Tour

Castles & Kingdoms
from USD 14850

Luxury Gold

Tour Code: CG259MM119
Vacation Type: Luxury Gold
Brochure:
Duration: 20 Days
Countries: United Kingdom, Ireland

From London to Edinburgh and over the Irish Sea to Belfast and Killarney this adventure across Ireland and Great Britain pairs iconic sights with once in a lifetime experiences. Join the Yeoman Warder at the Tower of London and bear witness to the Ceremony of the Keys, the oldest practiced military tradition in the world. In Northern Ireland, join a local ranger to explore the spectacular Giant’s Causeway and in England, journey to the majestic 11th-century Alnwick Castle—known to many from the Harry Potter films. On Founder’s Collection departures, meet her Grace the Duchess of Northumberland for a private tour of the castle gardens followed by a seasonal lunch. The Activity Level of this tour is Balanced, meaning there is 1 to 3 miles of walking per day which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.



Castles & Kingdoms Luxury Tour Map

Intra Tour Air

  • Intra Tour Air Edinburgh to Belfast

Intra Tour Air Tax

  • Intra Tour Air Tax Edinburgh to Belfast

Transfer Airport

  • Chargeable Trf Cong Hotel to Dublin Airport

Td Tips

  • Prepaid Gratuities G259

Transfer Airport

  • Complimentary Transfer LHR Airport to Hotel
  • Complimentary Trf Cong Hotel to Shannon Airport

Dining Summary

  • 8 Dinner (D)
  • 19 Breakfast (B)
  • 5 Lunch (L)

Choice Highlights

  • Choose between two carefully selected activities
  • Bath: Visit the historic Roman Baths, which draw from Britain’s only natural mineral springs and gave the Georgian city its name. This remarkably preserved historic site was once a gathering spot for Romans to bathe and socialise over 2,000 years ago.
  • Bath: Visit the immersive Jane Austen Centre dedicated to the writer who lived here in the early 1800s and used the city as a setting for two of her novels. Learn about her life, her works and the Regency period from entertaining actors.
  • Choose between two carefully selected activities
  • York: Embark on a leisurely guided tour to the grand York Minster, an excellent example of Gothic architecture.
  • York: Get active and follow a Local Expert as you walk on the 13th century city walls and you soak up the spectacular views of River Ouse and the Old Town.
  • Choose between two carefully selected activities
  • Edinburgh: Visit the 17th century Mary King's Close with a Local Expert, walk in the footsteps of former residents and unlock fascinating stories from Edinburgh's sometimes dark past.
  • Edinburgh: Try a wee dram of whisky as you embark on a tasting experience of this Scottish staple.
  • Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse before it opens to the public and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
  • Dublin: Discover a world of flavours during a tour and whiskey tasting at Pearse Lyons Distillery, home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey. 
  • Choose between two carefully selected activities
  • Ashford Castle: Take part in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland.
  • Ashford Castle: Join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old Castle, that was once the home of the Guinness family.

Additional Included Highlights

  • : Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
  • : In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level.  ​
  • : Included at all hotels.
  • : Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.
  • : Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.
  • : On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.​
  • : Enjoy complimentary hotel��WiFi. And, on select coaches, onboard WiFi may also be available.
  • : Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.

Curated Experiences

  • London: You’re invited to the Tower of London to experience the Ceremony of the Keys, the oldest practiced military ceremony in the world. At your special after-hours visit you’ll get an inside look at the 700-year-old tradition that stood the tests of even the most tumultuous times. 
  • Dublin: Meet esteemed author Trevor White on a rare, personal after-hours tour of The Little Museum of Dublin, which he founded. You'll learn about his work, his life as a Dublin local and what it means to be a Dubliner.
  • York: Feeling like the star of a period drama, you’ll enter the 18th century mansion for a private tour of the house.

