Esplanade Travel Ireland & UK Adventure

Day 1 - Thursday 5^th June - Welcome to Dublin

Arriving in Ireland today, a private transfer will pick you up from the airport and whisk you to your 5-star hotel in the city centre. Check-in may not be ready till later,  however, feel free to leave your bags, freshen up, or have a bite to eat.

This afternoon, we recommend visiting The Guinness Storehouse for your Acadamy Experience. Explore the brewing process, from ingredients to the perfect pour, and discover the brand’s rich history through interactive exhibits. The tour ends at the Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy a pint with stunning views of Dublin’s skyline—a must-visit for beer lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

With plenty of restaurants to choose from, this evening we recommend local dining for your first might in Ireland.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe King
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Friday 6^th June - Historical Walking Tour

This morning enjoy a historical walking tour with a local private guide through this vibrant capital city. With its mix of 1,000 years of architecture from the mediaeval to Georgian to modern, the sights and sounds will not disappoint.  See the Georgian-style Merrion Square, lush St. Stephen’s Green and Fitzwilliam Square, and 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 time gone by.

End your walking tour at the gates of Trinity College where you will join a public tour of the grounds followed by an audio self-guided tour of The Book of Kells in the long Library.

If time allows, we recommend a wander through Dublin Castle later this afternoon. End your day with a delicious meal in a local restaurant and perhaps some live traditional music to accompany a pint.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Saturday 7^th June - Dublin to the Kingdom of Kerry

This morning, your private driver/ guide will meet you at your hotel and after some short introductions over a coffee, embark on the cross-country drive to County Kerry and Sheen Falls Lodge.

We can stop en route in the charming town of Cashel, home to the Rock of Cashel, a complex of medieval buildings sitting in a picturesque spot above the town. After a brief visit to the Rock, we can have lunch in Cashel Palace in the centre of town.

After lunch, we continue to Sheen Falls Lodge just outside Kenmare, where you can check in and relax. That evening, you have the option to have dinner at the hotel or one of the great restaurants in Kenmare, where your guide will join you.

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4 - Sunday 8^th June - Kerry Seaweed Foraging

Overnight: Kenmare | Sheen Falls Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Monday 9^th June - The Burren & Cliffs of Moher

After breakfast, we take our leave of Kerry and head north, to The Burren, learning about its fascinating ecosystem and the interplay between local people and this unique landscape over centuries.

We’ll be sure to pay a visit to The Burren Perfumery to see how this tiny business takes its inspiration from the plants and flowers on The Burren and turns them into beautiful products – and we can stop for lunch in their tea room.

After lunch, we’ll visit the Cliffs of Moher along the Wild Atlantic Way—a breathtaking 2,500 km (1,550 mi.) coastal route flanked by crashing waves, white sand beaches, rugged cliffs and charming seaside villages.

We recommend dinner in the seaside town of Ballyvaughan this evening.

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Room Type: Superior Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Tuesday 10^th June - Falconry & Ashford Castle

After check out, it’s a 90-minute drive to the village of Cong, the backdrop of the Oscar-winning movie, The Quiet Man. Our day begins at your hotel, Ashford Castle and the oldest falconry school in Ireland, where we will be joined by an expert to learn about this fascinating Medieval sport and then see the birds of prey in action.

Relax for the remainder of the day, taking in all Ashford’s opulence and history before you enjoy your final dinner in Ireland accompanied by our guide,  at one of Ashford Castle’s excellent restaurants.

Overnight: Cong | Ashford Castle
Room Type: Corrib Lake View
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7 - Wednesday 11^th June - Ireland to the UK

Today marks the end of your time in Ireland and its off to the airport and your flights to the UK.

Your private transfer whisks you from the airport in comfort, gliding through the bustling streets of London as you take in the city’s iconic skyline. Upon arrival at your central London hotel, drop off your bags with ease and settle in for an afternoon and evening at leisure.

Overnight: London | Ham Yard Hotel
Room Type: Luxury Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 8 - Thursday 12^th June - The National Gallery

You meet your private guide in the heart of London for a captivating morning at the National Gallery, home to some of the world’s most treasured masterpieces. As you step inside the grand halls, your guide brings each painting to life, sharing fascinating insights into the works of da Vinci, Van Gogh, Turner, and more. Uncover the stories behind the brushstrokes, discovering hidden details and the evolution of artistic styles across centuries.

