British Isles Brilliance

Being entrenched in world history and culture, it is often easy to forget that Britain is surrounded by some of the most beautiful and diverse islands on Earth. Find out just how special they are for yourself.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

London (Southampton)

Take a trip up to London and get a bird's eye view of the city from the London Eye. See sights like Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Piccadilly. Stroll along Lower Regent Street or visit the British Museum.

Day 2:

At Sea

Spend the day sailing in style. From sipping fine vintage wines at a wine tasting to a show-stopping performance in the ship lounge, a spectrum of enriching activities and live entertainment awaits you. Join one of our esteemed Guest Speakers to discover their unique destination expertise, indulge in a treatment at the Aquamar Spa + Vitality center or take a hands-on cooking class at The Culinary Center. As the sun lowers, gather with friends in one of the convivial bars, attend a spectacular production show, or take in an unforgettable musical performance.

Day 3:

Newcastle

A delightful blend of ancient and modern, Newcastle is one of the liveliest cities in northern England. Built in the 11th century, the Castle Keep was the "new castle" for which the city is named. Stroll along the River Tyne and marvel at the different bridges that have transformed the face of the city. Modern art is the main attraction at the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, while the history of Newcastle unfolds at the Great North Museum.

Day 4:

Edinburgh (South Queensferry)

Savor the old town's marvelous Georgian and Victorian architecture and impressive Edinburgh Castle, high on its volcanic crag with a fabulous view. Stroll along the medieval Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse to see the abbey and Queen Mary's chambers. Visit St. Giles' Cathedral, where John Knox once preached.

Day 5:

Invergordon

Known as "Inverbreakie" until the early 18th century, Invergordon has long been recognized for its rich naval history and jewel of a harbor in the northern Highlands. Invergordon perches on the bank of the Cromarty Firth. This long estuary provides a welcome sanctuary for a multitude of water birds and one of only two species of resident bottlenose dolphin in the British Isles. Venture into the Highlands, where the local clan castles perch on craggy hills and the shores of lochs and firths. And there's always the chance to see the mysterious Loch Ness Monster.

Day 6:

Lerwick (Shetland Islands)

Enjoy a taste of the Highlands here in the rugged landscape and heathered moors, the ruined castles, steep cliffs and sea air. Drive through beautiful valleys and flower-filled meadows with romping Shetland ponies to quaint villages like Scalloway with its ruined castle, or explore the fascinating Jarlshof prehistoric site, occupied for more than 4,000 years.

Day 7:

Kirkwal (Orkney Islands)

This starkly beautiful island holds many ancient treasures like the enigmatic Standing Stones of Stenness and the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, amazingly discovered with furniture and preserved indoor drains. Visit the imposing trio of St. Magnus Cathedral, the nearby ruins of the Earl's Palace, and the earlier Bishop's Palace.

Day 8:

Ullapool

Catch one of the ever-changing exhibitions of works by local artists at the Ullapool Visual Arts Centre and view impressive textiles, ceramics, paintings, and photography. Trace your Scottish ancestry in the genealogy section of the Ullapool Museum housed in a repurposed Telford Parliamentary church, or go hillwalking on one of the many slopes that rise from the sea up to the Scottish Highlands.

Day 9:

Oban

Standing in the remains of a 13th-century castle perched above the sparkling Oban Bay, it won't be hard to imagine why Highland clans and Scottish kings battled for centuries for sovereignty over these lands. Put on a good pair of walking shoes and enjoy a day of shopping, touring the museum and distillery, and seeing the main sights in Oban. Beyond the popular resort town, embrace the tranquility as you explore windswept islands, deserted beaches, pristine wilderness, and a parade of ancient castles.

Day 10:

Holyhead

Enjoy the beautiful Welsh countryside with its charming towns and farms, and visit the imposing Caernarfon Castle, begun by Edward I in 1283. This mighty fortress was a residence, government seat, and military stronghold.

Day 11:

Belfast

Delight in this vibrant city of ornate Victorian and Edwardian architecture, gracious gardens, and friendly pubs. Thrill to the natural phenomenon of the Giants' Causeway, a stunning geological anomaly of tightly packed, uneven basalt columns disappearing into the sea, and the enigmatic ruins of Grey Abbey.

Request a Free Quote