Exceptional Dining

  • London: Dine in style at the lavish English Grill Restaurant, just across the road from Buckingham Palace. Enjoy your Welcome Dinner prepared by executive chef Ben Kelliher using only the finest English produce and the same suppliers who serve the King’s kitchen.
  • Bath: Experience an exquisite Michelin-starred lunch at the Olive Tree restaurant. A fresh, seasonal menu, curated by award-winning Head Chef Chris Cleghorn, offers classic flavours combined with modern techniques. Relax in the chic, yet informal atmosphere and enjoy the best of British cuisine.
  • Dublin: Dine at a hand-picked gastropub in the heart of Dublin. Discover the favourite dishes of local people and enjoy a hearty meal in the unique ambiance of this thriving city. 
  • York: Visit one of Britain's finest historic houses, Castle Howard. Enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea in the Grecian Hall.
  • Killarney: Join locals at their home this evening for dinner with entertainment and dancing. 
  • Kenmare: Let your tastebuds be delighted with a delicious lunch at the historic Park Hotel, set among manicured gardens running to the lapping shores of Kenmare Bay.
  • Edinburgh: Enjoy meal of fine dishes made with local produce to rounds off your day in the Scottish Capital, accompanied by music from a bagpiper.
  • Belfast: Introduce yourself to Belfast the right way, with a hearty meal in a specially selected local restaurant.
  • Ashford Castle: Dine in the cozy surrounds of Cullen's at the Cottage, a traditional thatched cottage where you’ll be greeted with delicious aromas. Savour freshly-cooked local and international dishes in this former cinema, which premiered ‘The Quiet Man’ before Hollywood.
  • Ashford Castle: Celebrate in royal style amongst the chandeliers and panelled walls of the historic George V Dining Room, named for the monarch who dined here in 1906 when he was the Prince of Wales. Chef Philippe Farineau presents a delicious menu for your evening.

Magnificent Stays

  • York: Housed in the iconic former headquarters of the prestigious North Eastern Railway Company, the five-star Grand Hotel & Spa places you minutes away from museums, shops and the River Ouse. 
  • Ashford Castle: The remarkable 800-year-old Ashford Castle is Ireland’s only Forbes five-star hotel and was once home to the Guinness family. With its spectacular surroundings, interiors, on-site dining and fantastic hospitality team, you’ll be greeted with a world-famous Irish Welcome at this beautifully restored hotel.

Make Travel Matter

  • Giant's Causeway: Visit this astounding natural phenomenon on a private tour with a wildlife ranger. Hear more about the formation of the UNESCO World Heritage Site around 50 million years ago and the fantastic folklore that surrounds it. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience learn about the conservation efforts in place that support the natural habitat and animal populations. 
  • Belfast: On the banks of Strangford Lough in County Down, an area of outstanding natural beauty, step inside Tracey's Farmhouse, an enchanting cottage for a home hosted culinary experience. Get to know Tracey as she shows you around her organic farm and explains her cooking philosophy. Learn how to make traditional Irish soda bread before indulging in a seasonal, Farm-to-Table lunch. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience focuses on seasonal produce, organically grown ingredients and sourcing from the immediate community. Tracey's Farmhouse is actively practicing and encouraging the slow food movement and doesn't rely on air miles.

Passport Moments

  • London: Your passionate Local Expert will lead you from Westminster to Piccadilly Circus as they recount fascinating tales of London and its famous landmarks. Pass by the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, and Trafalgar Square as you explore the English capital.
  • London: Step through history at Horse Guards Parade, the ceremonial grounds of St James Park in the shadow of Buckingham Palace. Discover the secrets of a cavalryman’s uniform in the Household Cavalry Museum before trying on the royal clothes yourself.
  • Londonderry: Meet Ronan McNamara, the finest storyteller in Northern Ireland, with a tale for every corner of his hometown. Alongside Ronan, enjoy a tour of beautiful Londonderry, one of the finest walled cities in Europe.
  • Stonehenge: Visit the mysterious circle of upright stones, the best known prehistoric site in Europe. Experience the lives led by Neolithic builders 3,500 years ago and admire the selection of archaeological treasures that have been unearthed in this place.
  • Bath: Be taken through the grand historic sights of Bath with a private orientation tour. See the majestic Royal Terrace, the inspiring architecture of Bath Abbey, and, the stately Pulteney Bridge, completed in 1774.
  • Bath: Join a Local Expert for an insightful tour revealing the town's history.
  • Dublin: Join a student for a guided exploration of historic Trinity College, which was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. Visit the iconic Book of Kells, the beautiful manuscript hand painted by monks, that dates back to ca. 800 AD.
  • Dublin: Take a tour through the cobbled streets of Dublin with your Travel Concierge, who’ll share stories and facts about the local area. See O’Connell Street with the imposing General Post Office, the neo-classical Custom House and historic Dublin Castle.
  • Cotswolds: Journey through the Cotswolds, one of the most quintessential and unspoiled regions of England, famous for gentle, rolling hillsides known as ‘wolds’, green river valleys and historic market towns, where time has stood still for over 300 years.
  • Stratford-upon-Avon: Fans of the famous playwright, William Shakespeare, will love exploring this vibrant town where he was born. This cultural centre still has many rows of attractive half-timbered houses that date back to the 16th century.
  • Glendalough: Enjoy visiting Glendalough (the valley of two lakes) where a Local Expert will guide you through this early medieval monastic site, which has a rich history. The glacial valley also offers beautiful scenery to explore.
  • Cashel: Reputed to be where St. Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity in the 5th century, Cashel is a pretty medieval town where the High Kings once sat. See the spectacular Rock of Cashel, the well-preserved fortress that dates from the 11th century.
  • Blarney: Explore the grounds of Blarney Castle and its gardens built nearly six hundred years ago by the MacCarthy branch of the Kings of Desmond. See where so many have kissed the famous stone to get the legendary gift of the gab.
  • Ullswater: Enjoy a scenic cruise on one of England's most beautiful lakes.
  • Alnwick Castle: Join a Local Expert for an in-depth exploration of the 11th century castle, with its striking medieval architecture and see why it was featured in the Harry Potter films.
  • Ring of Kerry: Take in the beauty around you as you explore The Ring of Kerry on the Iveragh Peninsula, passing through whimsical coastal villages and magnificent landmarks such as Ross Castle. This scenic drive is one of the most famous in Ireland.
  • Dingle Peninsula: Enjoy a scenic drive around the dramatic Dingle peninsula, a magical landscape of sandy beaches and craggy sea cliffs. These winding roads and aesthetic ruins have inspired films such as "Ryan’s Daughter" and "Star Wars: Episode VIII".
  • Adare: Admire the beauty of the charming village of Adare during a village with your Travel Concierge. Famous for its thatched-roof cottages and pretty streets, this quaint haven offers idyllic photo opportunities.
  • Limerick: Delve into the history of Limerick, one of Ireland’s oldest cities, founded by the Vikings, during an orientation with your insightful Travel Concierge. You'll get to see St John’s Castle, St Mary's Cathedral and the Treaty Stone, signed in 1691.
  • Edinburgh: A Local Expert guides you around magnificent Edinburgh Castle, perched on a black basalt outcrop. Discover the site’s 900-year history and take in the spectacular panoramic views over the city’s most famous landmarks.
  • Edinburgh: Wander along Princes Street with your Local Expert, past the Gothic Sir Walter Scott Monument, and continue down the old-world Royal Mile to the gates of Holyrood Palace, the principal residence of Scottish royalty since the 16th century, and the Queen’s official Edinburgh lodgings.
  • Cliffs of Moher: Gaze across the waves of the Atlantic Ocean from the Cliffs of Moher as you stop along the Wild Atlantic Way. Call into the Visitor Experience and catch panoramic views from the 185-year-old O’Brien’s tower at the edge of the 800-foot cliffs.
  • Galway: Take in the lively atmosphere of this cultural destination on an orientation of Galway with your engaging Travel Concierge. You'll find bustling streets, fun boutiques and quirky art galleries in this quintessentially Irish harbour city. Don’t be surprised if someone bursts into song!
  • Ashford Castle: Arrive to the famous Ashford Castle, where you’ll be escorted over the drawbridge by a lone piper, in a manner fit for royalty. This haunting sound echoes the signal given to troops in battle announcing the end of the day.