After a morning immersed in art and history, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Whether you choose to stroll through nearby Trafalgar Square, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a charming café, or explore more of London’s vibrant neighbourhoods, the city invites you to experience it at your own pace.

Overnight: London | Ham Yard Hotel
Room Type: Luxury Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Friday 13^th June - A Day of Royalty

Spend a morning at your own leisure. Perhaps take the opportunity to watch the iconic Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, where you witness the precision and pageantry of the King’s Guard in their striking red tunics and bearskin hats. After soaking in the grandeur of this time-honoured tradition, venture into the Royal Mews, home to the magnificent state coaches and royal carriages, including the dazzling Gold State Coach used for coronations.

The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure – perhaps a stroll through St. James’s Park, a visit to a charming café, or a bit of shopping in Mayfair.

As evening falls, take your seat in one of London’s historic theatres for a spectacular West End performance, immersing yourself in the magic of world-class storytelling and dazzling stagecraft.

Overnight: London | Ham Yard Hotel
Room Type: Luxury Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Saturday 14^th June - London to Edinburgh

This morning, set off from London in comfort, watching the cityscape give way to rolling countryside as your train glides north towards Edinburgh. As the journey unfolds, pass charming villages, historic landmarks, and sweeping coastal views, building anticipation for your Scottish adventure.

Upon arrival in Edinburgh, meet your local guide and check in to your hotel, where you take a moment to settle in and soak up the city’s elegant atmosphere. As evening falls, embark on an immersive Scotch whisky experience, delving into the rich heritage of Scotland’s national drink. Guided by an expert, savour a selection of fine whiskies, learning about their distinct flavours, craftsmanship, and history, an indulgent and authentic start to your time in the Scottish capital.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: Superior King Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Sunday 15^th June - Exploring Edinburgh's Highlights

Your day begins with an exclusive pre-opening tour of the National Gallery of Scotland, where you’re granted rare, crowd-free access to some of the country’s finest masterpieces. As you wander through the grand halls, admire works by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and Scottish masters, with expert insights bringing each painting to life. Next, stepping out into the heart of Edinburgh, stroll along the historic Royal Mile, where centuries-old buildings, charming closes, and hidden gems reveal the city’s rich past. At the foot of the Mile, pass the magnificent Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the King in Scotland, where tales of Mary, Queen of Scots and royal ceremonies unfold before you.

The afternoon offers a choice – delve into Scotland’s regal history with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, perched dramatically atop Castle Rock, or immerse yourself in Scottish heritage at a traditional tartan shop, discovering the artistry behind Scotland’s iconic fabric.

Overnight: Edinburgh | The Bonham
Room Type: Superior King Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12 - Monday 16^th June - Royal Yacht Britannia and Arrival in St Andrews

Your morning begins with a tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former floating palace of the British Royal Family. As you explore the elegant State Apartments, the crew’s quarters, and the sun-drenched Royal Deck, learn about fascinating stories of royal voyages and life at sea.

Leaving Edinburgh behind, journey north with your guide towards St Andrews, stopping en route at the iconic Three Bridges, where you take a scenic walk with breathtaking views over the Firth of Forth. Soak in the engineering marvel of these historic bridges before continuing to St Andrews.

Arriving in the birthplace of golf and home to Scotland’s oldest university, depending on your arrival time, spend the afternoon exploring its medieval streets, historic cathedral ruins, and the world-famous Old Course, where legends of the sport have played for centuries.

Overnight: St Andrews | Rufflets
Room Type: Turret Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - Tuesday 17^th June - Golf Day

Your day in St Andrews begins with a round of golf at one of its legendary courses, where you walk in the footsteps of golfing greats. Whether playing the iconic Old Course or another stunning links, the fresh sea air and rolling greens make for an unforgettable experience.

After a rewarding morning on the fairways, the afternoon is dedicated to exploring the beauty of Fife. You venture through charming fishing villages, where colourful harbours and cobbled streets tell tales of Scotland’s maritime past. A stop at a scenic beach offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Perhaps with a peaceful stroll along the golden sands or simply taking in the rugged coastline’s breathtaking views. As the day winds down, the tranquility of Fife leaves you with a deep appreciation for Scotland’s natural beauty and historic charm.

Please note: Green Fees not included, a supplement will be added once golf is confirmed 

Overnight: St Andrews | Rufflets
Room Type: Turret Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 14 - Wednesday 18^th June - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast