Embark on an exclusive luxury journey through the captivating landscapes of Ireland and Scotland, immersing yourself in the welcoming charm of a mini-group tour. Our maximum group size of just eight people per tour allows you to enjoy an extraordinary level of intimacy, at a more relaxed pace and with a more personal feel. Unwind as you overnight at some of the finest accommodations that Ireland and Scotland have to offer.
Relax and allow Ireland and Scotland to wash over you during 13 days of elegance and intimacy on the Ancient Ireland and Scotland Mini Group Tour.
Enjoy the ease of the unhurried pace at the attractions of Ireland and Scotland on this mini-group tour. Compared with larger group tours, you'll spend less time in line, with more time to take in all that your destinations have to offer. Click on the days below to find out what adventures you can look forward to on each day of your tour.
On arrival in Edinburgh Airport reclaim your baggage and enter the Arrivals Hall. Here, you will meet your Irish tour guide (who is also your driver). There will be three group transfers this morning between 7:00 am and 1200 noon. To ensure a smooth start to your tour, it is advisable to aim for an arrival time in Edinburgh Airport before 11:00 am, as clearing immigration and reclaiming baggage typically takes around 1 hour.
Board your luxury air-conditioned mini-coach and make the short transfer to the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City in the heart of Edinburgh City, where you can relax and unwind after your flight.
15:00 Check-in time. The Hotel reception will store your luggage prior to Check-in.
At 2:30 PM, all participants will gather in the lobby for an introduction with their driver-guide and group — where you will become acquainted with your fellow travellers and the coming days can be discussed at leisure with your tour guide.
Afternoon free in Edinburgh City. Edinburgh is a city of two halves, broken into Old Town and New Town. Both are equally stunning areas, and 'Edinburghers' in general are known to be both friendly and welcoming. Old Town, the area that lies outside the old city walls, covers the area between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. New Town, which is actually 200 years old, is the area to the north and is seen as the more upmarket of the two, particularly noted for its multitude of dining and shopping options.
Tonight you will overnight at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City, the perfect base for anyone looking to explore Scotland's capital.
Time | Arrival Transfer details |
---|---|
Between 07:00 and 12 (noon) | Edinburgh Airport There are 3 group airport transfers this morning, between 7am and 12 noon, from Edinburgh Airport to DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh. |
After a hearty Scottish breakfast, depart on a panoramic tour of Edinburgh City, with a local Edinburgh Step-on Guide. Visit the Holyrood Palace. Known as the official Scottish residence of the British Royal Family. Adjacent to the palace is Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat — a volcano that has been extinct for millions of years. Travel with ease, along even the narrowest of Edinburgh's streets, on board your luxury mini-coach.
Take a visit to the Scottish Parliament. This modern building was opened in 2004 after decades of Scottish calls for self-determination. Enjoy an afternoon visit to Edinburgh Castle, dating from the 12th century that has been a fortress, royal palace and prison through its turbulent past. It houses the oldest crown jewels of Britain - The Honours of Scotland. Explore the castle's historic chambers, take time to soak in the panoramic views, and embrace the personalised attention and access that comes with a small group tour.
Enjoy the afternoon free as you explore the Royal Mile, the main thoroughfare of medieval Edinburgh.
Overnight in DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City.
Depart for the historic and scenic hamlet of Fort Augustus in the Scottish Highlands.
Visit Glenturret Distillery. Embark on a journey through the time-honoured techniques involved in crafting The Glenturret Single Malt Whisky. The tour unfolds the distillery's history and concludes with a taste of its core whisky range.
Our route today will now take us via the picturesque town of Pitlochry, nestled amongst the stunning forested hills of Highland Perthshire.
Enjoy Lunch at Tullibardine Restaurant - Blair Castle. Located at Blair Castle's Banvie Hall, the restaurant provides a tranquil spot for a leisurely lunch. You can enjoy your meal while taking in the serene views of our private gardens from the comfort of the terrace seating. This intimate dining experience is ideal for a mini-group tour, offering a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere to enjoy the culinary delights along with picturesque surroundings.
Enjoy a leisurely visit to Blair Castle and Gardens. For more than seven centuries, the Atholl family has called Blair Castle their home. With a history as varied as it is long, the castle has been witness to both tumultuous and peaceful times and has undergone numerous expansions and adaptations over the course of its 750-year history.
