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Great Britain - Scotland - Ireland - British Isles- Cruise Shore Excursions & Private Guided Tours Silversea, Crystal, Holland America, Azamara in Ireland - British Isles Day Tours for everyone Private guided tours in
Ireland and Britain for all travelers who want their own, private tour and for
all British Isles cruise ships in major ports. Silversea, Holland America,
Crystal Cruises Costa shore excursions and more. Have
only a few hours to spend and want to cover the highlights or a special
itinerary? Enjoy your private car tour or shore excursion in Glasgow, Edinburgh,
Belfast, Dublin, Cobh (Cork) or Waterford. We will pick you up at your cruise ship and return you in time for your sailing. Please give us your ship name, arrival and departure times from port. Travel by chauffeured car, limousine or minibus. If you don't see exactly what you want here, please ask. We are experts at planning unusual itineraries. Elite cruise terminal private trips at competitive prices. Lynott Tours' shore excursion prices are considerably lower than those offered at ships excursion desks for private excursions and even competitive with those for group bus tours. Conducted in English, our shore excursions, operated by sedans and minibuses, enjoy unrestricted access to city
centers, carrying passengers directly to monuments and sites. No tiring,
uncomfortable walks from and to distant parking places. Advance bookings at
museums and sites ensure admission ahead of time consuming ticket lines.Holland America Holland America Shore Excursions Prices Many cruise lines claim that if you do not book your shore excursions with them, they will leave without you. We have NEVER had a client left behind on one of our shore excursions! Customized itineraries are available for cruise passengers from
We're the Britain and Ireland Shore Excursion experts. Whether you want to see historic sites, pubs, gardens or more - We Have It All ! What's included in our PRIVATE tours of Ireland and Britain :
USD rates per person INCLUDING ADMISSION FEES. IRELAND & NORTHERN IRELAND - PER PERSON USD
London Hotels: WE HAVE MORE THAN 100 HOTELS AVAILABLE IN LONDON BEFORE OR AFTER THE CRUISE. Here are a few. Read about our excursions to the ancient castles, picture book villages, museums, and many more exciting places. Belfast By private car or coach available for these arrivals: Belfast
Full Day: Panoramic Tour of Belfast including the Ulster Transport
Museum, Botanic Garden, the Murals and Crown Liquor Saloon. The Transport
Museum displays Ireland's largest and most comprehensive transport collection,
from horse-drawn carts to Irish built motor cars, and from the mighty steam
locomotives that graced our railways to the history of ship and aircraft
building. The Royal Belfast Botanic Garden houses the Palm House, one of the
earliest examples of a curvilinear and cast iron glasshouse. Visit the Loyalist
and Republican wall murals and see street art. With peace and stability now
almost normal, the murals are becoming historic markers. The Crown Liquor
Saloon is one of the world's most famous surviving Victorian pubs, now owned by
the National Trust. OVERVIEW OF BELFAST /BUSHMILLS
BEAUTY/GIANTS CAUSEWAY Drive around Belfast viewing the the Murals,
City Hall , Grand Opera House, Queens University, Albert Memorial Clock, and a
brief stop at the Titanic Dry Dock. Travel along part of the beautiful coastal
road and take in the stunning views. Visit WHITE PARK BAY and the historic
BUSHMILLS DISTILLERY which has been making whiskey since 1608 (and of course
try a little dram). Then on to the GIANTS CAUSEWAY to view the remarkable rock
formations. The lunar landscape of the Giant's Causeway is a World Heritage
Site-the basalt columns packed tightly together have made the Giant's Causeway
the subject of numerous legends. Altogether there are 40,000 of these hexagonal
stone columns and the tallest are about 40 feet high. Legend claims that Finn
McCool-a lovelorn Irish giant-built the causeway to reach his ladylove in
Scotland. Admission charges included. Approx time 6 - 7 hours. ![]() OVERVIEW OF BELFAST /DUNLUCE DELIGHTS/CARRICK A REDE/GIANTS
CAUSEWAY Travel along part of the beautiful coastal road and take in the
stunning views. Visit Dunluce Castle on its stunning cliff top location, one of
the most extensive ruins of a medieval castle in Northern Ireland. Then on to
Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge for a picture stop! It is thought salmon fishermen
have been erecting bridges to the island for over 350 years. The area is
exceptional in natural beauty with stunning views of Rathlin Island and
Scotland. Finish with a visit to the world heritage site the Giants Causeway to
view the remarkable rock formations. Drive around Belfast viewing the Murals,
City Hall , Grand Opera House, Queens University, Albert Memorial Clock, and a
brief stop at the Titanic Dry Dock.. Full day ARDS PENINSULA/ST PATRICK Did you know that St.
Patrick is buried in Northern Ireland? Travel the beautiful ARDS PENINSULA on
Ireland's northeast coast, along the banks of STRANGFORD LOUGH and visit SCRABO
TOWER. A number of charming towns and villages are located on the peninsula.
Then see the beautiful MOUNT STEWART HOUSE AND GARDENS, ¦former home to a
fascinating array of political leaders and society figures, and known for its
fountains and sunken garden parterres. Take the FERRY across STRANGFORD LOUGH
and pass through DOWNPATRICK the birth place of SAINT PATRICK. Saint Patrick
was reputedly buried here in 461 on Cathedral Hill, within the grounds of Down
Cathedral. The Saint Patrick Visitor Centre in Downpatrick tells the story of
St. Patrick. Admission charge for Mount Stewart and Ferry fare included. Approx
time 6 - 7 hours. MOUNTAINS OF MOURNE & ST.
