ULTIMATE ENGLAND, SCOTLAND & IRELANDS 16N/17D

DAY 1: Arrival in London – Welcome, Hotel Check-In & Orientation

Upon arrival at London’s international airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional tour staff for a smooth Meet & Greet experience. After a comfortable transfer, check in to your centrally located hotel in London, where you can relax and refresh after your journey.

Later in the day, join us for a comprehensive London tour orientation led by our experienced tour manager, designed to provide valuable insights into your upcoming UK travel experience. Enjoy a delicious welcome dinner and unwind with an overnight stay at your hotel in London.

DAY 2:  London Landmarks & British Craft Heritage

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of London’s most iconic sights.

Visit the majestic Tower of London (UNESCO World Heritage Site), marvel at the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, and soak in the historic atmosphere of Trafalgar Square. Step inside Westminster Abbey, the site of royal coronations and resting place of many great Britons (UNESCO zone).

Later, enjoy a scenic Thames River Cruise, offering sweeping views of London’s skyline and waterfront heritage.

In the afternoon, enjoy optional cultural experiences exploring Britain’s artisanal legacy:

• Stroll through Camden Market or Spitalfields Market, where you’ll find independent designers, hand-crafted jewellery, leather goods, and more.

• Visit the world-renowned Savile Row, the heart of British bespoke tailoring, and discover the art of handcrafted suits that have dressed royals and statesmen.

Overnight in London.

DAY 3:  Royal Windsor & Historic Oxford Exploration

Start your day with a captivating visit to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and an official residence of the British monarch. Explore its magnificent State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel, steeped in royal history.

In the afternoon, journey to the prestigious city of Oxford, home to the world-famous University of Oxford. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the ancient colleges and cobbled streets, followed by visits to charming artisan shops specializing in traditional bookbinding and exquisite ceramics — perfect for lovers of craftsmanship and heritage.

Return to London for an overnight stay.

DAY 4: London to Bath – Roman Heritage & Glassblowing Workshop

Depart London and travel to the elegant city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture and Roman history.

Explore the ancient Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved Roman sites in Europe, and visit the magnificent Bath Abbey with its soaring Gothic architecture. Take a leisurely stroll around the iconic Royal Crescent, an architectural masterpiece and symbol of Bath’s grandeur.

As a special highlight, participate in an exclusive glassblowing demonstration or workshop at Bath Aqua Glass, where skilled artisans showcase the delicate craft of hand-blown glass. This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into one of England’s cherished traditional arts.

Dinner & Overnight in Bath.

DAY 6: York to Lake District & Glasgow – Scenic Beauty & Wool Craft Traditions

Depart York for a picturesque journey through the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its stunning landscapes of lakes, mountains, and charming villages.

Along the way, enjoy an optional stop at a Herdwick wool weaving studio, where you can witness traditional wool crafting techniques and browse a selection of handmade woollen products—a perfect opportunity to experience the region’s rich textile heritage.

Arrive in Glasgow for an orientation tour of Scotland’s largest city, discovering its vibrant culture and historic architecture.

Overnight in Glasgow.

Day 11: Belfast to Sligo – Giant’s Causeway, Derry & Irish Artisan Crafts

Travel along Northern Ireland’s dramatic coastline and uncover natural wonders, historic towns, and traditional craftsmanship.

• Begin the day with a visit to the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and geological marvel formed by ancient volcanic activity. Walk among the mysterious hexagonal basalt columns that have inspired legends for centuries.

• Continue to Derry/Londonderry, a historic walled city rich in cultural and political heritage. Enjoy a brief stop to explore the city walls or grab a bite in a local café.

• Optional Craft Experience: Browse unique handmade items at a local bog oak workshop or pewter artisan studio, showcasing Ireland’s ancient materials and skilled craftsmanship.

Overnight Stay in Sligo – a charming gateway to Ireland’s wild northwest.

DAY 7: Glasgow to Inverness via Loch Lomond & Fort William – Highland Landscapes & Traditional Crafts

Travel from Glasgow through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, pausing to admire the serene beauty of Loch Lomond, the dramatic landscapes around Fort William, and the majestic views of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK.

Along the route, take advantage of optional photo stops featuring local roadside craft sellers offering authentic tartan textiles and natural heather crafts, perfect for unique souvenirs reflecting Scotland’s rich artisanal traditions.

