Experience Overview
Discover the ancient Roman Baths of Bath with their healing waters, enjoy a pint at Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse and take an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the National Stud Farm in Kildare — the epicenter of Ireland’s thoroughbred horse breeding history. This all-encompassing tour showcases the regal heritage of Edinburgh Castle, the stunning beauty of England’s Lake District, the historic grandeur of Durham’s Romanesque cathedral and the rolling hills of Pembrokeshire in Wales. Pay homage to the literary legacy of Shakespeare as you visit his birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, tour the medieval Shambles of old York, admire the ancient border of the Roman Empire at Hadrian’s Wall and set sail from Holyhead to Dublin, on this journey through Great Britain and Ireland.
Highlights
Dining Summary
- 14 Breakfast (B)
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 2 Lunch (L)
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Killarney: Join a gentle hike with a nature guide in Killarney National Park and admire stunning mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. Stroll along the lake shore and past the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle and the famous Muckross Estate, a charming 19th Century mansion and grounds. Alternatively, enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
- Killarney: Explore on a horse-drawn jaunting car with local jarveys. Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Blarney: Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener. On your stroll enhanced by your expert’s insights, learn about the arboretum’s rare trees, mystical Druid rock formations and the Bog Garden boasting three 600-year-old yew trees.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts. Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
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
- York: In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner and the chance to get to know your fellow travelers.
- Loch Lomond: Enjoy a light lunch and admire the oak woodlands and incredible scenery as you cruise one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs, a favorite nature spot of the locals.
- Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's national drink.
- Killarney: Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening.
- Waterford: Celebrate the culmination of your escorted journey with wine, good cheer and palate-pleasing cuisine.
Brendan Choice
- Killarney: Join a gentle hike with a nature guide in Killarney National Park and admire stunning mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. Stroll along the lake shore and past the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle and the famous Muckross Estate, a charming 19th Century mansion and grounds. Alternatively, enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
- Killarney: Explore on a horse-drawn jaunting car with local jarveys.
- Blarney: Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener. On your stroll enhanced by your expert’s insights, learn about the arboretum’s rare trees, mystical Druid rock formations and the Bog Garden boasting three 600-year-old yew trees.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts. Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
Brendan Experiences
- Kildare: Horse racing is key part of Irish culture; and you'll gain a rare insight into it on your visit to the Irish National Stud. Set in Kildare at the breeding ground of champions and the birthplace of legends, explore the foaling unit, museum and the stallions that continue to make racing history. As the only stud farm in Ireland open to the public, learn the insights of horse-racing at a site whose former visitors include queens and presidents.
Dive into Culture
- Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
- County Tipperary: Meet entrepreneur Ailbhe and hear about her passion for sustainable farming. Learn about biodiversity, regenerative agriculture and the secret to crafting the most delicious honey on the island over a delicious Farm-to-Table lunch. Aibhe has been sharing her keen interest and experience in the various courses she has been running since 2015, putting sustainable farming at the heart of local education programs and contributing important research. Brookfield Farm's various activities all support sustainable farming practices, organically certified activities, habitat protection and tree planting initiatives. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 & 12: Quality Education & Sustainable Production and Consumption.
Top Rated Highlights
- Stratford-upon-Avon: Learn about the life of William Shakespeare, arguably history's most famous writer, when you visit his birthplace. Then enjoy some time to explore this pretty town with its iconic Tudor houses.
- York: Your Travel Director will show you the York Minster, the city walls and the medieval Shambles during your orientation of the city.
- Durham: See the castle and Romanesque cathedral.
- Hadrian's Wall: Stop to see part of the ancient wall that once marked the border of the Roman Empire.
- Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Expert as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
- Edinburgh: A hush descends and eyes turn to the castle. The skirl of the pipes rises and drums crack the night air as a tide of tunics and tartan flood from the drawbridge. For a limited time in August, witness the incredible spectacle of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
- Edinburgh: Visit Edinburgh Castle to view the Scottish Crown Jewels, Mons Meg and other artifacts with your Local Expert.