PATRICKDrive to the coastal town of NEWCASTLE. , The seaside resort lies on
the Irish Sea coast at the base of Slieve Donard, one of the Mourne Mountains,
and is known for its sandy beach and the Royal County Down Golf Club. See the
world famous MOUNTAINS OF MOURNE and the beautiful SILENT VALLEY. The
surrounding area is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Enjoy the fantastic
scenic drive and visit DOWNPATRICK the birthplace of SAINT PATRICK. Saint
Patrick was buried here in 461 on Cathedral Hill, within the grounds of Down
Cathedral. The Saint Patrick Visitor Centre in Downpatrick tells the story of
St. Patrick. Approx time 6 - 7 hours. GOLF AT ROYAL BELFAST Play 18 holes of golf at the oldest golf club in Ireland. Residing on the shores of Belfast Lough it has unrivalled views and a course to match. Among the more memorable holes on the front nine are the short Par 3 4th, which measures only 142 yards but requires a very accurate shot to a green literally surrounded by bunkers. The Par 4 8th has out of bounds all along the left hand side and the 408 yard Par 4 9th, rated the most difficult on the course, plays directly alongside the shores of Belfast Lough. The homeward journey will not disappoint either, from the beautiful short par four 10th playing alongside the water's edge, the signature par 3 11th, right through to the long Par 5 18th, each hole is a real pleasure to play. A luxury vehicle and driver will be at your service and golf clubs can be supplied. If required spouses or partners can be taken on a trip while you enjoy your golf "guilt free" (cost extra). The price is based on 4 players but if required we can adjust or supply a golf partner. Price for a Four Ball. Golf at other courses such as Royal Portrush or Royal County Downcan be arranged, but is dependant upon time constraints. Golf extra. Supplements applicable on some tours, noted below. Choice of itineraries: DUBLIN half day (4 hours) This is fun and activity packed DUBLIN/NEWGRANGE HALF DAYand what a
day! Panoramic tour of Dublin, followed by a drive north. In the Boyne Valley,
you find some of the most venerated prehistoric sites and monuments. This is
the region where the Protestant King William of Orange defeated the Catholic
King James II in 1690. Then, you explore Newgrange, the large cairn, or burial
site erected during the Stone Age. More than 200,000 tons of stone slabs were
needed for Newgrange. The finely calculated, swirl-patterned, decorative stones
line the tomb's entrance. Legend has it that the people here worshiped the sun,
because the Newgrange tomb is situated so that the sun shines into the chambers
on the shortest day of the year, December 21st. DUBLIN GUINNESS & BOOK
OF KELLS HALF DAY- You will be taken on a half-day sightseeing tour of
Ireland's capital. Dublin has retained its aura of Georgian elegance with many
examples of fine architecture. Tour Trinity College, founded in the sixteenth
century, where you will certainly want to spend some time in the library
viewing the famous Book of Kells. You'll pass the curved Bank of Ireland
Building which was once the Parliament House. Visit the Guinness Storehouse in
the heart of old Dublin at St. James Gate. This your introduction to the
world's most famous creamy stout, an exploration of the ingredients, brewing
process, cooperage, the time and the passion that goes into brewing Guinness.
Here, you sample some of the famous brews in the Gravity Bar. There's no finer
way to spend your time in Dublin. SUPPLEMENT OF $10 PER PERSON APPLIES.HISTORIC JEWISH DUBLIN HALF DAYThe Jewish population in Ireland peaked at approximately 5,500 in the late 1940's, but has now declined to around 1,500. Today, a committee of dedicated people at the Irish Jewish Museum preserve for public display material relating to the community and Judaism in general. You'll meet some of these highly dedicated people during your visit to the Museum, housed in a former Synagogue, originally constructed as two adjoining terraced houses. The Synagogue fell into disuse and ceased to function in the mid 1970s. Opened by the Irish born former President of Israel Dr. Chaim Herzog in June 1985, the Museum preserves an important part of Ireland's cultural and historic heritage. Today, the former Synagogue, with its original features, houses memorabilia relating to Irish Jewry. The collection includes photographs, paintings, certificates, books, and artifacts concerning all aspects of Jewish life. In addition to a general display covering the last 150 years of professional, commercial, artistic, and social activity of the Jewish community, the original kitchen recreates a typical Sabbath meal setting of the early 1900's. You'll then see the center of Dublin, where your guide will point out the city's most well known landmarks and historic buildings, as you continue traveling to the north of the River Liffey for a visit to the Old Jewish Cemetery located at Ballybough. A short stop is made at this very historic Irish Jewish part of Dublin and you then return through the city's suburbs to the harbor. Some sites may be closed for religious observances or other reasons. No refunds on this tour. DUBLIN- BOOK OF KELLS- GUINNESS-
MALAHIDE CASTLE FULL DAYwith Driver/Guide (8 hours) See Trinity CollegeSee Trinity College, the world famous St. Patrick's Cathedral and Guinness Brewery. Your tour of Dublin takes you to Trinity College to see the illuminated "Book of Kells" . Visit the Guinness Storehouse in the heart of old Dublin, where you sample Ireland's most famous creamy stout in a rooftop pub. Visit Malahide Castle. Malahide Castle is one of the oldest and most historic castles in Ireland. From 1185 until 1975, it was the home of the Talbot family. This was a remarkable tenure by a single family and is one of the longest in Ireland. Malahide Castle with its 800 year old family history is haunted with many unseen and unknown spirits and their presence is felt in every room. Many historic castles and houses have one ghost, some have two or three, but Malahide Castle has five! Full Day. SUPPLEMENT OF $10 PER PERSON APPLIES. DUBLIN - STATELY HOMES AND GARDENS FULL
DAYA lilting Irish brogue greets you in Dublin, where your tour begins. Visit Trinity College to view the Book of Kells, the National Museum with examples of Irelands material heritage and natural history (like our Smithsonian, on a smaller scale) and Russborough House, the former home of Sir Alfred and Lady Beit. The house which is beautifully maintained and lavishly furnished contains fine furniture, tapestries, carpets, porcelain, silver and much of the Beit collection of paintings. SUPPLEMENT OF $5 PER PERSON APPLIES. DUBLIN, GLENDALOUGH WICKLOW- FULL DAYwith Driver/guide (8 hours)
- Dublin, Glendalough Monastic Ruins And Scenic Drive. Enjoy a drive that takes
in Dublins major sights and then visit the ruins of an Irish monastic
community in the beautiful Wicklow Hills. Glendalough Ruins - Located in the
Wicklow Hills, the monastic ruins are tucked into a glen with two small lakes.
