Clients On the Go: UK & Ireland in Style
What better way is there to spend two weeks as a family than exploring Ireland in-depth before heading to Edinburgh and London to round out the adventure?
Photo courtesy of the Harn family
There’s just something about the UK and Ireland that keeps us coming back for more, and Poe Travel clients the Harns recently discovered the magic on a family trip beginning in Ireland, heading to Scotland, and finishing in London—with all the stops pulled out along the way.
From stunning luxury hotels to behind-the-scenes private touring, the Harns definitely explored in style, so we couldn’t resist sharing a deep-dive look at their adventure. . .
Day 1
Arrival in Ireland
Upon touching down in Dublin, the Harns were met in the arrivals hall for their transfer to Adare Manor in Limerick. After some time to settle in, they sat down for an afternoon tea in The Gallery, a complimentary Poe Perk through our Virtuoso network.
Hotel Spotlight: Adare Manor
Defined by its spectacular setting, historic character, and impeccable service, Adare Manor features 103 air-conditioned guest rooms lavishly appointed by original art, Georgian-style furnishings, and marble bathrooms. With outdoor pursuits galore, a lovely spa, and sporting opportunities varying from their pristine golf course to their brand-new Padel Club, you’ll never be short of things to do on their huge grounds. For fine dining, visit The Carriage House for cocktails and classic Irish cuisine or the Michelin-starred Oak Room to sample the fare of renowned chef Michael Tweedie.
Photos courtesy of Celebrated Experiences
Poe Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant (already included in property rates)
Complimentary Afternoon Tea for up to two guests per hotel bedroom, once during their stay, served in The Gallery
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
A little something extra. . .
As an extra perk because this stay was booked in conjunction with our friends at Celebrated Experiences, the Harn family also received a complimentary historical tour of Adare Manor with the resident historian/concierge during their stay.
Day 2
The Burren & Cliffs of Moher
This morning, the family headed west with a private guide to explore some of the icons of Ireland’s County Clare. First up was a drive to the moonlike landscape of The Burren National Park, with its impressive biodiversity.
Afterwards, the Harns visited the Cliffs of Moher, some of the world’s highest sea cliffs with awe-inspiring Atlantic views. They visited the Cliffs Exhibition Centre, built right into the mountainside so as not to spoil the views.
Photo courtesy of the Harn family
Day 3
Adare
Today, the Harn family took an entire day simply to take in all that Adare Manor has to offer. With all the outdoor pursuits you’d expect from a manor hotel on an 840-acre estate, Adare offers the chance to partake in falconry, archery, gun dog displays, clay pigeon shooting, fishing, and more all within the grounds. Within a short drive, you can also go horseback riding or shooting. Their golf course, designed by Tom Fazio, will host the 2027 Ryder Cup, so this is also a haven for golfers. Plus, the charming village of Adare, just outside the manor gates, is a beautiful blend of traditional cottages, antique shops, boutiques, and friendly pubs.
This evening, the family dined at Adare Manor’s Carriage House restaurant.
Day 4
Cashel Palace
Continuing their exploration of Ireland, the Harns were met by their private driver for a transfer to Cork with a stop at Cashel Palace en route.
Upon arrival at Hayfield Manor, the family enjoyed some time to settle in before dining at Perrotts Garden Bistro at their hotel this evening.
Hotel Spotlight: Hayfield Manor
Hayfield Manor, nestled within Cork’s private gardens, brings the feel of the 18th-century Irish countryside to the city. Their individually styled rooms are replete with antiques and lush fabrics. The perfect base from which to explore Cork and its surrounds, a stay at Hayfield Manor is complemented by champagne-accompanied afternoon tea, local gourmet fare in Orchids, or a casual meal in Perrotts Garden Bistro. Their Beautique Spa is also a lovely place to unwind.
Photos courtesy of Celebrated Experiences
Poe Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
Hayfield Manor's Champagne Afternoon Tea for two guests, once during stay
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
A little something extra. . .
Another little perk for booking with Poe Travel and Celebrated Experiences was a complimentary tasting called Battle of the Stouts—a “different” Irish beer tasting!
Day 5
Cork City & Cobh
This morning, the Harns set out on a full-day tour, starting in Cork City with the iconic English Market, where food mongers have traded since 1788. They also drove past St. Anne’s Church, home to the 8 Shandon Bells immortalized in song in “The Bells of Shandon.”
The latter half of the day was spent in the colorful harbor town of Cobh, the emigration point for over a million Irish people and also the RMS Titanic’s final port of call. Despite being such a small town, Cobh is also home to majestic Colman’s Cathedral.
This evening, the Harns made the short walk from Hayfield Manor to SpitJack for dinner.
Day 6
The Wild Atlantic Way
Met by their private driver this morning, the Harn family set out on a full-day tour of the Wild Atlantic Way and to learn more about the cultural identity of West Cork. A short drive south of the city brought them to a mostly coastal route through West Cork, with a few inland highlights.