- St. Andrews: Visit the university town where the famous beach scene from 'Chariots of Fire' was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created.
- Inverness: See the River Ness, Inverness Castle and beautiful scenery as you explore the history of this Highland city.
- Loch Ness: Drive along the shores in search of the legendary monster.
- Liverpool: Stay in the home city of The Beatles.
- Conwy: See Conwy Castle, the magnificent medieval fortress still towering over the town after 700 years. Climb the restored spiral staircase, scale the great towers and walk a complete circle around the battlements. Admire the unbroken town walls of Conwy down and enjoy amazing views out across the craggy mountains of Snowdonia. The spectacular castle was built by King Edward I and his architect Master James of St George in just four years between 1283 and 1287.
- Holyhead: Set sail for Dublin across the Irish Sea.
- Dublin: See Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House with a Local Expert
- Cashel: See the Rock of Cashel where St. Patrick preached.
- Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation.
- Ring of Kerry: Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, as you journey the magical Ring of Kerry. This 111-mile circular route is the best place to admire Ireland's scenic beauty and truly one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
- Waterford: Explore the town and see Reginald's Tower and the remains of the city walls.
- Rosslare Harbour: Board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea.
- Cardiff: Learn more about Wales' capital and cultural hub, Cardiff, as you enjoy an orientation of this vibrant city with your Travel Director.
- Bath: Admire UNESCO-listed Bath, with its elegant Georgian façades and the bimillenial Roman Baths from which the city takes its name.
- Bath: Visit the Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved ancient bathhouses in Northern Europe whose waters still flow today. Enjoy a personal exploration of the site, including the Sacred Spring, original Great Bath, temple remains and museum displays of artifacts uncovered on site. This complex offers a clear view of public bathing and religious practices during the Roman occupation of Britain nearly 2,000 years ago.
- Stonehenge: Walk around the strange, awe-inspiring megaliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.
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.
Trip Details
Product Code: 28282
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Deluxe
Transport: Private
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles: Family, 55+, Luxury
Supplier Code: 42.81B
Starts: London, United Kingdom
Finishes: London, United Kingdom
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating: Easy
Includes
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $7875 (CAD $525 /day)
Itinerary
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.
Accommodation: The Clermont Victoria, London
Meet your Travel Director and journey to Stratford-upon-Avon, beautifully situated on the River Avon. Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare, full of interesting memorabilia and artifacts relating to his life. Continue on to York where you walk within the old city walls to the crooked houses of the Shambles and see York Minster, England’s largest medieval cathedral. Join your traveling companions for a warm and friendly dinner.
Accommodation: Hilton York
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Stop in Durham to see the castle and Romanesque cathedral. Then view part of Hadrian's Wall, Britain's most renowned Roman monument, once spanning 80 miles from coast-to-coast, marking the northern frontier of the mighty Roman Empire. Cross the Scottish border to reach the elegant Scottish capital, Edinburgh.
Accommodation: Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
Meals: Breakfast
Journey down the Royal Mile to see the Palace of Holyroodhouse - official Scottish residence of His Majesty the King - before crossing over to New Town. Next, walk with your Local Expert inside Edinburgh Castle for spectacular views of the town and to see Scotland's Crown Jewels and Mons Meg. The afternoon is free to shop on Princes Street. In the evening, select departures will enjoy the spectacle of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – a colorful mixture of historic battles and military manoeuvres with pipes and drums.
Accommodation: Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
Meals: Breakfast
Cross the Firth of Forth into Fife. Make your way to St. Andrews, home to the Old Course and birthplace of golf. Enjoy free time to explore. Perhaps stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed? Your travels continue as you cross the Tay river. Journey via Blair Atholl and past the Grampian Mountains to the sparkling Spey Valley. Later, continue to Inverness and your hotel.
