The Gems of Northern Ireland

 

Included in the price of this wonderful holiday -

 

¨ Day 1 -  An early start on our journey northwards to Cairnryan where we board the afternoon ferry to Larne in Northern Ireland and arrive in the late afternoon into the Wellington Park Hotel

 

 

¨ The Wellington Park Hotel, Belfast for 5 nights Situated in the very heart of the beautiful Victorian city of Belfast, in the historic Queen’s quarter, near the  Botanic Gardens,  Ulster Museum and Lyric Theatre. This family-run hotel, features comfortable and spacious rooms, boasting a friendly and personalised experience.  Single occupancy rooms additional £135   www.wellingtonparkhotel.com

 

 

 

 

¨ Day 2 - Belfast  We take a guided tour to introduce us to this vibrant city taking in the Falls and Shankill Road, the Cathedral Quarter, one of Belfast’s oldest areas and passing Stormont. Later visit the Titanic Belfast Exhibition www.titanicbelfast.com

 

 

¨ Day 3  -  Belfast & Downpatrick  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.

 

In the afternoon we take a tour to St Patricks Grave and St Patricks 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

 

 

 

¨ Day 4 - 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.

 

 

 

¨ Day 5 - Londonderry Our visit today will be 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.

 

¨ Day 6  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

 

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

 

¨ Fully Escorted by Hanson Exclusives’ Tour Manager

 

Please note: The itinerary is subject to possible alteration

wellington park hotel Titanic Belfast