21-Nights Castles & Kingdoms from $18,050

Luxury Gold

OFFER ID 1556263

Castles & Kingdoms
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. 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.

Dining Summary

21 Breakfast (B)
9 Dinner (D)
4 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 Center 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.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Belfast: Join a Local Expert and enjoy a panoramic tour as they explain the city's turbulent history, evolution and current prosperity. On this tour, you'll see the City Hall, Queen's University, and the Parliament Building at Stormont.
Belfast: Join a local artist and discover Belfast through its street art and learn how this art form plays an essential role in forging a new narrative for this progressive city.
Dublin: No trip to Ireland would be complete without a taste of the black elixir of Ireland. Explore the Guinness Storehouse and learn how to pull the perfect pint.
Dublin: Discover a world of flavors 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 Wi-Fi. And, on select coaches, onboard Wi-Fi 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 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 flavors 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 favorite dishes of local people and enjoy a hearty meal in the unique ambiance of this thriving city.
York: Visit one of Britain's finest noble houses, Castle Howard, in an exclusive after-hours visit and enjoy a traditional English afte

21 nights from $18,050 per person

Itinerary

Luxury Gold: Castles & Kingdoms

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.
Accommodations: The Rubens at the Palace, London.
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 - Traditions and Treasures of London
Hear the bells of Big Ben and admire the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. View 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.
Accommodations: The Rubens at the Palace, London.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Stonehenge and Georgian Bath Relaxed Start
Savor a Relaxed Start 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.
Accommodations: Francis Hotel, Bath.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 - Explore Bath Relaxed Start
Personalise your day with a visit to the Jane Austen Center 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.
Accommodations: Francis Hotel, Bath.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5 - Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon and York
Travel through a storybook of rolling hills in the Cotswolds toward 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.
Accommodations: The Grand Hotel & Spa, York.
Meals: Breakfast

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.
Accommodations: The Grand Hotel & Spa, York.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

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.
Accommodations: Merewood Country House Hotel, Lake District.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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 colors of Scotland’s regiments.
Accommodations: Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh.
Meals: Breakfast

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 seasonal meal of fine dishes at award-winning Dine Edinburgh rounds off your final day.
Accommodations: Kimpton Charlotte Square, Edinburgh.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10 - Edinburgh to Belfast
Journey to your luxurious hotel in Belfast for a relaxing three-night stay in the heart of the city center. 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.
Accommodations: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 11 - Highlights of Belfast
Visit the world-class Titanic Museum for a vivid picture of the past , before customising your time in Belfast. Step out with Local Expert and explore the City Hall, prestigious Queen's University and Parliament Building at Stormont or meet a local artist to discover Belfast’s progressive street art.
Accommodations: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 - 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.
Accommodations: Grand Central Hotel, Belfast.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13 - Strangford Lough and Vibrant Dublin Relaxed Start
Continue to Dublin and explore the Guinness Storehouse learning how to pull the perfect pint or visit Pearse Lyons Distillery for a private tour and a cocktail.
Accommodations: Dylan Hotel, Dublin.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 14 - 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 museum founder Trevor White as he shares his local stories. Discover local dishes at our hand-picked gastropub in the heart of Dublin.
Accommodations: Dylan Hotel, Dublin.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 15 - Glendalough to Kilkenny Relaxed Start
After a Relaxed Start, 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.
Accommodations: Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 16 - Banter in Blarney
See monastic Ireland in Cashel, famous for the spectacular Rock of Cashel, also known as St. Patrick's Rock. 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.
Accommodations: The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens (Superior Rooms), Killarney.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 17 - 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.
Accommodations: The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens (Superior Rooms), Killarney.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 18 - Exploring Dingle Relaxed Start
Admire dramatic mountains and windswept sands along Dingle Peninsula. In Adare, discover the charming thatched-roof cottages, castles and abbeys before continuing to Galway's Glenlo Abbey, an 18th-century estate overlooking Lough Corrib.
Accommodations: Glenlo Abbey, Galway.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 19 - Exploring Limerick Relaxed Start
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.
Accommodations: The Savoy Hotel, Limerick.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 20 - Regal County Mayo Relaxed Start
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, savor specialties from a seasonal menu at the Castle’s Cullen's at the Cottage.
Accommodations: Ashford Castle, Cong.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 21 - 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.
Accommodations: Ashford Castle, Cong.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 22 - Depart Shannon
Conclude your travels in Ireland with a private transfer to Shannon Airport.
Meals: Breakfast

Featured Destinations

Cong

Limerick

Galway

Galway is a city, a county, and an experience to be savoured and remembered. The historic city of the tribes dances to a beat uniquely it's own. There is a certain chemistry and vibrancy to this friendly university city, which many delight in, and few forget. Music, festivals, horse racing, pubs, restaurants, shops, theatres and most of all -Galway people, combine to create this atmospheric medieval city of culture. From this pulsating heart the rest of the county flows.