St. Kevin Monastery dates from the 6th century; the ruins of the settlement
include the remains of several churches, a roofless cathedral and a
well-preserved round tower dating from the 10th century. A special audio-visual
presentation highlights the various features of Glendalough and traces the
history of monasticism in Ireland. Browse for fine Irish woolens during a brief
stop at Avoca Woolen Mill. Drive from Dublin through County Wicklow, famed as
the "Garden of Ireland," to Glendalough. DUBLIN, MT. USHER GARDENS & "BALLYKISSANGEL" FULL DAY Your tour of Dublin takes you to Trinity College to see
the illuminated "Book of Kells" and Phoenix Park. The Park
encompasses 2,000 acres in Dublin city and contains the residences of the
American Ambassador and the Irish President. Visit Mt. Usher Gardens with its
Robinsonian layout, after William Robinson (c 1890) the influential and
brilliant Irish garden designer. Robinson believed in natural gardens including
trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. The shops there include a baker, a
general store and garden shop. Tour to Avoca, the mythical
"Ballykissangel", to visit the handweavers who capture the subtle
hues of heather and fields in their fabric. Built on the banks of the Avoca
River from where it used to draw it's power, you'll find a large Avoca store
and cafe, and a working handweaving mill. The mill itself dates from 1723, and
is said to be the oldest extant manufacturer in Ireland. SUPPLEMENT OF $5 PER
PERSON APPLIES.DUBLIN - HISTORY, LITERATURE & BOYNE VALLEY FULL DAY Tour the Dublin area visiting such sights as and Dublin
Castle. Visit Marsh's Library, associated with Jonathan Swift and the Brazen
Head Pub, a favorite haunt of Irish writers. Founded in 1701, Marsh's Library
was the first public library in Ireland. The interior of the library with its
beautiful dark oak bookcases each with carved and lettered gables, topped by a
mitre, and the three elegant wired alcoves or 'cages' where the readers were
locked with rare books, remains unchanged since it was built three hundred
years ago. It is a magnificent example of a 17th century scholars' library.
Dating back to 1198, The Brazen Head is Ireland's oldest pub. When you consider
that licensing laws only came into effect in 1635, this pub has been serving
alcohol before official licensing laws were even enacted. There is a palpable
sense of history within these timeworn walls. Questions? Contact Lynott Tours at 1 (800) 221-2474 USA & Canada Please Email Us For Information COBH (CORK) - BLARNEY, MIDLETON SHORE EXCURSION - with Driver/Guide (8 hours) includes admissions. You take the scenic route through Cobh, originally a small fishing village, and then the base for the British Navy. Cobh was the departure point for many Irish immigrants in the 19th century, and is associated with the loss of the Titanic and Lusitania. Titanic victims are buried. Visit Blarney, with a chance to kiss "The Stone". Travel to visit the Midleton (Jameson) Distillery. COBH(CORK) -
BLARNEY, KINSALE EXCURSIONYou take the scenic route through Cobh,
originally a small fishing village, and then the base for the British Navy.
Cobh was the departure point for many Irish immigrants in the 19th century, and
is associated with the loss of the Titanic and Lusitania. Titanic victims are
buried in the local graveyard. Visit Blarney with time for shopping at the
Blarney Woolen Mills and a chance to kiss "The Stone". The Rock Close
and its surroundings, is a curious place of ancient trees and far more ancient
stones, by legend a garden of druidic origin and a center of worship in
pre-Christian days. The place has an aura of magic and mystique with Wishing
Steps, Witch's Kitchen, Druids' Cave and many other delights, telling a story
of centuries past. Kinsale, one of the most historic and picturesque towns in
Cork has quaint cobbled streets, gourmet restaurants and yachts moored in the
harbor. Full Day. WEST CORK EXCURSION- GARDENS & A STATELY HOME An incredible day awaits!
Explore the lovely coastal area of West Cork, dotted with quaint villages,
renowned these days for fine restaurants, gourmet speciality dairy products and
distinctive local crafts. Every town they is more charming than the last. Visit
Bantry House and Gardens, one of the finest stately homes in Ireland.