Travel on via the Pass of Drumochter which translates from Scottish Gaelic as "High Ridge" on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park, the largest National Park in the United Kingdom which covers an area of 1,748 sq miles.
Continue on along the shores of Loch Laggan and Spean Bridge, best known for its iconic Commando Memorial to Fort Augustus on the shores of Scotland's most famous loch - Loch Ness
Tonight you will overnight and dine at The Lovat, Loch Ness. Built on the site of a barracks from 1718, the Lovat is a quaint family-run hotel overlooking the famous Loch Ness.
Please note, The Lovat has a number of areas and rooms that are classed as being "pet-friendly". If you, or anyone in your travelling party, has an allergy that might be affected by pets, please let us know and we'll do our best to allocate your accommodation accordingly.
After breakfast, you will journey west to the beautiful and rugged Isle of Skye. Your route will take you via spectacular Highland scenery.
Visit Eilean Donan Castle. The first recorded inhabitants of the castle date back to the 6th century, and since then there have been four different versions. Having lay in ruins for 200 years, after the 1719 Jacobite uprising, Eilean Donan Castle was refurbished in 1932 and has grown to become one of Scotland's most loved attractions. Being a smaller group, you can take the time let the truly intimate atmosphere of Eilean Donan Castle wash over you.
Please be advised, access into Eilean Donan Castle can be extremely difficult, even for the most able-bodied of visitors. As it is classified as a "Scheduled Monument" by the Scottish Government, any changes to the castles infrastructure is prohibited — including the addition of elevators and handrails. Access into the castle for those using wheelchairs or walkers is impossible due to these restrictions. The visitor centre however is easily accessible to all. You can visit their website for further information on access to Eilean Donan Castle.
Continue on via Kyle of Lochalsh over the Skye Bridge to the village of Kyleakin. You are now on the Isle of Skye, the largest of the Inner Hebrides islands. The Island is dominated by the Cuillin Mountains, which provide some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in all of Scotland.
Travel on via the villages of Broadford & Sconser to Sligachan, a quaint village nestled on the Isle of Skye. From Sligachan, you will have a stunning vantage point of the Black Cuillin mountains.
Return to Fort Augustus.
Overnight and dine at The Lovat, Loch Ness. This evening, you will once again have an exquisite Scottish culinary experience at The Lovat Hotel.
Please note, The Lovat has a number of areas and rooms that are classed as being "pet-friendly". If you, or anyone in your travelling party, has an allergy that might be affected by pets, please let us know and we'll do our best to allocate your accommodation accordingly.
Our route today back to Glasgow City will take us down the spectacular Glen Mor or Great Glen. This glen runs for 62 miles and its strategic importance in controlling the Highland Scottish clans, during the time of the Jacobite risings of the 18th century is visible today by the presence of the towns of Fort William in the south and Fort Augustus in the middle of the glen. Thanks to the nimble nature of the mini-coach, you will have the opportunity to take some more scenic routes through this stunning terrain, that larger coaches wouldn't be able to access.
Travel via Glenfinnan where you will have an opportunity to see the beautiful Glenfinnan Viaduct in the shadow of Ben Nevis, the highest Mountain in the United Kingdom at 1,345 meters above sea-level.
Visit Glencoe Visitor Centre. Explore Glencoe's historical, cultural, and social legacy through informative displays, showcases and historical relics.
Travelling on via Tyndrum to Loch Lomond in the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.
Witness the stunning beauty of Loch Lomond. Take in the Bonnie Banks of Scotland's largest lake, on board a leisurely cruise.
Please note, the Loch Lomond Cruise can be affected by the weather. In cases where sailing is not possible due to weather conditions, the decision to cancel the ferry tour will be made by the Loch Lomond Cruise staff on the day.
Travel on to Glasgow City.
Tonight you will overnight at Clayton Hotel Glasgow City. This four-star hotel, located alongside the River Clyde in Glasgow City, is the ideal base for anyone looking to explore the Scottish city and beyond.
