Itinerary for: Britain and Ireland Highlights 2012 (BBIH)
Day 1 : LONDON - STRATFORD - YORK - HARROGATE
A scenic drive through beautiful countryside brings you to Stratford-upon-Avon. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Visitors Centre and see Anne Hathaway's cottage. Later, in the Viking town of York, enjoy a walk through historic streets including the cobbled Shambles, the ancient city walls and the magnificent York Minster. This evening, get to know your companions and your Travel Director at a Welcome Pub Reception, which includes a typical British pub meal and drinks.(Welcome Reception)
Accommodation : Holiday Inn (First Class)
Day 2 : HARROGATE - LAKE DISTRICT - GLASGOW (2 NIGHTS)
From quaint villages around the Yorkshire Dales National Park to the scenic glory of the Lake District, your journey north is impressive. Further on across the border in bonnie Scotland, journey through the Southern Uplands en route to Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city and former centre of the shipbuilding industry. See George Square, the Cathedral and the River Clyde during your orientation of this splendid city.(Full Breakfast)
Accommodation : Radisson Blu/Marks Hotel (Superior First Class)
Day 3 : EDINBURGH EXCURSION
This morning drive to Edinburgh where your expert Local Guide takes you on a tour of the most important sights. See Princes Street and the Royal Mile, and view Holyrood House and the new Scottish Parliament. A fascinating guided visit of Edinburgh Castle completes the morning. Enjoy some free time before arriving at the Trossachs National Park for a traditional Be My Guest Scottish dining experience.(Full Breakfast / Be My Guest dinner)
Day 4 : GLASGOW - BELFAST - DUBLIN (2 NIGHTS)
Follow the rugged Ayrshire coast past the Isle of Ailsa Craig, the stepping stone from Ireland to Scotland, then board the ferry from Stranraer to Belfast, Northern Ireland. See the sights of Belfast during your sightseeing tour with an expert Local Guide, including the City Hall, Queen's University and the dock where the Titanic was built. Travel further south, cross the River Boyne at Drogheda to the capital, Dublin.(Full Breakfast)
Accommodation : Mespil (First Class)
Day 5 : DUBLIN SIGHTSEEING AND FREE TIME
Admire this vibrant city on your morning sightseeing tour. Your expert Local Guide shows you Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Phoenix Park and the stately Georgian Squares. Enjoy an included visit to the Guinness Brewery for a Storehouse tour and pint-pulling demonstration. Spend the rest of the day as you please. This evening consider taking an excursion to experience an Irish cabaret.(Full Breakfast)
Day 6 : DUBLIN - KILDARE - KILKENNY - WATERFORD
Visit the Irish National Stud Farm featuring world-class stallions, and enjoy a guided walk through the tranquil Japanese Gardens, regarded as the best in Europe. In Kilkenny, see the imposing medieval castle. Later, visit the Waterford Crystal showroom and learn about the production process. See the beautiful displays of crystal glass, and have the chance to buy some for yourself.(Full Breakfast)
Accommodation : Waterford Marina (First Class)
Day 7 : WATERFORD - CARDIFF
Sail this morning from Rosslare to Pembroke in South Wales, seat of the Tudor dynasty. Traverse the scenic heritage coast to the capital, Cardiff where you view the historic Castle and see the Millennium Stadium. Tonight, join your Travel Director and travel companions for a memorable Farewell Dinner.(Full Breakfast / Farewell Dinner)
Accommodation : Park Inn City (Superior First Class)
Day 8 : CARDIFF - BATH - STONEHENGE - LONDON
Cross the Severn Bridge into England and the glorious city of Bath. See the splendid Georgian architecture during your orientation. Enjoy an included visit to Baths dating from Roman times, from which the city derives its name. In Wiltshire, visit the mysterious monolithic stone circle at Stonehenge. Later, return to London where your holiday in Britain and Ireland comes to an end.(Full Breakfast)