Galway Bay, immortalised in song, its beauty unchanging. Scenic Gaeltacht areas including the Aran Islands. Connemara, with the picturesque town of Clifden as its capital. Mountains, castles and stone walls, banks of turf, long sandy beaches, clear lakes, joyful leaping streams and flowing rivers. The mighty Shannon, delightful countryside punctuated by pretty villages, traditional pubs.

Photo used with permission
from Joe Desbonnet, www.galway.net

Excursions

Inishmore, Aran Islands - 8 hours Full Day

On the very edge of Europe, is an Island rich in the language, culture and heritage of Ireland, unique in its geology and archaeology and in its long tradition of gentle hospitality. Here is a place to sense the spirit of Gaelic Ireland, to touch the past, but with all the comforts and facilities of the present. Aran will take you back to an Ireland of Celts and Early Christians. This is an island of great peace and tranquility, but it is also an island of great fun and activity. A timeless land in an endless sea, weathered monuments on awesome cliffs, great labyrinths of limestone, meandering walls, patchwork fields, quiet beaches and a welcoming island people.

This morning we will depart from Galway and take a ferry to Inishmore, the largest of the three islands, the other islands being Inishmaan and Inisheer. The Islands are located off the West Coast of Galway about 18km out from Rossaveal Harbour in Connemara. Inishmore is approx. 13km long, and contains 3,092 ha. with a native population of about 900. Kilronan the chief center and port.
Landing in Kilronan on Inishmore, you are met by your driver in a horse drawn buggy for a guided tour of the Island and visiting one of its more impressive stone forts called Dun Aonghasa. It is semi-circular structure, resting on the edge of a perpendicular cliff rising 100 meters out of the ocean. The fort consists of an inner court 50 meters across surrounded by a wall six meters high and five meters thick at the base.

Visit the Aran Islands Interpretative Centre which highlights the unique history, spirit and landscapes of the Aran Islands. The center details the geology, history and present lifestyle of the islands. See how the legendary currachs, those open-topped, often tar-coated, boats that skim over the waves, are made. Also on display are details of the fish species off the islands and how the islanders have long used seaweed to create patches of soil that could be cultivated for crops, in between the dry stone walls that crisscross the islands and divide its tiny fields. The islands' other craft traditions, including weaving of the famous Aran sweaters, are also documented.

Duration: 8 hours

Included:
Enjoy a pub lunch on Inishmore

Departing the island by ferry you return to Galway City.
Note: it is also possible to fly to Inishmore.

Pricing: Please inquire

Windermere

Shannon

Killarney

Kilkenny

Glendalough

Dublin

Dublin enjoys one of the loveliest natural settings in Europe. Dublin attracts visitors from around the world with its old world charm and friendly atmosphere. Most of the architecture dates from the 18th century, when Dublin enjoyed great prominence and prosperity. Also of interest are stately Georgian houses which front Merrion Square. O'Connell Street is considered the commercial center of Dublin. Perhaps the most memorable feature of Dublin is the traditional pub, where visitors can enjoy conversation over fine Irish brew. The city also offers many fine parks, including St. Stephen's Green and Phoenix Park. National Gallery's renowned collection includes works by such famous masters as Rembrandt and Monet. Trinity College's Old Library is home to the most cherished treasure, the Book of Kells, a manuscript of the Gospels. Admire Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy the exhibits in impressive National Museum. Self-guided walking tours include Old City Trail, Georgian Heritage Trail and the Cultural Trail.

Excursions

Dublin: Highlights of Dublin City - 8 hours

Ireland, known affectionately as the “the Emerald Isle” is renowned for its excellent hospitality and you can be assured of a warm welcome by your guide and driver, who will meet you at the port. Discover the history, literary heritage and culture that lies behind Dublin’s elegant Georgian architecture and famous landmarks, during your full-day tour.

Founded in the 16th-century, Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and holds the Book of Kells, a greatly treasured example of early Irish manuscript illumination. History lovers may opt to visit the nearby Treasury of the National Museum or EPIC - the interactive museum commemorating the emigration of 10 million Irish. For those interested in art, the National Gallery houses a superb collection.

Afterwards make a lunchtime pit stop at the Guinness Storehouse, where you learn how a pint of the world-famous Guinness is created. The heart of the building is modelled on a giant pint glass, which would hold approximately 14 million pints of Guinness beer if filled! Enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar, which boast 360-degree views of the capital.

Complete your touring this afternoon, with a visit to St. Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels. Here, take a guided tour of the impressive staterooms which are a longtime symbol of British rule in Ireland, before being transferred back to your ship.