Welcome your local Glasgow guide on board as they join you on a journey through Glasgow City. Discover Glasgow's key landmarks as well as its hidden gem. Take in the unique architecture, ranging from Medieval to post-modern, and uncover the history of this once troubled city; from its 18th century heyday as a commercial and trading hub to its economic decline of the late 20th century. The real essence of Glasgow is found in its people, affectionately known as 'Glaswegians', they are renowned for their unique 'patter'; a slang and accent combined that is almost impenetrable to the outside world. Your guide can give you a general breakdown of the patter, this will come in handy should you converse with a Glaswegian that you may otherwise struggle to understand. As this is a mini-group tour, you will have the chance to ask your Tour Manager all the questions that come to mind about Glasgow and its famous culture.
Visit Glasgow Cathedral. A truly rare example of an almost complete 13th century church. On a smaller group tour, visiting Glasgow Cathedral is a much more relaxed and rewarding experience. You'll have time to explore its many artefacts and ask any question that spring to mind.
Continue to Cairnryan Ferry Port located in Dumfries and Galloway.
Check-in at Ferry Terminal 1 hour prior to sailing time.
15:30 Wave goodbye to Scotland as you journey by Ferry to Belfast Port across the North Channel to Belfast Port.
17:45 Arrive in Belfast Port. Welcome to Northern Ireland!
Overnight at the Europa Hotel Belfast. Known for hosting many of Belfast's prestigious events, as well as being home to many of the city's visiting celebrities and VIPs.
Welcome your local guide on board, as they join you on a detailed and intimate journey through Northern Ireland's capital; Belfast City, the only city in Ireland to fully experience the Industrial Revolution. Linen, rope making, tobacco and most famously shipbuilding including the building of the Titanic Belfast on the Harland & Wolff shipyard, were the main industries. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past fifteen years of peace have returned much prosperity, while the genuine friendliness of the city never left. Being a part of a mini-group tour gives you the perfect opportunity to ask your local guide anything you've ever wanted to know about Belfast City.
On the North Antrim Coast, enjoy a relaxed paced and detailed view of the majestic Giant's Causeway. This prehistoric geological phenomenon is the subject of many myths and legends. There are an estimated 37,000 basalt columns extending from cliffs down into the sea.
Tonight you will overnight at Europa Hotel Belfast.
This morning, after breakfast, visit Titanic Belfast. The world’s largest Titanic-themed visitor attraction, located on the very slipways where she was built in the heart of Belfast.
Depart for Donegal via the historic fortified walled city of Derry/Londonderry City. The city fortifications are amongst the best preserved in Europe and were completed in 1618 to defend the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal.
Join up with your local Derry/Londonderry City guide as they walk you through the historic city of Derry. Also known as Londonderry, which remains its legal name, Derry/Londonderry City is Northern Ireland's second-largest city (after Belfast), and is famed for being the only remaining completely intact walled city in Ireland. uilt, between 1613 and 1619, as a means of protecting the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal, the walls form a walkway through the inner city. Ranging in height from 12 to 35 feet, you can walk across them and view the city from above as your guide lays out the turbulent history of this once troubled region of Northern Ireland. Take time to chat to your local guide along the way, and ask them any questions you may have about this historic city.
Cross the border into the Republic of Ireland and you are now in Donegal, a spectacularly rugged county in the very North-West of Ireland which has very much its own distinct cultural identity and the locals are fond of the expression - "Up here it's different".
Tonight you will overnight and dine in Lough Eske Castle. After dinner, you might like to retire to the Gallery Bar for a nightcap before bed.
This morning, after breakfast, you will journey south to Galway City, known as the “City of the Tribes”. Your route will take you through Sligo with its distinctive high plateau mountain of Ben Bulben, which featured so prominently in the poetry of W.B. Yeats, one of the foremost figures in 20th-century literature.
Your route today will take you past the majestic Ben Bulben, a flat-topped mountain in County Sligo. Ben Bulben is a protected site and is classed as a County Geological Site.
Visit Drumcliffe. Located in County Sligo, this is the picturesque final resting place of W.B. Yeats. Here you can read the epitaph on the grave of one of Ireland's greatest poets.
Travel on via Mayo, famous for its important pilgrimage sites including Knock Shrine and Croagh Patrick Mountain, where since ancient times pilgrims have climbed its rocky slopes to the summit in honour of St. Patrick, who it is said fasted and prayed for 40 days on this windswept peak.
Continue on along the shores of Lough Corrib, the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland and is considered by many as the best fishing lake in Europe, to Galway City, a vibrant bustling harbour town with medieval origins and with a long tradition of Irish language, music, song, and dance.
Spend some free time in Galway City, known as the "City of the Tribes", it is located right on the famous Wild Atlantic Way. Here you can take a ramble to Salthill Promenade, a Wild Atlantic Way discovery point, or down Quay Street with its many great pubs including "The Quays" and "Ti Neachtain" — a townhouse which belonged to "Humanity Dick", an 18th-century MP who promoted laws against cruelty to animals.
Tonight you will overnight at Park House Hotel. This grand Victorian-style hotel is located in the heart of Galway City, a two-minute walk from Eyre Square.
Tour the wilds of Connemara, a vast expanse of mountains, bogs, heathlands, and lakes dotted with small fishing villages west of Galway City.
Your journey today will take you via the villages of Oughterard, Maam Cross, and Recess before travelling up the spectacular Inagh Valley, with the 12 Bens of Connemara on your left and the Maumturks Mountains on your right as you travel to the village Leenane on the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord.
Enjoy a relaxed paced and detailed visit to Kylemore Abbey. An historic building nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain, on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul — in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. It is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.
Travel on via Letterfrack to Connemara National Park, where you will have the opportunity for spectacular views of Connemara's hills, bays and inlets.
Return east to Galway City.
Tonight, you will overnight in Park House Hotel.
Depart for Dublin City across the centre of Ireland through the counties of Westmeath, Offaly, Meath and Kildare.
Take time to absorb the true aura of Clonmacnoise. A medieval monastery on the banks of the River Shannon, founded by St. Ciaran in the 6th century. Clonmacnoise lay at a crossroads of medieval Ireland, linking all parts of the island. Sacked time and again by the Vikings, it nevertheless flourished for over 600 years.
Continue on to Dublin City.
Enjoy some free time in Ireland's capital city, also known as "Fair City". Dublin City is a treasure trove of historic buildings and famous landmarks, including the Ha'Penny Bridge, the General Post office and the modern addition to O'Connell Street; The Spire of Dublin.
Tonight, you will overnight in Brooks Hotel. Located on the main shopping thoroughfare of Grafton Street and within walking distance of the capital city's endless attractions, pubs and restaurants.
Welcome your local guide on board as they join you on a journey through Ireland's capital; Dublin City. Dublin is Ireland's economic and political hub, and took centre stage in Ireland's 1916 Rising against British rule, and subsequent independence. The city's history can be explained in detail, each step of the way, by your guide. Each question asked will lead you further and further into the depths of this ancient city. Experience the famous Dublin wit first-hand, along with the city's slang and somewhat impenetrable accents. Experience all that Ireland's 'Fair City' has to offer as your guide introduces you to its world-renowned landmarks and lesser-known hidden gems. Be sure to chat through the finer details of Dublin City with your local guide, if there's one thing that Dubliners love to chat about, it's their home town.
Visit Dublin Castle. For 700 years, the bastion of British rule in Ireland. Dublin Castle is a Victorian architectural masterpiece, and was handed over to the newly formed Irish government in 1922. Today, the castle and its grounds are used as a government complex and conference centre.
Visit EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum. Voted, recently, as "Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction", this museum tour tells the story behind the millions of people who fled, or were forced from, Ireland over the past three centuries. Located in Dublin's Docklands.
Journey on to the Guinness Storehouse. With an address at the world-famous St. James's Gate. Here you will tour the world-renowned brewery and enjoy a perfect complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar — located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City.
Tonight you will overnight at the Brooks Hotel.
Today marks the end of the Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour.
After breakfast this morning there will be 3 group airport transfers between 0500 and 1100 to bring you to Dublin Airport for your return flight home. The confirmed transfer times will be advised 10 days prior to the tour start date.
Time | Departure Transfer details |
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Between 05:00 and 11:00 | Brooks Hotel There are 3 group airport transfers this morning, between 5am and 11am, from Brooks Hotel to Dublin Airport. |
Please note when booking flights for this tour: The Ancient Scotland & Ireland Tour starts in Edinburgh (Scotland) and ends in Dublin (Ireland).
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We are still Ireland's best-reviewed tour operator, with 97.3% five-star reviews.
This tour features both of the iconic Irish regions of The Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland's Ancient East.