Accommodation: Kingsmills, Inverness, The Glen Mhor
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning, travel along Loch Ness and hear tales of the famous Nessie. Continue your journey through some of the most stunning scenery in all of Scotland, found in the region of Glencoe. Reach the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond and admire the incredible scenery as you cruise what is arguably one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs, while enjoying a light lunch. Cross the English border before arriving at your lakeside hotel.
Accommodation: Castle Green, Kendal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In the morning, discover the beauty of the Lake District. Continue to your hotel in Liverpool. In the afternoon, why not join The Beatles City Tour Optional Experience?
Accommodation: Maldron, Liverpool
Meals: Breakfast
Today, continue through Wales and see the massive Conwy Castle before crossing over to the Isle of Anglesey. The village with the longest name in Europe will be visible - see if you are able to read it aloud! From the port of Holyhead, set sail for Dublin in Ireland.
Accommodation: Hilton , Trinity City Hotel, Dublin
Meals: Breakfast
Experience Ireland's national world-famous drink with a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. Gain a fascinating insight into the history and traditions behind its production. Later, become acquainted with Dublin’s elegant squares during sightseeing with a Local Expert. See famous O’Connell Street, the Custom House and Dublin Castle. For the rest of the afternoon, you are free to soak up the Irish atmosphere or browse the shops along Grafton Street.
Accommodation: Hilton , Trinity City Hotel, Dublin
Meals: Breakfast
Travel to Ireland's premier thoroughbred horse breeding region for a fascinating, behind-the-scenes visit of the National Stud with an equine professional. You then visit the acclaimed 100-year-old Japanese Gardens, where you can 'journey through life.' Cross the rolling pastures that encircle Tipperary to Brookfield Farm and join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Meet Ailbhe Gerrard, a passionate farmer and beekeper, who shares her secrets to crafting the most delicious and sustainable honey of the island over a delicious Farm-to-Table lunch.
Accommodation: The Gleneagle, Killarney
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
In the morning, join a delightful trip around the Ring of Kerry, a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands and remote villages. Get a sense of the unhurried pace of Irish life as you pass through Ireland’s highest mountain range and make your way to the three peaceful Lakes of Killarney. Explore Killarney with Brendan Choice. Choose a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, join a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle, admiring the incredible scenery of the National Park. While there aren't any mountains to climb, walkers should be fit, have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and rain gear. At night, your Dine-Around Evening offers authentic and intimate dining with your friends, from a hand-picked selection of fine local restaurants.
Accommodation: The Gleneagle, Killarney
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Explore Blarney with Brendan Choice. Choose to climb up the ramparts and see the famous Stone of Eloquence. Alternatively, visit the lush gardens of the estate with a senior gardener. Travel on through the scenic port of Dungarvan to the historic walled city of Waterford, with its 11th century Reginald Tower. Enjoy a guided visit of the world-famous House of Waterford Crystal and meet a master crafter. In the evening, after miles of fun and fascinating sights, spirits will be high during your dinner. Toast to your newfound friends — Sláinte!
Accommodation: Granville, Waterford
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
From the port of Rosslare, board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea. A pleasant drive will then take you into the rural scenery of Pembrokeshire. Continue past the valleys of southern Wales to the capital, Cardiff, famous for its imposing castle and brilliant Principality Stadium.
Accommodation: Clayton, Cardiff
Meals: Breakfast
Visit the well-preserved Roman Baths, before crossing the Salisbury Plain for a visit to mysterious Stonehenge - no-one can be sure why they were built, or even how prehistoric man could move such huge blocks of stone. Upon your return to London you are at leisure for the rest of the day.
Accommodation: The Clermont Victoria, London
Meals: Breakfast
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast.
