excursion will take you around the Ring of Kerry, where mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. Continue through Ireland’s highest mountain range, the MacGillicuddy Reeks, to the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. Meet John for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit his family-run seaweed farm on the Ring of Kerry. Learn about sustainable farming practices that protect the wild Irish Atlantic coasts. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to relax and enjoy. Maybe take the opportunity to ride a jaunting car around the lake or through the National Park?
Day 15: Blarney Castle And Waterford
Location: Killarney, Blarney Castle, Waterford
Accommodation Name: Granville, Waterford
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Visit the ruined 15th century Blarney Castle. Will you hang upside down from the ramparts to kiss the stone and ensure a lifetime of eloquence? Continue to the walled city of Waterford and see the 11th century Reginald's Tower. On your guided visit of the House of Waterford Crystal, you will meet an artisan and see their fine work.
Day 16: Across The Irish Sea To Cardiff
Location: Waterford, Cardiff
Accommodation Name: Clayton, Cardiff
Meals Included: Breakfast
From Rosslare, take the ferry across the Irish Sea to Pembroke and continue on with a pleasant journey through the rural scenery of Pembrokeshire. Travel past the valleys of southern Wales to the capital, Cardiff, famous for its imposing castle and the brilliant Principality Stadium. Enjoy an orientation of the port city, upon the River Taff.
Day 17: Bath And Glastonbury
Location: Cardiff, Bath, Glastonbury, Torquay
Accommodation Name: The Imperial Torquay (Sea view rooms)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the Severn Bridge to reach the City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built above Britain's only thermal, mineral springs. Enjoy an orientation with your Travel Director, through the Georgian streets and crescents. Visit the Roman Baths and learn how this hub of culture is pioneering educational investments to benefit the community, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Your journey continues to mystical Glastonbury where you will see the abbey, reputedly the legendary burial place of King Arthur. Continue south, to reach the seaside town of Torquay.
Day 18: The Devonshire Coast
Location: Torquay, Plymouth, Dartmoor, Torquay
Accommodation Name: The Imperial Torquay (Sea view rooms)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Explore Dartmoor with Brendan Choice. Choose to join a scenic exploration of Dartmoor National Park. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing cruise of Plymouth harbor and see the Mayflower Steps, Barbican, Royal Citadel and Plymouth Hoe. At dinner this evening, enjoy a fine selection of local dishes.
Day 19: Salisbury Plain And Stonehenge
Location: Torquay, Stonehenge, London
Accommodation Name: The Clermont Victoria, London
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start the day by crossing the Salisbury Plain and stop to visit the mysterious megaliths of Stonehenge, the world's most famous prehistoric monument, its true meaning lost in the mists of time. Your escorted journey draws to a close on your return to London where the rest of the evening is at your leisure.
Day 20: Homeward Bound
Location: London
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Enjoy 19 nights' accommodation in a variety of charming hotels, including The Cumberland Hotel in London, DoubleTree by Hilton in Stratford-upon-Avon, and Virgin Hotels in Edinburgh, among others.
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Sightseeing and Transportation
Travel in comfort with sightseeing and transportation as detailed, including a ferry crossing the Irish Sea and scenic drives through picturesque landscapes.
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Dining Summary
19 Breakfasts, 8 Dinners, and 1 Afternoon Tea are included.
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Additional Included Highlights
Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving 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. 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. We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door. From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with a Brendan Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination. Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available). If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with us, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
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Authentic Dining
Stratford-upon-Avon: Savor British cuisine with dinner at a local restaurant. Pitlochry: Atholl Palace, built as a Victorian Baronial retreat, is over 130 years old. The Palace plays host to your afternoon tea. You are welcomed into the banqueting room to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea accompanied by sandwiches, scones, Scottish shortbread and traditional Scottish tablet. Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to see how the world’s most famous stout is created then enjoy the distinctive taste of a perfectly chilled pint of Guinness. Killarney: There’s nothing quite as homely as the Irish tradition of a Sunday roast, served with all the trimmings. Killarney: Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening. Torquay: Blend a little wine with great cuisine and good company for a rousing dinner.