Highlights:

Admire the grandeur of St Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels
Pour yourself a pint of Ireland’s finest at the Guinness Storehouse to discover the country’s most famous export

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

Private transport by Mercedes E-class or similar for 1 and 2 passengers, VW Caravelle (7 passenger seats) or similar for 3 and 4 passengers and 12-seater or similar for 5 and 6 passengers.
Expert local guide for 8 hours of sightseeing in Dublin
Entrance fees to all sights and museums
All taxes

Exclusions

All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
Gratuities
Supplement for public holidays
Anything not specifically mentioned in the "inclusions" list above

Dublin: An Introduction to Dublin - 4 hours

Dublin - Dublin City & Powerscourt - Full Day Tour

Belfast

Belfast is popular with travelers who come to discover the city’s physical beauty and renewed tranquility. Enjoy performances at the Grand Opera House, shopping along trendy Donegall Place and visiting numerous pubs along The Golden Mile. St. Anne’s Cathedral, also known as Belfast Cathedral, is the principal church of the Anglican Church of Ireland and contains stones from every county in Ireland. Located next to Europa Hotel, the Grand Opera House boasts an impressive mix of large productions of opera, ballet, musicals and drama. Known as the Big Ben of Belfast, the Albert Memorial Clock Tower was built in 1869 to commemorate the Prince Consort. Built in 1849 as one of Queen Victoria’s colleges, Queens University is one of the foremost universities in the British Isles. The classical-style building of Stormont, erected in 1928-32 to house the Parliament of Northern Ireland, stands 3.5 miles outside the city. The Prince of Wales Avenue is exactly one mile long and is bordered by rose beds containing 600 of the famous Korona roses noted for their scarlet blooms.

Excursions

Belfast: Cultural Belfast - 8 hours

Belfast: Highlights of Belfast - 6 hours

Belfast - Tour of Antrim Coast - Full Day Tour

Edinburgh

Dominated by the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle, this picturesque city offers shopping on Princes Street, the grandeur of the Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral and historic Palace of Holyrood House, where Queen Mary lived and many Scottish kings were wed. Or venture across the moors to marvel at the scenic Highlands.

Excursions

Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh - 8 hours

With Scotland's most famous castle dominating the city, Edinburgh provides a fantastic introduction to this magical country. This morning you will receive a warm welcome by your local guide as you disembark your cruise for your full day sightseeing tour (8 hours) by private vehicle.

You will first head up to Edinburgh Castle, where you will see the 'Honours of Scotland', or the Scottish Crown Jewels, and have the opportunity to admire striking views across the city. Drive along the Royal Mile to the imposing Holyrood Palace*, the Queen's Official Residence in Scotland.

Continue the Royal theme this afternoon, with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia. Built in Scotland, and now permanently moored here, this famous ship hosted many official voyages during her working life. Your guide will bring the Royal Yacht Britannia’s intriguing history to life prior to the short transfer back to your cruise ship.

*You will tour the staterooms of the palace if no member of the Royal Family is staying here at the time.

Highlights:

Privately guided tour of Edinburgh Castle
Visit Holyrood Palace (Subject to Royal Visit)
Discover the history of the Royal Yacht Britannia

Tour Duration: 8 Hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

Private transport by BMW 7 Series or similar for 1 or 2 passengers or Viano (6 passenger seats) or similar for 3, 4, or 5 passengers or Sprinter for 6 passengers.
Expert local guide for stated sightseeing 8 hours in Edinburgh
Entrance fees to all sights and museums
All taxes

Exclusions:

All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
Gratuities
Supplement for public holidays
Anything not specifically mentioned in the “Inclusions” list above.

Edinburgh: Introducing Edinburgh - 4 hours

York

Bath, UK

London

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

05/07/2026 - 05/27/2026

from $18,095 per person

05/28/2026 - 06/17/2026

from $18,125 per person

06/11/2026 - 07/01/2026

from $18,225 per person

06/25/2026 - 07/15/2026

from $18,275 per person

07/09/2026 - 07/29/2026

from $18,850 per person

07/30/2026 - 08/19/2026

from $18,895 per person

08/06/2026 - 08/26/2026

from $18,875 per person

08/13/2026 - 09/02/2026

from $18,875 per person

09/03/2026 - 09/23/2026

from $18,150 per person

09/10/2026 - 09/30/2026

from $18,150 per person

09/17/2026 - 10/07/2026

from $18,050 per person

* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.

Prices Start At

from $18,050 per person

Length

21 Nights

Air City

Call for airfares from your city.

Vacation Rating

Luxury
The finest hotels in the world, luxury lodging is characterized by luxury accommodations, impeccable service and the highest standards of comfort and pampering. Luxury hotels and resorts are often found in the most desirable locations. Building from the amenities and guest services offered at a deluxe hotel or resort, the luxury establishment usually puts on the finishing touches - fresh flowers around the hotel and original works of art throughout. Hotel restaurants often employ world renowned chefs to create delectable dishes and a unique dining experience. Attention to detail and personalized service are the hallmarks of luxury hotels and resorts.

Remarks

Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discounts. Trip prices and discounts are subject to change. Airfare is additional. Tour prices, dates and itineraries are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1556263

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Journeys By Barbara

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