The home of the White family has a collection of tapestries, furniture and art
treasures which were mainly collected by the Earl during his travels through
Europe in the 1800's. The Gardens are home to sub tropical plants and shrubs -
reflecting the best in European design and style. Features with the 45 acre
grounds are the Hundred Steps, the Italian Garden and the largest
Wisteria circle in Ireland. Return via impressive coastal scenery while
riding to the bustling market town of Clonakilty Spin along Courtmacsherry Bay
through a classic Irish tableau of green hills, small farms, quaint cottages
and woolly sheep.GOLF AT OLD HEAD OF KINSALE WATERFORD-DUNMORE EAST for cruises calling at
Waterford only! Waterford-the Crystal City Tour 4 hours includes
admissionsWaterford, situated on the River Suir was established as a settlement by Sitric the Dane around 850. You see Reginald's Tower, built in 1003 by Reginald the Dane and which contains a remarkable collection of the city charters from Tudor times onward. Waterford crystal reached its peak in the 16th century, ceased in 1851, and begun anew in 1947. This resulted in two kinds of crystal, antique and modern. You tour the factory, where thousands have converged to see the most renowned crystal works. You see the entire process of crystal making. You see Reginald's Tower, built in 1003 by Reginald the Dane and which contains a remarkable collection of the city charters from Tudor times onward. Visit the Treasuries at the Granary, the Irish "Museum of the Year" contains some of the most historic items, taking you through 1000 years of Ireland's oldest city, from the wedding of Strongbow and Aoife, to a Georgian society ball and includes bronze, gold, silver and old Waterford Glass. KILKENNY
CASTLE & TAPESTRY A 12th century castle remodeled in Victorian
times and set in extensive parklands which was the principal seat of the Butler
family, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde. Due to mayor restoration works, the
central block now includes a library, drawing room, and bedrooms decorated in
1830s splendor, as well as beautiful Long Gallery. The old castle kitchen
operate as a tea room during the summer. A suite of former servants' rooms is
the Butler Art Gallery, which mounts frequently changing exhibitions of
contemporary art. Access for visitors with disabilities to ground floor and the
gardens only. After ten years in the making this permanent exhibition of the
magnificent embroidered Ros Tapestry is now open to public viewing on a daily
basis in a dedicated exhibition centre on the Quay in New Ross, County Wexford.
The dramatic story of Ireland's romantic Norman past unfolds as this tale told
in thread brings a significant part of Irish heritage to life through the
depiction of the Normans arrival to the South East of Ireland and the
consequential development of the dynamic Port of Ros in a visually enthralling
setting. WATERFORD - DUNMORE EAST MONASTIC IRELAND - JERPOINT & DUISKE ABBEYS for cruises calling at Waterford only! 4 hours Departing from the Viking City of Waterford, you will travel north to the neighboring county of Kilkenny, stopping to tour Jerpoint Abbey. Jerpoint is one of the finest monastic ruins in Ireland. This Cistercian abbey was founded in 1158 by the King of Ossory, Donagh Mac Gillapatrick. Continue to Graiguenamagh to visit Duiske Abbey, which takes its name from the duiske or "black water" that rushes down from Brandon Hill into the river Barrow. The Norman Cistercians from Stanley Abbey in Wiltshire founded the monastery here in 1204. Turning south, you will travel through County Wexford and the town of New Ross, set on a steep hill overlooking the River Barrow. Return to Waterford and your awaiting ship. SUPPLEMENT OF $10 PER PERSON APPLIES. FOYNES:
THE BURREN AND SPECTACULAR CLIFFS OF MOHER Pan American Airways
luxury Flying Boat, the Yankee Clipper landed at Foynes ushering the Golden Age
of aviation, and this quiet little town on the River Shannon became the focal
point for North Atlantic air traffic. Your tour today will commence from this
small village. Continue through the magical countryside of the Burren-- a 200
square mile area of limestone hills, jagged and craggy boulders. With its
extraordinary array of flora and wildlife, megalithic tombs and monuments.
Next, drive to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher--majestic cliffs rising from the
Atlantic Ocean to nearly 600 feet. The Atlantic Edge Visitor Centre underground
building features a huge domed cave containing images, exhibits, displays and
experiences such as a virtual-reality cliff face adventure, The Ledge. You will
stop for lunch at Doolin, a charming seaside village and the traditional music
capital of Ireland. Following lunch, sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular
scenery as you travel through the breathtaking counties of Clare and Limerick
before returning to Foynes. FOYNES: BUNRATTY FOLK PARK, CASTLE AND
DURTY NELLIE'S Today you will travel to the medieval Bunratty Castle. The
castle was once the splendid home of noble medieval lords. Today, they are the
imposing reminders of life gone by. Behind Bunratty Castle stands the Old
Bunratty Village. Old Ireland comes alive in the thatched cottages and cobbled
streets of a 19th century Irish village. There are houses representing
different regions as well as a blacksmith, bakery, candlemaker, post office,
and general store. You will gain real insight into a period of history as
craftsmen demonstrate and display their wares. Tea and scones will be served
during this visit.
