Final Information - Zhuo Family Irish & UK Adventure

Day 1 - Saturday 6^th July - Welcome to London & Shakespeare's Globe

It is an early start this morning as your private host guide will meet you at your hotel this morning and you will set off to explore some of the lesser visited places of London.  Your first stop will be Shakespeare’s Globe where you will take a private tour to areas not generally visited by the public.  From the heavens in the roof of the theatre to the underbelly of the stage, enjoy a wonderful tour of this incredible place as well as the option to see the First Folio and speak to the researchers about the life of the Bard.

This afternoon you will head over to the British Museum to spend some time enjoying the wonders they have displayed here as your guide explains the history behind the fascinating pieces before returning to the hotel for the evening.

Overnight: London | Self Arranged
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Sunday 7^th July - The Museums & Galleries of London

Head out this morning to enjoy a private tour pre opening tour of the National Gallery.  Explore the masterpieces under your own steam as the expert guide leads you through the exhibitions without the crowds.  Once the museum opens to the public you can continue exploring or leave to head off to the next part of your day.

After spending a few hours exploring or relaxing back at the end you will end the day with a private tour of the Sir John Soane’s museum – the famous English architect who house has been kept exactly as it was when he died.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before and there will be a driver on hand for the whole day

Overnight: London | Self Arranged
Meals Included: None

Day 3 - Monday 8^th July - Free Day

Today is totally free for you to enjoy some family time and exploring more of London under your own steam.  A private driver and your host will be on hand should you wish to head out with them.

The guide and the driver will provide their numbers to the clients should they wish to make use of them today.

Overnight: London | Self Arranged
Meals Included: None

Day 4 - Tuesday 9^th July - Day trip to the Cotswolds

Head out of the city today for a wonderful tour of the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds.  With your expert guide and driver on hand, sit back and relax as you pass through some chocolate box villages and stunning views.  You can stop off as you see fit, perhaps enjoy a delicious lunch in a traditional English pub or take a wander along the river with the sound of the wildlife all around you.

You’ll return to the city in the evening where you will be dropped off at your hotel.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time the day before – we have noted you do not wish to start the day before 10am

Overnight: London | Self Arranged
Meals Included: None

Day 5 - Wednesday 10^th July - Victoria & Albert Museum

This morning, your host guide will meet you and you’ll head off to the Victoria and Albert Museum to spend the afternoon drinking in all of the wonderful artefacts of this incredible building.  Should you wish, you can continue exploring some of the local neighbourhoods with your guide before returning to your accommodation later in the day.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time with you the night before and there will be a driver on hand for the whole day

Overnight: London | Self Arranged
Meals Included: None

Day 6 - Thursday 11^th July - Free Day

After a busy few days, today is free to just relax and enjoy your final day in the city.  Perhaps head out to visit some more museums, or head to Greenwich and take a tour of the stunning observatory.

Please liaise with the guide and the driver directly should you wish to use them today.

Overnight: London | Self Arranged
Meals Included: None

Day 7 - Friday 12^th July - To the Cairngorms

The Four Seasons will have arranged your transfers to the airport in time for your flight to Scotland.

On arrival into Inverness airport you will be met by your private driver and head off to start your Scottish adventure.  On your way to your exclusive lodge in the heart of the forest,

Carry on down the winding roads under the canopy of towering Scots Pines until you come upon your stunning lodge, deep in the heart of the forest.  With beautiful surroundings and opulent rooms, this is the very height of decadence and the perfect place to spend time as a family as you explore the largest National Park in the UK.

Overnight: Kingussie | Glenfeshie Lodge
Room Type: Exclusive Use
Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner

Day 8 - Saturday 13^th July - Exploring and Canoeing

There are lots of options to chose from this morning as you set out to enjoy your first day in the Cairngorms. Perhaps you may wish to take a walk around a local loch which sits in the shadow of one of the UKs highest mountains.  Or perhaps you might like to visit a local outdoor museum where you can see what life was like for Highlanders living off the land not that long ago.

This afternoon, you will take to the waters of a local tranquil loch where you can glide along in your canoe under the watchful eye of your expert guide.  Paddle along the shore line or out into the open as the sound of the paddle cutting through the water echos around you.  With one of tallest mountains in Scotland as your backdrop, you can enjoy floating along as you see the countryside from a different point of view before retuning to your accommodation for a hearty dinner this evening.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time the day before – we have noted you do not wish to start the day before 10am

Overnight: Kingussie | Glenfeshie Lodge
Room Type: Exclusive Use
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 9 - Sunday 14^th July - The History of Scotland

You can have a quieter morning today, just enjoying being at the lodge or exploring the grounds should you wish.

