The Gems of Northern Ireland 2024

 

Included in the price of this wonderful holiday -

 

 

We meet our guide for a tour of the vibrant, beautiful, Victorian City of Belfast.  We take in the Falls and Shanklin Roads, the Cathedral Quarter – one of Belfast’s oldest areas, and we pass Stormont. 

 

 

Later, we visit the iconic Titanic Belfast, located beside the Titanic slipways, the Harland & Wolff Drawing Offices, and Hamilton Graving Dock – the very place where Titanic was designed, built and launched, Titanic Belfast tells the story of Titanic from her conception, through her construction and launch, to her maiden voyage and subsequent place in history.  www.titanicbelfast.com

 

 

 

Hillsborough Castle

There’s a treat in store today with a visit to the Queen’s official residence in Northern Ireland, Hillsborough Castle. www.hrp.org.uk/hillsborough-castle Tour this elegant mansion and gardens including the majestic throne room.

 

Downpatrick  Later take a tour to St Patrick's Grave and St Patrick's Centre in Downpatrick. The Story Of Ireland Starts Here. The area around Downpatrick is often referred to as St. Patrick’s Country, as it is home to important stations in the life and work of Ireland’s national saint. St. Patrick’s final resting place is also said to be right next to the Down Cathedral in Downpatrick. A large block of granite lies above the grave, in which the name PATRIC was carved with old Irish letters. The Saint Patrick Centre is one of Northern Ireland's leading attractions and a must see destination

 

 

 

 

Giant's Causeway and renowned causeway coast. A day of fantastic scenery as we head to the world-famous Giant’s Causeway. Entrance to the Giants Causeway Visitor Experience and to see the famous stones is included. Please note: The Translink easy access bus service to the stones is not currently in operation.

The Causeway Coast and Glens region is rightly known for its spectacular scenery and off the beaten track there are also many equally spectacular hidden gems to discover. There are designated places of Outstanding Natural Beauty, havens for butterflies, wildlife and rare birds; protected ancient landscapes and woodlands; monuments, follies and ruins, megalithic stones and pilgrimage sites.

 

 

 

Londonderry

A visit to the fascinating walled City of Derry (Londonderry). During your visit, a sightseeing tour by coach and on foot will give us an overview of the city. We drive along the River Foyle to view the city’s iconic peace bridge, the Georgian Quarter and the famous 17th century walls.

 

Guildhall Derry Sitting within reach of our famous 400-year-old Walls is one of the City’s most recognisable - and arguably one of the most stunning - landmarks, the Guildhall. It has been in the heart of city life since 1887 and the auburn brick building is the anchor for the buzzing Guildhall Square.

The Guildhall’s most arresting feature is its collection of stunning stained-glass windows. Donated by London Companies, they represent everything from fishmongers to musicians. Recognise the Guildhall Clock? It was modelled on London’s Big Ben.

 

The Museum of Free Derry – a brand new, award winning purpose built museum has an archive of over 25,000 individual items relating to this period in the city’s history. Most items with immense historical significance were donated by local residents.

 

Holiday Inn Express, Antrim

Located on the outskirts of Belfast City Centre, the Holiday Inn Express, Antrim, provides the perfect base for our tour.  All en-suite bedrooms have TV, telephone, complimentary Wi-Fi, iron & ironing board, and tea/coffee making facilities.  The hotel has a lift, restaurant, and bar.  Singles are double rooms for sole occupancy - extra £187

 

Homeward bound via Larne to Cairnryan on the morning ferry. We stop for high tea and expect to return in the early evening.

 

¨ Tours accompanied by a Local Guides

 

¨ Breakfasts, Dinners & High Tea on return journey

 

¨ Luxury Coach travel throughout -  Departure from Pudsey, Calverley, Farsley, Rodley, Horsforth, Leeds, Bradford, Ainley Top

 

¨ Fully Escorted by Hanson Exclusives’ Tour Manager

 

Please note: The itinerary is subject to possible alteration

 

National Trust members - reduction of £13

Titanic Belfast