Arrive in Inverness, the cultural heart of the Highlands, for overnight stay.

DAY 8: Inverness to Edinburgh – Mystical Loch Ness, Cairngorms & Tartan Weaving

Begin your day with a visit to the legendary Loch Ness, where you can opt for a scenic cruise to soak in the mysterious waters and stunning surroundings.

Continue your journey through the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and rugged mountain landscapes.

As a highlight of the day, enjoy an included craft experience visiting a traditional tartan weaving mill, such as the iconic Highland House of Fraser, where skilled artisans demonstrate the time-honored process of creating Scotland’s famous patterned textiles.

Arrive in Edinburgh for an overnight stay in Scotland’s historic capital.

DAY 10:  Edinburgh to Belfast – Scenic Ferry Crossing & Northern Irish Heritage

Today, journey from Scotland to Northern Ireland as you transition from historic Edinburgh to the vibrant city of Belfast.

• Depart Edinburgh and enjoy a scenic drive to Cairnryan, where you’ll board a ferry across the Irish Sea to Belfast.

• Upon arrival, take a guided orientation tour of Belfast, highlighting key landmarks such as the grand Belfast City Hall and the revitalized Titanic Quarter, home to the world-famous Titanic Belfast museum.

• Optional Shopping Experience: Visit a boutique specializing in traditional Irish linen, a timeless craft and local treasure.

Dinner & Overnight Stay in Belfast – unwind and prepare for more Northern Irish discoveries tomorrow.

TOUR SUMMARY

Timeless Isles – A Journey Through Britain & Ireland with Artisan Touches

Embark on a captivating 17-day journey across England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland, where iconic landmarks meet rich cultural heritage and time-honoured craftsmanship. From London’s royal palaces and river cruises to the ancient spires of Oxford and the Roman elegance of Bath, you'll explore some of Britain’s most treasured UNESCO sites. Discover the charm of medieval York, the poetic lakes of the Lake District, and the dramatic beauty of the Scottish Highlands — all while enjoying hands-on experiences such as glassblowing in Bath, tartan weaving in Inverness, and browsing bespoke goods in artisan markets from Camden to the Cairngorms.

Cross the Irish Sea to Northern Ireland and the Republic, where legends and landscapes unfold in every direction — from the mystical Giant’s Causeway and the Neolithic wonders of Newgrange to the cultural vibrancy of Galway, Dublin, and beyond. Along the way, savour local craft traditions through optional stops at jewellery studios, woollen mills, calligraphy workshops, and harp makers. With expert-guided sightseeing, immersive cultural experiences, and carefully curated artisan encounters, this tour is more than a vacation — it's a storybook passage through the timeless soul of the British Isles.

DAY 9: Discover Historic Edinburgh – UNESCO Heritage Sites & Authentic Scottish Crafts

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage treasures with a day dedicated to cultural exploration and traditional craftsmanship.

• Begin your journey at the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock with panoramic views and centuries of royal history.

• Stroll down the Royal Mile, the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, lined with historic landmarks, charming pubs, and hidden closes.

• Admire the exterior of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.

• Enjoy breathtaking vistas over the city from Calton Hill, a perfect photo stop with classical monuments and skyline views.

Optional Artisan Experiences:
Enhance your experience with a visit to:

• A Scottish cashmere outlet, where you can browse luxurious, locally-made knitwear.

• Celtic jewellery makers or a Mackintosh-style design studio, celebrating Scotland’s unique artistic heritage.

Overnight Stay: Edinburgh – soak in the city’s timeless charm before retiring for the evening.

Detailed Itinerary. Best time: May- September

DAY 5: Bath to Stratford-upon-Avon & York – Shakespearean Heritage & Artisan Crafts

Depart Bath for a charming stop in Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Explore the town’s rich literary history and wander through quaint shops offering exquisite calligraphy and traditional Tudor woodcraft—perfect for those interested in authentic English craftsmanship.

Continue onward to the historic city of York, where you will stroll the atmospheric medieval Shambles, famed for its timber-framed buildings and boutique stores. Visit the awe-inspiring York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe.

For craft enthusiasts, enjoy an optional visit to local leather or ceramic studios, offering unique handmade goods rooted in regional traditions.

Dinner & Overnight in York.