Shore Excursions in Scotland Edinburgh & Glasgow Glasgow By Private Car - Full Day BLEND YOUR OWN WHISKY - STIRLING CASTLE Stirling Castle is one of most
important castles, both historically and architecturally, in Scotland. Several
Scottish Kings and Queens have been crowned at Stirling, including Mary, Queen
of Scots. The Tapestry Studio has been working on a recreation of The Hunt of
the Unicorn tapestries at Stirling, and you can watch the weavers at their
task. Visit the James IVs Great Hall the largest medieval
banqueting hall ever built in Scotland and the Great Kitchens which
dramatically
bring to life how lavish banquets were
created in James IVs day. At picturesque Glengoyne Distillery, you create
your very own blended whisky. Visit our unique Sample Room to learn the dark
art of the Master Blender. Taste Langs Select blended whisky and award winning
Glengoyne 17 year old Single Highland Malt and create your very own blend of
whisky which will be bottled in a 100ml sample bottle for you to take home,
along with a certificate. This is great fun. SUPPLEMENT OF $87 APPLIES. GLASGOW HIGHLIGHTS-SHIPBUILDING, &
ARTThe Victorian city of Glasgow is built mainly of red sandstone, but its history goes back to the 6th century. Glasgow Cathedral was built in 1195 and survives today. Glasgow's shipyards have produced such fine ships as the Cunard "Queens". It is the largest city in Scotland. You visit the Burrell Art Gallery and Museum, containing the finest collections outside of Edinburgh and London. Discover the main attractions of Glasgow including George Square with its Victorian City Chambers, and the art and architecture of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. See the Memorial Gates at Glasgow University, which were presented to the University to honor the twenty-nine outstanding figures of the University's first 500 years. This includes moral philosopher and political economist Adam Smith, Joseph Lister (Listerine), and Sir William Macewen, a pioneer of brain surgery. See Ashton Lane. a cobbled backstreet in the fashionable West End of Glasgow. Ashton Lane is a focus for bars, cafes and restaurants. GLASGOW (GREENOCK): LOCH LOMOND, STIRLING
CASTLE, LUSSTravel to the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, the largest fresh water lake in the UK. On the Loch there are approximately 38 Islands. Many of the cottages that distinguish Luss were originally erected to house workers in the cotton mill and slate quarries of the 18th and 19th centuries. The homes have been fully restored and Luss has been designated a "Conservation Village". Stirling Castle is one of most important castles, both historically and architecturally, in Scotland. Several Scottish Kings and Queens have been crowned at Stirling, including Mary, Queen of Scots. The Tapestry Studio has been working on a recreation of The Hunt of the Unicorn tapestries, and you can watch the weavers at their task. Visit the James IV's Great Hall - the largest medieval banqueting hall ever built in Scotland and the Great Kitchens which dramatically bring to life how lavish banquets were created in James IV's day. Full day. LOCH LOMOND, LUSS, INVERARY CASTLE GOLF AT TROON, PRESTWICK OR TURNBERRY OBAN, SCOTLAND Oban Visit Inverary Castle, which dates from the 18th century and is home to the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell, whose family have lived in Inveraray for over five centuries. With its large turreted corner towers, the castle has something of a fairytale aspect which belies the grandeur of the interior. This is exemplified in the fine State Dining Room and Tapestry Drawing Room which contain magnificent French tapestries, fabulous examples of Scottish, English and French furniture and a wealth of other works of art. PORTREE, ISLE OF SKYE We head up to Portree, where pastel houses line the harbor. Skye has ruined castles, awesome scenery, Viking fortresses and is home to legendary clans, immersed in Celtic myths & legends. We stop to visit the famous Eilean Donan Castle, used in the film "Highlander" and a James Bond movie. KIRKWALLKIRKWALL ORKNEYS - PREHISTORIC SKARA BRAE, TOMB OF THE EAGLES, STENNESS Today you will have the opportunity to tour much of Main Island and visit the key prehistoric sites of the Ring of Brodgar, Stones of Stenness, Maeshowe, and Skara Brae. Standing within the circle of the Stones of Stenness preferably on an early spring day it is easy to imagine prehistoric people gathering here. A few yards away at Barnhouse neolithic village, the entrance to the largest building was aligned to the setting of the midsummer day sun. One mile distant the burial chamber of Maeshowe is directly illuminated only at midwinter solstice and the Ring of Brodgar also part of this great ceremonial centre may have been used to track the movements of the moon, such is the magic of this place. Travelling to Skara Brae on the west of Main island you step back 5,000 years. Here, preserved for millennia under sand dunes, the prehistoric village of Skara Brae remained undisturbed until 1850 where a great storm revealed the village for the first time. What is so surprising are the parallels with modern man, there are box beds, stone seats, dressers and cupboards and damp proofing. INVERGORDON (INVERNESS) MACBETH, LOCH NESS, HIGHLANDS
Experience the Highlands on a scenic drive. Visit Macbeth's Cawdor Castle,
which dates from the late 14th century and was built around the legendary
holly-tree. Next, see the 24 mile long Loch Ness, home to Scotland's best-loved
legend. Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle, which sits brooding next to the
Loch's dark waters. Legend persists that the Loch Ness monster inhabits a cave
beneath the castle ruins. Continue on to Inverness, Capital of the Highlands,
and an important trading port since the 9th-century. Cross Cromarty Bridge and
return alongside the Firth to Invergordon. Full Day. LOCH NESS, CULLODEN BATTLEFIELD, CLAVA CAIRNS Experience the Highlands on a scenic drive. Travel past Loch Ness and go "Nessie" spotting. Visit Culloden Moor, the site of the last battle fought on British soil. The defeat of Bonny Prince Charlie in 1746 ended the Stuart dynasty and led to the near destruction of the Highland clans. Culloden battlefield, a few miles to the east of Inverness attracts a huge number of visitors every each year. But only a few of those visitors realise that only a mile to the south east lies a very different link with the past, a Stone Age burial site, every bit as evocative as Culloden and in many ways more tangible, despite dating back to around 2000BC. There are larger prehistoric sites in Scotland, and there are much better known ones: but none with such variety and interest in such a beautiful setting as Clava Cairns. Edinburghfrom South Queensferry, Rosyth or
Leith By Private Vehicle EDINBURGH SIGHTSEEING . EDINBURGH FULL DAY: The "City of
Princes". Take a private tour of the principal sights of this elegant
Georgian city. Drive along Princes Street and through the 200-year-old New
Town. See the medieval section of the city and visit Edinburgh Castle which
dominates the city center and contains many interesting exhibits. Your
exploration of the capital of Scotland includes the "Royal Mile",
from Edinburgh Castle, high atop Edinburgh Rock, to the Palace of
Holyroodhouse. Some intriguing characters got there start here, including Dr.
Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
all have lived here. Films such as "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie",
"Jude", and "Mary Reilly" were filmed in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Castle dominates the city. The oldest part is St. Margaret's Chapel
of 1076. Wander through Mary, Queen of Scots' apartments. Holyroodhouse is the
formal home of the Royal Family in Scotland. Mary, Queen of Scots lived here
from 1561 to 1567, and watched as her secretary, David Riccio was murdered. The
last Stuart to reside here was Bonnie Prince Charlie. In addition to the above,
visit Roslyn Chapel. Return to the ship with the haunting melody of the
bagpipes still ringing in your ears. PANORAMIC TOUR OF
EDINBURGH & ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA HALF DAYFrom Edinburgh Castle, you
travel along the historical area called the Royal Mile. Pass St. Giles
Cathedral, Holyrood Palace, the official home of the Queen when she visits, and
the Sir Walter Scott Memorial. Drive to the top of Carlton Hill for views of
the castle and the city. Explore the Royal Yacht Britannia - The yacht was the
seagoing palace for the Royal Family until its decommissioning in 1997. Climb
the special pierside staircase and view the Queen's and Prince Philip's
staterooms, the drawing room, the formal dining room, the bridge, the admiral's
suite, the officers' ward room, crew quarters, laundry room, the engine room
and the open decks. Half Day. ST. ANDREWS & GLAMIS CASTLE FULL DAY
FROM EDINBURGH Glamis Castle - The childhood home of the late Queen Mother
and the birthplace of the late Princess Margaret, Glamis Castle has been a
royal residence since 1372. It's also haunted: Duncan's Hall is the setting for
the murder of Duncan in Shakespeare's Macbeth. Your tour visits the Dining
Hall, Duncan's Hall, the medieval Crypt, and the private apartments including
the Queen Mother's bedroom. The castle boasts a stunning collection of
paintings, tapestries, furniture and china spanning five centuries. Visit the home of golf. Drive north on the main highway before following country roads through rolling farmland to St. Andrews. The old medieval cathedral town is home to the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews and, of course, the incomparable Old Course. Choose to visit the British Golf Museum with its displays chronicling the history of golf, photograph the facade of the venerable Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, stroll a portion of the Old Course or browse the towns shops for golf items, woolens and souvenirs. The university town (Prince William went to school here), has cobbled streets, interesting shops, a ruined castle and church. Cathedral Ruins - Photograph the 14th-century ruins of St. Andrews' cathedral and its priory. St. Andrews was a considerable medieval town, sporting both a cathedral and a university. GOLF AT ST. ANDREWS. ![]() This August: Edinburgh Tattoo
Evening with transfers and sightseeing.: TATTOO WITH TRANSFERS (August only) The Edinburgh Military Tattoo is Scotland's biggest, best-selling spectacle, the most popular event. Enjoy a panoramic tour of the Royal Mile. Then, attend the Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle. It's a spine-tingling sights and sounds of the world famous Massed Pipes and Drums, the finest bagpipe display anyone can witness anywhere in the world. An 1 ½ hour event not to be missed in Edinburgh in August, with performances: Monday to Friday at 9.00pm. Saturdays at 7.30pm and 10.30pm. There is no performance on Sunday. The Tattoo has never been cancelled due to bad weather. Evening Tour. Questions? Contact Lynott Tours at 1 (800) 221-2474 USA & Canada Please Email Us For Information Shore Excursions in Great Britain, London, Dover, Harwich, Southampton LIVERPOOL BEATLES & CHESTER
FULL DAYDeparting the tender pier aboard your motor coach, you will pass through the city center of Liverpool and into the suburbs, viewing the birthplaces, former homes, schools and venues associated with the Fab Four along the way. Pass such renowned sights as Penny Lane and Strawberry Field before pausing at Mathew Street to see the location of the old Cavern Club. Return to Liverpool's docks where you will visit magnificent Albert Dock, home to Britain's largest collection of Grade 1 Listed preserved historic buildings. Built by Jesse Hartley between 1841 and 1845, Albert Dock was once heralded as England's gateway to the New World. In the 19th century, over nine million people set sail for America from this port. Today, Albert Dock is a splendid quayside destination, offering some shops, specialty restaurants and museums. For true fans of the Beatles, the highlight of today's outing will be "The Beatles Story," a walk-through sight and sound experience located here at Albert Dock. Starting with their childhoods in Liverpool and culminating with the death of John Lennon, the exhibition will give you a deeper appreciation for this musical phenomenon. Also featured is a reconstruction of London's Abbey Road recording studios, the Yellow Submarine and the now-demolished old Cavern Club. Next, embark on a short, guided walk of Chester's city center. Stroll parts of the Roman grid plan of the four main streets leading to the Cross, where the town crier welcomes visitors to the city. The streets are lined with unique shopping arcades, housed in black-and-white structures that are a blend of Tudor originals and half-timbered Victorian imitations. Also, view the Roman and medieval perimeter walls, the most complete in Britain, studded with turrets and gates. Deep glacial valleys. Medieval castles. Old slate quarries. An ancient language. A warm welcome. Let us guide you through North Wales. The Llangollen Canal boasts scenic beauty and breathtaking engineering in equal measure. The magnificent Pontcysylite Aqueduct across the River Dee is worth the journey alone and is simply a must-see. Today we drive to Betws-y-Coed, a pretty village near the Swallow Falls where the river Llugwy flows through a wooded valley. From Betws y Coed we take the road through the Lledr Valley to the mountain town of Blaenau Ffestiniog to board one of the Great Little trains of Wales on a twelve mile scenic journey through the vale of Ffestiniog to the sea. We continue to Blaenau Ffestiniog, once the slate capital of North Wales. There is a row of cottages depicting the cramped and basic living conditions endured by the workers during the last century. Chirk Castle is a 700 year old marcher fortress, which commands fine views over the surrounding countryside. It was built in the late 13th century by Roger Mortimer, Justice of North Wales for Edward 1. The castle was sold for 5,000 UK pounds to Sir Thomas Myddelton in 1595 and his descendants continue to live in part of the castle today. Supplement of $20 per person. LIVERPOOL OR HOLYHEAD PORT:
