UK & Ireland Brochure 2017

UK & Ireland 

1

Welcome. 

At House of Travel, we strive to create the best holiday for you at the best value 

– that’s our service guarantee. We understand everyone has different 

travel needs and that’s why we love it when you bring your ideas to us 

because together, with our experience and local knowledge, we can 

create the perfect holiday at the perfect time for you. 

We use the same travel sites you do, like Expedia, and many more 

that you can’t access. Plus, we have direct relationships with airlines 

and hotels around the world, which gives us extra buying power. We 

combine this with our expertise and negotiating skills to deliver some 

of the best deals and bonuses on offer that you might miss if you booked 

yourself. So, we promise to truly deliver the best of both worlds and 

that’s our guarantee. 

We’ve helped create enriching travel experiences for 1.8 million New 

Zealanders over the last thirty years. We understand that travel isn’t just about 

the place you go, it’s where that place takes you. 

The best holiday for you. 

What this means: We’ll combine your ideas with 

our experience and expertise to deliver you the best 

holiday possible. 

We’ve got your back 24/7 from the moment you contact 

us until you’re home again. 

We value your feedback on your last HOT holiday, so 

we can make your next trip even better. 

At the best value. 

What this means: We’re committed to providing the 

holiday you want at the very best value possible. 

We promise to utilise all our buying power to search 

out a great price for your holiday. 

We know value means different things to different 

people, so we take the time to understand what’s 

important to you. 

The best holidays are created together. Let’s chat. 

The House of Travel App I Your holiday at your fingertips. 

Text ‘APP’ to 595 to download 

(standard text charges apply) or available from the App Store & Google Play. 

2

Europe Map 

ICELAND 

REYKJAVIK 

NORWAY 

FINLAND 

Bergen 

IRELAND 

SCOTLAND 

WALES ENGLAND 

NORTH 

SEA 

DENMARK 

Goteborg 

SWEDEN 

BALTIC 

SEA 

Kaliningrad 

(RUSSIA) 

ESTONIA 

LITHUANIA 

LATVIA 

RUSSIA 

ATLANTIC 

OCEAN 

NETHERLANDS 

BELGIUM 

GERMANY 

POLAND 

BELARUS 

PORTUGAL 

Gibraltar 

Oporto 

Santiago De 

Compostela 

Seville 

SPAIN 

Malaga 

Costa Del Sol 

BAY OF 

BISCAY 

San Sebastian 

Valencia 

FRANCE 

MEDITERRANEAN SEA 

Strasbourg 

SWITZERLAND 

Venice 

ITALY 

TYRRHENIAN 

SEA 

CZECH REPUBLIC 

AUSTRIA 

SLOVENIA 

CROATIA 

SLOVAKIA 

HUNGARY 

BOSNIA & 

HERZEGOVINA 

Dubrovnik 

SERBIA 

KOSOVO 

MONTENEGRO 

ALBANIA 

MACEDONIA 

GREECE 

ROMANIA 

BULGARIA 

AEGEAN 

SEA 

UKRAINE 

MOLDOVA 

BLACK 

SEA 

TURKEY 

IONIAN SEA 

The Climate 

Monthly Average Temperatures in ˚C 

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 

Austria -3/2 -2/4 0/2 5/14 10/20 13/22 15/25 15/25 21/12 6/14 2/7 -1/4 

Croatia -4/3 -4/5 0/11 4/16 9/21 13/24 14/27 14/26 10/22 6/16 1/8 -2/4 

Czech Republic -4/1 -4/2 0/8 2/12 7/18 11/21 12/22 12/23 9/18 6/14 0/5 -2/2 

England 2/6 2/7 6/12 8/14 10/17 12/20 14/22 13/21 11/19 8/14 5/10 4/7 

France 1/6 1/7 3/11 6/14 10/18 12/21 15/24 14/24 11/21 8/15 4/10 2/7 

Germany -1/3 -1/5 2/10 4/13 8/19 12/22 14/24 13/24 11/20 6/14 2/7 0/5 

Greece 6/13 7/14 8/16 11/20 16/25 20/30 23/33 23/33 19/29 15/24 12/19 8/15 

Ireland 3/8 3/8 4/10 5/11 7/14 10/17 12/19 12/18 10/16 8/13 5/10 4/8 

Italy 2/10 2/12 5/16 8/20 12/24 15/29 17/32 17/31 15/27 11/21 6/15 3/10 

Netherlands 1/5 0/6 3/9 5/12 8/16 11/19 13/21 13/21 11/18 8/14 4/9 2/7 

Portugal 7/14 8/15 10/17 11/18 12/21 15/25 17/28 18/28 17/27 14/24 11/17 9/15 

Scotland 1/6 1/7 2/8 3/11 6/14 9/17 11/19 11/18 8/16 6/11 3/9 2/7 

Spain 5/13 5/14 7/16 8/17 12/20 16/24 19/27 20/28 17/26 12/21 8/17 6/14 

Switzerland -2/2 -2/3 2/8 5/12 9/17 12/20 15/23 14/22 11/18 7/13 2/6 0/3 

Turkey 3/8 2/9 3/11 7/16 12/21 16/25 18/28 19/28 16/24 13/20 9/15 5/11 

Front Cover: Tower Bridge, London

Singapore Airlines 

Our partner in the sky 

Singapore Airlines has taken great care to perfect the 

details of your experience in the air. You will enjoy the 

highest standards of quality, service and innovation 

across all classes. 

Singapore Airlines operates daily from Auckland and Christchurch 

to Singapore - one of the world’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan 

cities. The launch of flights from Wellington in September 2016 will 

see it become the first airline to operate long haul services out of the 

capital and onto Singapore via Canberra. Singapore Airlines covers 

more than 60 cities in 34 countries around the world – connecting 

Singapore to the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, the Southwest 

Pacific and Africa. 

With stately seats, gourmet cuisine and an exceptional level of attention, 

Singapore Airlines’ First Class brings a whole new level of privilege and 

luxury to the discerning traveller in you. Business Class provides a perfect 

balance of professional and personal conveniences, with the spacious 

leather seat able to be converted into a fully flat bed. Comfort is the top 

priority in Economy Class; ergonomic seats with maximised leg room 

and an adjustable headrest offer greater comfort to both first-time and 

seasoned travellers. On Singapore Airlines you will enjoy cuisine usually 

found in the best restaurants in all classes of travel. Travellers will savour 

a gourmet menu of delectable treats thoughtfully created by Singapore 

Airlines' renowned International Culinary Panel. This is complemented 

by a wine selection that is hand-picked from across the globe, as well as a 

range of other beverages. 

En route, customers will enjoy KrisWorld, Singapore Airlines’ personal 

inflight entertainment system with up to 1000 entertainment options and 

Audio-Video on Demand in every seat. 

Plus, become a member of KrisFlyer, Singapore Airlines’ free to join 

frequent flyer programme, where you can redeem miles earned for 

flights or upgrades. 

With one of the youngest aircraft fleets in the world and a network that 

spans six continents, you can look forward to experiencing the romance 

of travel, wherever you choose to go. Sit back and relax in the comfort 

of extra spacious seats and enjoy the world class service of Singapore 

Airlines at prices that offer exceptional value. Visit singaporeair.com 

As a KrisFlyer member, you can earn KrisFlyer miles when you fly 

Singapore Airlines, SilkAir or any of our partner airlines which include 

member airlines of the Star Alliance network. Your KrisFlyer miles may 

be redeemed for flights to more than 1000 destinations in over 170 

countries, as well as upgrades on Singapore Airlines, SilkAir and our 

world-class partner airlines. Visit krisflyer.com to enrol as a KrisFlyer 

member for free today. 

When you fly with Singapore Airlines on your next trip you can enjoy 

Boarding Pass Privileges; with your Singapore Airlines or SilkAir 

boarding pass, you can take advantage of dining, shopping, lifestyle 

and transport offers at participating outlets in Singapore within a 

month of your date of travel. 

If you’re stopping over in Singapore, enjoy the vibrant sights and 

sounds of Singapore with a Singapore Stopover Holiday. Inclusive of 

accommodation, return airport transfers and admission into major 

attractions, it's a great way to explore the Garden City en route to your 

final destination.

General Information 1 

Accommodation Ratings 

UK & Ireland Map 

6 Tips for your UK & Ireland Holiday 

What’s your style? 

Experience England 8 

London Introduction & Highlights 

London Map & Accommodation 

London Sightseeing 

London Theatre 

Day Tours from London 

Take to the Road 

Touring by Rental Car 

Touring by Motorhome 

Highlights of South West England 

Cornwall, Devon & Somerset 

Yorkshire Dales & the Lake District 

South East England 

Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon & The Cotswolds 

Experience Wales 26 

Coastal Wales 

Experience Scotland 28 

Edinburgh Introduction & Highlights 

Edinburgh Map & Accommodation 

Edinburgh Sightseeing 

Scotland Tours 

The Northern Highlands 

A Taste of Scotland 

Rugged Scotland 

Experience Ireland 36 

Dublin Introduction & Highlights 

Dublin Map, Accommodation & Sightseeing 

Belfast Highlights 

Wild Atlantic Way 

A Taste of the South 

Causeway Coastal Route 

Ferry Connections 

Touring UK & Ireland 44 

Boating in the UK 

Luxury Hotel Barging 

Touring by Coach 

Take to the Tracks 

Contents 

Kew Gardens, England 

Scotland 

© Tourism Ireland 

General Information 

Accommodation Ratings 

To assist with the selection of your accommodation we have created our own rating system allowing you to compare each property. These are personal ratings offered 

by our people from their own experience and should therefore be used as a guide only. These ratings may alter throughout the year due to a change of circumstances. 

A standard level of accommodation with a limited range of rooms and facilities. Rooms are clean and comfortable with basic 

furnishings. 

Moderate accommodation with a reasonable range of rooms and facilities, with rooms furnished to a comfortable standard. 

Superior standard of accommodation with a wide range of rooms and facilities, and a higher standard of service. 

First Class accommodation with an excellent range of facilities and services. Accommodation in this rating is considered among the 

best in the country. 

Closest Underground Train Station 

When selecting your accommodation please note that the overall quality of properties in the UK & Europe is generally lower than equivalent priced properties 

in other countries, particularly in the lower ratings. In general the room sizes are quite small and can vary, even within one property. 

Child Policy: Please note bedding configuration varies between properties and in some cases with different room types within a property. Some hotels also offer 

family bonuses and specials. Your travel consultant will help you choose the hotel to best suits you and your family’s needs. 

Price Indicator: The price is provided as a guide only. The actual price may differ to that indicated in this brochure due to currency fluctuations, special events, 

trade shows or peak periods. Your travel consultant will quote you the actual price at the time of booking. Pricing is based in New Zealand dollars. 

C

SEE ALL OF LONDON 

FROM INCREDIBLE 

HEIGHTS. 

ONLY FROM THE CITY’S 

HIGHEST OPEN AIR 

VIEWING PLATFORM 

AT THE SHARD. 

Book now to experience: 

Spectacular views from the top of Western Europe’s 

tallest building at 310m. 

Unrivalled 360° panoramic views, stretching over 40 miles 

of London’s skyline. 

Informative digital telescopes taking you through the capital’s 

past, present and future. 

Remarkable lift speeds of 6 meters per second to reach our views. 

Free multilingual audio and visual guides. 

No time limit to your visit. 

THEVIEWFROMTHESHARD.COM 

LONDON BRIDGE 

#SHARDVIEW 

D

UK & Ireland Map 

Orkney Isles 

Outer Hebrides 

Shetland Isles 

Isle of Skye 

Inverness 

Aberdeen 

Fort William 

Isle of Mull 

Stirling 

Glasgow 

Perth 

Dundee 

St Andrews 

EDINBURGH 

SCOTLAND 

Westport 

Killarney 

Donegal 

Sligo 

Galway 

Cork 

Shannon 

Limerick 

Londonderry 

IRELAND 

Waterford 

NORTHERN 

IRELAND 

DUBLIN 

BELFAST 

Newquay 

Stranraer 

Swansea 

Douglas 

Holyhead 

Dumfries 

Windermere 

Caernarfon 

WALES 

CARDIFF 

Liverpool 

Plymouth 

Conwy 

Exeter 

Carlisle 

Northallerton 

York 

Manchester 

Chester 

ENGLAND 

Cheltenham 

Bristol 

Bath 

Southampton 

Newcastle upon Tyne 

Durham 

Wakefield 

Barnsley 

Nottingham 

Leicester 

Birmingham 

LONDON 

Scarborough 

Norwich 

Cambridge 

Stratford upon Avon 

Oxford 

Winchester 

Brighton 

Chelmsford 

Dover 

Isles of 

Scilly 

Penzance 

E

6 TIPS 

for your 


Holiday 

Settle on a 

budget 

Currency in the Republic of Ireland 

is the euro, whereas Northern 

Ireland (because it’s part of the UK) 

uses British pound sterling. Some 

towns on the border will accept 

both, but be prepared to receive 

change in the local currency. 

At the planning stage of your trip, 

look out for seasonal or earlybird 

specials and keep the dollars you 

save for ‘holiday spends’. Load up 

a cash passport before you go and 

then access your spending money 

at your destination. Convenient and 

secure, think of it like an electronic 

traveller’s cheque, whereby you 

load cash onto the card before 

your holiday and then you can use 

it much like a chip and pin card 

at millions of ATMs and retailers 

across the world, Europe included. 

Satisfy your taste 

buds 

Mushy peas are a rite of passage for 

most Brits; order a pot with your 

fish and chips (that’s chips, not 

chups) and join the phenomenon. 

Corner pubs are everywhere, 

dishing out feel good grub that’s 

seldom that healthy but always 

comforting, especially on Sundays 

when the classic British roast 

is served. Find a riverside pub 

flanking the Thames and order a 

traditional Sunday lunch. Yorkshire 

puddings and all! Salmon is the 

jewel in Scotland’s culinary crown 

and in west Ireland (Galway to be 

specific) you’ll discover oysters 

always worth shucking. 

Those with a sweet tooth will 

appreciate ‘real’ clotted cream 

in South West England, try it on 

scones or in rich Cornish clotted 

ice-cream. It’s death by calories but 

it’s worth it! 

Be a history 

buff 

Walk into any Great British pub 

and between the thick oak beams 

and creaking floorboards you could 

easily be in the 12th century. Stein 

Inn, on the Scottish Isle of Skye, 

dates back hundreds of years, 

flanks the water and boasts over 130 

whiskys. Situated in its own hamlet 

and down a winding road leading to 

the sea it’s the quintessential British 

boozer. Pubs aside, history is etched 

into every corner of the UK. 

Westminster Abbey is almost a 

thousand years old, while the Tower 

of London and Big Ben both host 

as many ghosts as they do tourists. 

Then there are ancient thatched 

cottages, castles and crooked 

farmhouses, including the black 

house village of Gearrannan in the 

Outer Hebrides. This agricultural 

township dates back to the last 

century, with little stone houses 

now converted into self-catered 

cottages. 

6

Fossick in the 

markets 

In London, Portobello Market is 

world-famous but larger than most 

people expect, Borough Market is a 

foodie’s haven and Camden Market, 

adjacent to the lock, is anything but 

main stream. If you like cool and 

kooky, you’ll love it here. Regional 

farmers’ markets pop up the length 

and breadth of the UK; Hampshire’s 

Winchester Farmer’s Market is the 

UK’s biggest and a firm favourite of 

Rick Stein. 

If you’re heading north, don’t miss 

Cumbria’s Orton Market, famed 

for its cider and award winning 

Kennedys’ chocolate shop. 

In Scotland, Edinburgh’s Saturday 

market is held quite majestically 

under the shadow of the city’s 

dazzling castle, and if you’re 

Ireland-bound, it’s all about ‘farm to 

fork’. With fantastic dairy, seafood 

and of course a plethora of home 

brews, much of Ireland’s produce is 

locally sourced and sold. 

The Royal 

connection 

Kings, princes, dukes, duchesses 

and a Queen so cool she’s 90 years 

old and still rocking heels, the Royals 

are much loved in the UK; now more 

than ever. Walking down Pall Mall to 

see Buckingham Palace is always a 

grand affair; the wide road and flags 

make for quite a dramatic lead-up. 

Observing the Changing of the 

Guard, whereby the Queen’s Guards 

are relieved by a new batch of 

sentries, is always an exciting event. 

Taking place most days at 11.30am, 

the guards, their finery, groomed 

horses and a thumping brass 

band, are an absolute spectacle. 

Historic Royal Palaces also include 

Kensington Palace, where Will and 

Kate stay when they’re not residing 

in Anglesey, and the Queen’s 

summer abode, Balmoral Castle. 

If it’s the predecessors you’re 

into, Hampton Court is where the 

notorious Henry VIII spent much of 

his time. 

Entertainment 

for all 

Whatever the day or season you 

won’t have to travel too far before 

stumbling across an event, festival or 

celebration, it’s virtually impossible 

to get bored in Blighty. 

The famed West End is London’s 

hub for theatre, opera and ballet, but 

entertainment exists everywhere. 

Seek niche music sessions in far flung 

corners of Ireland and backstreet 

dives in Glasgow, or join in with the 

chants at an atmospheric football 

match. They’re not lying when they 

say football is like religion here, and 

you’ll always find a good crowd and 

a robust meat pie at half time. 

Gardening enthusiasts shouldn’t miss 

the Chelsea Flower Show, sporty 

types will revel in the Wimbledon 

tennis, especially when tensions get 

heated on Centre Court, and if you’re 

looking to acquire some laughter 

lines, Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival will 

ensure you’re laughing from noon 

until night. 

7

What’s your style? 

Kiwis love to travel. We pride ourselves on 

our friendly, outgoing nature and when we 

travel, we like nothing better than striking up 

a conversation with the locals - it’s how we 

really connect with a destination. It’s often 

hard to do this when you’re staying in a hotel. 

That’s why we’re such big fans of more unique, 

boutique-style accommodation options. This 

style of accommodation is great if you like to 

get off the beaten track - there are hundreds of 

properties in England, Scotland, Ireland and 

Wales to choose from, ranging from private 

country homes and manor houses, to boutique 

inns and even castles. 

Hotel 

Traditional and serviced, if you want a 

truly relaxed break where everything 

is done for you, booking a hotel is 

the way to go. Serviced daily, you’ll 

return to a lovely clean bathroom, 

fluffy towels, a made bed and possibly 

a chocky on your pillow. Some hotels 

are well facilitated with a restaurant, 

bar, pool or gym, and because there’s 

such a huge variety of price and 

standards/star-rating, you’ll find the 

right hotel to suit your needs. 

Apartment 

If you’re looking for 

greater independence, 

apartments are fully 

equipped with facilities 

such as a kitchen, laundry 

and more space. They’re 

usually located in the heart 

of the neighbourhood so 

you can choose to eat out 

at local restaurants or visit 

the market for some fresh 

produce before a relaxing 

night in. Perfect for longer 

stays but also ideal for 

families and groups of 

friends who want a little 

extra privacy and more 

room. 

Bed & Breakfast 

If you’re travelling to the UK of course you’re 

going to visit one or more of the big cities 

like London, Cardiff or Edinburgh. But don’t 

forget to stop off and explore what the locals 

call the real Britain - the towns and country 

villages that litter this amazing nation. 

Throughout England, Scotland and Wales 

you’ll find a huge choice of private homes, 

guesthouses and farm stays where you can 

experience genuine hospitality. 

8

Villas & Cottages 

Renting a house or cottage 

can be one of the most 

charming ways to enjoy your 

time in the UK. These types of 

holidays are great for people 

who like to take each day as it 

comes; staying put for a week 

or two at a time and living 

like a local. Visit markets 

and mix with the residents, 

meander from sight to sight 

and explore nearby towns 

and villages. 

Manor Houses 

Have you always admired the grandeur 

of stately homes or the rustic charm 

of country houses that are dotted 

across the English, Irish and Scottish 

countryside? Many of these places have 

been transformed into their own unique 

style of luxurious accommodation and 

are ideal for an indulgent treat. Many 

also pride themselves on their gourmet 

cuisine using fresh seasonal produce 

sourced locally. 


Castles 

Ever wondered about what historical moments the castle walls have witnessed? Or 

who has trodden the floorboards for the past six centuries? Fabulous buildings seem 

to have been standing forever in the UK. Each castle has its own distinct character 

suited to its surroundings - ready to fascinate you with a dungeon or well stocked 

library, magnificent medieval architecture and wonderful warm welcomes. 

9

Experience 

England 

Fast Facts 

Country Name: 

Population: 

Capital: 

Currency: 

Time Zone: 

Electricity: 

England 

54 Million 

London 

Pound Sterling 

11 hours behind New Zealand 

(except during daylight saving) 

Current is 230V 

Plug is a 3 point rectangle-pin 

adaptor 

Mushy peas, warm beer and incomprehensible accents: they may not be what 

lure you to England in the first place, but they are exactly what will make your visit 

memorable. There’s no getting away from it, the English are fond of some very odd 

food – think jellied eels, bread and butter pudding and toad in the hole. However, 

celebrity foodies like Jamie Oliver, Rick Stein and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall have 

led the charge in changing the way we think about English cuisine - it’s all about 

taking the freshest of local ingredients and using them in classic regional recipes. 

