Day 1: Welcome to London
London bids you a warm welcome to its regal traditions and centuries-old heritage. Stroll through its Royal Parks to relax after your journey, or take to its streets to admire elegant facades merged with the modern verve of a global capital that marches to its own multi-cultural tune.
Day 2: Stratford-upon-Avon, York and on to Harrogate
Join your Travel Director today and delve into centuries of history - tales of star-crossed lovers, tragic kings and Roman emperors are brought to life as you visit Stratford-upon-Avon and follow in the footsteps of Shakespeare. Visit his Birthplace and the Visitor Center, before embarking on your drive north to the Viking city of York, where you'll enjoy an orientation walk around its historic streets. View the cobbled Shambles, see the ancient city walls and the magnificent York Minster. This evening, enjoy dinner in the Victorian spa town of Harrogate.
Day 3: Through the Scenic Lake District to Glasgow
Journey through the Yorkshire Dales National Park to the beautiful Lake District, which has inspired poets and writers for centuries. A highlight on your journey is England's pretty Lake Windermere, which you’ll pass as you continue through countryside made famous by the poet William Wordsworth. Cross the border, into Scotland, to the runaway wedding capital of Gretna Green. Here eloping couples would tie the knot over the Marriage Anvil. Drive through the Southern Uplands to vibrant Glasgow where your orientation will take you past Glasgow Cathedral and George Square. Tonight, consider joining an Optional Experience featuring a fabulous dinner and Scottish entertainment.
Day 4: Explore Enchanting Edinburgh
From the cultural capital of Glasgow to enchanting Edinburgh with its exquisite medieval facades. Admire the elegant Georgian architecture in the New Town, see the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse, the new Scottish Parliament and the Royal Mile with a Local Specialist on a memorable sightseeing tour. Afterwards enjoy an included visit to Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city. Later, wander through the secret lanes of Auld Reekie before returning to Glasgow this evening for a delicious locally-sourced meal at Mharsanta restaurant during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience.
Day 5: Cross the Irish Sea to Belfast and Dublin
Follow the rugged Ayrshire coast, past the island of Ailsa Craig, the stepping stone from Ireland to Scotland. Board the ferry to Northern Ireland, then join a Local Specialist to explore the crossroads of British and Irish culture in Belfast. You’ll view City Hall and the dock where the Titanic was built. This evening, arrive in the vibrant capital of Ireland where you'll spend the next two nights.
Day 6: Discover Diverse Dublin
Drive through the pretty streets of Dublin with a Local Specialist to admire the stately Georgian Squares, Trinity College and St. Patrick's Cathedral, the tallest church in Ireland. Spend time exploring the sights on your own—ramble through Temple Bar or Grafton Street, famous for its colorful street performers. Then, Dive Into Culture and discover the fascinating 250-year-old story of Guinness at its original home, the Guinness Storehouse. Top it off with a taste in their Gravity Bar while you enjoy the panoramic views of Dublin. This evening, consider joining an Optional Experience to a rousing Irish cabaret performance.
Day 7: Journey to Kilkenny and on to Waterford
Gain insights into rearing world-class thoroughbreds at the Irish National Stud established in 1946. Enjoy a guided walk through the farm and take some time to stroll through its tranquil Japanese Gardens, regarded as the best in Europe. Admire the imposing medieval castle at Kilkenny before some free time for lunch. The next stop sees you Dive Into Culture to witness the delicate craft of Waterford Crystal. Watch master crafters at work during a tour of the workshop and see the exquisitely crafted pieces in the showroom.
Day 8: Ferry Across to Cultural Cardiff
An early start to your sightseeing today sees you cross the Irish Sea to Wales by ferry and continue your journey to the Welsh capital of Cardiff to view the Wales Millennium Center, National Assembly and historic Cardiff Castle, in the heart of the city. This evening, join a local family for a Be My Guest experience in the idyllic Welsh countryside. Visit the oldest and largest vineyard in Wales, you’ll learn how the Norris family are using sustainable farming practices and get to meet some of the resident animals that roam the land freely. You’ll enjoy a homemade meal, enchanting stories of rural life in Wales and warm Welsh hospitality, leaving with the knowledge that your visit supports the family in their efforts to farm sustainably.
Day 9: Soak up Bath and Stonehenge then off to London
Traversing the Severn Estuary into England, arrive in the glorious UNESCO-listed city of Bath, with its elegant Georgian facades and visit the world-famous Roman Baths. Journey across the scenic landscapes of Wiltshire, paying a visit to the mysterious megalithic stone circle of Stonehenge, then return to London.
Day 10: Farewell London
Say farewell to your traveling companions at the end of your vacation, as you prepare to travel home with wonderful memories.
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