Exploring Britain and Ireland

Arrive in Edinburgh, the historic capital of Scotland, where rocky hills tower in the distance and the shadows of history can be seen around every corner. With no planned activities today, settle in to discover Scotland's capital and see how medieval crossroads blend seamlessly with a vibrant modern energy.

This evening, delve into Scottish culture with a whisky-inspired dinner highlighting the flavors of Scotland and meet your fellow travelers. (D) Stay: Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket Hotel (2 Nights)

Today get acquainted with Scotland's regal capital on a locally guided city tour exploring both the Old and New Towns. Explore the Royal Mile on foot and walk up the hill to Edinburgh Castle, home of the Scottish Crown Jewels. This afternoon is yours to further explore independently.

Tonight, consider an optional excursion including dinner to Rosslyn Chapel, one of Edinburgh's most remarkable medieval buildings – an after-hours private tour will take you deep into this well-known setting from The Da Vinci Code. (B)

Depart Edinburgh, traveling through the picturesque countryside of Northumberland by motor coach. Visit a family farm situated in the heart of the Scottish Borders, where sustainability and innovation are core to their business. Continue to Hexham Abbey, one of the earliest seats of Christianity in England.

Later in York, with its medieval city walls and snickelways, dinner is at a local pub. (B/D) Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton York (2 Nights)

Take in York's rich and storied history while joining your Tour Manager on a leisurely orientation walking tour. Explore the quaint, narrow streets of the ‘Shambles' that appear today almost as they did during the Middle Ages. At the heart of the city is its impressive Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. Venture inside and stand in awe of the seemingly endless sea of stained-glass windows. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure. (B)

Board a high-speed train to London. Upon arriving in England's bustling capital, enjoy a traditional afternoon tea. Afterward, join a local expert for a walking tour of the city. At Westminster, see the exteriors of the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben, and continue on to see the exterior of Buckingham Palace, the London home to Britain's royalty since 1837. After checking into your hotel, the evening is yours to explore the vibrancy of London's nightlife. (B/L) Stay: Canopy by Hilton London City (2 Nights)

Enjoy a day to explore London at your leisure. You may choose to take an optional excursion to Hampton Court Palace, home of the Tudor dynasty and England's most notorious king, Henry VIII. Explore fascinating tales from history in this regal setting that's also recognizable as a key filming location in Bridgerton, the popular Regency era drama. (B)

Travel to Bath, the elegant Georgian town, to visit the Roman Bath Museum's 2,000-year-old elaborate spas. Stroll through Bath's cobblestone streets and soak in its old-world atmosphere. Your day ends in the Welsh capital of Cardiff. (B) Stay: Clayton Hotel (2 Nights)

Join a local expert on a leisurely-paced walking tour of Cardiff. Learn about the city's deep ties to the coal industry, its connection to ancient Rome, and its famous Victorian shopping arcades. Tour Cardiff's historic castle, an impressive structure that was once a Roman fort, a Norman castle, and an extraordinary Victorian Gothic fantasy palace.

This afternoon, visit The Royal Mint to discover its rich history and witness the stringent processes that creating a coin entails. Tonight, dive into the rich cultural heritage of Wales when you join local artists for an evening of Welsh music, poetry and cuisine. (B/D)

Take in the beautiful Welsh countryside en route to the coastal village of Fishguard. There, board the ferry for Ireland, crossing the Irish Sea. Upon arrival in Rosslare, travel to Waterford, your home for the evening. (B/D) Stay: Granville Hotel

This morning, it's your choice! Tour the House of Waterford Crystal factory featuring a fascinating visitor's center and a retail store housing the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world -OR- enjoy a leisurely-paced walking tour of Ireland's oldest city and discover its rich Viking, Norman and Cromwellian history.

Later, travel to historic Blarney Castle. Make your way to the top of the castle, lie back and kiss the famous Blarney Stone. Legend has it that if you do, you will be blessed with the "gift of eloquence." This evening, it's Diner's Choice... choose your included dinner from a “menu” of Killarney's great restaurants. (B/D) Stay: Killarney Oaks (2 Nights)

This morning, explore Killarney National Park on a traditional jaunting car ride. Then, travel along the glorious Ring of Kerry where you'll find some of Ireland's most magical scenery. Marvel at the vistas created by windswept cliffs, rugged mountains, lakes and picturesque villages. Enjoy an evening in Killarney at your leisure. (B)

Venture through the “Golden Vale” en route to the awe-inspiring Rock of Cashel. Take in its imposing facade and visit the spot where St. Patrick preached. Continue on to vibrant Dublin, Ireland's cosmopolitan capital. (B) Stay: Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge (2 Nights)

Today, it's your choice! Choose to ride with a local guide to see St. Patrick's Cathedral, O'Connell Street, the General Post Office, and the historic Phoenix Park -OR- choose a walking tour of the city's historic center, exploring St. Stephen's Green, Grafton Street, and the River Liffey. Either way, what follows is an afternoon to discover Dublin's charms on your own.

Tonight, experience Ireland's lively music and dynamic dancing during a fun-filled evening of Irish entertainment. (B/D)

Depart today with many fond memories of lovely Britain and Ireland. (B)