Exploring Scotland, Britain & Ireland

Uncover Scotland’s soul through Highland legends, island abbeys, tartan tales, and whisky toasts in cities, castles, and coastal towns. From buzzing Glasgow and Edinburgh to peaceful isles, lochs, and valleys, this journey blends Scotland’s storied past with its spirited present. Watch border collies at work on a family farm, explore Cawdor Castle’s history, and ferry from Oban to the Isle of Mull and Isle of Iona. Discover the true story of tartan from Highland women, sip whisky in Edinburgh, and walk the haunting trails of Glencoe. Along the way, savour local flavours, meet passionate locals, and feel the pulse of a land where every loch and legend holds wonders.

Travel to fascinating cities and through the magical countryside of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, exploring historic places, iconic sights, and rich heritage. Be mesmerized by the breathtaking landscapes of Ireland’s Ring of Kerry, the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, and the Welsh and English countryside. Step into the past at York’s medieval Shambles and Bath’s ancient Roman ruins. Get acquainted with Britain’s pageantry in the royal cities of Edinburgh and London and soak in the cities’ iconic sights on guided walking tours. This is an unforgettable journey for the books through Britain and Ireland.

Member Benefit Bonus: Book a Collette tour and receive a $150 credit to use towards an optional excursion, pre or post night stay or a tour extension. Speak to the team for further details 

Your Holiday Package Includes:

• $3,000 flight credit per person
• 9-night Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend guided tour with Collette, Glasgow to Edinburgh
• 4 nights 4-star accommodation in Edinburgh
• Travel Curious - Harry Potter in Edinburgh: Private Half-Day Walking Tour
• Discover Malt Whisky - Full-Day Small Group Tour
• 13-night Exploring Britain & Ireland guided tour with Collette, Edinburgh to Dublin
• Select transfers

Includes:

• Handpicked accommodation (x11)
• 34 meals (22 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 9 dinners)
• Must-see & culinary inclusions
• Cultural experiences & highlights

Pricing is per person twin share and based on travel 24 May – 19 June 2027

Other travel dates available, surcharges may apply 

Travel Curious - Harry Potter in Edinburgh: Private Half-Day Walking Tour

On this fantastic Harry Potter-inspired walking tour of Edinburgh, you will visit some of the haunts where J. K. Rowling would sip coffee and put pen to paper writing the first Harry Potter books as her baby daughter slept in her pram. Learn about this author, see the places she drew inspiration from, and purchase novelties from Potter-themed shops.

Discover Malt Whisky - Full-Day Small Group Tour

Savour Scotland’s 'Water of Life' on this Whisky distillery tour from Edinburgh. Your tour takes you west past Stirling to Glengoyne distillery. 

Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend Itinerary:

Day 1: Glasgow, Scotland

Welcome to Glasgow, a cultural trove of art, music, and history. Get ready to experience the eclectic architecture, friendly locals (Glaswegians), and rich traditions that make this city such a fascinating place. As arrival times will vary, the day is yours to explore at your own pace — maybe visit one of the many museums or galleries or simply relax and take in the local scene. Settle into your hotel before joining your fellow travellers this evening for a welcome dinner.

Day 2: Glasgow

Soak in the rich culture of Glasgow. Join a local guide on a walking and motorcoach tour that leads you through historic George Square and the beautiful Beaux-Arts style architecture that surrounds it; to Provand’s Lordship, the oldest surviving house in the city; the medieval Glasgow Cathedral; prestigious Blythswood Square; and the futuristic-looking Science Centre. After lunch on your own in central Glasgow, enjoy the rest of the day free to discover the city as you like.

Day 3: Glasgow - Luss - Oban - Loch Melfort

Leave the city behind, travelling along sloping fields towards Loch Lomond. Visit a family-run farm with spectacular views of the lake and surrounding hills, see border collies in action during a traditional sheepdog demonstration, and enjoy Scottish snacks. Next, arrive in Luss and explore this quaint lakeside village of stone cottages and bright flowers, taking time for lunch on your own. Then, it’s off to Oban, where a local guide will lead you on a walking tour of this coastal town and important fishing port. Continue to Loch Melfort and settle into your hotel for the next two nights. Take in a stunning view of the ocean from the hotel before wandering the grounds, home to friendly Highland cows and neighbouring the National Trust’s Arduaine Gardens.

