10-Day British Isles Round-Trip London: England, Ireland & Scotland

Protected from the frequent storms of the English Channel by the Isle of Wight, Southampton has survived a turbulent history to serve as a principal port of the United Kingdom today. Pay homage to one of the most famous ships to sail these shores at the Mayflower Memorial. Visit the stoic walls of Bargate and the Tudor House Museum.

Located along the English Channel, Portland is divided into two areas: north and south. The south end is where extensive stone quarries lie, a resource important to the region. Unique to the city is the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, which hosts world sailing championships.

Ringaskiddy is your gateway to Cork, a city brimming with history and culture and is located in one of Ireland's most stunning settings. Situated on the River Lee, which splits into two channels, Cork's city centre is split into islands. Bridges crisscross the city leading to many intriguing landmarks, including the gorgeous Gothic revival St. Fin Barr's Cathedral, with its spiking spires and grimacing gargoyles, as well as the Tower at the Church of St. Anne, considered a symbol of the city-look for the 11-foot weather vane, a salmon, at the top. You're also five miles away from the Blarney Castle. Head to the top of the castle and kiss the world-famous Blarney Stone while lying on your back with your head tilted backward. Doing so gives you the gift of the gab, or the gift of eloquent speech.

Located in northwest England, Liverpool is a bustling maritime city. Dating back to the 13th century, Liverpool boasts some of the country's best museums and galleries and a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to a well-known symphony orchestra and two world-class professional football (soccer) teams. And of course, every Beatles fan knows Liverpool as the hometown of the world-famous band.

Exploring Belfast is a treat for urban fans. The city is rife with trendy cafés, restaurants, and nightlife yet it also boasts a lovely historical district. While the city is packed with things to do, rural landscapes are within a short reach.

Explore the Dubliana exhibit to see Dublin life from 1170 to 1540. Ireland's thriving yet elegant capital sits at the mouth of the River Liffey. Visit a castle. Take a walking tour. Shop O'Connell Street. Have a pint at the Guinness Brewery. Explore more of Dublin on a European cruise!

Inverness is a city in the glorious Scottish Highlands. Teeming with bagpipe players and enthusiasts thanks to the city's annual Northern Meeting in September, Inverness also boasts a diverse music scene. Gaelic was the native language until the turn of the 19th century.

Make sure you pack your walking shoes for Edinburgh. Stroll along the medieval Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse to see the abbey and Queen Mary's chambers. Savour the old town's marvelous Georgian and Victorian architecture. Marvel at the impressive Edinburgh Castle, high on its volcanic crag with a fabulous view. Visit St. Giles' Cathedral where John Knox once preached. Leave enough time to rest your legs at one of Edinburgh's seaside restaurants to enjoy fresh salmon, scallops, lamb and prime Angus beef.

Protected from the frequent storms of the English Channel by the Isle of Wight, Southampton has survived a turbulent history to serve as a principal port of the United Kingdom today. Pay homage to one of the most famous ships to sail these shores at the Mayflower Memorial. Visit the stoic walls of Bargate and the Tudor House Museum.