This afternoon you will head to Brodie Castle, which has been in the same family for over 400 years.  Discover the history of the castle and explore the Playful Garden, which is home to a fascinating collection of characters inspired by the castles history.  There is also a wonderful art collection here from Dutch Old Masters to modern watercolours so spend time studying these wonderful pieces with no rush to be anywhere else.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time the day before – we have noted you do not wish to start the day before 10am

Overnight: Kingussie | Glenfeshie Lodge
Room Type: Exclusive Use
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 10 - Monday 15^th July - Exploring the Cairngorms

The ancient craft of wood whittling is one of the forgotten arts which local craftsmen are resurrecting across the country.  Meet a local woodman this morning at your estate who will show you how to carve your very own butter knife from a bit of green wood. Listen to his stories about life in the Cairngorms as you work, with just the sound of the birds and the breeze in the trees for company.

Later in the afternoon, you will meet a local harpist who plays the Clarsach – a small traditional Scottish harp.  She will tell you all about the history of this instrument and about the trad music that is such a huge part of the fabric of life here before letting you have a go yourselves – you may even learn a tune or two to take home with you!

Your guide will arrange a meeting time the day before – we have noted you do not wish to start the day before 10am

Overnight: Kingussie | Glenfeshie Lodge
Room Type: Exclusive Use
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11 - Tuesday 16^th July - To Edinburgh

You will leave the towering peaks and dense forests this morning to the bright lights of Edinburgh.  On the way you will stop off at the Highland Folk Museum that depicts what life was life for Highlanders who used to live and work in here right up until the 1950s.  Visit the replica village with it’s black houses, so called due to the blackness of the insides walls due to the smoke and perhaps try and dress up as a highlander as they head into battle!

Continue on your journey south as the countryside changes continuously past your windows and weave your way through the centre of Edinburgh and your iconic hotel overlooking the Old Town.  The rest of the day is free for you to rest and relax after your journey south.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time the day before – we have noted you do not wish to start the day before 11am today

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: 1 bedroom Scone & Crombie Suite interconnecting with 2 x Executive Old Town View Rooms with a Deluxe Rooms (inner facing) across the corridor
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Wednesday 17^th July - Palaces and Bagpipers

It’s an early start today as you head to the King’s official residence for a private pre opening tour of the Palace of Holyrood.  Explore the magnificent hallways and decadent rooms before it is opened to the general public   You will also get to go ‘behind the ropes’ of the West Drawing Room which is used as a private sitting room by the Royal Family – a truly unique experience.

After enjoying some light refreshments in the cafe, you will set out to explore the Royal Mile with it’s private closes and intriguing stories with an expert guide.  Hear stories of how people used to live and seek out the hidden gems that are only a stones throw away from the tourist trail but never seen.

To end your day of exploring Edinburgh, you will meet up with a local bagpiper who will give you a taster session of the national instrument.  Learn some tunes on the chanter before taking a turn on the pipes themselves and maybe even learn a reel of two of Scottish Dancing.

Your guide will arrange a meeting time the day before 

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: 1 bedroom Scone & Crombie Suite interconnecting with 2 x Executive Old Town View Rooms with a Deluxe Rooms (inner facing) across the corridor
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - Thursday 18^th July - Music Museums and Ancient Chapels

St Cecilia’s Music Hall & Museum is the oldest concert hall in Scotland (and the second oldest in the British Isles) and is a must see for music fans when they come to Scotland.  Spend the morning exploring this hallowed place hearing stories about the people and the history of the building that dates back to the Scottish Enlightenment – a period in the 18th and early 19th century that was marked by the outpouring of intellectual and scientific accomplishments.

After enjoying some lunch, this afternoon you will head out of the city to the tranquility of Rosslyn Chapel – one of the most stunning and beautiful churches in the country.  This private chapel has been in the same family for generations and your private guide will take you around the building, immersing you in stories of the incredible stone work and the famous links this chapel has.

Tonight you will end your time in Scotland with a grand Gala dinner at Hopetoun House.  Arrive to the sound of bagpipes before indulging on some delicious food in the state dining room before ending the night with the sound of the marching band as fireworks fill the sky.  A truly incredible way to end your time on Scottish soil.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Balmoral Hotel
Room Type: 1 bedroom Scone & Crombie Suite interconnecting with 2 x Executive Old Town View Rooms with a Deluxe Rooms (inner facing) across the corridor
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 14 - Friday 19^th July - To Ireland - Musical Walking Tour

Your guide will take you to the airport this morning to connect with your flight to Dublin. Landing in Dublin, your private guide will meet you at arrivals and together you will make your way into your 5-star hotel in the city centre. Check-in and head out in the afternoon to enjoy a walking tour with a private guide through the rich musical heritage of Dublin. Led by a knowledgeable local, you’ll stroll through the streets of Dublin and discover the stories and songs of the city’s most impactful musicians. From traditional Irish music to the sounds of rock, pop, and beyond, Dublin has been a melting pot of musical creativity for centuries. Along the way, you’ll visit iconic landmarks and venues associated with legendary artists such as U2, Thin Lizzy, The Dubliners, and more, hearing tales of their rise to fame and the lasting impact of their music on the city. Back at your hotel, get settled and tonight your guide will join you for a welcome dinner.

