British Isles: France, England & Ireland

History, culture and architecture intertwine in Amsterdam amongst its narrow lanes and numerous canals. Featuring more bridges than Venice, enjoying a canal tour is a great way to take in the many sights of Amsterdam (and get some great photo ops). Art lovers won't want to miss the Van Gough Museum and the Rijksmuseum whilst history buffs will want to make time for the Anne Frank House and the Amsterdam Museum.

Situated on the River Tyne in northeast England, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne is a hub for arts, sciences and history. This Victorian city was born from the coal and steel industries and today boasts excellent art galleries, numerous delicious restaurants and cultural and historical attractions. Enjoy a walking tour of Newcastle and trace the city's history back to the Celtic Age. Venture below ground into the historic Victoria Tunnel that was built for coal wagons between 1839 and 1842 and then used as an air raid shelter during World War II. Your children (or your inner child) will love stepping into the hands-on museum Seven Stories that's a celebration of children's literature. There's something for everyone to enjoy in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne.

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 marvellous 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.

Experience life on the edge. This is the motto of the island community of Stornoway, on the Isle of Lewis. And it makes sense since they're located on the northern edge of the Scottish Western Isles, also known as the Outer Hebrides. Remote, rugged, uniquely scenic, the capital city of Stornoway is captivating. Hear the chatter of Gaelic and the unmistakable pitch of the bagpipes, breathe in the aroma of peat from the local smokehouses as they prepare the day's catch and watch for wildlife, including northern birds like the Arctic skua, golden eagle and corncrake.

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. Whilst the city is packed with things to do, rural landscapes are within a short reach.

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 whilst lying on your back with your head tilted backward. Doing so gives you the gift of the gab, or the gift of eloquent speech.

Discover the storied history of Ireland's largest city, Dublin. Take a whimsical walk along Dun Laoghaire's iconic East Pier or make your way up to the crest of Killiney Hill to experience the most majestic views of the capital. Treat yourself to a pint of Irish stout after exploring the history of beer at the Guinness Storehouse or imbibe a little Irish whiskey at one of the many historic pubs. Then stroll through St. Stephen's Green in the centre of the city before surveying the selection of shops along Grafton Street.

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.