Day 4: Loch Melfort - Isle of Mull - Isle of Iona - Loch Melfort

It’s time to island hop!* Setting off from Loch Melfort, take the ferry from Oban to the Isle of Mull, a picturesque island that is the largest of the Inner Hebridean Islands. Continue to the Isle of Iona, one of Western Europe’s oldest Christian religious centres. Journey to Iona Abbey on foot and enjoy free time to explore the tranquillity of the grounds on your own before returning to Oban and back to your hotel in Loch Melfort.

Day 5: Loch Melfort - Grantown-on-Spey

Geological wonders await you in the Highlands. Head to the National Nature Reserve in Glencoe and stop at the visitor centre to learn about the spectacular Glencoe mountain range, then walk the trails and experience this unique landscape for yourself. After lunch, continue on to Loch Ness. Wander the undulating ruins of legendary Urquhart Castle and imagine all that transpired inside the walls of this 13th-century medieval fortress. Afterwards, travel to the historic Highland town of Grantown-on-Spey, on the outskirts of Inverness, and settle into your hotel for the night.

Day 6: Grantown-on-Spey - Inverness - Grantown-on-Spey

This morning, it’s your choice! Delve into the poignant history of the Jacobite uprising at Culloden Battlefield -OR- explore Inverness on foot following a guided tour led by a local guide, where an immersive experience brings Highland culture, heritage, and stories to life. This afternoon, step back in time as you explore Cawdor Castle, a romantic 14th-century stronghold steeped in Shakespearean legend and Highland history. The remainder of the evening in Grantown-on-Spey is yours to soak in the atmosphere of this Highland town.

Day 7: Grantown-on-Spey - Edinburgh

Discover the story of the local pioneering women who created the ethical clothing company, Prickly Thistle, and learn the true story of tartan as told by a Highland woman. After, make your way to the picturesque town of Pitlochry, take some time for lunch on your own, and then finish your day in Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh.

Day 8: Edinburgh

This morning, join a local expert for a three-hour walking tour of Edinburgh’s hilly Old Town and discover more about the lore and legends of the capital city. After your tour, the afternoon and evening are yours — perhaps take the opportunity to visit Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels.

Day 9: Edinburgh

The day is yours to explore as you wish. Perhaps you’ll take a stroll among the Georgian architecture of the New Town or journey to Leith for a visit to the royal yacht Britannia. Or you might take advantage of the optional excursion to Stirling Castle, an iconic landmark in Scotland’s history, followed by a brief stop at the Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures. Gather in the evening for a whisky-inspired farewell dinner highlighting the flavours of Scotland and toast to your Scottish explorations.

Day 10: Edinburgh - Tour Ends

Wish Scotland a fond farewell as you depart for home.

Exploring Britain and Ireland Itinerary:

Day 1: Edinburgh, Scotland

Arrive in Edinburgh, the historic capital of Scotland, where rocky hills tower in the distance and the shadows of history can be seen around every corner. With no planned activities today, settle in to discover Scotland's capital and see how medieval crossroads blend seamlessly with a vibrant modern energy. This evening, delve into Scottish culture with a whisky experience and dinner highlighting the flavours of Scotland, and meet your fellow travellers.

Day 2: Edinburgh

Today get acquainted with Scotland’s regal capital on a locally guided city tour exploring both the Old and New Towns by coach. After a short break for lunch, explore the Royal Mile on foot with your local guide ending at Edinburgh Castle, home of the Scottish Crown Jewels. Tonight, consider an optional excursion including dinner to Rosslyn Chapel, one of Edinburgh’s most remarkable medieval buildings – an after-hours private tour will take you deep into this well-known setting from The Da Vinci Code.

Day 3: Edinburgh - Scottish Borders - England - York

Depart Edinburgh, travelling through the picturesque countryside of Northumberland by motor coach. Visit a family farm situated in the heart of the Scottish Borders, where sustainability and innovation are core to their business. Later on this evening, arrive in York, with its medieval city walls and snickelways.