NORTH WALES & CONWY CASTLE Experience the countryside of North Wales on
a scenic drive featuring its hills, vales and market towns. Explore
13th-century Conwy Castle, built by Edward I to consolidate his conquest of
Northern Wales. Enjoy free time to stroll about Conwy Town with its magnificent
medieval walls and 21 fortified towers, still lending the ruined castle a
menacing air. Your tour takes you through the delightful Conwy Valley,
characterized by flat meadowland and a placid, meandering river. Continue
through Llanrwst, a typical Welsh market town with its famous narrow bridge
built by architect Inigo Jones in 1636. Then, it's on to Betws-y-Coed, a
beautifully situated village among conifer-clad crags. The translation of the
names means "sanctuary in the woods." Historic bridges, waterfalls
and the beauty of the surrounding countryside give it a distinctly alpine
atmosphere. Full Day.Supplement of $20 per personWales Coast & Country with Magnificent Bodnant GardenThe garden at Bodnant is situated above the River Conwy on ground sloping towards the west, looking across the valley towards the Snowdon Range. Walk the short distance from the coach parking area to enter one of the most renowned gardens in Britaina wonderful blend of striking effects and rural charm. Since 1875, Bodnant has been a family creation, now receiving the personal attention of the present Lord Aberconway whose father gifted it to the National Trust in 1949. A carefully designed series of terraces, balustrading and pergolas leads down a hillside to a paved rose walk and a formal canal focused on the Pin Mill. In the dell at the bottom, conifers stand on rocky outcroppings near the running water. A tour of the garden will show you its most noteworthy features, including the roses and other flower borders and the flowering shrubs on the terrace walls. An endeavor has been made at Bodnant to grow a wide range of interesting and beautiful plants, suited to the climate and soil, rather than to make a botanical collection. Each is placed to enhance its neighbor and contribute to the general beauty of the garden. The vast collection of plants ensures color and interest at all times. Then, your tour takes you through the delightful Conwy Valley, characterized by flat meadowland and a placid, meandering river. Continue through Llanrwst, a typical Welsh market town with its famous narrow bridge built by architect Inigo Jones in 1636. Then, its on to Betws-y-Coed, a beautifully situated village among conifer-clad crags. The translation of the names means sanctuary in the woods. Historic bridges, waterfalls and the beauty of the surrounding countryside give it a distinctly alpine atmosphere. The return drive takes you through the scenery of North Wales LIVERPOOL LAKE DISTRICT WITH BEATRIX POTTER Enjoy this magnificent trip with a steam train and cruise to enjoy followed by a visit to see Peter Rabbit and Miss Tiggiewinkle in the World of Beatrix Potter. After the Beatrix Potter Museum, watch the world go by on a relaxing cruise on the lake to Lakeside taking in magnificent views of mountain scenery, secluded bays and the many wooded islands. Windermere is England's largest lake, in the heart of the Lake District. Then enjoy the steam train ride on the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway here in the picturesque Leven Valley at the southern end of Windermere. Supplement of $20 per person. NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE Hadrian's Wall & Roman Fort Relax for a panoramic driving tour through the wonderful scenery of the Pennine Hills and County Durham, passing through pretty market towns and following the River Tyne westward. This part of England is dominated by the presence of Hadrians Wall, built by the Romans in AD 122 to demarcate the northern limit of their empire. NEWCASTLE - ALNWICK CASTLE &
GARDENS All-day excursion to the estate of the Duke and Duchess of
Northumberland. Set in a stunning Capability Brown landscape, Alnwick Castle
(pronounced Annick) is the second largest inhabited castle in England, after
Windsor Castle, and was extensively used for the broomstick flying and Quiddich
games in the Harry Potter films. Enjoy the gardens, a spellbinding, mesmerising
theatre of water and light. SOUTHAMPTON or
PORTLAND - STONEHENGE TOUR & SALISBURY One of the most beautiful,
and one of the most typical of English cathedral towns, its narrow streets are
busy and prosperous-looking, seeming to bear witness to important history here.
Salisbury dates from the early 13th century. Many of the Cathedral's treasures
are due to the restoration in the 18th century by Wyatt. Salisbury is rich in
late medieval gabled houses in narrow alleys, and has countless interesting
buildings. Stonehenge is the most famous of the great prehistoric monuments of
the British Isles. Stonehenge is in the form of a circle of massive stones
dating from the Bronze Age, whose axis is aligned with the sunrise on the
longest day of the year. Its purpose is thought to be religious, to do with the
foretelling of the seasons and perhaps, the worship of a sun-god. Full Day.If you have more time, Oxford and the sleepy villages in the Cotswolds would be perfect for 2-3 days. Harwich- Cambridge Colleges & Punt Ride on the River Cam Cambridge features winding streets lined
with old houses and shops on the River Cam. The Romans used Cambridge as an
inland port. Cambridge has a wealth of historic buildings, and much of its
charm lies in winding back streets and passages. You take a walk among the
"Backs", the Mathematical Bridge and venerable colleges. There are
now 31 colleges, founded mostly by kings, queens, bishops and nobles. The
beautiful buildings reflect 700 years of British architectural heritage. One of
the highlights of a visit to Cambridge is to take a ride in a punta
flat-bottom boat propelled by a 16 foot pole which is also used to steer along
the River Camone of the most beautiful stretches of river in England.