Those local eccentricities that have given England such a varied culinary landscape 

are also what makes it so diverse and a fascinating place to visit. You may struggle to 

understand a West Country accent to begin with, but spend an afternoon in a village 

pub, washing down Cornish pasties with local cider among friendly locals and you’ll 

soon be in the swing of things. 

Festivals and Events 2017 

20-21 May Cromer & Sheringham Crab & 

Lobster Festival, Norfolk 

23-27 May Chelsea Flower Show, London 

10-11 Jun ITU World Triathlon Series, Leeds 

Geographically, it’s also incredibly diverse. OK, their mountains aren’t as big as 

ours, nor their rivers as wild, nor their forests as untamed. But what they lack in 

scale, they make up in variety and sheer jaw-dropping beauty - a day exploring the 

Lake District or the Cotswolds is likely to be one of the most memorable you’ll ever 

spend. 

17 Jun Trooping the Colour, London 

20-24 Jun Royal Ascot, Ascot 

21-25 Jun Glastonbury Festival, Somerset 

03-16 Jul Wimbledon Grand Slam Tennis, 

London 

10

London 

Where to start in a city with an incredible history dating back thousands 

of years, some of the most iconic attractions on earth and over 30,000 

shops? Maybe at Westminster Abbey where every British king or queen has 

been crowned since 1066, or strolling the aisles of the ultimate Harrods. 

Take a ride on the breathtaking London Eye, the world’s largest cantilevered 

observation wheel; or cruise the Thames River to Greenwich and step inside a 

quintessential Gastro Pub like The Union - the food is simple, classic British 

and locally sourced. London never sleeps so dip into a myriad of cuisines from 

Caribbean to North African. A smorgasbord of clubs, concerts and spectacular 

shows await! 

Our favourite things to see and do 

Museums – London has some of the world’s best museums, 

including The Museum of London. South Kensington is home 

to the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum. 

Don’t forget about London’s art museums - the Tate Britain & 

Modern display some of the world’s finest classic and modern 

art collections. 

Historic Sights – The city is full of historic monuments 

and buildings. You can’t go home without seeing the Tower 

of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, Hampton Court Palace, 

Kensington Palace and the Royal Observatory. Each epitomizes 

England’s wealth, power and architectural prowess during 

their respective historical periods. 

Markets – Like many European cities, London is full of 

markets, many of which date back to medieval times. From 

fruit and vege stalls through to high end antique stands there 

are bargains to be found all over town. Some of our favourites 

are the Borough Food Market, Camden Market and Portobello 

Road Market. 

© London & Partners 

© Visit Britain 


West End Theatre – No trip is complete without at least 

one night out in London’s famous West End ‘Theatreland’. 

Here you can see all the top musicals like Wicked, Disney’s 

Lion King, Jersey Boys and Mamma Mia. 

Shopping – You’ve done Oxford Street and Harrods; now 

why not wander down Sloane Street, peer into the windows 

of Gucci, Dior or Versace trying to see someone famous, and 

then grab a coffee at a sidewalk café in Sloane Square. 

Holiday Snaps – Get your photo taken in front of Parliament 

and Big Ben. Did you know the world’s most famous clock 

tower isn’t actually called Big Ben but St Stephen’s Tower; Big 

Ben is the name of the largest bell inside the tower. 

Thames River – Cross the Thames via Tower Bridge, not to 

be confused with London Bridge. Wander along Southbank 

and then cross back via Millennium Bridge. 


© London & Partners 

© Visit Britain & Pawel Libera 

11

London Map & Accommodation 

York Way 

Shoreditch 

Park 

St John’s Wood 

London Zoo 

Albany St 

6 

Queensway 

Westway A40 (M) 

Bayswater 

Heathrow Airport 

7 

FULHAM 

High St 

Kensington 

Cromwell Rd 

1 

Gloucester 

Road 

Earls 

Court 

St John’s Wood Rd 

Paddington 

Station 

2 

Park Rd 

Marylebone Rd 

Edgware Rd 

Baker St 

Park Lane 

Great Portland St 

New Bond St 

Bayswater RdOxford St 

Kensington 

Gardens 

Kensington 

Palace 

9 

3 

Old Brompton Rd 

Fulham Rd 

Lancaster 

Gate 

Royal 

Albert Hall 

South 

Kensington 

Museums 

4 

Marylebone 

Station 

South 

Kensington 

Hyde Park 

The Serpentine 

King’s Rd 

Knightsbridge 

Albert 

Bridge 

Harrods 

Marble 

Arch 

Sloane St 

Regent’s Park 

Madame 

Tussauds 

Chelsea Embankment 

King’s Rd 

Sloane 

Square 

Regents Park 

Bond 

Street 

Chelsea 

Bridge 

Piccadilly 

Regent St 

Green 

Park 

Green Park 

Buckingham 

Palace 

Victoria 

Station 

Warwick Way 

Euston Rd 

Tottenham Court Rd 

Oxford 

Circus 

Euston 

Station 

Tottenham 

Court 

Piccadilly 

Circus 

5 

Pall Mall 

St James 

Park 

Victoria St 

Kings Cross 

Shaftesbury Ave 

Southhampton Row 

Whitehall 

The Mall Strand 

Westminster 

Abbey 

Vauxhall Bridge Rd 

Leicester 

Square 

National 

Gallery 

Trafalgar 

Square 

Pimlico 

British 

Museum 

St Pancras 

Station 

8 

Westminster 

Houses of 

Parliament 

& Big Ben 

Millbank 

Gray’s Inn Rd 

Theobald’s Rd 

High Holborn St 

Victoria Embankment 

London 

Eye 

Westminster 

Bridge 

Vauxhall 

Bridge 

Russell 

Square 

Covent 

Garden 

Charing 

Cross 

Lambeth 

Bridge 

Holborn 

Waterloo 

Bridge 

Farringdon Rd 

Law 

Courts 

Waterloo 

Station 

Lambeth Rd 

Fleet St 

St John St 

Stamford St 

Kennington Rd 

Oval Cricket 

Ground 

Waterloo Rd 

Charterhouse St 

Kennington Park Rd 

St Paul’s 

Old St 

The Barbican 

St Paul’s 

Cathedral 

Moorgate 

Blackfriars 

Bridge Southwark 

Bridge London 

Bridge 

Kennington 

Park 

Elephant & 

Castle 

City Rd 

Cannon St 

Station 

London 

Bridge 

Great Dover St 

Best Western Burns Hotel 

1 

The Lancaster Gate Hotel 

2 

Arbor Hyde Park 

3 

You’ll love coming home to this Grade II listed 

building, situated in a beautiful and peaceful 

Victorian garden square in Kensington. Just up 

the road is the chic Kensington High Street and 

Knightsbridge, abuzz with the latest fashion 

trends. A short walk away is the Earls Court 

tube station. 

This is a welcoming hotel in a great location, 

10 minutes walk away from London’s Hyde 

Park where you can sometimes see the 

Queen’s horse guards. It’s also near the 

Queensway shops and restaurants. A well 

priced little Greek Taverna called Halepi is also 

located minutes away. 

In a leafy location on the western edge of 

London’s world-famous West End, the hotel 

feels like it’s a million miles away from the 

hustle and bustle of nearby Marble Arch. 

Hidden away on a quiet stretch of Lancaster 

Gate, the hotel provides its guests with a 

level of quiet seclusion rarely found in such a 

central location. 

Earls Court 

Lancaster Gate 

Lancaster Gate 

12

London Accommodation 

The Bailey’s Hotel London 4 Sofitel St James 5 Vancouver Studios 6 

One of the oldest hotels in the city, located 

in the fashionable district of Kensington in 

the heart of the Gloucester Road village, it’s 

the perfect address for shopping up a storm. 

Recently renovated, its décor is chic and 

elegant. After a long day walking the streets 

of London, sit back, relax and enjoy a glass of 

wine in the renowned Olive Bar. 

Step outside this luxury haven and you’ll be 

right in the heart of the West End, tucked into 

a wee square close to Regent Street, St James 

Park and Buckingham Palace. It’s a renovated 

Grade II listed building and is the perfect 

place to unwind in its amazing spa. 

Don’t let the name fool you, this place is as 

British as jellied eels or warm beer, and it’s in 

the leafy suburb of Bayswater. In the spring 

and summertime you should definitely spend 

a day down at Hyde Park and Kensington 

Gardens, it’s only a short stroll away and is 

such a classic ‘Londoner’ thing to do. 

Gloucester Road 

Piccadilly Circus 

Bayswater/ 

Queensway 

1-2 The Mansions 7 Citadines Trafalgar Square 8 Fraser Suites Queens Gate 9 

An Antipodean dream, in the centre of Earls 

Court. With an array of well equipped studios, 

one, two and three bedroom apartments 

to choose from, the whole family will love 

staying in this friendly Edwardian style home. 

Head out to one of our favourite pubs, The 

Troubadour, on nearby Old Brompton Road. 

You simply will not get more central than this! 

You’re just a few steps away from Nelson’s 

Column in Trafalgar Square and within 

walking distance to the London Eye, great 

restaurants, Westminster Abbey, fantastic 

pubs, The National Gallery, the River Thames; 

actually you’re within walking distance to just 

about everything. 

Set just back from Gloucester Road with its 

plethora of cafés, restaurants and pubs. The 

neighbourhood is home to the Victoria and 

Albert Museum, Natural History Museum and 

The Royal Albert Hall, perfect for those who 

wish to immerse themselves in history and 

music. Or if shopping is more your agenda, it’s 

just a short stroll to Harrods in Knightsbridge. 

Earls Court 

Embankment 

Gloucester Road 

13

London Sightseeing 

The Oyster Card 

You can use your 

Oyster Card just 

like a swipe card; 

simply swipe it 

at the turnstile at 

the start of your 

journey and the 

‘Pay As You Go’ 

system charges 

you a discounted 

journey rate for 

each trip. Its daily 

price cap means 

you can make lots 

of journeys in a 

day and pay one 

capped fee. 

London in One Day 

If you only have one day to see London, take 

this tour! Enjoy a panoramic London tour 

before seeing the Changing of The Guard 

at Buckingham Palace and visiting St Paul’s 

Cathedral and the Tower of London. 

London Hop 

On and Hop 

Off Tour 

Iconic open-top 

double deck 

buses take you 

on a fun day in 

“the world’s most 

cosmopolitan 

city.” See the 

major sights of 

London with 

a full commentary, spectacular views from seven 

bridges, St Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, 

Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and 

more. 

Tower of London 

Through the gates of this mighty fortification meet 

a “Beefeater”, your guide, with legends of the 

ravens, kings & queens and other spine chilling 

tales from the Tower’s 900 years. Fortress, palace 

and prison, this iconic tower is full of dramatic 

events and quirky moments. 

Coca-Cola London Eye 

At 135 metres, The London Eye is one of the 

world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheels, 

offering breathtaking views of London. Your 

visit includes Samsung interactive guides and 

entry to the 4D Experience. Upgrade to the 

‘Fast Track’, or the Champagne Experience. 

Beatles 

Evening Tour 

of Central 

London 

Step back in 

time to 1960s 

London when 

Beatlemania 

gripped the 

world and 

London was 

the epicenter of it all. Visit more than 35 key sites 

from the Beatles’ London story, including Apple 

HQ, Abbey Road and set locations for the band’s 

various films on a walking tour. Learn about the 

band members’ individual and collective histories, 

and enjoy rare music and film clips. 

14

The View From The Shard 

The Shard is the tallest building in Western Europe allowing 

you to see all of the city all at once. The unique telescopes 

show sunset, night time and even historic perspectives. 

Make it an extra special occasion with a Champagne 

Experience. 

Madame Tussauds London 

Walk down the red carpet at the original 

flagship, Madame Tussauds London. With over 

300 incredibly lifelike wax figures, an amazing 

Marvel Super Heroes 4D movie and the 

out-of-this-world Star Wars at Madame 

Tussauds experience - it’s London’s most 

famous day out! 

Harry Potter 

Magical London 

Walking Tour 

Explore Harry Potter 

film locations and 

places that inspired 

J.K. Rowling into 

creating the world’s 

most famous 

Wizard. This walking 

tour will leave you 

spellbound as you 

explore the magic 

of London’s most 

famous landmarks 

and their links to the 

wonderful world of 

wizardry. 

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London 

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London is a 

behind-the-scenes tour which immerses 

guests into the world of film-making, 

featuring authentic sets, costumes and 

props from the Harry Potter film series. 

The price includes a luxury return coach 

transfer from central London. 

Private & Shared 

City Transfers 

YAY - you’ve finally 

arrived in London, 

how exciting! The 

last thing you need 

is to fight for a taxi 

or wrestle with your 

bags on the crowded 

underground. So 

book a shared or 

private transfer and 

be driven from the 

airport direct to your 

central London hotel. 

Jack the 

Ripper Tour 

with ‘Ripper- 

Vision’ in 

London 

Dare to discover 

the legend 

of London’s 

notorious Jack 

the Ripper on 

a walking tour like no other! Using state-of-the-art 

RIPPER-VISION, innovative hand-held projectors 

help to recreate the atmosphere of Victorian 

London using spooky images, film clips and moving 

images. 

15

London Theatre 

London is one of the world’s most spectacular 

cities, with life and colour around every corner. 

No trip would be complete without a visit to the 

capital’s vibrant theatreland to experience one 

of the West End shows for yourself. With shows 

to suit everyone’s taste, you’re spoiled for 

choice when trying to find the perfect ticket. 

Whatever you choose, you are certain to be 

wowed by the marvel of London theatre. 

JERSEY BOYS 

They were just four ordinary guys from New 

Jersey, until they sang their very first note. They 

had a sound nobody had ever heard… and the 

radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their 

harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was 

a very different story. 

THE LION KING 

Set against the majesty of the Serengeti Plains to 

the evocative rhythms of Africa, THE LION KING 

uses breathtaking theatrical magic to tell the 

story of Simba’s epic journey to fulfil his destiny 

as King of the Pridelands. 

THE STORY OF FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS 

Piccadilly Theatre 

ALSO 

PLAYING 

SUNDAYS 

WICKED 

Experience the wonders of WICKED as it 

celebrates 10 years in the West End! Telling the 

wondrous ‘untold’ tale of the Witches of Oz, 

WICKED conjures up a spellbinding potion of 

ingenious wit and profound emotion. It’s simply 

not to be missed. 

16

ALADDIN 

Disney’s ALADDIN has “landed triumphantly in 

London’s West End” (Daily Telegraph). Featuring 

all the songs from the Academy Award-winning 

classic film, this “shining, shimmering spectacle” 

(Huffington Post) is everything you could wish 

for and more. 

NEW LONDON THEATRE 

MAMMA MIA! 

MAMMA MIA! IS THE ULTIMATE FEEL-GOOD 

PARTY. Set on a Greek island paradise, a story 

of love, friendship and identity is cleverly 

told through the timeless songs of ABBA. This 

irresistibly sunny, funny comedy has now 

opened in 440 cities worldwide. 

SCHOOL OF ROCK 

Based on the iconic, hit movie, this irresistible 

new musical follows Dewey Finn, a failed, 

wannabe rock star who decides to earn an extra 

bit of cash by posing as a supply teacher at a 

prestigious prep school. There he turns a class of 

straight–A pupils into a mind-blowing rock band. 

17

Day Tours from London 


Glastonbury & 

Cheddar Gorge 

Marvel over 

the remarkable 

Glastonbury Abbey, 

one of England’s 

most historically 

significant 

monasteries. Then 

visit the dramatic 

Cheddar Gorge, 

a natural wonder 

where you have free 

time to explore the 

village, gorge and 

caves. 

London, Windsor & Hampton Court Palace 

Take a panoramic drive around London’s most iconic 

landmarks, before exploring Royal Windsor with its 

beautiful river and historic buildings. Then enjoy a 

relaxing visit to Hampton Court - the former home 

of King Henry VIII with its famous maze, magnificent 

state rooms and stunning gardens. 

Downton Abbey with Highclere Castle Tour 

A must for Downton Abbey fans as you follow in the 

footsteps of the Dowager Countess of Grantham and 

other much-loved ‘Downton Abbey’ characters on this 

full day trip to the hit British TV series’ most famous 

filming locations. This tour takes you into beautiful 

Oxfordshire, where you’ll visit Downton village, Cogges 

Manor Farm and the magnificent Highclere Castle. 

Warwick Castle, Stratford, Oxford 

& the Cotswolds 

If Warwick Castle’s walls 

could talk, the tales 

would be about Kings 

and Queens, bloody 

battles and extravagant 

banquets. For more of 

your favourite stories, 

visit Stratford-upon- 

Avon, the birthplace of 

the literary champion, 

William Shakespeare. 

Head home through the 

Cotswolds, and take a 

walking tour of Oxford 

on the way. 

Windsor, Stonehenge 

& Oxford 

You know you’re the 

Queen when your 

weekend pad is a castle! 

Windsor, home to the 

royals for over 900 

years, is the oldest 

inhabited castle in the 

world. Stonehenge will 

blow your mind! How 

were these massive stone 

circles made? Maybe 

someone at this famous 

university will know? 

18

Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & 

Dover 

Admire Leeds Castle set in the middle of a 

natural lake surrounded by parkland and 

be guided through the stunning Canterbury 

Cathedral. Then travel through the picturesque 

landscape of Kent to the White Cliffs of Dover. 

Oxford & Cambridge 

Explore both of 

England’s most famous 

University towns: 

Oxford, the ‘city of 

dreaming spires’ has 

inspired many authors 

and has been used as 

a Harry Potter film 

location. In Cambridge, 

visit Kings College, 

famous for inspiring 

Charles Darwin and Sir 

Issac Newton. Relaxing 

by the river you will 

be in picture-postcard 

England. 


Paris Day Tour 

Discover for yourself this 

beautiful city - the most 

romantic of all European cities. 

Board the train, sit back, relax 

and “voila” you’re amongst 

the Notre Dame Cathedral, 

the Louvre Museum & Musée 

D’Orsay. Explore the Champs 

Elysées, sip a café au lait or 

simply people watch. 

Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath 

This tour is perfect if you have only one day to see 

England. Entry to Windsor Castle, the ancient site 

of Stonehenge and The Roman Baths is included in 

the price allowing you to enjoy three World Heritage 

sites in one day. 

Salisbury, Stonehenge & Bath 

Head to Salisbury Cathedral, home to the original 

Magna Carta of the 13th century and the oldest clock 

in the world. Then absorb yourself in mystery at iconic 

Stonehenge before heading to the Roman Baths - still in 

working order after 2000 years. 

19

Take to the Road 

There’s a lot to be said for having your own 

wheels on holiday. Tours are great, but often 

you’ll glimpse an inviting country lane or a cute 

village, only to discover that it’s not on your 

itinerary. Driving in a foreign country can seem 

intimidating at first, but it’s not so different to 

driving in New Zealand. In the UK they drive 

on the same side as us, the roads are excellent 

and well-signposted, and the driving distances 

are short. The major roads let you cover long 

distances in good time and if you opt for the 

minor roads, you’ll avoid the tolls and see 

much more of the countryside. 

These days you don’t even have to worry about 

those relationship-testing moments where 

the navigator mutters “I think that was our 

exit…” as you race past an off ramp. For a little 

extra, you can have a slightly bossy but very 

knowledgeable GPS system to tell you exactly 

how to get to where you’re going. There’s a 

huge range of car and motorhome types on 

offer, and if you’re worried about your carbon 

footprint you can even opt for a more ecofriendly 

diesel or hybrid model. 


Approximate Distances 

Distances are 

approximate, in 

kilometres and based 

on direct routes. 

Cardiff 

Conwy 

Dover 

Edinburgh 

Glasgow 

Inverness 

London 

Manchester 

Newcastle 

Upon Tyne 

Oxford 

Penzance 

Plymouth 

Southampton 

Windermere 

York 

Dublin 

Galway 

Killarney 

Belfast 

Cardiff 309 378 645 630 895 243 328 518 190 355 243 220 416 399 

Conwy 309 556 456 450 702 417 131 368 337 647 534 442 235 243 

Dover 378 556 377 754 1040 122 475 565 230 570 460 241 588 446 

Edinburgh 645 456 377 76 253 652 352 195 585 894 786 692 243 336 

Glasgow 630 450 754 76 272 663 344 244 582 894 780 689 238 340 

Inverness 895 702 1040 253 272 903 602 455 838 1145 1032 943 489 594 

London 243 417 122 652 663 903 335 452 95 493 347 129 449 336 

Manchester 328 131 475 352 344 602 335 229 272 578 453 377 130 111 

Newcastle Upon Tyne 518 368 565 195 244 455 452 229 425 767 665 526 172 594 

Oxford 190 337 230 585 582 838 95 272 425 440 310 106 368 306 

Penzance 355 647 570 894 894 1145 493 578 767 440 127 354 679 650 

Plymouth 243 534 460 786 780 1032 347 453 665 310 127 245 566 539 

Southampton 220 442 241 692 689 943 129 377 526 106 354 245 474 409 

Windermere 416 235 588 243 238 489 449 130 172 368 679 566 474 152 

York 399 243 446 336 340 594 336 111 594 306 650 539 409 152 

Dublin 207 299 166 

Galway 207 210 368 

Killarney 299 210 466 

Belfast 166 368 466 

18

Touring by Rental Car 

Driving in the UK 

Exploring England, Ireland, Scotland and 

Wales is easy. In the countryside, the roads are 

excellent, well signposted and largely toll free. 

Distances between towns are short and driving 

is on the left-hand side of the road, same as in 

New Zealand. 

Choosing your Rental Car 

Take into consideration the size of the vehicle 

you require. We strongly recommend a 

minimum 1.4 litre for two adults. If the vehicle 

is to be used for day touring from a central 

base and not for transporting your luggage, a 

smaller vehicle may be adequate. We suggest 

you book your car before leaving home as this 

will save money and ensure you get the car of 

your choice. 

© Britainonview Rod Edwards 

Emergency Roadside Assistance 

While each vehicle is serviced and cared for individually there may be 

an instance that you need some assistance. You can rest assured that 

in many countries throughout Europe, Hertz provides Emergency 

Roadside Assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Hertz NeverLost 

Hertz NeverLost satellite navigation system is available across 15 

countries in Europe and 300 locations, and with its seamless crossborder 

capability, it is ideal for independent travellers who like 

to know where they are going. The system has extensive, detailed 

mapping, a wide, easy-to-use full-colour touch-screen that provides 

access to turnby-turn directions to points of interest including hotels 

and petrol stations, simply by touching an icon. 

Things to think about: 

•• 

What driver’s licence is needed 

•• 

Minimum age requirements (varies from country to country) 

•• 

Additional driver fees 

•• 

Deposits 

•• 

One way rental fees 

•• 

Optional equipment eg. child seats, roof racks 

•• 

Non waivable excess 

•• 

Fuel policy 

•• 

When you collect your car Hertz will take an imprint of your 

credit card as security. This can be between £200-£500 

•• 

Collision Damage Waiver & Theft Protection Insurance are 

included - you may be offered additional insurance options when 

you pick up your car 

SIGI-IT-SEEING YOUR WAY. 

There really is only one way to see the best of the UK & Ireland - SELF DRIVE. 

With a modern fleet, competitive prices and friendly service you can enjoy 

everything UK & Ireland has to offer from the comfort of a l-lertz rental vehicle. 

Start your adventure today. 

Travelling at the Speed of /.lertz 

19

Touring by Motorhome 

If it’s total freedom that you are after, then a 

motorhome rental is the perfect option for 

your next self-drive holiday around the United 

Kingdom. The small villages dotted throughout 

the UK are ideal to explore by motorhome, 

allowing you to discover the nooks and crannies 

of this vast land. As your motorhome includes 

transport and accommodation in one, it is truly 

a house on wheels! You are free to see where the 

road takes you and find that iconic spot where 

you can pull over, put the kettle on, and have 

a cup of tea and scone with the locals. If you 

can’t find that perfect spot, no problem, keep 

driving until you find that quaint little village in 

the Cotswolds. The options are endless and so 

is the road… 

Just go Motorhome Rates 

Includes belts and seats as specified, unlimited mileage, UK standard 

vehicle insurance, air conditioned driver’s cab, emergency breakdown 

cover, toilet chemicals, motorhome operating instructions, air 

conditioning, DVD and CD player, fully furnished bathroom including 

shower, toilet and hand basin, fully equipped kitchen with toaster, 

kettle, gas hob and fridge, crockery, cutlery, pots and pans, automatic 

transmission with power steering, camping guide and VAT. 

Group Rainbow Trailblazer Pioneer Rambler 

Max Seatbelts 2 4 5 6 

Ideal for 2 4 5 6 

All hires are based on afternoon pickups and morning drop offs. Driver 

licence and experience restrictions apply. Minimum hires apply and can 

be 5 or 7 days depending on the season. Children, until they reach their 

12th birthday or 125cm in height, must use the correct child restraint. All 

vehicles are subject to availability at time of booking. 

Hints and Tips: 

•• 

Motorhomes are much more suited to the countryside than the 

congested cities 

•• 

Hire a GPS with your motorhome as Google maps on a smartphone 

may be out of range on those roads less travelled 

•• 

The larger the motorhome the harder it is to manoeuvre, so don’t 

rent a motorhome larger than needed 

•• 

When you leave your vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in sight – 

always take your passport with you. 

•• 

Sign up to local camping clubs and grounds as they often offer 

discounts. 

•• 

You can take your motorhome on the ferry (at your expense) 

•• 

Additional insurance is required for Ireland and Europe 

•• 

Transfers are available from London Heathrow, Stansted and 

Gatwick Airports – a charge will apply and must be pre-booked. 

Free pick up is offered from Luton Airport and Harlington Station 

Get off the Beaten Track 

› Explore the UK & Ireland your own way 

› Trusted suppliers like Just go, Bunk Campers & Celtic Campervans 

› Choose from 2 to 6 berth motorhomes 

› Quality motorhomes at the best prices 

20

Highlights of South West England 

This itinerary gives you a real flavour of the region, 

with six counties and no less than four UNESCO 

World Heritage sites, historic cities, breath-taking 

countryside, picture postcard villages, and stunning 

seascapes all on your route. 

Exeter 

5 days/4 nights Suggested Self-Drive 

Day 1: London – Shaftesbury – Dorchester (184km) 

Stop at Stonehenge to marvel at the standing stones and the engineering 

skills of our ancestors. Thirty minutes through rolling countryside and 

you’re in the town of Shaftesbury, full of historic buildings and great 

literary connections. Continue south through Dorset villages to the 

Jurassic Coast. 

Day 2: Dorchester – Exeter – Dartmoor – Plymouth (156km) 

Drive into Devon to the cathedral city of Exeter to see the impressive 

12th century cathedral. Head inland to the Dartmoor National Park; its 

wild landscape is believed to be the inspiration behind Conan Doyle’s 

epic Sherlock Homes story, ‘The Hound of the Baskervilles’. Pass by 

granite outcrops known as Tors as you journey to the Maritime City of 

Plymouth. 

Day 3: Plymouth – Polperro – St Michaels Mount – St Ives (123km) 

In Polperro stroll the narrow streets before heading further into 

Cornwall to the iconic St Michael’s Mount, a monastery that dates back 

to the 8th century. Drive through Penzance stopping at Land’s End and 

Botallack before reaching the beaches of St Ives. 

Day 4: St Ives – Padstow – Port Isaac – Bath (340km) 

Back up the coast past Newquay to Padstow, a pretty harbour made 

famous by celebrity chef, Rick Stein. Wander the harbourside and 

winding streets before a short trip to the tiny port village of Port Isaac, 

then it’s a 3 hour drive to Bath. 

Day 5: Bath – The Cotswolds (205km) 

Head through the Gloucestershire towns of Tetbury and Cirencester and 

into the Cotswolds. There are so many lovely towns and villages, each 

bursting with old-world charm. 

Spend more time in The Cotswolds or make your way back to London. 

Rental car: Hertz (Group B) from $37 per day 

Our favourite places to stay: 

• Westwood House Guest House, Dorchester 

• The Imperial, Plymouth 

• Pedn Olva Hotel, St Ives 

• The Slaughters Country Inn, Lower Slaughter 

St Ives 

Botallack 

St Michael’s 

Mount 

Isles of 

Scilly 

Port Isaac 

Padstow Polperro 

Exeter 

Dartmoor 

Plymouth 

National 

Park 

Highlights worth seeing along the way 

Stonehenge 

Shaftsbury 

Lulworth Cove – On the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, this 

stunning horseshoe shaped bay with its coastal walks and views is a must 

see. 

Powderham Castle – Of the Earl and Countess of Devon. The castle has 

been owned by the same family since building commenced in 1391. 

Plymouth Hoe – One of the world’s finest natural harbours and the 

scene of some of the world’s most iconic voyages including Sir Francis 

Drake fighting the Spanish Armada, to Sir Francis Chichester’s first solo 

circumnavigation of the world. 

Botallack – Follow the coast road to where the iconic engine houses, 

from Cornwall’s unique mining heritage, and part of the UNESCO World 

Heritage site perch precariously on the cliff’s edge. 

Isles of Scilly – Just 45km off the coast by boat from Penzance or a short 

flight from Land’s End, Newquay or Exeter, you can enjoy a relaxed pace, 

explore Tresco Abbey Gardens and wildlife watch. 

Bath – A unique World Heritage city where you can bathe in naturally 

hot spring spa water. Bath has been a popular destination for relaxing spa 

breaks for thousands of years and now combines stunning architecture, 

fascinating history and excellent restaurants and shopping. 

Bath 

Jurassic 

Coast 

Powderham 

Castle 

The Cotswolds 

LONDON 

Dorchester 

Bowerman’s nose, Dartmoor 

Polperro, Cornwall 

Stonehenge 

The price guide shown is per car hire based on 3-5 day hire rate. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date 

21

ENGLA 

Cornwall, Devon & Somerset 

Drive to Land’s End and back to experience breathtaking 

coastal scenery, fabulous restaurants with 

treats of local produce, line-caught fish and seasonal 

vegetables, and wander through a variety of English 

Gardens. 

The Eden Project 


Day 1: London – St Austell (335km) 

St Austell is a town which in the 18th century prospered from the mining 

of ‘white gold’. Explore the Holy Trinity Parish Church and the Italianate 

facade of the Market House in the historic core. 

Day 2: St Austell – St Ives – Newquay (117km) 

Discover a castle, a sub-tropical garden paradise and a close-knit island 

community, stride over the causeway or cross by boat, depending on the 

tide, to reach the St Michael’s Mount. As you go to St Ives, visit the village 

of Penzance and The Minack Theatre, perched on a cliff. 

Day 3: Newquay – Padstow – Tintagel – Barnstaple (117km) 

Explore parts of this coastline by kayak or walking the Heritage Coastal 

Path. Visit the lively surf town of Newquay and the fishing port of 

Padstow, home of Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant. Immerse yourself in 

history and the legend of King Arthur at Tintagel. After all this activity, a 

delicate Devon cream tea in Clovelly is just the thing. 

Day 4: Barnstaple 

Head to Exmoor National Park which is the ideal place to enjoy the 

outdoors, everything from coasteering to cycling, horse riding to walking 

the Coleridge Way or riding the vintage West Somerset Railway. 

Day 5: Barnstaple – Salisbury (190km) 

Today’s highlights will include a steep walk to the top of Glastonbury Tor 

to admire the stunning views across the Mendip Hills. If it’s mid-week, 

stop at Wells for the Farmers’ Market before meandering through the 

Cheddar Gorge made famous by its Somerset cider and Cheddar cheese. 

Continue to discover more of the South West or make your way back to 

London. 



• The Grange Guest House, St Austell 

• The Cove Guest House, Porth, Newquay 

• Bracken House Bed & Breakfast, Barnstaple 

• The Old Mill Hotel, Salisbury 

Isles of 

Scilly 

Tintagel 

Padstow 

Newquay 

St Ives 

Minack 

Theatre 

Clovelly 

Barnstaple 

Dartmoor 

National 

Park 

Eden Project 

St Austell 

Lost Gardens 

of Heligan 

Exmoor 

National 

Park 

Cheddar Gorge 

Glastonbury 


Wells 

Salisbury 

LONDON 

St Austell Brewery – Explore beer making from the heady heights of the 

mill and enjoy a tutored tasting. 

The Eden Project – Nestled in a huge crater, housing the largest 

rainforest in captivity are stunning plants, exhibitions and stories which 

all serve as a backdrop to the ‘Great Gardens’. 

The Lost Gardens of Heligan – Immerse yourself in Europe’s largest 

garden restoration to discover the intriguing story of how a thousand 

acres of manicured and productive gardens were lost under a sea of 

brambles and ivy after the outbreak of WWI. 

Minack Theatre – Perched on the cliffs high above the Atlantic Ocean 

in Porthcurno (32km round trip from Penzance) you’ll discover the 

incredible story of its creator, Rowena Cade. 

Tate St Ives – Admire the masterpieces by giants of British Modernism, 

notably Barbara Hepworth and Ben Nicholson. 

Kayaking in St Agnes – Explore this World Heritage Cornish mining 

area and the wildlife, beside colourful cliffs, spacious caverns carved out 

during the Poldark mining era and secluded beaches. 

Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant & Cookery School – Courses, evening 

demos and skills workshops, all drizzles with Stein’s relaxed signature style. 

Clovelly – Set into a steep hillside, Clovelly has a single cobbled high 

street that winds its way down to the ancient harbour. 

The Minack Theatre, Cornwall 

Ancient thatched pub, Devon 

Penburth, Cornwall 

22 

The price guide shown is per car hire based on 3-5 day hire rate. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date

Yorkshire Dales & the Lake 

District 

York is a compact walled riverside city, bustling 

with attractions and oozing medieval Viking history. 

Resplendent Cumbria is home to the Lake District, 

where you will uncover the wild beauty of the Lake 

District National Park, considered the most scenic 

region of the UK. 

Hadrian’s Wall © www.britainexpress.com 


SCOTLAND 

Carlisle 

Hadrian’s Wall 

Durham 

Day 1: Manchester – York (135km) 

Travel north into the Yorkshire Dales, the setting of James Herriot’s ‘All 

Creatures Great and Small’. Stop in quaint market towns like Skipton and 

Harrogate on your way to discover York, one of the prettiest little cities 

you’ll ever lay eyes on. The old town is protected by its sturdy medieval 

walls and inside you’ll find a maze of narrow cobbled alleyways and 

streets, ‘The Shambles’. 

Day 2: York – Durham (169km) 

Explore the wild landscapes of the Yorkshire National Park and enjoy 

a stop at Castle Howard. Reaching the windswept north east coast 

wander through the cobbled harbour town of Whitby and the stunning 

Whitby Abbey. Further north, to the University City of Durham, visit the 

stunning World Heritage site at Durham Cathedral and Castle. 

Day 3: Durham – Carlisle – Lake District (191km) 

Drive through Hadrian’s Wall country checking out the Roman forts 

along the way as you travel west along the line of the wall. Stop at the 

town of Carlisle and Carlisle Castle before turning south into the aweinspiring 

landscapes of the Lake District. 

Day 4: Lake District 

Windermere is a charming Lakeland town and a great base to explore 

the Lake District from. This magnificent corner of England is home to 

some of the country’s most spectacular natural sights including lakes and 

surrounding woodlands, stone walls and villages. It is ideal for walking 

and hiking, boat trips or lazy drives through dozens of tiny villages. 

Day 5: Windermere – Liverpool (138km) 

Enjoy breakfast looking out over the picturesque lake and when you 

arrive in Liverpool make sure you explore the vibrant Albert Dock. 

Continue onto Manchester or over to Wales and add on the Wales itinerary. 



• Novotel York Centre, York 

• Burnhopeside Hall, Lanchester, Durham 

• Macdonald Old England Spa, Windermere 

• Pullman Liverpool Superior, Liverpool 

Lake 

District 

Cartmel 

Liverpool 

WALES 

Lake Windermere 

Skipton 

Yorkshire 

National Park 

Whitby 

Goathland 

Fountains 

Abbey 

Castle Howard 

Harrogate York 

Manchester 


Goathland – A tiny village, train station of which you may recognise as 

Hogsmeade from the Harry Potter movies. 

Dove Cottage – Nestled near Grasmere, this is where William 

Wordsworth wrote some of the greatest poetry in the English language. 

There is a museum and art gallery here and Rydal Mount. 

Cartmel Village – Call into this historic, unspoilt village found in a quiet 

valley for the most delicious sticky toffee pudding. 

Hadrian’s Wall – Once the northern frontier of the Roman Empire, you 

can stop at one or more of the preserved stretches, such as at Chester’s 

Roman Fort, and walk in the footsteps of the Roman Centurions. 

Ashness Bridge – You are sure to recognise this scene as it is one of the 

most photographed spots in the Lake District, a sweet humped back 

bridge with a backdrop of views of Derwentwater. 

Fountains Abbey and Gardens – This stunning UNESCO Heritage site 

dates from the 12th century and includes the Abbey remains and one of 

the finest landscape gardens in the world. 

Beatrix Potter’s Hilltop – On the shores of Lake Windermere, this is 

where she wrote many of her beloved stories. 

Albert Dock, Liverpool – This UNESCO World Heritage site has a large 

collection of Grade 1 listed buildings, abundant with galleries, museums, 

eateries and the Beatles Story. 

Cumbria 

Lake Windermere © Visit Britain & Rod Edwards 

Whitby 


23

South East England 

Explore the South East and experience quintessential 

England. Head into Kent for impressive castles and 

gardens, drive past sandy coastlines and towering 

cliffs to the pebble beaches of Brighton. Sussex and 

Hampshire delight with a mix of preserved historic 

villages and unspoilt countryside. 

Hastings Castle 


Oxford 

Day 1: London – Canterbury (97km) 

Journey east to Canterbury and its famous Cathedral. Wander through 

the meandering alleyways and historic city walls. History abounds in 

this county - Leeds Castle is 1000 years old and sits romantically on an 

island. Hever Castle, Anne Boleyn’s childhood home is picture-perfect. 

LONDON 

Sissinghurst 

Tenterden 

Canterbury 

Kent 

Downs Elham 

Margate 

Dover 

Day 2: Canterbury 

Day trip out to ‘The Original Seaside’ Margate, one of Britain’s most 

iconic landmarks, The White Cliffs of Dover, or Elham in Kent Downs 

Area of Outstanding National Beauty. 

Day 3: Canterbury – Rye – Hastings (72km) 

Explore the ‘Garden of England’ as you head along country roads 

through cute places like Hawkhurst, Cranbrook and explore Sissinghurst 

Castle Gardens and Tenterden. Winchelsea is an idyllic place of green 

valleys, wooded hills and coastal views. Hastings coast and countryside 

is littered with relics and ruins from the Norman invasion. 

Day 4: Hastings – Eastbourne – Brighton (68km) 

Eastbourne is a traditional seaside resort boasting unspoilt beaches, 

palm tree-lined promenades and is a gateway to the South Downs Way. 

Day 5-6: Brighton – Chichester – Winchester (120km) 

Winchester is a fascinating mix of legend, myth and heritage – think King 

Arthur and the Round Table, Winchester Cathedral dating back to 1070 

and the grave of Jane Austen. 

Day 7: Winchester – Oxford (90km) 

History echoes in every street in the University town of Oxford. Try punting 

along the Cherwell, book a cruise along a stretch of the River Thames or 

climb Carfax Tower in the University for great views over the city. 

Head back to London or continue with the Cotswold itinerary. 



• The Retro B & B, Canterbury 

• Chatsworth Hotel, Hastings 

• The Charm Brighton Boutique Hotel, Brighton 

• Mercure Wessex Winchester Hotel, Winchester 

Winchester 

Isle of 

Wight 

South Downs Way 

Chichester 

Brighton 

Lewes 

Alfriston 

Battle Rye 

Winchelsea 

Hastings 

Pevensey Bay 

Eastbourne 

Beachy Head 

Seven Sisters 


Birling Gap – Part of the Seven Sisters dramatic chalk cliffs and a point of 

entry for delightful walks along the undulating coastline. 

Battle – Site of the famous Battle of Hastings 1066 and built around 

the abbey. This thriving market town features Georgian and medieval 

cottages, shops, historic pubs and tearooms and is the centre of the 1066 

Country walk between Pevensey Castle and Rye. 

Rye – Explore cobbled alleys lined with historic buildings in this relaxed 

little town, clustered around a hillside overlooking the meandering river. 

Pevensey – Explore Pevensey Castle and its Mint House and the little 

often missed Tudor Court House. 

South Down Way – Walk or cycle part of the National Trail which weaves 

from Eastbourne to Winchester through picturesque countryside and 

villages. Alfriston on the banks of the Cuckmere River is a gorgeous stop 

for afternoon tea with stunning views of the downs. 

Firle – Narrow streets of flint knapped cottages do not seem to have 

changed for centuries. There are lovely walks from the village to 

Charleston Farmhouse and up to Firle Beacon. 

Brighton – This lively location offers something for everyone; a classic 

seaside pier, Regency architecture, a maze of narrow lanes filled with 

boutiques, Royal Pavillion, eateries and lively nightlife. 

Sissinghurst Caslte 

Brighton Pier 

Mermaid Street © Visit Britain 

24 


Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon & 

The Cotswolds 

Oxford is an easy drive from London and is bursting 

with many wonderful sights. It’s full of history and 

is peaceful and green in a classic English settlement. 

Explore the quaint town of Shakespeare’s birthplace, 

Stratford-upon-Avon. The patchwork countryside of 

the Cotswolds is home to some of England’s most 

captivating historic cities and eccentric villages. 

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Stratford-upon-Avon 


Warwick Castle 

Stratford-upon-Avon 

KEY 

The Cotswold 

Way 

Day 1: London – Oxford (90km) 

Drive through rolling hills and fields of the classic English countryside 

to the city of Oxford. Oxford University, founded in the 11th century, is 

the oldest in the English speaking world and lends a unique academic 

atmosphere. Take a walking tour of the colleges, gardens and alleyways 

to hear of the fascinating history. You may recognise Christ Church 

College as the setting of Harry Potter. 

Day 2: Oxford – Stratford-upon-Avon (66km) 

Stop at Blenheim Palace on your way to the vibrant, compact town of 

Stratford. Boasting a rich architectural heritage, Stratford has incredible 

English charm with 500 year old houses, traditional English pubs, and 

the peaceful River Avon. 