Day 12: Sligo to Limerick – Galway Charm & the Majestic Cliffs of Moher

Today’s journey takes you through Ireland’s scenic west, blending vibrant city life, artisan crafts, and breathtaking natural beauty.

• Begin in the lively city of Galway, known for its artistic spirit and colourful streets. Stroll through the historic Latin Quarter, filled with music, street performers, and quaint shops.

  • Optional Craft Stop: Discover traditional Aran woollens, known for their intricate knit patterns, or browse handcrafted Celtic pottery, a reflection of Ireland’s rich design heritage.

• In the afternoon, travel to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, part of the UNESCO Global Geopark. Stand in awe of these towering sea cliffs as they plunge dramatically into the Atlantic Ocean — one of Ireland’s most unforgettable landscapes.

Overnight Stay in Limerick – a historic riverside city with its own medieval charm.

Day 13: The Ring of Kerry – Scenic Drive & Irish Craft Traditions

Embark on one of Ireland’s most iconic road trips — the Ring of Kerry, a full-day journey through postcard-perfect landscapes, charming villages, and rugged coastal beauty.

• Wind your way through the Iveragh Peninsula, where lush mountains meet sweeping seascapes. Highlights include panoramic viewpoints, quaint seaside towns, and glimpses of ancient stone forts and Celtic landmarks.

• Along the route, enjoy optional shopping stops to support local artisans — browse handmade Irish jewelry inspired by Celtic motifs, or admire traditional wood carvings crafted from native timbers.

Overnight Stay in Killarney, a vibrant town nestled beside lakes and national parkland — the perfect end to a day of scenic wonder.

Day 14: Blarney Castle & Waterford – Legendary Kisses and Crystal Craftsmanship

Step into Ireland’s storybook past with a visit to a world-famous castle and an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of the country’s finest artisan traditions.

• Begin your day at Blarney Castle, home to the legendary Blarney Stone. Climb the ancient stone tower and kiss the stone to gain the “gift of the gab” — a cherished Irish tradition for eloquence and charm.

• Continue to the historic city of Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, renowned for its centuries-old glassmaking heritage.

  • Enjoy an included craft experience at the Waterford Crystal Factory, where skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate process of hand-cut crystal — from molten glass to brilliant masterpieces.

Overnight Stay in Waterford – a charming blend of Viking roots and artisan elegance.

Day 15: Waterford to Dublin – Ancient Wonders & Arrival in Ireland’s Capital

Your journey through Ireland continues with a deep dive into its prehistoric past before arriving in the dynamic capital city of Dublin.

• Travel north to Newgrange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most important Neolithic passage tombs, dating back over 5,000 years — older than Stonehenge and the pyramids of Egypt.

  • Begin with a visit to the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, offering fascinating insights into the ancient culture, engineering marvels, and solar-aligned mysteries of the Boyne Valley tombs.

• In the afternoon, arrive in Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital, where Georgian elegance meets literary legacy and pub culture.

Overnight Stay in Dublin – unwind and prepare for your final day in this vibrant city.

Day 16: Discover Dublin – Cultural Icons & Farewell with Irish Craftsmanship

Conclude your Irish adventure in the heart of Dublin, a city steeped in literary greatness, medieval landmarks, and vibrant creative traditions.

• Begin the day with a visit to Trinity College, home to the breathtaking Book of Kells, a masterwork of early medieval illumination housed in the iconic Long Room Library.

• Explore the spiritual and architectural grandeur of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, stroll through the lively lanes of Temple Bar, and view the stately Dublin Castle from the exterior.

• Optional Cultural Craft Experiences:

  • Try your hand at a mini calligraphy or Celtic art workshop, drawing inspiration from Ireland’s rich manuscript heritage.

  • Visit a traditional harp maker or browse a manuscript reproduction studio, where Ireland’s ancient artistic legacy comes to life.

In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner accompanied by live Irish music — a spirited celebration of the culture, stories, and friendships made along the way.

Overnight Stay in Dublin – your final night in the Emerald Isle.

Day 17: Farewell Ireland – Departure from Dublin

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Dublin International Airport for your onward journey. As your tour comes to a close, depart with a heart full of cherished memories, breathtaking landscapes, new friendships—and perhaps a few handmade Irish souvenirs tucked in your bag.

TOUR ENDS