Take in the Bridge of Sighs, King's Chapel and the Wren Library at Trinity from
a river perspective, then stroll to Kings College Chapel. Henry VI laid the
foundation stone of the Chapel in 1446 and the windows were made by Flemish
craftsmenthe finest collection of medieval stained glass in the country.
HARWICH - CONSTABLE COUNTRY - Captured in paintings by Constable, the Suffolk-Essex border features timbered houses, moated manors, and fine church towers. By following in the footsteps of Constable youll have a better appreciation of the trees, rivers, sounds and light captured on canvass by one of the greatest British painters of all time, with its unchanging scenery of willows, shimmering meadows and winding streams, rural hamlets, and visit a 16th-century thatched cottage . Continue along the country roads to Dedham, one of the opulent wool towns in the 15th Century, the village where Constable went to school. In High Street, stop to admire the 16th-century St. Mary's Church, and see Sherman Hall dating back to the 16th century. Nearby is Colchester - Britain's oldest recorded town. In AD77 a Roman writer by the name of Pliny the Elder described the location. This was the earliest known reference to a fixed settlement in Britain, hence the claim to be Britain's oldest recorded town. The return drive to Harwich shows many more quiet country landscapes. DOVER LEEDS CASTLE & CANTERBURY Kent has some of the most romantic castles in Britain, including Leeds Castle in Maidstone. With a fairytale setting, standing romantically on three islands encircled by a lake, this gem of a castle has a long and dramatic history. Lovingly restored, it is home to a magnificent collection of medieval furnishings, paintings, tapestries and treasures. Travel to Canterbury, England's cathedral city with historic buildings and narrow streets. Canterbury has an interesting history, and a long one. It has been inhabited since 350AD. This was the cradle of Christianity in Saxon England. The first cathedral was built in 597 by St. Augustine. Thomas Becket was murdered before the high altar in 1170. Timbered and tile-hung villages welcome you on a leisurely afternoon drive through delightful hamlets and along leafy country roads. There will be an opportunity to visit some of the villages' winding streets, small shops and historical atmosphere as you return via County Kent to Dover. DOVER - JANE AUSTEN, KENT PUBS AND MORE The county of Kent known as the
Garden of England has breathtaking countryside dotted with
orchards, vineyards, hop gardens, oasthouses and more famously the White Cliffs
of Dover. The Port of Dover is the busiest passenger port in the world. Pubs
are a uniquely English phenomenon and the ingredients that make a good pub are
a mysterious concoction. Pubs are served in many guises, from little thatched
cottages to large, purpose built operations . Griffens Head is a Kentish
Wealden hall house,
dating from 1286 when Edward I was on the
throne. It was once occupied by the monks of All Saints Church who farmed the
surrounding land until 1539. Inside is evidence of its long history, with
inglenook fireplaces and beamed bars among many original features. Fine Kentish
ales and home-made food have helped this old inn to make its mark with visitors
as well as locals, among them Kent's cricketing fraternity. Outside is a very
pretty garden. The Fitz, the hostelry to the Fitzwalter Estate, has been a pub
since 1702. Quintessentially English, it is a place of conviviality and
conversation. Jane Austen was a frequent visitor to nearby Goodnestone Park
after her brother, Edward, married into the family. On the menu, roast loin of
pork with sticky rib, crackling and apple sauce; pan-fried black bream fillet
with squid and gremolata; and leek and Lincolnshire Poacher gratin with Pommery
mustard sauce. Time allowing, visit Goodnestone Park.Torbay (Torquay), England UK Situated in the picturesque county of Devon, Torbay has been a favorite seaside resort for British society since the early 19th century. Savor a traditional Devon tea scones piled high with jam and rich Devon cream; explore Kents Cavern, an impressive system of caves dating from the Stone Age; and visit Powderham Castle built in 1391 and enjoy a rare opportunity to meet the current Duke of Devon. CORNWALL: (FALMOUTH
pr FOWEY) LAND'S END & ST IVES - Cornwall (Falmouth) or Fowey
(pronounced Foy) Experience the beauty of Cornwall on a scenic drive that
travels to Land's End, the most westerly point of the English mainland with
spectacular views across the Atlantic Ocean. The rugged coastline, colored by
the setting sun and seagulls and terns circling overhead will provide one of
the most everlasting memories of your visit. We enjoy a delightful day touring
this beautiful area and rugged coastline. We will visit the artists' colony of
St. Ives, and the amazing island world of St. Michael's Mount near Penzance.
Follow the footsteps of pilgrims. St. Ives, an old fishing port, is full of
character. Full Day.. Rates on public holidays are 25% higher; on Christmas and New Year's
50% higher. TRANSFERS FROM LONDON/TOUR TO HARWICH:Constable Country and Colchester - Britain's oldest recorded town. In AD77 a Roman writer by the name of Pliny the Elder described the location of the Isle of Anglesey as being 'about 200 miles from Camulodunum, a town in Britain'. This was the Roman name for Colchester and is the earliest known reference to a fixed settlement in Britain, hence the claim to be Britain's oldest recorded town. Customized Itineraries We can modify the itinerary to suit your needs. We can arrange private guided tour designed just for you. Tour Conditions Travel Insurance
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