British Isles: France, Ireland & Scotland

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.

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.

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.

This starkly beautiful island holds many ancient treasures like the mysterious Standing Stones of Stenness and the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, which was discovered with the furniture and indoor drains preserved. Make sure to visit the striking trio of St. Magnus Cathedral, the nearby ruins of the Earl's Palace and Bishop's Palace. After touring, stop in a pub to chow down on salmon and lamb dishes with the locals. And ask them about the wide range of Kirkwall's speciality items, which includes cashmere, whiskey and crafts.

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.

The ultimate European city, Brussels has tonnes of museums, fountains, gardens and great shopping. Stroll the Old Town area to see St. Hubert Arcades and its shops, as well as Butchers' Street with its plethora of restaurants and cafes and the Grand Place with its Baroque guild houses.

Hop on a tour bus to the City of Light to experience the magic of Paris. Stroll down the Champs-Elysées as you nibble on a croissant. Take photos of beautiful Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Montmartre and all the other iconic places of Paris lie 120 miles up the Seine from the port of Le Havre. Or explore the charms of Le Havre, spend the day at Monet's Giverny or explore Rouen's Old Market Place, where Joan of Arc was burned in 1431.

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.