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury
Room Type: x1 signature suite, x1 luxury king suite, x2 westbury king rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 15 - Saturday 20^th July - Hiking in Howth & Gaelic Games

This morning you’ll make your way to the suburb of Howth – with its picturesque harbour, pretty beaches and wildflower-covered sea cliffs, it feels like the kind of village you’d find on a far-flung stretch of the west coast rather than a 25-minute train ride from the city centre. From the moment you arrive and walk along the waterfront, spotting the resident seals poking their heads up between the docked boats, you’ll see why it’s the go to spot for Dubliners looking for a weekend breath of fresh air. Enjoy a leisurely hike as you breathe in the crisp sea air. This afternoon, dare to be a Celtic Warrior! Take a journey of discovery deep into Irish culture, where our sports and language meet. From hurling, one of the oldest field sports in the world, to Gaelic football, you will experience an enthralling energy packed introduction to our National Games that will literally take your breath away and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury
Room Type: x1 signature suite, x1 luxury king suite, x2 westbury king rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 16 - Sunday 21^st July - The Phoenix Park Bike Ride & Historical Walking Tour

This morning embark on a Phoenix Park bike tour. A guided e-bike tour offers a fantastic way to explore one of the largest urban parks in Europe and enjoy the beautiful scenery and historical landmarks it has to offer. Spot Ashtown Castle, wild red deer and Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the President of Ireland. This afternoon, you get to enjoy some of Dublin’s highlights and hidden gems with an engaging walking tour of the city with a local private guide. Explore the mix of 1,000 years of architecture from the medieval to Georgian to modern. See the Georgian-style Merrion Square, lush St. Stephen’s Green, and Fitzwilliam Square, as well as O’Connell Street, the site of the ‘1916 Uprising’ that led to Ireland’s independence in 1922. Your guide is also a historian who will bring the city to life with colourful tales of life in the city in times gone by.

Overnight: Dublin | The Westbury Hotel
Room Type: x1 signature suite, x1 luxury king suite, x2 westbury king rooms
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 17 - Monday 22^nd July - Head West

Today  you will transfer west from Dublin to County Clare, the home to Ireland’s famed Cliffs of Moher. Enroute, stop at the ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise. St Ciarán founded his monastery on the banks of the River Shannon in the 6th Century. The monastery flourished and became a great seat of learning, a University of its time with students from all over Europe. Today the ruins include a Cathedral, two round towers, three high crosses, nine Churches and over 700 Early Christian grave slabs. This gives you the opportunity to stretch your legs. We have arranged a storyteller to join you in your hotel this evening for an introduction to the rich mythology of this part of Ireland.

Overnight: Newmarket On Fergus | Dromoland Castle Hotel
Room Type: 2x suite, 1x viscount stateroom twin room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 18 - Tuesday 23^rd July - Cliffs of Moher & Dromoland Castle

This morning you will transfer 1 hour to the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most impressive natural sites. The area is teeming with wildlife and 20 different species of birds, including puffins, make this area their home. You’ll stop at a little gem of a cottage on an Irish farm and meet passionate owner Caitriona, who will take time to welcome you, share the local history of the Cliffs of Moher and treat you to the rich flavours of handmade fudge made by Caitriona herself. Sip a coffee or tea as you soak up the unrivalled views and enjoy the moment. After lunch you’ll make your way back to Dromoland Castle where you will get up close and personal with mesmerising falcons, hawks and owls in the castle grounds.

Overnight: Newmarket On Fergus | Dromoland Castle Hotel
Room Type: 2x suite, 1x viscount stateroom twin room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 19 - Wednesday 24^th July - Downtime at Dromoland

Today you will move to the beautiful lodge at Dromoland. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy some down time on the estate. We are happy to arrange onsite activities, golf and spa treatments for you in advance but equally a day spent wandering the tranquil and expansive grounds is a day well spent.

Overnight: Newmarket On Fergus | Dromoland Castle Hotel
Room Type: The Lodge

Day 20 - Thursday 25^th July - Bunratty Castle & Adare

This morning you’ll make your way to Bunratty Castle. The site on which Bunratty Castle stands was in origin a Viking trading camp in 970. The present structure is the last of four castles to be built on the site. Head to the folk park where you can experience village life in 19th century Ireland – the sweet sounds of traditional Irish music are carried through the air, and the village characters, including the schoolteacher, policeman and village doctor are on hand to entertain and enthral all who visit. You will drive on to Adare to explore the village before returning to your hotel. Your guide will join you tonight for a farewell dinner and you can reminisce on the wonderful week of adventure you had!

Overnight: Newmarket On Fergus | Dromoland Castle Hotel
Room Type: The Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 21 - Friday 26^th July - Departure

This morning, your guide will drop you to Shannon airport for your flight home. We hope your time in Ireland and Scotland has been memorable and we look forward to welcoming you to our shores once again.

Meals Included: Breakfast