Day 3: Stratford-upon-Avon – Cheltenham (50km) 

Journey to the spa town of Cheltenham, your base for touring the 

Cotswolds Romantic Road. 

Day 4: Road for Today (113km) 

The Romantic Road takes you north over Cleeve Hill and down into 

historic Winchcombe. Visit Stanway and Stanton before the quaint 

chocolate-box villages of Broadway, Chipping Campden, Moreton-in- 

Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold, and the Slaughters. 

Day 5: Road for Tomorrow (145km) 

Follow the country road to Northleach and onwards to Burford following 

the Windrush Valley. Lechlade and Fairford feature on the journey 

enroute for Cirencester via the pretty village of Bibury on the River Coln. 

Follow the winding road back to Cheltenham calling into Painswick. 

Continue back to London or onward to Bath and the South West England. 



• Mercure Eastgate Hotel, Oxford 

• Queen’s Hotel, Cheltenham 

• Monks Barn Farm, Stratford-upon-Avon 

Broadway 

Winchcombe 

Cheltenham 

Painswick 

Snowshill 

Andoversford 

Cirencester 

Northleach 

Bibury 

Chipping Campden 

Stow-on-the-Wold 

Lower Slaughter 

Bourton-on-the-Water 

Fairford 

Moreton-in-Marsh 

Burford 

Lechlade-on-Thames 

Blenheim Palace 

Oxford 


LONDON 

Blenheim Palace – This lavishly decorated, large grand country house 

built in 1705 is the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Enjoy a guided tour 

through the state rooms and wander through the beautiful gardens. 

Cheltenham – King George III came to drink Cheltenham’s medicinal 

waters and it wasn’t long before the town was transformed into a 

fashionable resort spa, with wide boulevards, imperial gardens and 

glorious Georgian architecture. 

Snowshill – Set in the hills and famous for its elegant manor house and 

gardens, this collection of ancient cottages, a 19th century village church 

and characterful pub are all clustered around a tiny village green. Visit the 

Snowhill Lavender Farm for the finest lavender products. 

Hailes Abbey, Winchcombe – These beautiful 13th century remains, are 

the perfect place to take a picnic and enjoy your surroundings. 

Warwick Castle – History of the castle dates back to the 10th century. 

Explore the Great Hall, State rooms, Chapel, Ghost Tower and Dungeons, 

and outside, the Victorian rose garden, conservatory and peacock garden. 

Cotswold Way – A public footpath providing loads of walks all over the 

Cotswolds through honey coloured villages, past beautiful old houses and 

thatched cottages. 

William Shakespeare – His five unique properties dominate Stratford 

including the beautiful cottage of his wife, Anne Hathaway. 

LOND 

Warwick Castle 

Blenheim Palace 


25

Experience 

Wales 

© Visit Britain & Joe Cornish 

Fast Facts 

Country Name: 

Population: 

Capital: 

Currency: 

Time Zone: 

Electricity: 

Wales 

3 Million 

Cardiff 


11 hours behind New Zealand (except 

during daylight saving) 


Plug is a 3 point round-pin adaptor 

There are more than 400 castles in Wales and a history swirling with tales of 

wizards and dragons that can still be heard are told in one of the oldest living 

languages in Europe. Wales has mountains and coal mines, a fanatical love of rugby 

and a passion for singing. In other words: it is proudly unique. 

Conwy, Caernarfon and Harlech Castles will transport you back in time, and the 

landscape is dotted with places connected to one of Britain’s most enduring legends 

– King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. You’ll eat regally too – seafood 

is abundant, Welsh lamb and beef are famous, and there is a delicious array of 

awarding cheeses – nutty cheddar, tangy blue, creamy goats and crumbly caerphilly 

cheese. 


26 May-05 Jun Hay Festival, Hay-on-Wye 

01-16 Jul The Gower Festival 

02 Jul Cardigan Bay Seafood Festival 

Aug 

World Bog Snorkelling 

Championship, Llanwrtyd Wells 

04-12 Aug National Eisteddfod 

18-21 Aug Green Man Festival, Brecon Beacons 

Sep 

Abergavenny Food Festival 

North Wales, including the Snowdonia National Park, is a walker’s paradise, but 

the market town of Llangollen with its famous canal is a place that can be savoured 

from the tranquil waterway as well. In central Wales you’ll find the wilderness of 

the Brecon Beacons to explore on foot or bike but there’s also the book-mad town 

of Hay-on-Wye. To the west lie Aberysthwyth and its steam train, the stunningly 

beautiful Pembrokeshire coast and the National Botanic Gardens of Wales which 

have the world’s largest single-span glasshouse. 

26

Coastal Wales 

Remarkable landscapes and castles, and fine food 

combine with strong Celtic roots, Welsh history, myth 

and language to lead you on a journey of discovery. 

The intricate country roads are perfect for exploring 

in your own vehicle as you drive from green valleys 

in the south to Snowdonia’s mountains in the north. 

Cardiff © Crown, Visit Wales 


Day 1: Cardiff – Swansea – Tenby (148km) 

Explore Cardiff, a city bursting with historical arcades and modern 

shopping centres, museums, galleries and Cardiff Castle. Head west to 

Swansea, and onward to Tenby. Who can spot the castle on the island 

first? Stretch your legs on a sunset stroll through the narrow streets. 

Day 2: Tenby – Pembroke – St David’s (60km) 

An invigorating morning walk around the picturesque seaside harbour 

before continuing west to Pembroke and the imposing 12th century 

castle. Enjoy coastal scenery out to St David’s, Britain’s smallest city, but 

more like a bustling village with a magnificent cathedral. 

Day 3: St David’s – Fishguard – Aberystwyth (116km) 

From Fishguard, drive along the beautiful coastline of the Pembrokeshire 

Coast National Park. Travel up the coast to Aberystwyth and the castle 

ruins dating back to the 13th century. This is a lovely town to stay with its 

sweeping seafront, energetic promenade and traditional seaside pier. 

Day 4: Aberystwyth – Snowdonia – Caernarfon (150km) 

Drive through Snowdonia National Park to view the magnificent 

architecture of Harlech Castle, perched on a rocky outcrop. Llyn 

Peninsula is a protected ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ where 

you’ll find the abandoned village of Nant Gwrtheym. 

Day 5: Caernarfon – Conwy (163km) 

Caernarfon Castle, World Heritage listed site, is one of the finest 

castles in Wales with murder holes and a moat. Detour inland through 

Snowdonia, home of Mount Snowdon. 

Day 6: Conwy 

This medieval town has a castle perfect for exploring with ramparts, 

towers, dark passages and dungeons, and a tiny house. 

Head onto Manchester or cross over on the ferry from Holyhead to Dublin. 



• Lovesgrove Country Guest House, Pembrokeshire 

• Llety Ceiro Country Guest House, Talybont, Aberystwyth 

• Glan Heulog Bed and Breakfast, Conwy, Caernarfon 

DUBLIN 

Holyhead 

Caernarfon 

Nant Gwrtheyrn 

Harlech 

Aberystwyth 

Three 

Cliffs 

Conwy 

Snowdonia 

National 

Park 

Fishguard 

Pembrokeshire Coast 

St David’s National Park 

Pembroke 

Tenby 

WALES 

Swansea 

Llangollen Canal 

CARDIFF 


Manchester 

Chester 

ENGLAND 

Three Cliffs Bay in Gower – Trek out, off the beaten track and be 

rewarded with dramatic views over the glistening ocean and stretches of 

white sand lying between black cliff faces, topped with emerald green. 

Tenby – The colourful walled town has arguably the best beach in 

Europe, make sure you do a walking tour. 

Pembroke offshore islands – Take a boat ride out to visit the 

cormorants, puffins and guillemots that reside on the islands. You may 

even see a seal! 

Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail – Immerse yourself in nature 

by walking a section of the 299km trail which covers steep limestone cliffs, 

undulating red sandstone bays, volcanic headlands, beaches and flooded 

glacial valleys. The Coastal Bus Service will take you back to your car. 

Conwy – Walk through the narrow streets of this historic walled town. 

Traditional Welsh food – Indulge in laverbread and cockles. 

Narrow-gauge steam train – Step back in time as you embark on a ride 

through the spectacular Snowdonia, past rivers and castles. 

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – This UNESCO World Heritage site is the longest 

and highest in the UK on the Llangollen Canal. You can walk across it or 

take a boat ride. 

Three Cliffs Bay © Visit Wales Pontcysyllte Aqueduct © Visit Wales Narrow Gauge Train © Visit Wales 


27

Experience 

Scotland 

Fast Facts 

Country Name: 

Population: 

Capital: 

Currency: 

Time Zone: 

Electricity: 

Scotland 

5.3 Million 

Edinburgh 





Plug is a 3 point round-pin adaptor 

Scotland overflows with iconic images – tartan and bagpipes, whisky and thistles. 

Their origins may be lost in the mists of time but even today they speak of a proud 

and unique culture. Born in a land with a robust, wild climate, the Scots are feisty 

independent people who treasure their heritage which includes Neolithic farmers 

of Skara Brae, the Romans, legendary Robert the Bruce and the tragic monarch: 

Mary, Queen of Scots. 

Edinburgh is an ideal place to begin exploring Scotland’s past and maybe to trace 

your own Scottish roots. But the true essence of this land lies among the heather 

and lochs of the highlands and islands. There’s a taste of it in Speyside, home to 

more than half of Scotland’s famed distilleries, or on legendary golf courses such 

as St Andrews. 


31 Jan Up Helly Aa, Lerwick Shetland 

04-26 Aug Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 

Aug 

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival 

24-26 Aug Cowal Highland Gathering, Dunoon 

Sep 

Scottish Borders Walking Festival, 

Peebles 

30 Dec-01 Jan Hogmanay, Edinburgh 

Gaelic culture thrives in the Outer Hebrides, pilgrims flock to Iona and the Isle of 

Skye breathes romance. The remote Shetland Isles are home to the puffin birds 

and are steeped in Viking lore. Outside the cities are fairytale castles with turrets 

and towers, and sites echoing with bloody moments from Scottish history such as 

Glencoe, Culloden and Loch Ness. Stand among the ramparts of Urquhart Castle, 

gaze at the waves and you too may believe a monster lurks in the loch’s depths. 

28

Edinburgh 

When a city’s New Town dates back to the 18th century, you know you’re in a 

seriously historic city; it’s Old Town is medieval by the way. This sophisticated 

Scottish capital has melded the ancient with the modern and is synonymous with 

its annual festival in August, that encompasses the legendary Tattoo to and The 

Fringe; but it’s festival time almost year-round in Edinburgh. Join the spirited 

locals for celebrations of film, jazz and science, not to mention Hogmanay. 

Walk through history with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, towering above the Royal 

Mile. Then follow this famous thoroughfare down to the Queen’s Scotland address. 

Take a tipple of Scotland’s finest whisky en route or shop for your clan tartan. 


Edinburgh Castle – You haven’t truly seen Edinburgh 

until you’ve paid a visit to the most famous of all the Scottish 

castles. Perched atop a rocky outcrop and totally dominating 

the cityscape, it has tons of history dating back to the 12th 

century and is still used for events like the Military Tattoo. 

Fringe Festival – Book a week in Edinburgh during the 

month of August and you’re in for an unforgettable cultural 

explosion! Crazy acts by top local and international performers 

are on show almost 24 hours a day. In 2016 one of the funniest 

one-liners was by comedian Roger Swift, “I spotted a Marmite 

van on the motorway, it was heading Yeastbound.” 

© Visit Scotland & Kenny Lam 


Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre – This is the perfect 

place to sample a wee dram. Neat or with ice, it’s up to you, 

just don’t ask for a mixer of coke or the whisky lovers might 

not let you get out alive! 

Grey Friars Bobby – The story of the little Skye Terrier, 

that stood guard by his master’s grave for over 14 years until 

he himself died on 14 January 1872, is bound to make you 

shed a tear or two. A visit to Bobby’s headstone in Greyfriars 

Kirkyard, and getting your photo taken next to the statue of 

Bobby on the corner of Edinburgh’s Candlemaker Row and 

George IV Bridge, is mandatory when visiting Edinburgh. 

Clan Tartan Centre – Do you remember watching 

Braveheart and wishing you were part Scottish? Now you can 

find out if your name is linked to a Scottish clan and deck 

yourself out head to toe in your family tartan. 

Arthur’s Seat – There are a number of walking tracks 

crisscrossing the hills of Edinburgh that will take you to the 

top of Arthur’s Seat (the main peak) in a little less than an 

hour. The effort is worth it with superb views of the city. 


© Visit Scotland 

© Visit Scotland 


29

Edinburgh Accommodation 

Orchard Brae 

Learmonth Ave 

Dean Park Cres 

NW Circus Pl 

Queen St 

Howe St 

3 

Albany St 

York Pl 

Leith St 

4 

London Rd 

Calton 

Hill 

Regent 

Gardens 

Royal Terrace 

Regent Rd 

Dundas St Hanover St 

Dean Path 

Murrayfield 

Stadium 

Rothesay Pl 

Haymarket Tce 

Palmerston Pl 

Haymarket 

Station 

Belford Rd 

Walker St 

Drumsheugh Gardens 

Morrison St 

W Approach Rd 

1 

Queensferry St 

Shandwick Place 

Fountainbridge 

Lothian Rd 

George St 

Princes St 

Spittal St 

Princes St 

Gardens 

Edinburgh 

Castle 

T H 

Grassmarket 

E MOUND 

Scotch Whisky 

Heritage Centre 

Waverley 

Station 

National 

Gallery 

Johnston Terrace (Royal Mile) 

6 

2 

Lauriston Pl 

GEORGE IV BRIDGE 

Nth Bridge 

High St (Royal Mile) 

Cowgate 

George Square 

Sth Bridge 

5 

Holyrood Rd 

Calton Rd 

Canongate (Royal Mile) 

The Pleasance 

Queens Drive 

Holyrood 

Park 

Arthur’s 

Seat 

Brooks Hotel Edinburgh 

1 

Novotel Edinburgh Centre 

2 

The Place 

3 

Beautifully refurbished in 2013, this boutique 

hotel is well located in the financial district of 

Edinburgh City and only a short five minute 

walk to Haymarket Train Station. Spend your 

days exploring the history of the city before 

heading back to the hotel to relax and enjoy a 

dram of whisky in the hotel’s courtyard. 

You’ll love this hotel’s central location, 

so close to the Royal Mile and the famous 

Edinburgh Castle. It’s also a stone’s throw 

from the fabulous shops on Princes Street and 

a gentle amble away from the brilliant pubs 

and clubs in Grassmarket. 

A boutique styled townhouse hotel, situated 

in a stunning A-listed Georgian Terrace in 

the very heart of the city. Close to the main 

theatre and shopping districts, this unique 

privately owned hotel features contemporary 

bedrooms with complimentary WiFi and a 

stylish restaurant and cocktail bar. 

Courtyard by Marriott 

4 

Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh 

5 

The Knight Residence 

Apartments 

6 

Opening in 2017, this hotel combines heritage 

and style with innovative design and is five 

minutes’ walk from Princes Street, Waverley 

Station and The Edinburgh Tram on York 

Place. The spacious modern hotel rooms have 

plush beds for you to sink into after exploring 

the sights of Edinburgh. 

Discover the history and beauty of Edinburgh 

from this totally refurbished hotel, located 

on the Royal Mile, in the heart of the capital’s 

historic district. When you’re not out 

exploring the nearby Holyrood Palace and 

Edinburgh Castle, book a treatment at Melrose 

Spa, work out in the Health Club or order a 

delicious meal in. 

If you’re travelling by yourself or in a small 

group, this is the ideal base. The Knight 

Residence’s fine service ensures that you 

enjoy the best of Scottish hospitality. Situated 

right in the heart of Scotland’s capital, it’s 

surrounded by oodles of great pubs, cafés, 

restaurants and within cooee of the big 

attractions. 

30

Edinburgh Sightseeing 

© VisitBritain 

Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Tour 

Edinburgh is such a beautiful city, but it 

has been known to rain from time to time. 

Do yourself a favour and jump on board 

the big red double decker bus. This is the 

easiest and very occasionally the driest 

way to see the city and its attractions. 

The Scotch Whisky Experience 

This swirling, bubbling interactive attraction brings 

300 years of Scotch Whisky history to life. Scotch 

Whisky dates back to the 15th century and on the 

Whisky Heritage Tour you will learn the origins of 

Malt Whisky distilling in Scotland. To get you in the 

mood 

you are 

offered 

a “wee 

dram”. 

Loch Ness, Glen Coe & the Highlands 

You haven’t experienced Scotland until you’ve 

journeyed to the Highlands, home to the Clan 

families, steeped in tradition and full of beauty. 

Enjoy stunning scenery as you travel through 

the spectacular 

Cairngorms 

National Park 

en route to Loch 

Ness for monster 

spotting and onto 

Glen Coe, home 

of the massacre 

of the MacDonald 

Clan. 

Note: All 

admissions are 

optional extras 

and subject 

to seasonal 

availability. 

Edinburgh Tattoo Package 

Staged every year as part of the famous 

Edinburgh Festival, the Edinburgh 

Military Tattoo is a unique and memorable 

celebration of music, dance and military 

pageantry. Performed against the backdrop 

of Edinburgh Castle, the Tattoo features aweinspiring 

colour and variety from the four 

corners of the globe. You’ll experience one 

of the finest displays of massed pipes and 

drums to be found anywhere in the world. 

Why not book a package including 2 nights 

accommodation, Scottish breakfast, tickets 

to Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Edinburgh 

Hop on Hop off Bus Tour and entry to 

Edinburgh Castle with afternoon tea. 

Secrets of the Royal Mile 

Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is a treasure-chest of 

historic gems just waiting to be opened. This 

is the best way to hear and see all these gems 

with an expert guide revealing the history of 

this fascinating street and its unique place in 

the development of the Scottish nation. 

31

Scotland Tours 

Ultimate Skye Experience 

3 days/2 nights 

Visit the beautiful Isle of Skye the largest and 

most popular island of the Inner Hebrides. 

En route you will tick off some of the most 

important stops such as Eilean Donan Castle 

and Loch Ness. 

Scottish Choice 


Explore the north with its spectacular 

coastline and rich history. See the Cuillin 

Mountains and take in the amazing Kilt rock 

waterfall. Stop in Fort Augustus en route 

home for a spot of Nessie hunting. 

Orkney, Skye and the Far North 


For the complete Scottish experience of castles, 

lochs, beaches and stunning isles, travel through 

the Trossachs to Oban, over the bridge to the 

gruesome glens and then onboard the Hogwarts 

Express over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. 

Day 1: Edinburgh – Loch Ness 

Journey past the beautiful Stirling Castle on 

your way to Skye stopping in a picturesque 

Highland town. 

Day 2: Loch Ness – Skye 

As the road nears the coast, it passes Eilean 

Donan Castle. Here you have the chance to 

take photographs and explore the castle that 

featured in the film Highlander. Then it’s time 

to cross the bridge to Skye to see all the sights, 

such as Portree and outstanding beautiful 

Trotternish Peninsula. 

Day 3: Skye – Fort William – Edinburgh 

Today visit Fort William, and take in the views 

of Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain. Head 

to the brooding expanse of Rannoch Moor and 

drive through Glen Coe. Learn the story of the 

MacDonald Clan massacre before returning 

home. 

Note: All admissions are optional extras and 

subject to seasonal availability. 

Orkney 

Departures: Set departures (Apr-Oct) Islands – tour 

can also depart from Glasgow. Tour operates in 

Stromness 

reverse on Saturdays 

Inclusions: 2 nights accommodation including 

breakfast, guide and transport 

Price Guide From: $452 

Day 1: Edinburgh – Oban 

Heading west through the beautiful scenery 

of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National 

Park to Kilmartin Glen. Here you’ll explore 

Scotland’s ancient past. 

Day 2: Oban – Skye 

Travel over the Connel Bridge through Appin 

to the haunting landscape of Glen Coe. Stop 

in Fort William dominated by Ben Nevis - 

the UK’s tallest peak, then jump aboard the 

Jacobite Steam Train (on selected dates). 

Day 3: Skye 

Spend the day exploring Skye’s mysteries and 

landscape. 

Day 4: Skye – Fort Augustus 

Travel to Scotland’s most photographed 

castle, Eilean Donan. Continue further north 

through Glen Carron and past Loch Carron 

towards Achnasheen. 

Day 5: Fort Augustus – Edinburgh 

Explore Loch Ness before arriving back in 

Edinburgh. 



Orkney 

Departures: Set departures (Mar-Oct) Islands– tour 

can also depart from Glasgow Stromness 




Day 1: Edinburgh – Oban 

Head west to Loch Lomond and Kilmartin Glen 

to explore 5000 years of history. Walk in the 

footsteps of the first Scots at Dunadd Hill Fort. 

Day 2: Oban – Skye 

From this seaside town, travel through Appin 

to Glen Coe and Fort William to jump on the 

Jacobite Steam Train to Mallaig (on selected 

dates). 

Day 3: Skye 

You have a whole day to explore the Isle of 

Skye’s mysteries and landscape. 

Day 4: Skye – Fort Augustus 

Explore Eilean Donan, then head north 

through Glen Carron, Glen Docherty 

Corrieshalloch Gorge and Loch Ness. 

Day 5: Fort Augustus – Kirkwall 

Over the sea to the mysterious Orkney Isles. 

Day 6: Kirkwall 

Take in prehistoric marvels such as the 

Maeshowe chambered cairn, the Neolithic 

village of Skara Brae, and stone circles. 

Day 7: Kirkwall – Edinburgh 

Head home by Inverness, Culloden and the 

stunning Cairngorm Mountains. 



Departures: Set departures (May-Sep) 




Skye 

Eilean Donan 

Castle 

Glen Coe 

Culloden 

Loch 

Ness 

SCOTLAND 

Skye 

Inverewe Garden 

Culloden 

Eilean Donan Loch 

Castle Ness 

Jacobite 

Steam Train 

Oban 

Loch Lomond 

SCOTLAND 

Orkney 

Islands 

Skara Brae 

Kirkwall 

Skye 

Culloden 

Eilean Donan 

Castle SCOTLAND 

Glasgow 

EDINBURGH 

Glasgow 

EDINBURGH 

Oban 

Loch Lomond 

EDINBURGH 

32 

The price guide shown is per adult per tour twin share based on low season travel. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials or surcharges may apply 

depending on travel date.

The Northern Highlands 

Home to some of Scotland’s most impressive 

wilderness and hospitable towns. This itinerary will 

take you through Cairngorm National Park, towards 

the least explored areas of the north east and north 

westerly tip of the country. 

Dunrobin Castle © VisitScotland & Paul Tomkins 


Day 1: Edinburgh 

Visit some of Edinburgh’s famous attractions including the Royal Mile 

and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. 

Day 2: Edinburgh – Perth – Aviemore (204km) 

Travel north over the Firth of Forth to reach Perthshire’s stunning 

scenery. In the picturesque Victorian town of Pitlochry visit Edradour, 

the smallest whisky distillery in Scotland. Explore the Cairngorm 

National Park on your way up to Aviemore. 

Day 3: Aviemore – Inverness – Thurso (221km) 

Journey through one of the least explored areas of Scotland, up to 

Inverness and along the north eastern coast. As the road snakes towards 

Thurso, be sure to stop at the magnificent Dunrobin Castle. 

Day 4: Orkney Islands 

Take the ferry to the Orkney Islands to see Skara Brae and Maeshowe, 

the prehistoric sites that predate the Pyramids. 

Day 5: Thurso – Tongue – Lairg (130km) 

Travel on the single track coastal road to Tongue. The road will take you 

south by the mountains of Ben Loyal and Ben Klibeck to the village of Lairg. 

Day 6: Lairg – Fort Augustus (128km) 

Loch Ness stretches its bitterly cold waters for 38km between Inverness 

and Fort Augustus and the shores makes for a beautiful scenic journey. 

Day 7: Fort Augustus – Loch Lomond (172km) 

Follow the famous Caledonian Canal to Fort William as you head towards 

Loch Lomond, the largest loch in the whole of Great Britain. 

Day 8: Loch Lomond – Glasgow (53km) 

Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Loch’s wooded shores and island vistas 

before a scenic drive to the energetic city of Glasgow. 



• Royal Hotel, Thurso 

• The Lovat Loch Ness, Fort Augustus 

• Cameron House, Loch Lomond 

Urquhart Castle 

Loch 

Ness 

Fort Augustus 

Fort William 

Glencoe 

Loch Lomond 

Orkney 

Skara Brae Islands 

Stormness 

Maeshowe 

Tongue 

Thurso 

Lairg Dunrobin Castle 

Inverness 

Aviemore 

SCOTLAND 

Pitlochry 

Dunkeld Scone Palace 

Perth 

Glasgow 


EDINBURGH 

Climb the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle – The castle dominates the 

city centre skyline and from the ramparts you can look down on medieval 

lanes and sweeping terraces that hold over a thousand year of history, 

mystery and tradition. 

Admire the treasures inside Scone Palace – This superb Gothic 

building is the ancient crowning place of the Kings of Scotland and holds 

many historical treasures. 

Dunkeld – Medieval cathedral on the banks of Loch Tay. 

See a falconry display at Dunrobin Castle – The gardens, inspired by 

the Palais de Versailles are a beautiful backdrop to this exciting display. 

Admire the Italian Chapel – Built by Italian prisoners of war on the tiny 

island of Lamb Holm, Orkney. 

Discover history in Glencoe – One of Scotland’s most dramatic glens 

and the scene of the cruel massacre of the Clan Macdonald by Clan 

Campbell. 

Wander through Urquhart Castle – Sitting magnificently on the banks 

of the famous Loch Ness. 

Stroll through Luss – Stop at this picturesque village to admire the cute 

cottages. 

Kelvingrove Art Gallery – View this amazing collection of exhibits. 

Italian Chapel, Lamb Holm © VisitScotland & Paul Tomkins 

Skara Brae © VisitScotland 

Loch Lomond © VisitScotland 

The price guide shown is per car hire based on 7+ day hire rate. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date 

33

A Taste of Scotland 

An ideal self-drive option for first-time visitors to 

Scotland. It covers all of the highlights including 

famous historic castles and beautiful lochs whilst 

learning of the history that helped create this 

amazing country. 

Isle of Skye © VisitScotland & Richard Elliot 



Spend the day soaking up the atmosphere of this exciting city. 

Day 2: Edinburgh – Stirling – Loch Lomond – Oban (197km) 

Travel to Stirling Castle for fabulous views over Stirlingshire. Continue to 

Loch Lomond, along Loch Fyne and its beautiful landscape passing by 

Inveraray Castle. 

Day 3: Isle of Mull & Isle of Iona 

Enjoy the scenic ferry ride over to spend the day exploring the 

picturesque islands of Mull and Iona. Overnight in Oban. 

Day 4: Oban – Fort William – Mallaig – Isle of Skye (144km) 

Leave Oban via Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most dramatic glens. Travel 

through the West Highlands to Fort William, set in the shadow of Ben 

Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Ferry over to stay the night on the Isle 

of Skye, the largest, most scenic of the Hebridean Islands. 

Day 5: Isle of Skye – Loch Ness – Inverness (196km) 

Explore the iconic images of Eilean Donan Castle before continuing over 

to Urquhart Castle, magnificently located on the banks of Loch Ness, and 

on to Inverness. 

Day 6: Inverness – Pitlochry – Perth (212km) 

Start the day with a city tour of Inverness. A short detour takes you to 

Cawdor Castle in Nairn, before you head south via Aviemore through 

the impressive Cairngorm Mountains. In Pitlochry, stroll through the 

Victorian city and visit the Eradour Whisky Distillery. 

Day 7: Perth – St Andrews – Fife – Edinburgh (138km) 

St Andrews is famous for its 15th century golf course. Continue along 

the coast via the small fishing villages of Elie and Pittenweem. Cross the 

Forth Bridge with spectacular views of the Firth of Forth. 



• Oban Bay Hotel 

• Uig Lodge, Skye 

• Highland Apartments, Inverness 

Isle of 

Skye 

Isle of Iona 

Mallaig 

Isle of Mull 

Eilean 

Donan 

Castle 

Oban 

Inveraray 

Castle 

Inverness 

Fort 

William 

Glencoe 

Loch 

Ness 

Loch 

Lomond 

Pitlochry 

Stirling 

Cawdor Castle 

SCOTLAND 

EDINBURGH 


St Andrews 

Forth Bridge 

Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse – Take an audio tour of the Royal 

Family’s official residence in Edinburgh to experience the 14 magnificent 

historic and State Apartments, the romantic ruins of the 12th century 

Holyrood Abbey and the royal gardens. 

Cruise on Loch Lomond – A great way to explore the largest loch in 

Great Britain, known for the tranquil beauty of its wooded shores and 

islands. Enjoy a walk through the picturesque village of Luss. 

Have a cup of tea at Inveraray Castle – Set off the shores of Loch Fyne 

against the backdrop of rugged highland scenery is this ancestral seat 

of the Duke of Argyll, head of the Campbell Clan. Explore the famous 

Armoury Hall and walk through the beautifully maintained estate gardens. 

Ferry to the Isles – Isle of Iona is where St Columba landed in 563 and 

founded the famous Iona Abbey the burial spot of many Scottish kings 

including Macbeth. 

Wander through the gardens of Cawdor Castle – There are three 

pretty gardens set in carefully manicured grounds around this sumptuous 

castle. Enter the impressive Drawing Room with its wall adorned with 

portraits of generations of Campbells. 

Explore St Andrews – Stroll along the medieval streets and shop for gifts 

in the quaint shops, walk to the top of the 12th century St Rule’s Tower or 

St Andrew’s Cathedral to enjoy the splendid views. 

Fife 

Perth 

Pittenweem Harbour ©VisitScotland & Paul Tomkins 

Forth Bridge ©VisitScotland & Kenny Lam 

The Three Sisters, Glencoe ©VisitScotland & Kenny Lam 

34 

The price guide shown is per car hire based on 7+ day hire rate. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date

Rugged Scotland 

Drive through areas famed for landscape and 

unspoilt breath-taking scenery. Discover rich 

farmlands in the South, historic houses and castles, 

and the islands sitting on the most north westerly 

edge of Europe, the Outer Hebrides. 

View from Wallace Monument, Stirling © VisitScotland & Kenny Lam 



Explore Edinburgh, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Day 2: Edinburgh – Scottish Borders (142km) 

At the southern gateway to Scotland lies the seductive Borders region, an 

exciting area with an often bloody history. 

Day 3: Edinburgh – Stirling – Oban (196km) 

Travel to Stirling, pass through the traditional town of Callander, then via 

Crianlarich to Oban along the beautiful shores of Loch Awe. 

Day 4: Oban – Mull – Staffa 

Explore the beautiful Isles of Mull and Staffa. Ferry over to Mull, a 

spectacular, rocky island with views of unspoiled, rugged Scotland. 

Embark on the sea journey to Staffa with columns forming the cathedrallike 

structure of Fingal’s Cave. Visit the island of Iona and the abbey. 

Day 5: Mull – Mallaig – Isle of Skye (198km) 

A short ferry ride from Mull to Lochaline takes you to Morvern and 

Ardnamurchan peninsulas, perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude 

and rare species of wildlife. Cross over to the Isle of Skye and visit the 

Armadale Castle and wander through the magnificent gardens. 

Day 6: Isle of Skye 

Enjoy a day on this dramatic island. Visit Dunvegan Castle, tour around 

the island’s coastal road towards Uig, stop at Skye Folk Museum. 

Day 7: Skye – Loch Ness/Invergarry – Glencoe (223km) 

Travel back to the mainland via the Skye Bridge for magical views of 

Eilean Donan Castle. Look out for Nessie as you drive along the shores of 

Loch Ness and follow the Great Glen to beautiful Glencoe. 

Day 8: Glencoe– Loch Lomond – Glasgow (223km) 

Stroll along the River Clyde Walkway and discover Glasgow’s rejuvenation. 



• Novotel Edinburgh Centre 

• Best Western The Queens Hotel, Oban 

• The Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa 

• Dunollie Hotel, Isle of Skye 

Uig 

Dunvegan 

Castle 

Portree 

Isle of 

Skye 

Mallaig 

Eilean 

Donan 

Castle 

Loch Ness 

SCOTLAND 

Isle of 

Mull 

Glencoe 

Staffa 

Crianlarich 

Oban 

Isle of Iona 

Callander 

Inverawe 

Stirling 

Smokehouses Loch 

Lomond 

EDINBURGH 

Glasgow 

Scottish 

Borders 

Region 


Walk the Royal Mile – From Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of 

Holyroodhouse, in the heart of Edinburgh, this is a vibrant area packed 

with historical sites and some great eating and drinking spots. 

Explore the Borders region heritage sites – This is a land of strong 

traditions and a turbulent history. Today you will discover the friendly 

towns and picturesque villages, castles, abbeys and museums. 

Visit Rosslyn Castle – 10 kilometres south of Edinburgh is the 

mysterious, richly decorated late-Gothic chapel featured in ‘The Da Vinci 

Code’. 

Stirling Castle & Wallace Monument – Visit one of Scotland’s most 

important fortresses and the nearby Wallace Monument which offers a 

wonderful view of Stirlingshire from the top of the 67 metre high tower. 

Learn how to smoke salmon – The Inverawe Smokehouse in Taynuit is 

a traditional family run smokery where you can also enjoy walks along the 

nature trails. 

Spot the seals at Dunvegan Castle – Take an exhilarating 25 minute 

boat trip to see the seal colony and enjoy the unique views of the Outer 

Hebrides across the Minch. 

Pay a visit to iconic Eilean Donan Castle – Located on its own little 

island, surrounded by the forested mountains of Kintail, this setting is 

truly breath-taking. 

Island of Mull © VisitScotland & Kenny Lam 

Rosslyn Chapel ©VisitScotland & Kenny Lam 

Eilean Donan Castle © VisitScotland & Paul Tomkins 


35

Experience 

Ireland 

Fast Facts 

Country Name: 

Population: 

Capital: 

Currency: 

Time Zone: 

Electricity: 

Republic of Ireland & 

Northern Ireland 

4.5 Million & 1.8 Million 

Dublin & Belfast 

Euros & Pound Sterling 





Plug is a 3 point rectangle-pin adaptor 

25-29 Jan TradFest Temple Bar, Dublin 

17 Mar St Patrick’s Day 

21-23 Apr West Waterford Food Festival 

26-30 Apr Cork International Choral Festival 

06-09 Jul Irish Open, Portstewart, Northern 

Ireland 

10-12 Aug Puck Fair Festival, Killorgin 

Sep 

Galway Oyster and Seafood Festival 

A land of magic and legend, richly steeped in religious heritage and wild romantic 

landscapes. Ireland can turn almost anyone into a poet. It’s not a large island, you 

could drive around it in four or so days but don’t be deceived – this place tempts 

travellers to tarry amongst its stunning views, breath-taking history and its famed 

hospitality. 

Dublin is one of Europe’s most happening cities - where better to ease oneself into 

the legendary Irish pub scene? But beyond lie the cliffs and seascapes of Kerry, 

mystical Connemara, Gaelic speakers of Donegal, Galway, Cork and Limerick; every 

place name evokes stories of Ireland’s past. 

Stroll through almost any town and follow the sounds of Irish music into a welcoming 

pub, work out the secrets of Gaelic football, taste soda bread and savour a creamy 

Guinness – devotees insist it has a unique taste unlike anywhere else in the world. 

If you have no Irish blood in your veins, after a few days in this country you’ll wish 

you had. And if you have local ancestry, trace your Irish roots back into the peaty 

soils of your home county. 

36

Dublin 

Even if you’ve never fancied Guinness before, there’s something in the Dublin air 

that is going to compel you to sip a sample of Ireland’s most legendary liquid. 

This dynamic European capital’s history stretches back 1000 years and Viking, 

Medieval and Georgian legacies live on. The UNESCO World Heritage site at Boyne 

Valley actually predates the pyramids of Egypt, and the city itself has a long 

association with literary giants and musical luminaries. There are eerie reminders 

of Ireland’s turbulent past in Kilmainham Gaol, now a museum, and at Malahide 

Castle, there’s not one but five ghosts on the prowl! You can easily fill your days 

with castles, museums and art galleries. 


Statue hunt – There are plenty to find and some have 

acquired some interesting nicknames (ask a local!). Keep your 

eyes peeled for James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and Molly Malone, 

and the tall, emaciated people of the Famine Memorial. 

Kilmainham Gaol – Closed in 1924, this is a bleak but 

fascinating attraction. The only way to visit the Gaol is with 

a guided tour, which is great as you learn all about Ireland’s 

turbulent past and independence as the jail housed the 

leaders of the Easter 1916 rebellion. 


Sample some local brews – Discover how the world 

famous brews are made at the Guinness Storehouse or Old 

Jameson Distillery, and enjoy a pint in the Temple Bar at a live 

music ‘session’. 

Francis Bacon’s studio – After his death in 1992, his 

London studio was moved in all its messy glory to the Hugh 

Lane Gallery. Look through a perspex window at the 7000 

items: a huge easel, piles of paints, jars, brushes, rags, pots, 

books, photos, towels and empty boxes of Krug Champagne. 

Trinity College – The oldest University in Ireland, founded 

in 1592, has prime real estate in central Dublin and is home 

to one of the world’s most famous books, The Book of Kells. 


Train to Dun Laoghaire – This quaint seaside town has 

a complex heritage and is referred to as Dublin’s Riviera due 

to its splendid harbour and town surrounded by rolling hills. 

Irish Food Trail – Take a guided walking tour to see Dublin 

city’s ‘hidden gems’ and be introduced to local Irish people in 

some of Dublin’s most famous hot-spots. Taste authentic Irish 

food and drink as you go around the city. 

The 1916 Tour - Beyond the Barricades – Experience 

the historical rebellion that would shape the nation. Move 

around the city and see the various sites of the different 

battles and incidents from the 1916 uprising. 


37

Dublin Accommodation & Sightseeing 

rth Circular Rd 

Heuston 

Station 

James St 

Victoria Quay 

Guinness 

Storehouse 

Donore Ave 

Manor St 

Cork St 

Blackhall Pl 

Ellis Quay 

Church St 

The Coombe 

Phibsborough Rd 

King St 

Chapel St 

Inns Quay 

Merchants Quay 

Patrick St 

New St S th 

Bride St 

Capel St 

Bolton St 

The 

Castle 

Gate 

Theatre 

Parnell St Summer Hill Pde 

Henry St 

Abbey St Upper 

St Patrick’s 

Cathedral 

Heytesbury St 

O’Connell St 

Bachelors WalkEden Quay 

Aungier St 

Sth Gt Georges St 

1 

Aston Quay 

Temple Bar 

Dame St 

St Stephens 

Green 

National 

Concert Hall 

Harcourt St 

Grafton St 

3 

2 

Gardener St 

Trinity 

College 

Leeson St 

Custom 

House 

Pearse St 

National 

Gallery 

Croke 

Park 

Amiens St 

Nassau St 

4 

Baggot St Lower 

Merrion 

Square 

North Wall Quay 

Pearse 

Station 

Sherriff St 

Dublin 

Airport 

10km 

Sir John Rogerson’s Quay 

Hanover Quay 

Ringsend Rd 

River Liffey 

South Lotts Rd 

Eastwall Rd 

Bath Ave 

Aviva 

Stadium 

Eastwall Rd 

York Rd 

Tritonville Rd 

Sean Moore Rd 

Beach Rd 

Dublin Bay 

Tolka Quay Rd 

Dublin Bay 

Ferry Terminal 

Dun Laoghaire 

Car Ferry 

South Circular Rd 

Ranelagh Rd 

Grand Pde Mespil Rd 

Jurys Inn Parnell Street 

1 

The Fleet Street Hotel 2 

The Gresham 

3 

Just a 30 second walk from O’Connell Street, 

you will be soaking up the history of this city 

as soon as you step out of the front door. Book 

worms will be in heaven as the Dublin Writers’ 

Museum and the James Joyce Cultural Centre 

are both just around the corner. Or for you 

shoppers, Henry St is on your doorstep. 

If you like being right in the heart of the 

action, then the Temple Bar is the place to 

be. It’s vibrant and bustling by both day and 

night, and is centrally located, just 100 metres 

from the River and close to Trinity College 

and the main shopping areas. Recently 

refurbished, the rooms are contemporary in 

their style with cool, funky splashes of colour. 

Situated on historic O’Connell Street, this 

hotel is minutes walk away from the shopping 

areas, theatres, hustle and bustle of Temple 

Bar and the city attractions. To relax and 

unwind, order a freshly ground coffee in the 

sumptuous Writers’ Bar and Lounge, or sip 

fine Whiskey in the rich comfort of Toddy’s 

Bar and Brasserie. 

The Alexander 

4 

Dublin Hop on Hop off City 

Tour 

Guinness Storehouse 

Head out the front door and in one direction 

you’ve got the superb Georgian Merrion 

Square and in the other is the historic Trinity 

College – you are literally surrounded by 

Dublin landmarks. It’s also an easy stroll to St 

Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street with its great 

selection of shops and plenty of buskers, and 

Temple Bar with its fun nightlife. 

A great way to get your bearings, see the 

main sights and learn loads from the live 

commentary. You’ll get to check out the main 

shopping area of O’Connell Street, enjoy 

the city’s Georgian streets & squares, the 

Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, Temple 

Bar, Dublin Castle and more! 

You can’t come to Dublin and not visit the 

home of Guinness. You’ll hear about the 250 

year history, the brewing process and see 

some of the impressive advertising campaigns. 

Finish off with a pint of the black stuff in the 

Gravity Bar with impressive views over the 

brewery and the city. 

38

Belfast 

Belfast is a city of surprises. The first is perhaps 

that this metropolitan heart of Northern 

Ireland is a city undergoing a multi-milliondollar 

makeover as historic precincts such as 

the famous docks are redeveloped. Belfast was 

once one of the great shipbuilding centres of 

the globe and gave birth to perhaps the most 

famous ship ever to set sail – the RMS Titanic. 

See the slipway from which she was launched 

and spend time in the Titanic Quarter. For 

nearly 400 years, this northern city was also 

home to the largest linen, rope and tobacco 

factories. It’s also the gateway to scenic wonders 

such as County Antrim’s Giant’s Causeway and 

County Down’s Mountains of Mourne. 