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Brendan Choice
Dartmoor National Park: Visit Dartmoor to learn about the history of stone circles and indigenous traditions from your knowledgeable Local Expert on a scenic exploration. Plymouth: Set sail on a relaxing cruise from Plymouth harbor, where the pilgrims left over 400 years ago.
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Brendan Experiences
Grasmere: Learn about the life of the poet William Wordsworth and visit his grave. 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.
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Iconic Experience
Pitlochry: Visit Pitlochry, famous for its salmon leap. 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.
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Well-being
Enjoy the comfort of the 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. Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
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 comfort with sightseeing and transportation as detailed, including a ferry crossing the Irish Sea and scenic drives through picturesque landscapes.
Dining Summary
- 19 Breakfast (B)
- 8 Dinner (D)
- 1 Afternoon Tea (AT)
Additional Included Highlights
- Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving 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.
- 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.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with us, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Authentic Dining
- Stratford-upon-Avon: Savor British cuisine with dinner at a local restaurant.
- Pitlochry: Atholl Palace, built as a Victorian Baronial retreat, is over 130 years old. The Palace plays host to your afternoon tea. You are welcomed into the banqueting room to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea accompanied by sandwiches, scones, Scottish shortbread and traditional Scottish tablet.
- Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to see how the world’s most famous stout is created then enjoy the distinctive taste of a perfectly chilled pint of Guinness.
- Killarney: There's nothing quite as homely as the Irish tradition of a Sunday roast, served with all the trimmings.
- Killarney: Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening.
- Torquay: Blend a little wine with great cuisine and good company for a rousing dinner.
Brendan Choice
- Dartmoor National Park: Visit Dartmoor to learn about the history of stone circles and indigenous traditions from your knowledgeable Local Expert on a scenic exploration.
- Plymouth: Set sail on a relaxing cruise from Plymouth harbor, where the pilgrims left over 400 years ago.
Brendan Experiences
- Grasmere: Learn about the life of the poet William Wordsworth and visit his grave.
- 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.
Iconic Experience
- Pitlochry: Visit Pitlochry, famous for its salmon leap.
- 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.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of the 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.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a seaweed foraging walk at Atlantic Irish Seaweed on the Ring of Kerry, a visit to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, and a cruise on Loch Ness to hear tales of Nessie. Additionally, you can explore Dartmoor National Park with a Local Expert or enjoy a relaxing cruise from Plymouth harbor.
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Are there any special dining experiences during the tour?
Yes, the tour offers several authentic dining experiences including a traditional afternoon tea at Atholl Palace in Pitlochry, a Sunday roast in Killarney, and a visit to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin to enjoy a pint of Guinness. There is also a Dine-Around evening in Killarney where you can choose from a selection of local restaurants.
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What are some of the highlights of the tour in Scotland?
In Scotland, the tour highlights include visiting Edinburgh Castle to see the Scottish Crown Jewels, exploring the city of Edinburgh with a Local Specialist, and witnessing the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in August. You will also visit St. Andrews, known for its university and golf course, and enjoy a cruise on Loch Ness.
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How does the tour support sustainable travel practices?
The tour supports sustainable travel practices through experiences like the seaweed foraging walk at Atlantic Irish Seaweed, which promotes the sustainable use of Ireland's marine ecosystems. Additionally, the visit to the Roman Baths in Bath supports local educational programs, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes 19 nights' accommodation in a variety of charming hotels such as The Cumberland Hotel in London, DoubleTree by Hilton in Stratford-upon-Avon, and Virgin Hotels in Edinburgh, among others.
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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.
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Apr 15, 2025 - May 04, 2025Tuesday - Sunday
Jun 10, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025Book 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.