England, Ireland & Scotland from Southampton

It seems everywhere you turn there are magnificent, historic sites, including Big Ben, the 11th century Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, the Tower of London and more. Shop the trendy boutiques of Piccadilly Circus and be sure to enjoy some authentic fish and chips.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Ireland’s third largest city is a wonderful walking city built on the River Lee. Visit St. Finn Barre’s Cathedral, a wonderful, triple-spired example of French-gothic architecture, and spend some time in The Old Gaol, where original 19th century cells tell some fascinating tales.

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.

It seems everywhere you turn there are magnificent, historic sites, including Big Ben, the 11th century Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, the Tower of London and more. Shop the trendy boutiques of Piccadilly Circus and be sure to enjoy some authentic fish and chips.