Crown Liquor Salon – Belfast’s most famous pub is probably the prettiest pub 

you’ll ever see. Owned by the National Trust, the mosaics, cosy little snugs and 

leadlight windows, are a great excuse to enjoy a drink. 

Stormont – Although not open to the public, the impressive Parliament Buildings 

at Stormont are worth a look, they are housed in lovely grounds that are open to the 

public. It is 8 kilometres out of the city centre but is on the Hop on Hop off tour route. 

Black Cab Tour – This is a fascinating insight into the turbulent past of the city. 

The drivers take you to the former hot spots in both the Protestant and Catholic 

areas, showing you the gates dividing the two areas and the murals. They also give 

you their personal account of how their life was at the time of the ‘troubles’. 

St George’s Market – Built in 1896 and restored in 1999, these markets (Friday & 

Saturday mornings) are the oldest continually running markets in Ireland. There is 

lots of fresh produce and locals doing their weekly shopping and socialising. 

Take a Tour – Within a couple of hours from Belfast you can marvel at the Giant’s 

Causeway, walk the Mountains of Mourne, or visit Game of Thrones’ locations. 

Titanic Quarter – The former shipyard which launched such vessels as RMS 

Titanic, Olympic and SS Canberra has been transformed into an exciting waterfront 

development. This area, rich in history, is also becoming a major social meeting place 

with hotels, galleries, theatres and parklands. Be sure to visit The Titanic Experience. 


• Park Inn by Radisson Belfast 

• Europa Hotel 

• Fitzwilliam Hotel 

City Hall – A real focal point of the central city, this is an impressive building built 

in the early 1900s. There are free guided tours twice a day Monday-Saturday. 

Crumlin Road Gaol – Experience the history inside this former prison which dates 

back to 1845. It was the first prison in Irelend built according to the ‘separate system’. 

39

Wild Atlantic Way 

Enjoy a week long scenic journey at a relaxed pace, 

allowing you to explore ancient sites, lakes and 

mountains, traditional villages and towns complete 

with thatched cottages and stone walls. Marvel at 

the dramatic Irish coastline of ‘dancing light and 

brooding sea’. 

Twelve Bens Mountain Range 


Day 1: Dublin 

Visit St Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland’s largest church or the National Museum. 

Day 2: Dublin – Galway (208km) 

Galway City, the gateway to the scenic Connemara, is laid back, relaxed and 

ready to party. Buzzing with brightly painted pubs, traditional live music, 

cafés with street performers out front, delicious seafood and winding lanes. 

Day 3-4: Connemara Region 

Travel from Galway to the lake dotted centre at Maam Cross to explore 

Connemara. From the rugged Twelve Bens mountain range in the north 

through lake-rich Roundstone Bog to the golden beaches reaching 

out into the Atlantic Ocean, Connemara is a fascinating area to drive 

through. Today you’ll see small farms and stone walls, and isolated 

thatched cottages on the heather covered hills. 

Day 5: Galway – Kilrush – Killarney (195km) 

Travel through The Burren a geological paradise which boasts over 2000 

plants. Continue along the coast of Clare to view the spectacular Cliffs of 

Moher. Take the Killimer - Tarbert/Kilrush ferry. 

Day 6: Ring of Kerry (179km) 

The Iveragh Peninsula is full of mountains, peat bogs, lakes and ocean 

views. Travel through Killorglin famous for the Puck Fair, Glenbeigh to 

see panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula, through the peat bogs to 

Waterville and Sneem Village, returning to Killarney. 

Day 7: Dingle Peninsula – Limerick (150km) 

You will see many ring forts, high crosses and other ancient monuments 

on the Peninsula’s dramatic landscape. 

Day 8: Limerick – Dublin (194km) 

Visit Birr Castle Demesne and get in some last minute shopping in Dublin. 



• Jurys Inn Galway City Hotel 

• Sunrise Villa Farmhouse, Killarney 

• Limerick City Hotel 

Clifden 

Kilrush 

Dingle 

Peninsula 

Maam 

Cross 

Cliffs of Moher 

Ring of Kerry 

Tralee 

Killarney 

Galway 

The Burren 

Limerick 

Birr Castle 

Demesne 

IRELAND 


DUBLIN 

Dublin sights – Walk through Trinity College to view the beautifully 

illuminated Book of Kells; or in the old market area of the city visit Old 

Jameson Distillery and learn about whiskey making and tasting. 

Discover the mountains and boglands – On your drive to Clifden you 

pass between Ben Mountains, the Atlantic Ocean and preserved boglands. 

As well as experiencing this spectacular scenery dotted with castle ruins 

and abbeys, Clifden has great boutique gift shopping and gourmet dining. 

Kilrush – The Heritage Centre is in the original Moyasta Junction Station 

House; the start of the restored 2 kilometre old narrow-gauge line and 

home of the restored train carriages. 

Sneem Village – In the ‘Ring of Kerry’ and nestled between mountains 

and rugged coast, Sneem has some great views and is famous for its 

brightly coloured houses. 

Movie set spotting – You will recognise many areas from films including 

the Dingle Peninsula from ‘Ryan’s Daughters’ and ‘Far and Away’, and the 

Connemara region from ‘Quiet Man’ and ‘The Purple Taxi’. 

Hear Gaelic being spoken – West of Dingle see the many ancient sites in 

Kerry, and you will also overhear the locals speaking Gaelic. 

Birr Castle Demesne – Walk around the gardens and along the peaceful 

river. See one of the world’s largest telescopes here, and some amazing 

feats of science and engineering. 

Roundstone Bog 

Sneem Village 

Ring of Kerry 

40 

The price guide shown is per car hire based on 7+ day hire rate. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date

A Taste of the South 

Come face to face with some of Ireland’s Wild 

Altantic Way for a spectacular road trip made up 

of cliffs, castles and characters. There are many 

culinary delights to discover and friendly locals to 

meet on this journey as you wind your way through 

ancient villages and countryside. 

Wicklow Mountains National Park 


Day 1-2: Dublin – Wicklow (64km) 

Explore the Wicklow Mountains National Park bursting with beauty. Visit 

the 6th century Glendalough Monastic Site and walk a trail through this 

spectacular site, carved out in an Ice Age. 

Day 3: Wicklow – Wexford – Waterford (146km) 

Travel down the coast and see where Vikings made their mark in Ireland – 

looting monasteries, fighting kings for treasures and taking Irish people as 

slaves. But they also laid the foundations of Ireland’s oldest city Waterford, 

and Wexford, and there a many medieval artefacts to discover. 

Day 4: Waterford – Kilkenny – Cahir (113km) 

Kilkenny is the 3rd point of the Viking triangle, medieval and modern, 

wander down a laneway and you never know what century you’ll end up 

in. Enjoy tucking into cutting-edge Irish cooking or watching a hurling game 

at Nowlan Park. After exploring Cashel rest your head in historic Cahir. 

Day 5: Cahir – Cork – Killarney (186km) 

From Cork visit Blarney Castle and the legendary Blarney Stone. 

Day 6: Killarney – Dingle Peninsula – Dingle (65km) 

Pass through the rugged countryside with beautiful lakes and mountain 

scenery on your way to Dingle Peninsula. Dingle is a charming town with 

brightly painted pubs and shops. 

Day 7: Dingle – Limerick – Doolin – Galway (152km) 

Drive through The Burren to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, 230 metres 

at their highest point. 

Day 8: Galway 

Explore the city and the many nearby smaller towns and villages. 

Head north or continue back to Dublin. 



• River Lodge B&B, Wicklow 

• Cahir House Hotel, Cahir 

• Quayside B&B, Dingle 

• Jury’s Inn Galway City Hotel 

Dunquin 

Dingle 

Blasket 

Islands 

Galway 

Doolin 


Tuam 

The Burren 

Limerick 

Adare 

Tralee 

Killarney 

Cork 

IRELAND 

Cahir 

Cashel 

Waterford 

Blarney Castle 

Wicklow Mt 

National Park 

Glendalough 

Kilkenny 


DUBLIN 

Wexford 

Wicklow 

Fairbrook House Gardens – 3.5 acre romantic walled artist’s garden and 

3 acre woodland garden on the River Dawn. 

Waterford Crystal – See the magic of a molten blob crafted to a 

twinkling masterpiece. 

Eat your way around a Blasta food trail – Follow the streets of 

Kilkenny mixing music, food, Norman castles, ancient monasteries, 

farmers markets, and chat with food producers, chefs and traditional 

musicians. 

Butter Slip, Kilkenny – This gorgeous narrow stone alley was built in 

1616 and was once flanked with the stalls of butter vendors on market day. 

Blasket Islands – Hop on a 20 minute ferry ride from tiny Dunquin 

Harbour to Great Blasket. See the wildlife on a boat trip around the island. 

Cloghar Headland – Venture off the main route, stop for a slice of lemon 

drizzle cake or a goat’s cheese salad in the café at Cloghar. 

Milk Market in Limerick – Such a lot of fun, it’s colourful, energetic, 

with artisan foods, antiques, music and art. 

Burren Smokehouse – At the visitors’ centre you can taste Burren 

smoked salmon and learn about the history and smoking process. 

Venture to smaller villages – Like the ancient Tuam with its cathedrals 

or Abbeyknockmoy with ruins of a 13th century Cistercian Abbey. 

Blarney Castle 

Cliffs of Moher sunset 

Glendalough River 


41

Causeway Coastal Route 

It’s been known for its turbulent past but this all morphs 

into the background when you hit the road and travel 

around the far north. You will see unspoilt scenery 

including the granite Mountains of Mourne and more 

than 320 kilometres of coastline with beaches and 

hidden coves, rivers and spectacular lakes. 

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge 


Day 1: Belfast – Island Magee – Ballygally (44km) 

Spend today discovering The Gobbins. Start your adventure at the 

Visitors Centre where you learn all about the story of this rugged coastal 

pathway. For those not able or keen to undertake the full journey, there 

are other cliff-top walks to enjoy in the same location. 

Day 2: Ballygally – Cushendun – Bushmills (80km) 

Take the coastal route north, stopping at the quaint village of Cushenden 

with its idyllic Cornish Cottages and caves on the beach made famous as 

a filming location for Game of Thrones. 

Glenveagh 

National 

Park 

Donegal 

Sligo 

Derry 

Giant’s 

Causeway 

Portrush Bushmills 

NORTHERN 

IRELAND 

Rathlin Island 

Carrick-a-Rede 

Cushendun 

Ballygally 

Island Magee 

BELFAST 

Day 3: Bushmills – Portrush – Giant’s Causeway – Bushmills (26km) 

Head to Portrush exploring the cliff facing castle of Dunluce dating back 

to the 14th century. In the afternoon, explore the World Heritage Giant’s 

Causeway. Marvel at the unique rock formations and learn of the myths 

and legends that surround this famous landmark. 

Day 4: Bushmills – Derry (65km) 

Visit the world’s oldest whiskey distillery, The Old Bushmills Distillery. 

Get there early as this is a hugely popular attraction. Continue on to the 

medieval walled city of Derry and enjoy a walking tour of the town. 

Day 5: Derry – Donegal (77km) 

Drive the scenic route through the top of the Glenveagh National Park. 

Follow the coast through traditional fishing villages, stopping along the 

way for a brisk beach walk or even a surf, before reaching Donegal. 

Day 6: Donegal – Sligo – Dublin (224km) 

Stop in Sligo to view or walk to the top of Knocknarea, a limestone hill 

dominating the skyline and offering wonderful views across Sligo Bay to 

the lakes and mountains. Pack a picnic and stop lakeside for lunch. 

Explore more of the south or join the Wild Atlantic Way from Donegal. 



• Ballygally Castle, Ballygally 

• Causeway Lodge, Bushmills 

• Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Londonderry 

• Lough Eske Castle, Donegal 

IRELAND 

DUBLIN 


The Rinkha, Island Magee – Stop by at this family owned store and 

choose one of 24 flavours of delicious creamy ice cream. 

Rathlin Island – Located just 20 kilometres off the North Antrim coast 

and halfway between Ireland and Scotland, this is a fantastic island to 

visit. Known for its spectacular scenery, the best time to visit is May and 

June when the puffins have settled back onto the island. 

Mary McBride’s Bar, Cushendun – Stop here for great pub food. It’s one 

of Ireland’s smallest pubs, it’s authentic and full of character. 

Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge – If you’re up for a challenge, cross the 

precarious bridge which crosses a 24 metre-deep and 18 metre-wide 

chasm along the north coast. 

Flash in the Pan, Portballintrae – Savour award winning Fish ‘N Chips. 

Causeway Specialty Market – This is held in Coleraine on the 2nd 

Saturday of every month and is very proud of its locally grown fresh 

produce and handicrafts. 

Slieve League Cliffs, Donegal – Locals, (and others) say these cliffs rival 

the Cliffs of Moher. At 601 metres, they are spectacular and boast some of 

the highest sea cliffs in the whole of Europe. 

Silver Strand, near Donegal – Make sure to include a stop at this remote 

unspoilt beach. 

Giant’s Causeway © Tourism Ireland Rathlin Island © Tourism Ireland The Gobbins 

42 


Ferry Connections 

Stena Line 

Going that extra sea mile for you with a modern 

fleet of vessels offering comfortable, fast 

connections for leisure and business travellers 

linking the United Kingdom with Ireland and 

also with Europe. These ferries offer a variety 

of routes and a number of daily crossings to 

meet your requirements, with great choices in 

food, shopping and entertainment. 

Liverpool – Belfast 

Stena Lagan & Stena Mersey – 8hrs 

The Stena Lagan offers a range of fantastic onboard facilities to ensure 

you have a relaxing and comfortable journey. We offer both day and 

night sailings in both directions. So sit back, relax and enjoy everything 

these Stena vessels have to offer on this direct link from the heart of 

England to Northern Ireland. 

Price Guide From: $42 (based on day sailing inside cabin) 

Cairnryan – Belfast 

Stena Superfast VII & Stena Superfast VIII – 2hrs 15mins 

The most luxurious ferry to Scotland providing the best ferry experience 

on the Irish Sea! With 12 sailings per day, there’s a sailing to suit 

everyone. Onboard there’s lots to enjoy such as the Pure Nordic Spa, 

the POD Lounge, The Living Room and Taste restaurant, free WiFi, free 

movies, Curious George and our exclusive Stena Plus Lounge. 

Price Guide From: $45 (based on foot passenger) 

Fishguard – Rosslare 

Stena Europe – 3hrs 30mins 

Travelling twice daily, the Stena Europe offers a convenient and relaxing 

way to travel. Why not sit back and relax in our exclusive Stena Plus 

lounge, grab a coffee in our Barista Coffee House or if you prefer, indulge 

in a little retail therapy - you’ll be spoilt for choice onboard. We also 

offer free WiFi throughout the ship, so you can surf across the Irish Sea 

without leaving your seat. 


Holyhead – Dublin Port 

Stena Adventurer – 3hrs 30mins or Stena Superfast – 3hrs 15mins 

With a choice of two crossings daily, you can look forward to a 

convenient and smooth sailing onboard the Stena Adventurer. Or take 

the Stena Superfast X which is the latest addition to the fleet offering a 

choice of daily crossings. Both include free movies, fun for the kids, retail 

shopping and a Stena Plus Lounge. 

KEY 

Liverpool - Belfast 

Cairnryan - Belfast 

Fishguard - Rosslare 

Holyhead - Dublin 

IRELAND 

NORTHERN 

IRELAND 

DUBLIN 

Rosslare 

BAY OF 

BISCAY 

BELFAST 

3hrs 30m 

Fishguard 

CARDIFF 

ATLANTIC 

OCEAN 

3hrs 30m 

2hrs 20m 

8hrs 

Holyhead 

WALES 

SCOTLAND 

Cairnryan 

Liverpool 

ENGLAND 

LONDON 

EDINBURGH 

FRANCE 

NORTH 

SEA 

BELGIUM 


The price guide shown is per adult, one way based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date. 

43

Touring 


Fishing port in Devon © Rolf E. Staerk

Boating in the UK 

You may struggle to pronounce it, but the 

Llangollen Canal (‘THLANGOT THEN’) is one 

of the most beautiful canal systems in the UK. 

You’ll start in pretty Shropshire but the gentle 

pastoral landscape soon gives way to the more 

dramatic scenery of the Welsh border. For 

excitement there’s the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct 

– stretching for 307 metres and towering 38 

metres over the valley of the River Dee, it’ll 

add a certain frisson to your otherwise-relaxed 

journey. From here it’s a succession of locks, 

less frightening aqueducts and tunnels, plus 

numerous off-canal attractions including castles 

ruins, village pubs and even a steam train. 

Llangollen – Welsh Borders 


Without doubt one of the most beautiful 

canals in Britain, Llangollen Canal combines 

the gentle countryside of Shropshire with the 

more dramatic landscape of the Welsh border. 

Plus it has one of the most striking features on 

the UK canals – the UNESCO listed Pontcysyllte 

Aqueduct. You can watch steam trains in the 

Dee Valley, visit the ruins of Castle Dinas Bran 

or have a pint in a canalside pub, the choice 

is yours. 

Leicester or East Midlands Ring 


The cruisey-est two weeks of your life. 

Meander through parts of Staffordshire, 

Warwickshire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire, 

travelling on canals as well as rivers. This 

route takes you up the famous Grand Union 

Canal to the Foxton flight of locks and through 

the city of Leicester itself. You’ll have a blast 

negotiating the River Soar and the River Trent 

on your way to Sawley, before rejoining the 

canal system to complete the ring. 

Stratford-upon-Avon & Return 


It doesn’t get more English than this! Cruise 

through idyllic countryside, stopping in at 

canalside taverns for a spot of lunch along the 

way. Arriving in Stratford-upon-Avon, moor 

in the beautifully maintained canal basin near 

to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. This city 

with its Elizabethan streets, narrow lanes and 

historic sights offers you a superb mixture of 

culture, history and shopping. 

Departs: Mon, Fri, Sat & Sun 


Departs: Mon, Fri, Sat & Sun 


Departs: Mon, Fri & Sat 


The price guide shown is per boat (4 berth) per hire as specified, based on low season travel. Fuel charges are additional. Specials and surcharges may apply depending on travel date 

45

Luxury Hotel Barging 

Discover the best that the world-famous inland 

waterways of Scotland and England have to 

offer on an unforgettable cruise through the 

spectacular Scottish Highlands, or along the 

prettiest upper reaches of the River Thames. 

Visits to ancient castles, battlefields, heatherclad 

hillsides, Royal palaces and olde worlde 

villages, as well as fine food, wines and of 

course, single malts, all add to the experience. 

Let your attentive crew spoil you as you relax 

onboard your traditionally furnished ‘floating 

country house’. Fascinating excursions and 

local transfers are included. 

Scottish Highlander, The Scottish Highlands 


Enjoy cruising between Inverness and Fort William through the Great Glen, 

navigating the Caledonian Canal and beautiful lochs, including Loch Ness. 

The legends of the past and the taste of single malt – a fine combination! 

Tour Highlights: 

-- 

Departing Muirtown or Banavie, you’ll cruise through some of 

Scotland’s finest scenery on Lochs Dochfour, Oich and Ness and the 

Caledonian Canal, built by Thomas Telford nearly 200 years ago 

-- 

Tour of Cawdor Castle, home of Shakespeare’s Macbeth 

-- 

Tour and whisky tasting at the Glen Ord distillery 

-- 

Visit Eilean Donan and Urquhart castles 

-- 

Explore the battlefields of Glencoe and Culloden Moor 

-- 

Watch salmon leaping at Invermoriston Falls 

Departures: Set departures (Apr-Oct) 

Inclusions: 6 night cruise, all meals and beverages, chauffeured and 

guided sightseeing, use of all barge facilities such as bicycles 


Magna Carta, The Royal River Thames 


Cruise the ‘Royal River’ through rural countryside and past quaint 

riverside towns, discovering some of England’s heritage stretching back 

many centuries along the way. 


-- 

Departing Hampton Court or Henley, you’ll cruise the meandering 

Upper River Thames, between Henry VIII’s palace at Hampton Court 

and Henley 

-- 

Visit Hampton Court Palace, home of Cardinal Wolsey and Henry VIII 

-- 

Moor beneath and visit Windsor Castle 

-- 

Visit the Tudor manor house of Dorney Court 

-- 

Tour the Stanley Spencer Gallery in beautiful Cookham 

-- 

Tour Christ Church College, Oxford 

-- 

Visit Henley-on Thames, the Royal Regatta town 

Departures: Set departures (Mar-Oct) 

Inclusions: 6 night cruise, all meals and beverages, chauffeured and 

guided sightseeing, use of all barge facilities such as bicycles, spa pool 


Muirtown 

Dochgarroch 

Inverness 

Laggan Locks 

Fort Augustus 

Henley-on- Hurley 

Thames 

Cookham 

Runnymede 

Windsor 

Hampton 

Court 

LONDON 

Gairlochy Lock 

Banavie 

Fort William 

46 

The price guide shown is per adult per tour twin share based on low season travel. Price shown does not include Earlybird or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply 

depending on travel date

Albatross Tours 

Discover Europe the Albatross way… with 

unique touring itineraries designed for New 

Zealand travellers. With small group sizes and 

leisurely 2, 3, 4 and even 5 night stays with 

Albatross Tours you get more time to relax and 

savour the superb places you have travelled 

so far to visit. Offering the perfect balance 

of included regional and city sightseeing 

along with that essential free time to do your 

own exploring, Albatross Tours’ touring 

programmes are genuinely inclusive with no 

additional ‘on tour’ costs, even the end of tour 

tips are included! 