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Arrival | Departure | Price Per Person | Availability |
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Wed 30 Apr 2025 | Mon 12 May 2025 | - | fully booked |
Wed 14 May 2025 | Mon 26 May 2025 | - | fully booked |
Wed 28 May 2025 | Mon 09 Jun 2025 | - | fully booked |
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Wed 25 Jun 2025 | Mon 07 Jul 2025 | € 5890 | Book Now |
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Wed 06 Aug 2025 | Mon 18 Aug 2025 | - | fully booked |
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Wed 03 Sep 2025 | Mon 15 Sep 2025 | € 5890 | 4 Spaces Left - Book Now! |
Wed 17 Sep 2025 | Mon 29 Sep 2025 | € 5890 | Book Now |
For payment terms click here. Alternatively, you can also view our full terms and conditions.
We have added extra flexibility to our cancellation timeline. This means you can now make unlimited changes to your chosen tour up to 60 days before your arrival. Our cancellation timeline is as follows. For more details, see our terms and conditions.
The Deposit is non-refundable. However, before 60 days you can make unlimited changes for free, including changing your tour dates (including transferring to a tour in 2026), changing your tour and changing tour participants.
25% of total price is forfeited on cancellation
50% of total price is forfeited on cancellation
100% of total price is forfeited on cancellation
The Deposit for the Ancient Ireland and Scotland Mini-Group Tour 2025 is €1,200 per person.
For guests who are travelling alone and are therefore not sharing a room, the single occupancy supplement for the Ancient Ireland and Scotland Mini-Group Tour 2025 is €1,500.
The full balance is due 60 days before your tour.
All payments are in Euros.
We do not charge any fees for paying by credit card. We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express.
Children ages 8 yrs - 17 yrs inclusive receive a 10% discount on the prices. Children must share a room with a least 1 adult. Our tours do not cater for children 7 yrs or younger. You must be 18 or over to travel on our adults-only tours.
Once a partial or full payment has been made, cancellations will only be accepted in writing (either by email or standard mail) to My Ireland Tour. Cancellation terms will be applied based on the date that the written cancellation is received and based on the following dates prior to tour commencement. Cancellation fees apply as indicated above. All cancellation fees include the initial deposit.
Cancellation Date | Cancellation Fee |
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Up to 60 days before the start of tour: | Deposit is non-refundable. However, before 60 days you can make unlimited changes for free, including changing your tour dates (including transferring to a tour in 2026), changing your tour and changing tour participants. |
59 to 40 days before start of tour: | 25% of Tour Cost |
39 to 14 days before start of tour: | 50% of Tour Cost |
Less than 14 days before start of tour: | 100% of Tour Cost |
Just a quick heads-up: before you arrive on the The Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 2025, a UK ETA (electronic travel authorisation) will be required to visit Britain.
The application process is simple. It takes about 5 minutes, via their app or their website, and costs £10 per person. And, don't worry, we'll send you a reminder about this closer to your arrival date.
45% of our reviews mention their tour guide by name
Perhaps the most vital ingredient of any tour is your tour guide. Acting not only as your guide but also as your driver, their knowledge and experience, passion and personality form the foundation on which any successful tour is built.
That's why we only work with the very best guides in Ireland. As our past guests know, our tour guides are a big reason why we're Ireland's best-rated tour operator, with 1881 five-star reviews out of a possible 1933.
All of our driver-guides were born in Ireland and have lived here all their lives. What's more, they are passionate about our country, its culture and its heritage.
Our driver-guides are qualified, experienced professionals who are committed to impeccable customer care and making your vacation memorable for all the right reasons.
Our driver-guides are true experts in their field. Their knowledge of Irish history, culture (and where to get the best pint of Guinness) is second to none.
Your safety and comfort are paramount to us and to all our driver-guides. All our guides are experienced coach drivers with impeccable safety records.
The Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour welcomes you to a different class of accommodation. On the journey of a lifetime, you will be staying in some of Ireland and Scotland's finest castles and country houses. We are very proud of the range of luxury accommodation we have put together for this exclusive journey. Many of these castle hotels and manors are family-owned, just like ourselves, and we have a long-standing relationship with them all.
We know and trust the accommodation providers we use, and we choose them carefully based not only on their star rating but also on their location, service, value and character. With years of experience in the industry, we have the knowledge, the experience and the local contacts to design the perfect accommodation package for your vacation.
Sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination. On mini-group tours, we invite you to take a front-row seat on your journey, enjoying safety, luxury and the best possible view as you travel.
We choose our tour vehicles carefully. All our mini-coaches offer extra legroom, tinted windows, air conditioning, luxury cushioned seats, USB charging ports, drinks holders and arm rests. It's the level of luxury you should expect.
For The Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 2025, we use custom 9-seater Mercedes-Benz mini-coaches. These are executive-class tour vehicles designed specifically for this purpose, combining comfort and safety with a luxurious interior finish. Panoramic tinted windows provide the very best view of the journey and the sights which mark the way. The compact size of these vehicles gives you easier access to your tour destinations compared to larger tour coaches.
Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.
Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Time | Arrival Transfer details |
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Between 07:00 and 12 (noon) | Edinburgh Airport There are 3 group airport transfers, between 7am and 12 noon, from Edinburgh Airport to DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh. |
Time | Departure Transfer details |
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Between 05:00 and 11:00 | Brooks Hotel There are 3 group airport transfers, between 5am and 11am, from Brooks Hotel to Dublin Airport. |
Since peace returned to Belfast in the late 1990s, Northern Ireland's capital has undergone an astonishing transformation. Once tied in with sectarian violence and, perhaps cruelly, lumped in with Bosnia, Beiruit and Baghdad on the list of places for globe-trotting tourists to avoid, the city is now a modern, thriving and cosmopolitan hub of hotels, restaurants and family-friendly attractions.
Ben Bulben
Known as the "Table Mountain" and part of the Dartry Mountains of County Sligo, Ben Bulben is a flat-topped mountain formed by glaciers during the ice age.
Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.
Against a backdrop of elegant 18th century interiors and grand Scots Baronial architecture, the family history of Blair Castle is vividly brought to life through 30 rooms, featuring the stories of politicians, soldiers, agriculturalists, and entrepreneurs.
While exploring Blair Castle and Gardens, the award-winning Tullibardine Restaurant provides a tranquil haven to enjoy a bite to eat. The in-house chefs bake fresh daily, and the restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced Scottish produce.
Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.
Cairngorms National Park boasts more high-level mountain terrain than any other location in Britain and Ireland. This unique landscape provides a vital habitat for rare mountain plants and scarce wildlife, including the Scottish crossbill. Additionally, the park features the largest Caledonian forests, further adding to its ecological significance.
CalMac Ferries - Armadale to Mallaig takes you across the pristine waters of Lough Hourn. The name CalMac comes from the official name of the ferry operator, Caledonian MacBrayne.
Perched on the banks of the River Shannon, Clonmacnoise is perhaps the foremost of Ireland's monastic cities. For those interested in early Christianity, it is a must-see destination. Enclosed within the ancient city walls are various ecclesiastical ruins including a cathedral, seven ancient churches, three high crosses, round towers and the largest collection of Early Christian grave slabs in Western Europe — all remarkably well preserved and fascinating to anyone, not just those with a special interest in Ireland's religious history.
The Commando Memorial, located in Lochaber, Scotland, is a monument listed in Category A that commemorates the men of the original British Commando Forces raised during World War II.
The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.
Although Derry's recent transformation is perhaps less dramatic than that of Belfast, visitors who come to Derry expecting a city still darkened by the long shadows of The Troubles will almost certainly be pleasantly surprised. In anticipation of the city's status as UK City of Culture 2013, Derry received considerable investment and underwent a rejuvenating makeover. The famous city walls are up to 8 metres in height and, in places, are 9 metres wide. They were completed in 1618 and were never breached.
Situated in the northwest of Ireland, Donegal is a charming town located at the estuary of the River Eske. Donegal Castle, constructed in the 15th century, has undergone modifications during the Jacobean period.
Visit Drumcliffe Cemetery in County Sligo where you can read the epitaph on the grave of W.B. Yeats. Found nestled between Ben Bulben mountain and Drumcliffe bay.
Explore Drumcliffe along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Dating as far back as 1204 Dublin Castle is an integral part of Irish History. Its role has changed significantly from those days to now where it is primarily a conference centre, tourist attraction and Irish government complex.
Dublin is Ireland's capital city. It is known as being a friendly and vibrant place to visit — with an endless list of activities and destinations available to explore and world-famous nightlife.