Personalise Your Day

  • Bath: Visit the historic Roman Baths, which draw from Britain’s only natural mineral springs and gave the Georgian city its name. This remarkably preserved historic site was once a gathering spot for Romans to bathe and socialise over 2,000 years ago.
  • Bath: Visit the immersive Jane Austen Centre dedicated to the writer who lived here in the early 1800s and used the city as a setting for two of her novels. Learn about her life, her works and the Regency period from entertaining actors.
  • Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse before it opens to the public and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
  • Dublin: Discover a world of flavours during a tour and whiskey tasting at Pearse Lyons Distillery, home of cocktail exploration and modern Irish whiskey. 
  • York: Embark on a leisurely guided tour to the grand York Minster, an excellent example of Gothic architecture.
  • York: Get active and follow a Local Expert as you walk on the 13th century city walls and you soak up the spectacular views of River Ouse and the Old Town.
  • Edinburgh: Visit the 17th century Mary King's Close with a Local Expert, walk in the footsteps of former residents and unlock fascinating stories from Edinburgh's sometimes dark past.
  • Edinburgh: Try a wee dram of whisky as you embark on a tasting experience of this Scottish staple.
  • Ashford Castle: Take part in a unique falconry experience at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland.
  • Ashford Castle: Join a guided historical tour of the 800-year-old Castle, that was once the home of the Guinness family.

  • The Rubens at the Palace, London.
  • Francis Hotel, Bath.
  • The Grand Hotel & Spa, York
  • Merewood Country House Hotel, Lake District
  • Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh.
  • Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
  • Dylan Hotel, Dublin.
  • Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny.
  • The Dunloe, Killarney.
  • The Savoy Hotel, Limerick.
  • Ashford Castle, Cong.
Day 1 Welcome To London

Your UK luxury tour begins with a private chauffeur to your five-star hotel, Rubens at the Palace. Here you are welcomed with the royal treatment from their red tail-coated doormen. Tonight, enjoy sumptuous British fare at the English Grill Restaurant.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: The Rubens at the Palace, London.

Day 2 Traditions And Treasures Of London

Hear the bells of Big Ben and admire the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Enter bustling Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus before visiting the Household Cavalry Museum. After the sun sets and London lights up, you’re treated to a private, after-hours tour of the Tower of London and the historic Ceremony of the Keys.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: The Rubens at the Palace, London.

Day 3 Stonehenge And Georgian Bath Relaxed Start

Savour a Relaxed Start of breakfast-in-bed if you choose, before standing in awe of mysterious Stonehenge, Britain's best-known UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself further into British history as you travel to Bath. Stroll the streets lined with Georgian architecture feeling as though you’ve stepped into a classic English novel.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Francis Hotel, Bath.

Day 4 Explore Bath Relaxed Start

Personalise your day in this charming town with a visit to the Jane Austen Centre or visit the Roman Baths and Georgian Pump Room, Britain’s only natural hot springs. Share the highlights of your morning over locally sourced dishes at the Michelin-starred Olive Tree restaurant.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Francis Hotel, Bath.

Day 5 Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-avon And York

Find yourself travelling through a storybook in the Cotswolds where rolling green hills welcome you into the valleys of these charming towns. Continue to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, and admire quaint Tudor cottages. Your day concludes in York where cobbled streets, classic tearooms and Gothic buildings lure you further into the past.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: The Grand Hotel & Spa, York

Day 6 Medieval Wonders Of York Relaxed Start

Step back into the Middle Ages in York joining an expert-led tour of the York Minster or a walk on the 13th-century city walls. Enter the stately Castle Howard through landscaped gardens before sitting down to a traditional English afternoon tea and private tour of the house.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: The Grand Hotel & Spa, York

Day 7 The Wild And Poetic Lake District

Let the beauty of the Lake District inspire you as you cruise shimmering Ullswater Lake, taking in some of the best views of this region. Later, check into the lovingly restored country house overlooking Lake Windermere.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Merewood Country House Hotel, Lake District

Day 8 Alnwick Castle

Discover majestic Alnwick Castle’s magnificent interiors with a Local Expert before exploring Edinburgh's beautiful, walkable city. Should you visit during August, witness The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of the most spectacular military concerts and celebration of the history, heritage and colours of Scotland’s regiments.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh.