The Ireland Connection 


Such a unique itinerary packed full of sightseeing from the Temple Bar 

District in Dublin, the Wild Atlantic Way and the Aran Islands, plus learn 

of the mass emigration & deportation of the Irish to Australia. 


-- 

Spend 2 nights in Dublin and enjoy dinner in a 300 year old church 

-- 

Stay 2 nights in Cork, visit the Rock of Cashel, see the Australian 

Convict Memorial in Clonoulty 

-- 

Visit the Blarney Stone, Cobh Harbour and the Heritage Centre with 

stories of the Titanic 

-- 

Travel through Macroom, visit Gourgane Barra and St Finbarr’s 

church to reach Killarney for 3 nights, drive around Dingle Peninsula 

-- 

Staying in Belfast, follow the Causeway Coast to the Giant’s Causeway, 

visit Bushmills Distillery and the Titanic Experience 


Inclusions: 13 nights accommodation with porterage, breakfast daily and 

9 dinners, all sightseeing, local guides, excursions & entrances as per the 

itinerary, fully escorted by an experienced Tour Manager in a first class 

coach, plus your end of tour tips 


Best of British 


We take the time to do Britain justice… from Stonehenge to the 

‘bravehearts’ of Scotland and Tintern’s romantic Abbey. Discover the 

Kingmakers of Warwick and stay overnight in magnificent Leeds Castle. 


-- 

Spend 3 nights in Tortworth, Gloucestershire, visit Stonehenge, 

Glastonbury and Bath 

-- 

Enjoy a scenic drive through the Welsh borderlands along the River 

Wye, visit Monmouth, Tintern, Chepstow Castle, Clifton Suspension 

Bridge, Bristol 

-- 

Travel through the Cotswolds famous villages, explore Oxford and 

Chipping Campden 

-- 

Relax for 2 nights in The Lake District, and cruise on Lake Windermere 

-- 

Spend 3 nights in Edinburgh and visit Edinburgh Castle 


Inclusions: 15 nights accommodation with porterage, breakfast daily and 

9 dinners, all sightseeing, excursions and entrances as per the itinerary, 

fully escorted by an experienced Tour Manager in a first class coach, plus 

your end of tour tips 


Giant’s Causeway 

Bushmills 

NORTHERN 

IRELAND 

BELFAST 

Ulster Folk Park 

Monasterboice 

Newgrange Tombs 

Kylemore Abbey 

Galway 

DUBLIN 


IRELAND 

Ennistymon 

National Stud 

Foynes 

Clonoulty 

Dingle 

Dunquin Blarney Cashel 

Killarney 

Cork 

Derrynane Houe 

Cobh 

Gougane Barra 

SCOTLAND 

WALES 

ENGLAND 

Callander 

Stirling 

EDINBURGH 

New Lanark 

SCOTLAND 

Alnwick Castle 

Gretna Green 

Durham 

NORTHERN 

Lake 

IRELAND Grasmere 

Whitby 

District Castle Howard 

Windermere 

Yorkshire 

Harrogate 

Nottingham 

IRELAND 

Chester 

ENGLAND 

WALES 

Chipping 

Warwick 

Campden Stratford-upon-Avon 

Monmouth 

Tintern 

Bath Oxford LONDON 

Glastonbury Windsor Leeds Castle 

Salibury Stonehenge 

York 


depending on travel date 

47

Back-Roads Touring 

With a maximum of 18 passengers, Back- 

Roads are the experts in small group touring. 

Picture a touring holiday which delves that 

much deeper. One that doesn’t simply drop 

by top sights and major cities – but invites you 

to see a destination through the eyes of the 

people who know it best: the locals who call it 

home. Where journeys are made for absorbing 

never-to-be-forgotten views, not darting from 

A to B. And each day ends in a cherry-picked 

boutique retreat loaded with local charm. With 

over 25 years experience Back-Roads knows 

that the best adventure is immersing you in 

experiences and sights that last a lifetime. 

Corners of Cornwall 


From windswept moors, wild coastlines, historic cities and pictureperfect 

fishing villages. Discover maritime heritage, rural beauty and 

culinary pride of the South Western tip of England. 


-- 

Savour lunch at Rick Stein’s signature “The Seafood Restaurant” in 

Padstow 

-- 

Get the inside story on Cornwall’s largest private estate “Tregothnan” 

on a private guided tour of the grounds – including a tea plantation 

-- 

Travel along the winding roads and over the ancient bridges of iconic 

Dartmoor that are only accessible to smaller vehicles 

-- 

Explore the fascinating and historical St. Michael’s Mount 

-- 

Stroll around Port Isaac, the fishing village made famous by television 

series, Doc Martin 


Inclusions: 6 nights accommodation in boutique hotels, driver/tour 

leader, luxury mini-coach transport, full English breakfast daily, 3 evening 

meals, 1 seafood lunch, sightseeing and some entrances 


Highlights of Britain 


Delve deep into Britain’s history and culture. In England, we trace the 

footsteps of writers and poets. In North Wales and Scotland, experience 

spectacular scenery and dramatic castles. 


-- 

Delve into Welsh cuisine with a cookery demonstration and lunch at 

the Bodnant Welsh Food Centre 

-- 

Indulge your sweet tooth at the world famous “Pudding Club” 

-- 

Explore the scenic back roads of Britain’s most spectacular regions, 

including the Cotswolds, Snowdonia National Park, the Yorkshire 

Dales and the Lake District 

-- 

Pay homage to some of Britain’s literary greats at the Bronte 

Parsonage at Haworth 

-- 

Visit Castle Howard, one of England’s finest historic houses 


Inclusions 8 nights accommodation in boutique hotels, driver/tour 

leader, luxury mini-coach transport, full English breakfast daily, 5 evening 

meals, cruise on Lake Windermere, sightseeing and some entrances 


EDINBURGH 

Dartmoor 

Port Isaac 

Padstow 

Fowey 

St Ives & St Tregothnan 

Michael’s Mount 

Falmouth 

Wells 

Salisbury 

Hawkchurch 

Lyme 

Regis 

LONDON 

SCOTLAND Rosslyn Chapel 

Abbotsford House 

NORTHERN 

Scottish Borders 

IRELAND The Lake 

District 

York Castle Howard 

Haworth 

IRELAND Denbighshire 

Snowdonia 

National Park 

Chester 

Ironbridge 

ENGLAND 

WALES Worcester 

Oxford 

Cotswolds LONDON 

48 




London to Paris via The Channel Isles 


Be immersed in the Channel Islands’ natural beauty and fascinating 

history. Hear about Guernsey’s wartime occupation first-hand from 

locals, and enter a bygone world of no cars on Sark. 

Ireland – The Emerald Isle 


Step into Ireland’s colourful past, starting with the legendary Giant’s 

Causeway and Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. Marvel at the rugged peninsulas, 

village gems and sweeping views Ireland offers. 


-- 

Spend a day on Sark, the iconic “dark sky island” 

-- 

Explore the only part of the British Isles to be occupied during WWII 

and meet Molly Bihet, a child during the Nazi Occupation of Guernsey 

-- 

Arrive before the hubbub for a morning at Mont St Michel, one of 

France’s most iconic sites 

-- 

On Jersey, at La Hougue Bie discover one of Western Europe’s bestpreserved 

Neolithic sites 

-- 

Visit the beautiful French towns of Dinan, St Malo, Fougeras, Sainte 

Suzanne and the World Heritage Cathedral of Chartres 


-- 

Sit down for lunch at the historic private country house, Ballyscullion 

Park 

-- 

Drive along Ireland’s back roads through extraordinary natural 

scenery, including the lunar-like landscape of the Burren 

-- 

Enjoy a traditional Irish evening sipping whiskies, and perhaps a pint 

of Guinness with the locals 

-- 

Enjoy a historical walking tour of Kinsale and visit Jameson Middleton 

Distillery 

-- 

Visit the award winning Connemara Heritage Centre 

-- 

Explore the Dingle Peninsular with countless historical sites 



leader, luxury mini-coach transport, breakfast daily, 5 evening meals, 

ferries to Guernsey, Sark, Jersey and St Malo, sightseeing and some 

entrances 



Inclusions: 11 nights accommodation in boutique hotels, driver/tour leader, 

luxury mini-coach transport, full Irish breakfast daily, 5 evening meals, 

1 lunch, Irish whiskey tour, sightseeing and some entrances 


ATLANTIC 

OCEAN 

ENGLAND 

Dorset 

Winchester 

LONDON 

Guernsey 

Sark 

Jersey 

St Malo 

Dinan Mont St Michel 

Chartres 

Fougères 

Laval Sainte Suzanne 

FRANCE 

PARIS 

Connemara 

Ballyfarnon 

North Irish 

Coast 

Derry 

NORTHERN 

IRELAND 

IRELAND 

Galway 

The Burren 

Dingle 

Tipperary 

Dingle 

Blarney 

Peninsula 

Midleton 

Kenmare Kinsale 

Kilkenny 

BELFAST 

DUBLIN 

SCOTLAND 

ENGLAND 

WALES 

Penzance 



49


The Wonders of Wales 


Snow dusted mountains, deep green valleys, an unforgettable coast line. 

A country full of captivating sights, history and contemporary culture. 

Walk the ancient lands of the Celts and Romans. 

A Scottish Journey 


Towering mountains, enchanting lochs, cliff-top castles and hideaway 

villages. Infamous battles and inexplicable legends. From coastal cities 

to Hebridean islands, and its undeniable charm. 


-- 

Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea served in a restored Victorian 

kitchen 

-- 

Be treated to a memorable performance by a Welsh male voice choir 

-- 

Take a one-of-a-kind trip on a narrow gauge steam railway in 

spectacular Snowdonia National Park 

-- 

Go below ground to see a Welsh working mine 

-- 

Marvel at Pontcysylite Aqueduct, the longest and highest structure of 

its kind in the UK 

-- 

Visit Conwy and Caernarfon Castles, famous in Welsh history 

-- 

Stay in an elegant country estate in Pembrokeshire 

Departures: Set departures (Apr-Sep) 


leader, luxury mini-coach transport, full breakfast daily, 3 evening meals, 

1 afternoon tea, Welsh wine tasting, sightseeing and some entrances 



-- 

Tour Scotland’s most enigmatic castles, from Glamis to Stirling 

-- 

Journey through the Cairngorms, past iconic lochs and beneath Ben 

Nevis, taking in some of the world’s most spectacular scenery 

-- 

Become an islander with two nights on the stunning Isle of Skye and 

the striking Isle of Mull 

-- 

Travel through the fishing villages splashed across the East Neuk 

region 

-- 

Seafood lunch in Kyle of Lochalsh, Wester Ross 

-- 

Visit the historic Duart Castle – a craggy fortress clinging to a coastal 

cliff 

Orkney 

Islands 

Departures: Set departures (Apr-Oct) Stromness 

Inclusions: 7 nights accommodation in boutique hotels, driver/tour leader, 

luxury mini-coach transport, full breakfast daily, 4 evening meals, 1 seafood 

lunch, ferry crossings, sightseeing and some entrances 


Conwy 

Caernarfon Castle 

Nant Gwrtheyrn 

Snowdonia 

National Park 

Pembrokshire 

St Davids 

WALES 

Cefn Park 

ENGLAND 

Brecon Beacons 

Wye Valley 

Isle of 

Skye 

Isle of Mull 

Isle of Iona 

Ross Shire 

Plockton 

Fort 

William 

Inverness 

Loch Ness 

SCOTLAND 

Stirling 

Culloden 

Glen 

Clova 

Glamis Castle 

St Andrews 

CARDIFF 

EDINBURGH 

50 



It’s Time to Tour with Globus 

& Cosmos 

Time checking timetables. Time getting lost & 

missing attractions. Time finding a hotel. Or… 

time to enjoy your stress-free holiday? Globus 

& Cosmos have been introducing travellers to 

the world’s most awe-inspiring places for over 

88 years so by booking a coach tour with us, 

you can rest assured that your time will be well 

spent. Time to explore your destination with 

included sightseeing; time to rest and connect 

onboard our air-conditioned coaches (with free 

WiFi); and time to take your mind off the nittygritty 

– hotels are pre-selected and pre-booked. 

So take a look at what we can offer you for your 

dream holiday! 

British Panorama 


This holiday is a great introduction to the history and culture of England, 

Scotland & Wales. Begin in London then continue on to explore the best 

of the Scottish Highlands & scenic Ireland. 


-- 

Visit Hadrian’s Wall, the Roman coast-to-coast defense 

-- 

City sightseeing with a Local Guide through Edinburgh, including 

Edinburgh Castle 

-- 

Visit Gretna Green where the blacksmith used to wed runaway couples 

-- 

Explore Stratford-upon-Avon, a living monument to William 

Shakespeare 

-- 

Discover pre-historic Stonehenge 

-- 

Orientation drive through Cardiff 

-- 

Enjoy walking tours through York and Chester 

Departures: Set departures ( Jan-Dec) 

Inclusions: 8 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast daily, 2 three-course 

dinners, expert Tour Director, selected sightseeing with Local Guides, 

first-class air-conditioned coach 


Scottish Highlands & Islands 


On this Scottish tour, visit some of its historical castles, witness its 

unspoiled, breath taking scenery, experience its cities & small towns, 

learn about its fascinating history & much more! 


-- 

Guided tour of Glengoyne whisky distillery and Orkney Brewery 

-- 

Visit the historic Melrose Abbey during an Abbotsford excursion 

-- 

Edinburgh city sightseeing with a Local Guide including Edinburgh 

Castle and Holyrood Palace 

-- 

See a falconry display in Dunrobin 

-- 

Excursion to the Orkney Islands via ferry 

-- 

Explore some of Scotland’s castles like Stirling, Dunrobin and Cawdor 

-- 

Enjoy a traditional fish and chips lunch at a local Ullapool restaurant 

Departures: Set departures (Apr-Sep) 

Inclusions: 13 nights superior hotel accommodation, breakfast daily, 

2 lunches, 9 three-course dinners, expert Tour Director, sightseeing and 

VIP access to the key sights & deluxe coach with extra legroom 


IRELAND 

NORTHERN 

IRELAND 

EDINBURGH 

SCOTLAND 

Gretna Green 

Grasmere 

Wrexham 

WALES 

Melrose 

Jedburgh 

Leeds 

York 

Chester 

Stratfordupon-Avon 

Broadway 

Cardiff 

Bath 

Stonehenge 

ENGLAND 

Stamford 

LONDON 

The Lake 

District 

Isle of 

Skye 

Broadford 

Armadale 

Mallaig 

Tobermory 

Isle of Iona 

Ullapool 

Portree 

Craignure 

Durness 

Orkney 

Islands 

Skara Brae Kirkwall 

Inverness 

Clan Donald 

Centre 

Thurso 

Glenfinnan 

SCOTLAND 

Oban 

Glengoyne 

Stirling 

Inveraray 

Glasgow 

Culloden 

Bannockburn 

Abbotsford 

John o’Groats 

Dunrobin Castle 

Cawdor 

Braemar 

St Andrews 

EDINBURGH 

Melrose 

The price guide shown is per adult per tour twin share based on low season travel. Price shown does not include Earlybird NORTHERN 

or other discounted offers. Specials and surcharges may apply 


IRELAND 

51

Touring with Insight 

Vacations 

Insight is renowned for small group sizes, 

luxury coaches with business class legroom 

and well located hotels in desirable locations. 

Their tours include must-see attractions so you 

don’t have to constantly dip into your pocket as 

you go. They’ve already done the research and 

taken care of all the hard work. Insight’s Tour 

Directors are the best in the business. They 

accompany you and enjoy sharing with you the 

places to dine, drink, shop and the best vantage 

point for the perfect holiday snaps. With more 

2 and 3 night stops than other coach tours, you 

can truly absorb the essence of a destination, 

when cities come alive at night – you’re right 

there. It is the finest, most hassle free way to 

explore the depth and breadth of Europe. 

Country Roads of Ireland 


Experience one of the world’s wildest, most enchanting and culturally 

rich coastal routes as you circumnavigate the Emerald Isle. Encounter 

ruined castles, quiet lakes and natural wonders. 


-- 

Dublin: Enjoy fast-track entry, on a student-led visit to Trinity College. 

See the famous Library and admire the 9th century Book of Kells 

-- 

Blarney: Dangle from the ramparts to kiss the Stone of Eloquence 

-- 

Killarney: A local ‘Jarvey’ informs you of the history, legend and 

folklore of Killarney aboard a famous jaunting car ride 

-- 

Giant’s Causeway: Learn about the towering hexagonal basalt columns 

-- 

Belfast: Explore the former shipyard and uncover the true legend of 

the ‘unsinkable’ Titanic 

-- 

Ballygally Castle: Visit this stunning 17th century castle 


Inclusions: 11 nights quality accommodation with full breakfasts, 

6 dinners, experienced Tour Director, luxury 40 seat coach with extra leg 

room 


Britain and Ireland Discovery 


This epic adventure illuminates the hidden corners of the British Isles. 

Along the way, encounter the full arc of Celtic heritage, cultures, legends 

and traditions. 


-- 

Edinburgh: Within the walls of Edinburgh Castle, view the Scottish 

Crown Jewels, Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg 

-- 

Highlands: At the exciting Culloden Visitor Centre, discover why the 

Battle of Culloden lasted only an hour, yet changed the Highland way 

of life forever 

-- 

Loch Ness: Soak up the scenery during a scenic cruise 

-- 

Kilkenny: Learn first hand from a true craftsman, the art of making 

the Hurley, used in the Celtic game of Hurling 

-- 

Stonehenge: Visit the mysterious circle of upright stones 


Inclusions: 21 nights quality accommodation with full breakfasts, 

11 dinners, experienced Tour Director, luxury 40 seat coach with extra leg 

room 


Slea Head 

Ring of Kerry 

Cliffs of 

Moher 

Londonderry 

Ballgally 

NORTHERN 

IRELAND BELFAST 

Drumcliffe 

IRELAND 

Galway 

Limerick 

Adare 

Killarney 

Cahir 

Blarney Cork 

Kildare 

Kilkenny 

DUBLIN 

SCOTLAND 

WALES 

ENGLAND 

Orkney Is 

John O’Groats 

Ullapool 

Isle of Skye 

Wick 

Inverness 

Culloden 

Loch 

Ness 

Pitlochry 

Glencoe 

St Andrews 

Loch Lomond 

EDINBURGH 

Giant’s Troon 

Causeway Antrim SCOTLAND 

Londonderry Coast Gretna Green 

Donegal Larne 

Belleek 

NORTHERN Grasmere ENGLAND 

Sligo Bay IRELAND 

York 

Galway 

DUBLIN Holyhead Chester 

IRELAND Conwy 

Ludlow 

Limerick 

Adare 

Kilkenny 

Stratford 

Killarney 

Blarney 

Waterford WALES 

Oxford 

Ring of Kerry Cork 

CARDIFF Bath LONDON 

Stonehenge 

Cornwell Glastonbury 

Dartmoor 

Plymouth 

Glasgow 

52 



Trafalgar - Simply the best... 

way to holiday 

Trafalgar infuses every trip with the best 

moments, like their exclusive Insider 

experiences, VIP treatment and relaxing 

free time. Every element of their holidays is 

carefully crafted to take you to the heart of a 

destination, bringing local cultures to life with 

the perfect balance of the right experiences, 

sights, inclusions, hotels, even the locals you 

meet. They’re committed to doing everything 

to give you the best holiday. And that means 

you’re guaranteed the best memories. 

Irish Highlights 


The fast-track to Ireland – this seven-day encounter with the southern 

side takes you from Dublin and back again, stopping at Waterford, 

Limerick and the scenic Ring of Kerry along the way. 


-- 

Explore the vibrant city of Dublin – visiting Trinity College, St Patricks 

Cathedral and the stately Georgian Squares 

-- 

Experience Ireland’s most scenic coastal drive around the Iveragh 

Peninsula – undoubtedly one of the most magical and varied places in 

the whole of Ireland 

-- 

Enjoy a Be My Guest experience with traditional Irish dishes at a 

beautiful old farmhouse in the lush countryside surrounding Dublin 

Britain & Ireland Panorama 


Churchill & Wordsworth. Castles & legends. Rugged beauty & hidden places. 

Explore the icons and secrets of Britain & Ireland with Insider moments like 

tucking into homemade Irish stew and apple pie on Molly Gallivan’s farm. 