Luring over Edinburgh from its position on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle has been a fixture of the skyline since the 12th century. The location of Castle Rock, formed on top of an extinct volcano, made it the ideal location to build a defensive fortress. Edinburgh Castle, over the years, has been used as a place to burn 'witches' at the stake, foil rebellions and house prisoners of war. Today it is Scotland's number 1 tourist attraction.
Edinburgh has been Scotland's capital city since the 15th century. It is Scotland's second most populous city, after Glasgow, and is the location of both the Scottish government and monarchy. Edinburgh is seen as the cultural hub of Scotland, with its thriving festival scene attracting 4.4 million visitors to the city in the month of August alone.
There is a possibility that an early Christian monastic cell, devoted to Donnán of Eigg, an Irish saint who was martyred on Eigg in April 617, was established on the island in the 6th or 7th century.
EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum, tracks the harrowing history of the 10 million Irish people left the island, for a variety of reasons, over the past 300 years.
Enjoy a leisurely ferry crossing to the welcoming Belfast Port in Northern Ireland.
Located at the southwestern end of Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands, Fort Augustus is a small town situated within the parish of Boleskine and Abertarff.
Galway City is seen as the cultural and artistic hub of Ireland. Take time to enjoy the artisanal food and relaxed, Bohemian vibes of this unique city.
Galway City and Salthill Promenade form part of the Wild Atlantic Way. The county of Galway also includes the Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points of Killary Harbour, Cleggan Harbour and Sky Road. For more information click here.
Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage site, known in Gaelic as Clochán na bhFomhórach or Clochán an Aifir, The Giant's Causeway is an area of 40,000 basalt columns, formed into a regular interlocking pattern by an ancient volcanic lava flow.
Glasgow Cathedral is the oldest building in Glasgow and the oldest cathedral on the Scottish mainland (Built in the 12th century). It is located where the patron saint of Glasgow, Saint Mungo, is thought to have built his church. Saint Mungo's tomb is found in the cathedral's lower crypt. Today the cathedral is publicly owned and is the responsibility of the Historic Environment Scotland Group.
With a population of 621,020, Glasgow is Scotland's most populous city (3rd in the UK). The people of Glasgow are known as "Glaswegians" or "Weegies" and are often noted by visitors as have a very distinct, sometimes hard to understand, way of speaking, known as the Glasgow patter. During the industrial revolution Glasgow became a centre of shipbuilding and marine engineering and saw its population and economy grow rapidly. Today Glasgow remains a commercial hub of the UK and a city that continues to attract a large number of tourists every year.
With a population of 621,020, Glasgow is Scotland's most populous city (3rd in the UK). The people of Glasgow are known as "Glaswegians" or "Weegies" and are often noted by visitors as have a very distinct, sometimes hard to understand, way of speaking, known as the Glasgow patter. During the industrial revolution Glasgow became a centre of shipbuilding and marine engineering and saw its population and economy grow rapidly. Today Glasgow remains a commercial hub of the UK and a city that continues to attract a large number of tourists every year.
The visitor centre offers a wide range of topics, including Bronze Age cup and ring marks, the legendary Scottish poet "Ossian" from the third century, the late sixth-century saint St. Munn or Munda, the Vikings, Angus Ogg, and the Clan Donald.
The construction of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, a railway viaduct on the West Highland Line in Glenfinnan, Inverness-shire, Scotland, was completed between 1897 and 1901.
Glenturret Distillery is known for producing some of Scotland's most beloved whisky, with a unique fruity profile blended with subtle wood characters.
Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.
Guinness is more than just a brand, indeed, more than just a beer. And that's not just for the Irish, but for the many millions of Guinness-drinkers worldwide. The site of the brewery itself is massive, at a staggering 26 hectares, but it will be the old grain storehouse that you visit. Shaped like a giant pint of the black stuff, this most popular of Dublin attractions towers over the surrounding neighbourhoods, with the top-floor Gravity Bar offering a delightful panorama across the Dublin cityscape which can only be enhanced by a well-earned pint to cap-off your visit.
About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.
Holyrood Palace, officially known as The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the opposite end of The Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle. It is the official residence of the British Royal Family, and is often the setting for state occasions in the area. It has been the main residence of the Kings and Queens of Scots since the 16th century.
The rugged landscapes, picturesque fishing villages, and medieval castles are what make the Isle of Skye well-known. It is connected to Scotland's northwest coast by bridge.
Ireland's Ancient East is a touring region featuring some of the Emerald Isle's best-loved attractions. Running from Co. Monaghan in the north to Co. Cork in the south, it was created by Fáilte Ireland to showcase the top tourist destinations from its broad sweep of 17 eastern counties.
Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.
Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.
Kylemore Abbey is not only one of Ireland's most attractive buildings; since 1920, it has also been home to the Sisters of the Benedictine Order in Ireland. Even today, Kylemore continues to operate as a working Abbey: here, the sisters live, work and pray, as well as welcome visitors from across the globe. Kylemore Abbey's greatest attraction is its location. Nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul, in the heart of the Connemara Mountains, it is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic locations.
Kylemore Abbey can be viewed along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Loch Ness is the second largest loch (lake) in Scotland, after Loch Lomond and the deepest on the British Isles. It is most famous for the alleged presence of a creature known as the Loch Ness Monster or "Nessie". Nessie came about through stories past down from generation to generation, a few dodgy photos from the 1930s and an "official" sonar reading from around the same time. It is the U.S equivalent of Big Foot, real only in the minds of those who choose to believe... or is it?
Loch Lomond, located in the southern part of Scotland, is a lake that forms a part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. The highlands area surrounding the lake is known for its red deer and oak woodlands.
A cruise of Loch Lomond offers stunning views of the largest inland stretch of water in Britain. Visitors can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings as they sail along the tranquil waters, taking in the picturesque landscapes of mountains, islands, and forests.
Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.
Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.
Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.
Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.
Portree, the capital of the Isle of Skye, is the largest town located in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. The town boasts a picturesque harbour, which is surrounded by cliffs, and features a pier that was designed by the renowned Scottish civil engineer, Thomas Telford.
Sligachan is situated at the meeting point of the Black Cuillin and the western coast. It's the ideal destination to witness the iconic vista that frequently adorns postcards and artwork, showcasing the striking contrast between the Red and Black Cuillin, separated by the picturesque Glen Sligachan.
The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.
The Trossachs National Park is a Scottish national park that encompasses the hills, glens, and ranges of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.
An extensive multimedia tribute to the world's most famous ocean liner. The Titanic Experience is located at the top of the slipway from which the ship made its first and only descent into the Belfast Lough and the waters of the Irish Sea beyond. Opened in 2012 for the centenary of the ship's launch and tragic demise, the museum has rapidly become Ulster's most visited tourist destination, outstripping even The Giant's Causeway.
The Wild Atlantic Way is a long-distance touring route, the first of its kind in Ireland. It runs the length of Ireland's western coast, facing the Atlantic Ocean, from County Donegal in the northwest to County Cork in the southwest. The initial aim of the Wild Atlantic Way was to give greater visibility to Ireland's west coast in overseas markets. The Wild Atlantic Way is 2,500 km (1,553 miles) long and passes through 3 provinces of Ireland (Ulster, Connacht and Munster). It has given a huge boost to the tourism industry of the region since its launch in February 2014.
A sophisticated hotel, located in the centre of Dublin City. It is a short walk from the main shopping thoroughfare of Grafton Street and is surrounded by endless attractions, pubs and restaurants. The restaurant, on the grounds of the hotel, is also regarded as one of the finest in the city.
Clayton Hotel Glasgow is centrally located, alongside the River Clyde. The hotel is walking distance from the shopping districts and city centre attractions.
Located just a 15-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, DoubleTree by Hilton is the ideal location for anyone looking to explore Scotland's capital. Featuring a chic bar and restaurant and comfortable, stylish rooms.
Situated right across the road from the Grand opera House in Belfast City, the Europa Hotel is an historic hotel with modern facilities and old-world charm.
The Lough Eske Castle, as we see it today, was built in 1861. Before that, it was a building entwined in the history of Donegal. In the 14th century, it was the seat of the powerful O'Donnell clan. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was a base for Edwardian royalty to showcase the glamour and decadence of the day. Today, it is home to an award-winning and prestigious five-star hotel.
Guests can unwind within the acclaimed Boss Doyle's Bar, featuring exquisite hand-carved oak-panelled ceilings, stained-glass windows, and atmospheric lighting.
This stylish hotel is located in Fort Augustus at the south end of Loch Ness, and it is situated in a Victorian building that is next to the Caledonian Canal.
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