Meals: Breakfast
Tour Operator
Brendan Vacations (CA)
In Business Since 1931
Reviews
Cynthia - Traveled, June 2025
Customer service was outstanding! No problems with booking trip but did use my own airline provider. Fabulous itinerary! Great variety of activities and lots of extra options too. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable about the historical landmarks and made the tour very enjoyable. The itinerary was fast paced but well worth it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/21/2025
Anonymous - Traveled, June 2025
Outstanding service. It was great to be taken directly to the front of the hotel & our bags were delivered to our rooms efficiently, so we could relax. Our Tour Guide was Peter Staff he was fantastic & so knowledgeable & entertaining, so everywhere we went we heard all the history & stories of the past. We had two drivers over this period, Chris & Garry, both very skilled, friendly & helpful. It was very relaxing to sit back in comfort & take in the amazing sights. I'm so glad we didn't have to drive ourselves & find car parks & destinations, Insight did all the hard work for us!! Great to see Britain & Ireland in this well organised & planned tour. We were able to see most of the best tourist attractions in 2 weeks.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/20/2025
S Geis - Traveled, June 2025
Very much enjoyed the tour. The accommodations were very comfortable and the optional experiences well rounded off what the tour itself was lacking. There were a couple of minor and inconvenient glitches but nothing that totally ruined the experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/16/2025
Anonymous - Traveled, May 2025
Very professional and fun both the tour director and the bus driver. Well set up and quite busy. Seems as if you're packing and unpacking constantly. Not really a "relaxing" tour. Be prepared to get up early and go to bed early.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/15/2025
Cheryl Cox - Traveled, June 2025
Our questions were always answered and if a solution was needed, it was fulfilled promptly. It was very well planned and executed. The hotels were wonderful and the best part was our Tour Director, Sicily. She was very knowledgeable about the stops on our itinerary and the places in between.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/26/2025
Barbara Terry - Traveled, June 2025
They were very responsive to any issue we had which were very few. It is a world wind tour but still gives opportunity to explore on your own. Be ready for the ride and don't get in a hurry. Good things come to those who wait.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/26/2025
Debbie - Traveled, June 2025
Tour director *Personal information removed by Feefo* was brilliant, is historical knowledge was amazing. He was also very approachable and caring when it came to ill passengers. Great trip but if I had my chance again I would do a longer trip. I would love to see more.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/25/2025
Anonymous - Traveled, June 2025
We love the fact that we do not have to handle our luggage and it is brought to our room each evening upon arrival at every new hotel this is just something else you don't have to worry about on vacation. We are able to go explore and see the sites while someone else is doing things behind the scenes. It is also convenient that when you are with a group do not usually have to wait in line to go see things as you go right inside nor are you having to deal with parking we very much enjoy doing coach Tours. The tour is a great sampling of the four countries and I don't feel it was done too quickly. We had a great driver and an excellent tour director to make all of this happen as well it was a smaller group and a much enjoyable time. We enjoy doing the coach travel because we are able to see the countryside and places along the way. We would definitely recommend this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/23/2025
Anonymous - Traveled, May 2025
Our trip was amazing!! *Personal information removed by Feefo* did an outstanding job. Thank you.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/15/2025
JC Magnuson - Traveled, May 2025
Could not have had a better service experience! Tour directory Sicily was great. Good attempts were made to get us to locations ahead of potential crowds. No complaints! Great itinerary that covered many highlights of the UK. Incredible and knowledgeable tour director- Sicily and bus driver *Personal information removed by Feefo* that took excellent care of us. Many good optional excursions. One of our "Dine Around" restaurants could have been better as the food was fair and we were hurried through the meal.. Great centrally located accommodations. Covering the same ground with an extra day would have been nice. Note that this was our 6th Insight tour and already thinking about our next one! Very happy customers!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/14/2025
Mark Cox - Traveled, May 2025
We had no idea what to expect! Upon airport arrival we were picked and taken to the hotel where we were met with help who took care of our luggage and escorted us to our room. This was the case with every stop, we never good service expected service. Far outweighs any place in my own country! Our tour director and driver were awesome, highly recommend the tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/14/2025
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