British Isles Travel - Taste of Britain & Ireland

Day 1 – London Highlights & the Tower of London

Welcome to London! This afternoon, depart your hotel at 2:00 PM for a panoramic introduction to one of the world’s great capitals. See legendary landmarks like Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and the Houses of Parliament as your guide brings centuries of history to life. Step inside the iconic Tower of London, where kings, queens, and prisoners once walked, and marvel at the dazzling Crown Jewels. Raise a glass at a welcome drink with your fellow travelers, then enjoy dinner on your own.

Day 2 – London at Leisure

Today is yours to explore London your way. Hop on and off a sightseeing bus to visit the city’s most famous attractions at your own pace—whether that’s Buckingham Palace, Covent Garden, or a stroll along the Thames. This evening, dine independently and soak up London’s vibrant nightlife. (B)

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Day 3 – Windsor Castle & Elegant Bath

Travel to historic Windsor for a panoramic tour before visiting Windsor Castle, the largest inhabited castle in the world and one of the King’s official residences. Explore the magnificent State Apartments, still used for royal ceremonies today. After free time in Windsor, continue to Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage city famed for its Roman roots and graceful Georgian architecture. Tour the Roman Baths and learn why travelers have been drawn to these healing waters for nearly 2,000 years. (B, D)

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Day 4 – Cotswolds, Shakespeare & Liverpool

Journey through the storybook landscapes of the Cotswolds, with rolling hills, colorful gardens, and honey-hued stone villages. Stop in a charming town before continuing to Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s hometown, where you’ll have free time to explore the streets that inspired the Bard. Later, arrive in lively Liverpool. Perhaps visit the revitalized Royal Albert Docks or stop by the legendary Cavern Club, where the Beatles began their rise to fame. Dinner is on your own. (B)

 

Day 5 – Lake District & Windermere Cruise

Travel through England’s breathtaking Lake District, beloved by poets and authors such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. Cruise across serene Lake Windermere, taking in views of wooded islands and surrounding mountains. Enjoy free time in a traditional Lakeland village before crossing into Scotland via historic Gretna Green. Settle into your hotel near Edinburgh for a relaxing evening at leisure. (B)

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Day 6 – Edinburgh Castle, City Tour & Whisky Traditions

Explore Edinburgh on a panoramic city tour, from the medieval Royal Mile to the elegant Georgian streets of New Town. Visit mighty Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city, to see the Crown Jewels of Scotland. This evening, enjoy storytelling and a whisky tasting at the Scotch Whisky Experience.
Select August departures feature the unforgettable Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo instead. (B, D*)

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Day 7 – Glasgow & Ferry to Belfast

Travel to Glasgow, Scotland’s cultural powerhouse, for a guided city tour and time to explore independently. Continue through scenic countryside before boarding a ferry across the Irish Sea. Arrive in Belfast and enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B, D)

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Day 8 – Titanic Belfast & On to Dublin

Discover the powerful story of the Titanic at Titanic Belfast, located beside the very shipyards where the famed liner was built. Enjoy a panoramic tour of Belfast before stopping at the Glyde Inn for an early dinner and lively entertainment. Continue south to Dublin for your overnight stay. (B, D)

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Day 9 – Dublin Your Way

Explore Dublin at your own pace with a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tour. Use your included voucher to visit one top attraction of your choice, such as the Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Distillery Bow St., EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, Teeling Distillery, or the GPO Museum. Dinner is yours to enjoy independently this evening. (B)

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Day 10 – Blarney Castle & Killarney

Head south to Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone—said to bestow the gift of eloquence. Continue through Macroom and into the scenic mountains surrounding Killarney. After dinner at your hotel, you may wish to visit a local pub for traditional Irish music and warm hospitality. (B, D)

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Day 11 – Dingle Peninsula & Irish Traditions

Browse for unique Irish souvenirs in the stunning Gap of Dunloe at Moriarty’s, a CIE Tours preferred partner. Travel along the spectacular Dingle Peninsula, famed for its natural beauty and cinematic settings. Visit a working sheep farm to see expertly trained sheepdogs in action, then explore the colorful town of Dingle. This evening, enjoy dinner and traditional Irish entertainment at historic Kate Kearney’s Cottage. (B, D)

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Day 12 – Cliffs of Moher, Burren & Galway

Visit the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum to learn about the golden age of transatlantic aviation. Cross the River Shannon by ferry and continue to the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, soaring above the Atlantic Ocean. Travel through the unique limestone landscapes of the Burren before arriving in lively Galway. Enjoy a panoramic city tour before dinner at your hotel. (B, D)

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Day 13 – Galway Walk & Castle Farewell

Take a guided walking tour through Galway’s historic heart, rich with music, medieval streets, and seaside charm. Head east to Dublin, stopping in the coastal village of Dalkey—home to writers, musicians, and stunning sea views. Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner at your elegant castle hotel. (B, D)

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Day 14 – Tour Ends in Dublin

After breakfast, your unforgettable journey through England, Scotland, and Ireland comes to an end. Slán go fóill—until next time! (B)

B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner

* Meal counts vary on Tattoo departures, as the Scottish Evening is replaced with the Tattoo and an independent dinner