-- 

Visit mystical Stonehenge, admire Bath’s Georgian buildings and its 

Roman Baths, then a Welsh pub meal in Cardiff 

-- 

Cross the Irish Sea, kiss the Blarney Stone, drive round the magical 

Ring of Kerry, enjoy time in Dublin and taste some Guinness 

-- 

From spectacular Snowdonia, to Liverpool, through the Lake District 

and onto Edinburgh with a visit to its imposing castle 

-- 

View Alnwick Castle - the home to Harry Potter & Hogwarts and enjoy 

time in quaint Stratford-upon-Avon 



Inclusions: 6 nights accommodation, daily hot buffet breakfasts, 

Inclusions: 15 nights accommodation, daily hot buffet breakfasts, 

3 dinners including Be My Guest, experienced Travel Director, transport SCOTLAND 6 dinners, 1 Be My Guest lunch, experienced Travel Director, transport 

and sightseeing as per itinerary 

and sightseeing as per itinerary 


NORTHERN 


IRELAND 

ENGLAND 

Galway 

Cliffs of 

Moher 

Bunratty 

Killarney 

Blarney 

Ring of 

Kerry Macroom 

IRELAND 

Limerick 

DUBLIN 

New Ross 

Waterford 

Youghal 

WALES 

Scottish 

Isle of Skye Highlands 

Mallaig 

Glencoe 

Pitlochry 

SCOTLAND St Andrews 

Loch Lomond 

EDINBURGH 

Glasgow 

Jedburgh 

NORTHERN 

IRELAND Grasmere 

York 

IRELAND 

Galway 

DUBLIN 

Anglesey Manchester 

Chester 

Limerick 

Waterford 

ENGLAND 

Wexford WALES Stratford-upon-Avon 

Ring of Kerry Cork 

CARDIFF 

Pembroke 

Bath LONDON 

Glastonbury Stonehenge 

Dartmoor 

Exeter 

Polperro Plymouth 



53

Touring with C.I.E Tours 

There is a special Irish & Scots Gaelic word 

for welcome, ‘Fáilte’. Fáilte isn’t just a smile 

from a stranger. With CIE Tours, Fáilte is an 

85 year tradition of anticipating your needs 

and expectations, and delivering through their 

specialist local guides. Many tour operators sell 

optional extras for banquets, shows and walking 

tours and the like, with CIE Tours these options 

are all included. This means you are free to relax 

and enjoy your hard-earned holiday without 

worrying about those unexpected additional 

costs. Your holiday money goes further while 

you enjoy a relaxing and heart-warming 

Celtic Welcome. 

A Taste of Ireland 


This is the perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle. See popular sights 

in the south of Ireland; kiss the Blarney Stone, view the scenic Ring of 

Kerry and the majestic Cliffs of Moher. 


-- 

Irish Evening in the Merry Ploughboy Pub enjoying a hearty dinner 

with popular Irish pub ballads & Irish dancing 

-- 

Ring of Kerry tour, seeing ever-changing scenery of mountains and 

shoreline and get a taste of farm life with sheepdog trials 

-- 

Visit the Cliffs of Moher a spectacular wall of sandstone that reaches to 

200 metres above the ocean waves 

-- 

Medieval Banquet at 15th century Bunratty Castle with song and harp 

music, evocative of the Middle Ages 

Scottish Isles & Glens 


Experience the “real Scotland” as you journey off the beaten track to 

the northernmost part of the Highlands. Fairy-tale castles, Loch Ness, 

Glencoe and Edinburgh for a great in-depth tour. 


-- 

Cruise on Loch Katrine and journey to Arran, visiting a distillery. View 

Loch Lomond and cross Glen Coe to Eilean Donan Castle 

-- 

Explore the Isle of Skye, traverse the Highlands to John O’Groats and 

embark to Orkney 

-- 

Visit Skara Brae, a 5000 year old village and the Ring of Brodgar stone 

circle. Tour Dunrobin Castle and its beautiful estate 

-- 

Enjoy Inverness, cruise Loch Ness and visit Urquhart Castle 

-- 

Tour Edinburgh and enjoy a Scottish banquet 

Departures: Set departures ( Jan-Dec) 

Inclusions: 5 nights accommodation, airport group transfers on arrival 

and departure days, luxury coach, Professional tour driver/guide, 

breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 3 dinners, sightseeing as per itinerary 


Departures: Set departures 

Inclusions: 11 nights hotel, luxury coach, tour director, breakfast daily, 

9 dinners (includes Scottish Evening), tours, ferry trips, cruises, distillery, 

all entrance fees. Edinburgh Military Tattoo selected departures 


Galway 

CONNEMARA 


IRELAND 

Bunratty 

Shannon 

Cashel 

Killarney 

Ring of Kerry 

Blarney 

DUBLIN 

Durness 

Orkney 

Islands 

Kirkwell 

Ullapool 

Inverewe 

Isle of 

Inverness 

Skye 

Culloden 

Kyle of Loch Ness SCOTLAND 

Lochalsh 

Pitlochry 

Glencoe 

Perth 

St Andrews 

Loch Lomond Drymen 

EDINBURGH 

Glasgow 

Isle of Arran 

54 



CIE Tours 

A Taste of Scotland & Ireland 


The perfect combination of two great countries. Start in Glasgow before 

exploring the Scottish Highlands up to Nairn. Take a ferry ride to Ireland 

and get to know the southern coast of Ireland. 

Jewels of Ireland 


Revealing hidden gems in many smaller towns as well as hitting 

highlights, this tour and its wonderful guide will escort you through the 

best of Ireland’s cultural and heritage offerings both north and south. 


-- 

Highlight evenings in Dublin and Edinburgh with dinner and 

entertainment 

-- 

Medieval banquet in Bunratty Castle as well as Irish highlights such as 

Titanic Belfast, Trinity College, kissing the Blarney Stone, viewing the 

Ring of Kerry and the Cliffs of Moher 

-- 

Enjoy Scottish features such as cruising Loch Ness, distillery tour and 

tasting as well as visiting Edinburgh Castle, the Scottish Highlands and 

Edinburgh Military Tattoo on August 4th to 25th departures 


-- 

Tour Dublin Castle, Stately homes and enjoy dinner with entertainment 

-- 

Stay in Kinsale village and kiss the Blarney Stone 

-- 

Enjoy Killarney, see Dingle, view the Cliffs of Moher, and enjoy a 

medieval banquet at Knappogue Castle 

-- 

See Galway and Connemara cruise on Ireland’s only fjord & visit 

Belleek Pottery 

-- 

View Slieve League Cliffs, Donegal and walk Derry’s walls. Visit the 

Giant’s Causeway and Titanic Belfast 

-- 

Reflect at Saint Patrick’s Grave and enter a 5000 year old tomb in the 

Boyne Valley before a gastropub farewell 

Departures: Set departures (Mar-Nov) 

Inclusions: 10 nights accommodation, airport group transfers on 

arrival and departure days, luxury coach, Professional tour driver/guide, 

breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 6 dinners, sightseeing as per itinerary 



Inclusions: 13 nights in superior hotels, luxury coach, tour director, Irish 

breakfast daily, 10 dinners (includes pub nights and a medieval banquet), 

2 lunches, walking tours, jaunting car trip, cruise, all entrance fees 


Cliffs of 

Moher 

Killarney 

Ring of Kerry 

Nairn 

Loch Ness 

Ft. Augustus Pitlochry 

St Andrews 

EDINBURGH 

Glasgow 

NORTHERN SCOTLAND 

IRELAND Cairnryan 

Larne 

ENGLAND 

BELFAST 

IRELAND 

DUBLIN 

Shannon 

Cashel 

WALES 

Blarney 

Derry 

Ardara 

Slieve League 

Belleek 

Sligo 

Leenane 

Connemara 

Spiddal 

Cliffs of 

Moher 

Dingle 

Killarney 

Kinsale 

Blarney 

Donegal 

NORTHERN 

IRELAND 

Giant’s 

Causeway 

BELFAST 

Downpatrick 

Kingscourt 

Drogheda 

Boyne Valley 

IRELAND 

Galway 

DUBLIN 

Blessington 

Caherconnell 

Ennis 

Foynes 

SCOTLAND 

WALES 

ENGLAND 

Penzance 



55

Take to the Tracks 

There really is something delicious about 

travelling by rail, especially in Europe. There’s 

timeless atmosphere in the grand old stations 

– a sense of adventures to be had in far-off 

places. It’s easy to imagine you’re in the 

19th century, about to embark on a grand 

European tour. The first intercity service 

opened in 1830 between Liverpool and 

Manchester. Aside from the romanticism of a 

bygone era, there’s a lot to be said for including 

rail travel in a European itinerary. The rail 

networks of both Europe and the United 

Kingdom are efficient and widespread, and 

the trains are well-maintained, comfortable 

and generally run on time (in some countries 

you can set your watch by their arrival and 

departure). 

BritRail Pass & Ireland Pass 

Eurostar 

Belmond Grand Hibernian 

A BritRail Pass, available in both Consecutive 

and Flexi Day options, provides you the 

freedom to travel on the national rail 

networks of England, Scotland and Wales. The 

popular Flexi Pass allows travel over a specific 

number of days within a set period; whereas 

the Consecutive Pass is cheaper but the days 

of travel need to be consecutive. 

Ireland Pass 

Explore further using this one single pass. With 

this, you can have unlimited travel across the 

whole of the rail network including Northern 

Ireland, and also The Republic of Ireland. 

UK Point to Point Fares 

If you are planning only one or two train trips, 

always check out the range of fares available in 

Standard or First Class. These fares sometimes 

attract discounts of between 15%-60%, 

available for instant purchase. The earlier you 

book the greater the level of discount. 

Fast Train 

“Did you know that if your train journey 

is 4 hours or less, you will arrive at your 

destination faster by train than your total 

flying experience?” 

London-Manchester journey time: 2hrs 7mins 

London-Edinburgh journey time: 4hrs 22mins 

Eurostar is the number one choice for travel 

between the heart of London and the heart 

of Paris or Brussels via the Channel Tunnel. 

Avoid the stress of airports, costly transfers 

and taxes as Eurostar whisks you to your 

destination in style and comfort. 

Classes of Service 

Business Premier offers a 1st class service 

designed specifically for the business traveller 

giving access to lounges, priority check-in, full 

catering and more. 

Standard Premier offers a 1st class experience 

with freedom and space to work or unwind. 

It includes a complimentary light meal and 

beverages served at your seat. 

Standard Class offers comfort, convenience 

and value for money with the option to 

purchase refreshments from one of the two 

buffet cars. 

Discounted Fares 

Eurostar offers a range of discounted fares 

including special child, youth and senior 

discounts, available as one way or return 

fares. 

Launched in August 2016, the Belmond 

Grand Hibernian is taking rail touring around 

Ireland to a new level. Famed for its historic 

cities, lush green farmland, quaint towns and 

spectacular natural scenery, Ireland has long 

been the domain of self-drives or coach tours, 

but now there’s a new way to see this beautiful 

country, by luxury train. Elegant carriages 

and authentic Irish cuisine complemented by 

fine wines and attentive service, all help make 

this iconic journey extremely memorable. 

Three classic itineraries are currently offered, 

all starting and finishing in Dublin. The first 

is a 2 night journey north to see Belfast and 

the Giant’s Causeway. The second heads 

south on a 4 night journey to Cork, Limerick, 

Galway, Killarney, Westport and the Cliffs of 

Moher. The third itinerary combines the two 

aforementioned journeys to make a 6 night 

option. 

Belmond also operate the famed Venice 

Simplon-Orient-Express through Europe and 

the Northern Belle in the UK, so they know 

what they’re doing! Sit back, relax and take in 

the stunning views whilst enjoying amazing 

Irish hospitality. 

Departures: Daily 

Duration: 3 days in 1 month 

Price Guide From: $293 (Flexipass) 

Departures: Daily 

Duration: 2.5 hours to Paris 

Price Guide From: $105 (one way) 


Duration: 2, 4 or 6 nights 

Price Guide From: $6187 (2 nights) 

56 

The price guide shown is per adult based on low season travel. Specials or surcharges may apply depending on travel date.

Terms & Conditions 

Please read these booking conditions carefully 

CONSUMER GUARANTEES ACT 

The guarantees under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 will apply to 

services supplied by us except where they are acquired, or held out as being 

acquired for business purposes. 

1. OUR SERVICES AND OBLIGATIONS 

1.1 House of Travel Ltd (‘we” or “us” as the case may be) supply services 

consisting of arranging and co-ordinating travel facilities and services, and 

making bookings and issuing vouchers to be redeemed by suppliers of travel, 

entertainment, and accommodation facilities or services (“Suppliers”). House 

of Travel Ltd is part of the House of Travel group. 

1.2 We undertake to perform these services with reasonable care and skill. 

We will not be liable for any loss or damage which results from the act, default 

or omission of any person other than ourselves, our employees or agents, or 

any cause independent of human control. This includes (but is not limited to), 

loss or damage which arises directly or indirectly from any act of God, weather 

disruptions, dangers incidental to the sea, fire, breakdown in machinery or 

equipment, acts of Governments or other authorities de jure or de facto, wars 

whether declared or not, hostilities, civil disturbances, strikes, riots, deaths, 

pilferage, epidemics, quarantines or medical or customs regulations. 

1.3 We are not able to exercise control over services we do not supply 

directly, therefore we will not be responsible for any loss or damage arising 

from: 

• Any booking made directly with a service Supplier by your travel agent, or 

• Any services which are not directly provided by us and which are additional 

to those recorded in clause 1.1 above. 

1.4 We will endeavour to provide the most suitable travel arrangements to 

meet the particular requirements you make known to us. However, travel is 

an individual experience, and your preferences and opinions may vary from 

our own. For this reason, we cannot take responsibility for your individual 

satisfaction. 

2. SUPPLY OF TRAVEL, ENTERTAINMENT AND 

ACCOMMODATION SERVICES AND FACILITIES 

2.1 When we make bookings with Suppliers, we are acting as a booking 

agent for such Supplier. 

2.2 All travel, entertainment, and accommodation facilities or services are 

supplied directly to you by the Suppliers. We have no control over the facilities 

or services themselves, or the manner in which they are provided by the 

Suppliers. Therefore you should be aware of the following conditions: 

• We will not be liable for any loss or damage of any kind which may arise 

from your use or consumption of, or inability to use or consume those facilities 

or services. 

• The provision of those facilities or services is subject to the terms and 

conditions of your contract with each Supplier. 

• Where for any reason, a Supplier is unable to provide particular facilities or 

services, then that Supplier may be entitled, under its contract with you, to 

substitute those services or facilities with comparable or equivalent facilities or 

services without incurring any liability to you. You should check your contract 

with each Supplier. 

• All facilities or services described by us are subject to availability from the 

Supplier. 

• We will not be liable or responsible for any loss or damage relating to 

your baggage, personal possessions, health or welfare, or delays or travel 

disruptions unless these arise directly from the service we provide to you. 

3. BUSINESS PURPOSES 

You agree that where our services are acquired for business purposes, or 

where you hold yourself out as acquiring our services for business purposes, 

the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 will not apply to any supply of goods or 

services made under these conditions, and we will not be liable or responsible 

for any loss or damage of any kind to you, including any consequential loss or 

damage however it may be caused. 

4. INFORMATION IN THIS BROCHURE 

4.1 While we attempt to ensure that the contents of this brochure are 

correct, accurate, and up to date at the time of printing, the contents of this 

brochure are drawn from information supplied to us by Suppliers. We do not 

have, and cannot be reasonably expected to have, personal knowledge about 

all of the facilities or services provided by each Supplier. 

4.2 Facilities or services may change after the date of printing. We 

endeavour to keep travel agents informed of any changes to information in this 

brochure which are brought to our attention. Prior to completing your booking, 

you should ask your travel agent whether they are aware of any changes to 

the published information. You should also make sure that if your travel agent 

is advised of changes which occur after booking, your travel agent is able to 

contact you. 

4.3 Maps and Photographs: Maps are shown for general information and 

may not necessarily reflect actual routings, locations or services provided. 

Photographs may show places in the geographic area which are not included 

in your booking. Hotel room photographs may not be the actual room occupied. 

4.4 Property Information: Descriptions featured in this brochure are drawn 

from information provided by our Suppliers. Any facilities or services shown are 

subject to change at any time. Please advise your travel agent if you have any 

special requirements. 

4.5 Room Bedding: Is based on existing bedding in the room. Requests for 

specific bedding arrangements must be made at the time of booking but can 

not be guaranteed. For example, twin share may consist of single beds or a 

shared double bed. 

4.6 Rental Cars: We cannot guarantee to provide a particular model or colour 

within the car category. Availability of car categories is subject to confirmation 

at the time of booking. We reserve the right to substitute different models. If a 

vehicle is returned prior to the end of the reserved rental period or if the vehicle 

is picked up later than the reserved date, NO REFUND will be made for unused 

rental days 

5. PRICES 

5.1 The price indicator is provided as a guide only. It is based on low season, 

per adult share twin pricing and is correct at the time of printing. The actual 

price may differ to that indicated due to currency fluctuations, special events, 

trade shows or peak periods. 

5.2 We will guarantee the price of the portion of the booking as processed 

by us, against currency fluctuation for a period of seven (7) days from the 

time of confirmation of the booking; note: special conditions apply for cruise 

bookings. It is the responsibility of your travel agent to advise you of the date of 

confirmation. If your booking remains unpaid after the seven (7) day guarantee 

period it will be subject to currency fluctuation, up to the time full payment is 

received by us. 

5.3 Events beyond our control, such as changes to the prices of aviation fuel 

or changes to the cost of services or facilities may result in the prices charged 

to you being different from those shown in the brochure. You should check all 

prices with your travel agent before making reservations, and before ticketing. 

5.4 Prices may also be liable to variation between the time of booking and 

the date of departure due to events beyond our control. Due to unforeseen 

events we reserve the right to vary the price up to the time of your departure. 

6. HOUSE OF TRAVEL ACCOMMODATION RATINGS 

To assist you with the selection of your accommodation, we have created our 

own rating system allowing you to compare each property. Please note that 

these gradings are to be used as a guide only and may alter throughout the 

year due to a change of circumstances. When selecting your accommodation 

please note that the overall quality of properties in the UK & Europe is generally 

lower than equivalent priced properties in other countries, particularly in the 

lower ratings. In general the room sizes are quite small and can vary, even 

within one property. Please check with your House of Travel consultant to 

ensure you get the property that best suits your needs. 

7. PAYMENT 

7.1 A non-refundable deposit will be required by your travel agent and must 

be paid at the time of booking. This is in addition to any deposits imposed by 

Suppliers. 

7.2 A communication charge may be made for bookings requested less than 

72 hours prior to departure. 

7.3 Final payment must be made in full before we can release travel 

documents (including tickets). 

8. CANCELLATION 

8.1 If you wish to cancel your booking for any reason, you must advise us in 

writing through your travel agent as soon as possible. 

8.2 If you cancel your booking or any part of your booking, we will impose 

a cancellation fee in respect of each person travelling under that booking. You 

must also pay all cancellation fees imposed by Suppliers and your travel agent. 

These cancellation fees are required to offset booking, communication, and 

administrative charges which have already been incurred by us, Suppliers and 

your travel agent. Cancellation fees imposed by Suppliers and travel agents are 

beyond our control and you should check with your travel agent regarding what 

cancellation fees may be applicable. 

8.3 We strongly recommend that you insure yourself fully against 

cancellation due to unforeseen circumstances. See Section 10. 

9. RESERVATION AMENDMENTS 

We are happy to incorporate any reasonable amendments you request. An 

amendment constitutes a change to an existing booking and will attract a 

$25 fee per amendment prior to final payment and the issuing of the travel 

documents, and a $50 fee per amendment after travel documents have been 

issued. These fees are to cover administration and communication costs. You 

may also be required to pay any Supplier imposed fees. 

10. INSURANCE 

We strongly recommend that you insure yourself fully against cancellation, loss 

of luggage and personal property, and medical expenses. Your travel agent will 

be able to provide you with further information. 

11. ITEMS NOT COVERED 

Unless otherwise specified, the cost of airfares, meals, drinks, laundry, 

insurance, sightseeing, transfers, local taxes, airport departure taxes, Airline 

imposed insurance levies, passenger service charges and Passport or Visa 

application fees are not included. 

12. VISAS/PASSPORTS 

For all holidays in this brochure you will require a valid passport. You are 

responsible for arranging your own passport, visa and health requirements 

including inoculation. You should check with your travel agent who will be able 

to provide you with the necessary information. 

13. NON-USE OF SERVICES OR FACILITIES 

If, of your own choice, you decide not to use part or parts of the arranged 

services or facilities, you will not be entitled to a refund from us (provided 

we have carried out our service with reasonable skill and care and to your 

requirements) and you may not be entitled to a refund from any Supplier. 

14. HEALTH OR DISABILITY 

Some Suppliers may reserve the right to refuse to carry or accommodate 

people who because of a health condition or disability may require services 

or facilities to be provided in a special manner. You should check this with 

your travel agent. 

15. SERVICE SATISFACTION 

During your holiday, if you encounter any situation where the service supplied 

to you does not meet your satisfaction, please take the matter up with the 

Supplier immediately. Your contract for each service is with the Supplier. If this 

is not possible immediately, or if you are still dissatisfied, please contact your 

travel agent. Both we and your travel agent will endeavour to investigate on 

your behalf and to negotiate with the Supplier to resolve the matter as soon as 

possible, so that you continue to enjoy your journey. 

16. LEGAL CLAIMS 

Any claims or legal action in connection with the provision of our services to 

you will be governed by the laws of New Zealand. Any claim or legal action 

against the Suppliers is likely to be subject to the terms of your contract with 

them, and may be governed by the laws of other countries.

“I didn’t get any taller, 

but thanks to them, I had grown.” 

Bring in your ideas and we’ll help you get there. 

The best holidays are created together. 

0800 838 747 I 76 STORES NATIONWIDE I HOT.CO.NZ 

58

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