Day 4: York

Take in York’s rich and storied history whilst joining your Tour Manager on a leisurely orientation walking tour. Explore the quaint, narrow streets of the Shambles that appear today almost as they did during the Middle Ages. At the heart of the city is its impressive Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe. Venture inside and stand in awe of the seemingly endless sea of stained-glass windows. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure.

Day 5: York - London

Board a high-speed train to London. Upon arriving in England’s bustling capital, enjoy a traditional afternoon tea. Afterward, join a local expert for a walking tour of the city. At Westminster, see the exteriors of the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben, and continue on to see the exterior of Buckingham Palace, the London home to Britain’s royalty since 1837. After checking into your hotel, the evening is yours to explore the vibrancy of London’s nightlife.

Day 6: London

Enjoy a day to explore London at your leisure. You may choose to take an optional excursion to Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it’s since been home to forty monarchs, including the current King of England.

Day 7: London - Bath - Cardiff, Wales

Travel to Bath, the elegant Georgian town, to visit the Roman Bath Museum’s 2000-year-old elaborate spas. Stroll through Bath’s cobblestone streets and soak in its old-world atmosphere. Your day ends in the Welsh capital of Cardiff.

Day 8: Cardiff

Join a local expert on a leisurely-paced walking tour of Cardiff. Learn about the city’s deep ties to the coal industry, its connection to ancient Rome, and its famous Victorian shopping arcades. Tour Cardiff’s historic castle, an impressive structure that was once a Roman fort, a Norman castle, and an extraordinary Victorian Gothic fantasy palace. Enjoy lunch at a local pub before continuing your walk with a local guide.

Day 9: Cardiff - Waterford, Ireland

Take in the beautiful Welsh countryside en route to the coastal village of Fishguard. There, board the ferry for Ireland, crossing the Irish Sea. Upon arrival in Rosslare, travel to Waterford, your home for the evening.

Day 10: Waterford - Blarney - Killarney

This morning, it’s your choice! Tour the House of Waterford Crystal factory featuring a fascinating visitor’s centre and a retail store housing the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world -OR- enjoy a leisurely-paced walking tour of Ireland’s oldest city and discover its rich Viking, Norman and Cromwellian history. Later, travel to historic Blarney Castle. Make your way to the top of the castle, lie back and kiss the famous Blarney Stone. Legend has it that if you do, you will be blessed with the "gift of eloquence." This evening, it’s Diner’s Choice... choose your included dinner from a “menu” of Killarney’s great restaurants.

Day 11: Killarney - Ring of Kerry - Killarney

This morning, explore Killarney National Park on a traditional jaunting car ride.* Then, travel along the glorious Ring of Kerry where you’ll find some of Ireland’s most magical scenery, and enjoy a brief stop at the historic Kerry Bog Village Museum and the Atlantic Irish Seaweed farm. Marvel at the vistas created by windswept cliffs, rugged mountains, lakes and picturesque villages. Enjoy an evening in Killarney at your leisure.

Day 12: Killarney - Rock of Cashel - Dublin

Venture through the “Golden Vale” en route to the awe-inspiring Rock of Cashel. Take in its imposing facade and visit the spot where St. Patrick preached. Next, continue on to vibrant Dublin, Ireland’s cosmopolitan capital, and visit the magnificent Christchurch Cathedral for a guided tour and drinks reception.

Day 13: Dublin

Today, it’s your choice! Choose to ride with a local guide to see St. Patrick’s Cathedral, O’Connell Street, the General Post Office, and the historic Phoenix Park -OR- choose a walking tour of the city’s historic centre, exploring St. Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street, and the River Liffey. Either way, what follows is an afternoon to discover Dublin’s charms on your own. Tonight, experience Ireland's lively music and dynamic dancing during a fun-filled evening of Irish entertainment.

Day 14: Dublin - Tour Ends

Depart today with many fond memories of lovely Britain and Ireland.

Prices listed are per person in NZD, based on twin occupancy, including all discounts unless otherwise stated. The offer is subject to availability at time of booking and shown on the lowest category available at the time.  Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice. Prices/Offers are correct as at 05-08-2026 and can be withdrawn without notice.   Cabin categories include prepaid government fees and port taxes unless otherwise stated.  Hotels may charge resort fees not included in this package, payable direct upon check in. Visas are not included.  Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge.