A Royal Adventure: Discovering the Best of the British Isles' Historic Sites

 

Take to the tracks with a remarkable train journey to the Scottish Highlands, submerse yourself in the world of the Royal Family, and delight in the country’s most celebrated natural splendours. This pleasant taster of the Highlands showcases the United Kingdom’s imperial heritage in the form of visits to Balmoral Castle, Crathie Kirk church, and the Victorian village of Ballater. 

 

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Board delightful Ambience for a very special voyage to some wonderful corners of the Realm. Begin with a day of celebration at sea, then head north to Scotland and the Isles. Calls in Belfast, Liverpool, the Scillies and sun-kissed Jersey, as well as colourful Irish Cork and Normandy’s Honfleur, add to the pleasure.

 

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Experience a rewarding journey of remote British isle discovery. Off the coast of Scotland, sample life on the remote Isle of Lewis, as you explore its rugged landscapes and charming towns such as Stornoway. Feel the history of the Orkneys’ UNESCO-listed village of Skara Brae, home to Neolithic structures that pre-date Egypt’s pyramids, and fascinating Norse villages in the Shetlands. A visit to Lerwick provides an opportunity to seek out the Shetlands’ native wildlife too, including ponies and colonies of puffins, fulmars and other sea birds. There’s also a stop at Invergordon, gateway to the Highlands’ beautiful scenes, famous Loch Ness and landmarks such as Cawdor Castle. Smaller ship Bolette also takes you to see some of the finest Scottish scenery, away from the well-sailed routes; behold the sight of Fingal’s Cave and Dutchman’s Cap, with their dramatic rock formations, revel in the unspoilt peace and beauty of Loch Hourn, and see the beautiful Small Isles. What’s more, a visit to Guernsey – a beautiful British island situated off the coast of France – affords an opportunity to uncover the historic monuments of St Peter Port, including an ancient fortress and a Napoleonic watchtower, while you’ll get to capture the beauty of the Isles of Scilly, their palm-lined beaches, charming towns and rugged landscapes

 

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This wonderful summertime Round Britain sailing includes fascinating island calls, in Orkney, Lewis and Mull the Scillies and Guernsey, as well as vibrant Belfast and Normandy gateway Le Havre. Circumnavigate our ‘Sceptred Isle’ in style, making the most of Ambience’s on-board amenities, and taking opportunities to step ashore to explore.

 

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Full of mystery, intrigue and legendary tales, the Highlands is a delightful region to explore; almost a microcosm of Scotland itself with its sweeping scenery and remnants of the past around every corner. On this intriguing break we encounter a range of clan heirlooms and personal stories at some of the area’s most romantic and unspoilt properties, some lived in for centuries by the same family, including ivy-draped Ballindalloch and charming Castle Leod, home of the Earl of Cromartie and only open on limited days throughout the year. Weaving amongst these historic jewels, we marvel at the scenery of the awe-inspiring North Coast 500 route, and our celebration of all things Alba wouldn’t be complete without a wee dram of whisky at a Speyside distillery!

 

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Norfolk is especially renowned for its unspoilt coastline, 125 miles of spectacular Broads and some of the best nature reserves in Britain. On this tour we experience this and so much more, digging deeper into its history, the Victorian railway heritage and royal connections. With its stunning grounds and captivating history, a highlight for many will be one of the Queen’s most beloved residences, the Sandringham Estate. On the other hand, city lovers will enjoy exploring Norwich with its well-preserved Medieval centre and cultural opportunities. Plus of course there will be a chance to experience some of the coastline Norfolk is famous for. Our base for this carefully crafted tour is the oldest hotel in the UK, dating back over 800 years, the perfect centre from which to explore this stunning part of East Anglia.

 

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An unforgettable way to experience the true beauty of Scotland, this cruise sails along Scottish waters, stopping at notable ports on the way. Passing striking rock formations like The Needle, Fingal’s Cave, the Old Man of Hoy, and Dutchman’s Cap, Balmoral will allow you to witness the wonders of nature from a different angle. You’ll then travel to Orkney, Shetland, the Isle of Skye, and the Isle of Lewis, spotting seabirds, whales, dolphins, and porpoise. Excursions on the various islands mean you can get up close to the wildlife. Shetland’s RSPB Sumburgh Head is home to a diverse array of bird species, including puffins and fulmars. At the northernmost point of Shetland, you can view the striking coastline and the ancient sites of the Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae and Stenness. You’ll also get a chance to explore the coastline of Skye, lined with castles, as well as the countryside on the Isle of Lewis.

 

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Experience the best of Scotland, watch the spectacular Edinburgh Tattoo, explore the city, and visit the stunning Loch Lomond and surrounding highlands. Witness the unforgettable drama, colour and spine-tingling excitement of the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Combine time spent exploring the Scottish capital’s elegant heart and Royal Mile with a tour of the stunning summer scenery of the Trossachs National Park and a cruise on the waters of fabled Loch Lomond. Soak up the pomp and pageantry of this magical event - one of the highlights of the Scottish capital's Festival Season - as massed pipes and drums, dancers and display teams create a dazzling spectacle.

 

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From picturesque university cities to fortresses from days of old, experience the best of Edinburgh, St Andrews, the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Trossachs. Fall in love with Scotland’s historic cities and their wildly beautiful, craggy skylines, plus step back in time in ancient castles, imagining the Scottish Kings and Queens that brought them to life – from politics to banquets. Of course, you’ll try the national drink in a whisky tasting too, as well as see the country’s beauty from a different angle on a Loch Katrine cruise.

 

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Step into the opulent world of Downton Abbey and relive all the drama of the Crawley family during this exclusive visit to Highclere Castle. The impressive home and magnificent grounds are well known to millions as the backdrop of the much-loved TV series and films, making this unforgettable two-day break a must for fans of the show.

 

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Join us for an unforgettable journey in the company of the Flying Scotsman - the nation’s favourite steam train - as it celebrates its 100th year anniversary! Running on the heritage Bluebell Line, one of the country’s best-loved preserved railways, this is the perfect chance to experience the sights and sounds of steam travel as we weave through idyllic panoramas and quaint villages of the beautiful Sussex countryside. We also have time to visit vibrant London to complete our two-day adventure.

 

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Picture the incredible sights of the capital floating by as we drift down the river Thames under a blanket of dazzling stars on the Paddle Steamer Waverley. On this spectacular two-day getaway, we spend free time among London’s iconic landmarks and take a twilight cruise aboard the last seagoing, passenger-carrying paddle steamer in the world as it charts a stunning route along London’s famous waterway, passing under Tower Bridge which opens up to allow us through, for an unforgettably captivating experience.

 

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