Day 9 Highlights Of Beautiful Edinburgh

Explore the grounds of Edinburgh’s “castle on the hill,” as your guide unlocks more than 900-years of history. Personalise your afternoon visiting the 17th-century Mary King's Close or with a stimulating whisky tasting. After a private performance from a former bagpiper to the Royals, a meal of fine dishes such as Scottish Border brisket of beef or poached fillet of sole, rounds off your final day.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh.

Day 10 Edinburgh To Belfast

Journey to your luxurious hotel in Belfast for a relaxing three-night stay in the heart of the city centre. Pop up to The Observatory bar where glittering views stretch into the distance. Get to know the tastes of the town at a local restaurant.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.

Day 11 Giant's Causeway And Londonderry

Experience Northern Ireland's most spectacular geological wonder, the UNESCO Listed Giant's Causeway on a private tour with a Local Ranger. On arrival in Londonderry, Local Guide Ronan, one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, will captivate you with his deep knowledge of history and politics.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.

Day 12 Strangford Lough And Vibrant Dublin

Sweet aromas and a slow food ethos await at Tracey's Farmhouse. Explore the organic farm and learn how to make traditional Irish soda bread before enjoying a farm-to-table lunch. Continue to Dublin for a tour of the city’s key sights including a tasting experience at the Guinness Storehouse, or tour Pearse Lyons Distillery and enjoy a whiskey tasting.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Dylan Hotel, Dublin.

Day 13 A Truly Irish Experience

A visit to Trinity College unveils the 9th century Book of Kells. At a VIP, after-hours visit to the Little Museum of Dublin, sip prosecco with the founder before dinner.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Dylan Hotel, Dublin.

Day 14 Glendalough To Kilkenny Relaxed Start

After a Relaxed Start of breakfast-in-bed if you choose, explore Glendalough, the "glen of two lakes" with a Local Expert. Stroll Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile linking Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral. Your own historic residence, Lyrath Estate, is set within sprawling acres of lakes, gardens and woodlands.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny.

Day 15 Banter In Blarney

See classic Ireland in Cashel, famous for its medieval structures including the spectacular Rock of Cashel. Visit Blarney Castle to take part in the legend of kissing the Blarney Stone. This evening join the locals at a home hosted dinner with entertainment and dancing.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: The Dunloe, Killarney.

Day 16 Scenic Ring Of Kerry Relaxed Start

Journey into Killarney National Park, winding along the iconic Ring of Kerry. Travel back in time with a traditional jaunting car ride, enjoying views of Ireland's highest Mountain Range, the MacGillycuddy's Reeks. Explore the town of Kenmare before indulging in a gourmet lunch at the Park Hotel.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: The Dunloe, Killarney.

Day 17 Exploring Limerick

Admire dramatic mountains and windswept sands along Dingle Peninsula. In Adare, discover the charming thatched-roof cottages, castles and abbeys before continuing to Limerick to see the best of the city including St. Mary's Cathedral and Limerick's Treaty Stone.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: The Savoy Hotel, Limerick.

Day 18 Regal County Mayo

Breathtaking views continue through County Clare to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway. Your stay at the 5-star Ashford Castle begins with a royal welcome as a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge to this estate, once home to the Guinness family. Tonight, savour specialties from a seasonal menu at the Castle’s Cullen's at the Cottage.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Ashford Castle, Cong.

Day 19 Majestic Ashford Castle Relaxed Start

Indulge in another Relaxed Start with the option of breakfast in-bed room service. Get acquainted with elegant birds of prey at the oldest established falconry school in Ireland or delve into the Castle’s history on a guided historical tour. Then treat yourself to a spa or stroll the magnificent castle grounds. End the last full day of your Belfast to Shannon luxury tour dining in style at the esteemed George V Dining Room.

Duration: 1 Day

Accommodation: Ashford Castle, Cong.

Day 20 Depart Shannon

Conclude your travels in Ireland with a private transfer to Shannon Airport.

Duration: 1 Day

Departs On Returns On Single OccupancyTwin Room Definite Departure  
Thu, 11 Jul 2024 Wed, 31 Jul 2024 USD 18,340USD 15,050
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Thu, 19 Sep 2024 Wed, 09 Oct 2024 USD 18,100USD 14,850
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