The day began in picturesque Kinsale, chock-full of lovely pubs and restaurants and with an interesting history. They also stopped in at coastal villages such as Skibbereen and Bantry, along with scenic stretches like Garrettstown Beach. A stop at Manning’s Emporium offered the chance to sample the locals’ favorite irish cheeses and charcuterie.
After a full day of exploring, the Harns relaxed a little before heading out to Greenes Restaurant at Hotel Isaacs in Cork, about a 10-minute drive from Hayfield Manor.
Day 7
Dublin
After bidding farewell to Cork, the Harns’ private driver transferred them three hours to Dublin for a one-night stay. After check-in, the family enjoyed lunch at WILDE Restaurant at The Westbury before setting off on their afternoon walking tour of the city with a local guide to make the most of their one afternoon in Dublin.
Taking in many of the city’s highlights on this storytelling adventure, the Harns focused today on the “Golden Kilometer,” traveling through broad streets and narrow passageways, learning about the influential people who once walked these same lanes. They passed by the former Houses of Parliament, the pedestrianized Grafton Street, Powerscourt Townhouse, City Hall, and the courtyards and gardens of Dublin Castle. Next, they made their way to the Chester Beatty Library, the medieval city walls, the Old City & Temple Bar West, Fishamble Street, and Christ Church Cathedral (Ireland’s oldest church). Finally, the visited Trinity College and the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript dating to the 9th century.
Dinner tonight was at The Old Storehouse, a traditional Irish pub in the heart of Dublin. There’s often a wait here—busy is good!—but the wait can be wonderful with live Irish music on show.
Hotel Spotlight: The Westbury
A member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World, The Westbury sits at the very heart of Dublin’s social and cultural riches. Located between Trinity College and St. Stephen’s Green, this hotel puts you right on the doorstep of Dublin’s Creative Quarter, full to the brim with characterful boutiques and famous Grafton Street. Sip a creative cocktail at The Sidecar, dine in 1930s glamor at WILDE, take in Balfes’ open kitchen and outdoor terrace, or sit down for afternoon tea at The Gallery.
Photos courtesy of Virtuoso
Poe Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent food & beverage credit to be utilized during stay
Complimentary bottle of house champagne (for suite bookings only)
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
A little something extra. . .
As guests of Celebrated Experiences and Poe Travel, the Harn family were also treated to an Irish whiskey amenity in addition to their Virtuoso benefits.
Day 8
Edinburgh
While one in the group departed for home now that the Ireland portion of the trip was over, the remaining three Harns headed to Edinburgh on a short flight after a private transfer.
On arrival in Scotland’s capital city, they were transferred to the luxurious Balmoral hotel, right in the city center, and given time to settle into their surroundings. Dinner tonight was at Brasserie Prince at the Balmoral.
Hotel Spotlight: The Balmoral
The Balmoral may just be Edinburgh’s premier address, with its many opulent rooms and suites looking out on Edinburgh Castle, the Old Town, and Arthur’s Seat. It’s a hotel that pampers its guests, starting with the award-winning spa. Indulgence continues at the 4AA Rosette restaurant Number One, fusing modern Scottish cuisine with international flair. There’s also fashionable Brasserie Prince, afternoon tea at Palm Court, and the finest whiskies at SCOTCH whiskey bar.
Photos courtesy of Virtuoso
Poe Perks*:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full Breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the hotel restaurant
$100 USD equivalent food & beverage credit to be utilized during stay
Early check-in/late heck-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
*Please note that Classic Rooms are not eligible for Virtuoso amenities.
Day 9
Edinburgh
Local guide, Dot, met the Harns in the lobby of their hotel this morning to set out on a full-day walking tour of Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile. This iconic road is actually a series of successive streets connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the King’s official Scottish residence.
Starting at the top section known as Castlehill, the Harns paid a visit to extraordinary Edinburgh Castle to learn about Scotland’s history and see the “Honours of Scotland,” which are Scotland’s Crown Jewels.
Strolling downhill, they walked the length of the mile, stopping at St. Giles’ Cathedral and taking in the diverse architecture, learning stories about the people who have defined this city over time. Additional intriguing stops included Deacon Brodies Tavern, tied to the origin story of Jekyll and Hide, and the story of Edinburgh’s most famous dog, Bobby.
With their tour concluding at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Harns then had time at leisure to explore and make their way back to their hotel ahead of dinner this evening at the Sheep Heid Inn. A 15-minute drive from the hotel, the Sheep Heid Inn is widely considered Scotland’s oldest surviving pub, with records dating to 1360.
Day 10
Edinburgh at Leisure
After a long day of touring yesterday, the Harns were able to enjoy Edinburgh at their own pace today, exploring every nook and cranny that took their interest.
Dinner this evening was at The Outsider restaurant.
Day 11
London
Now that the Irish and Scottish legs of the trip were over, another of the Harn girls returned home, leaving DeeAnn and Mike to finish out the trip as a pair in London.
As the Balmoral is conveniently located very close to Edinburgh’s central train station, it was no drama for DeeAnn and Mike to board their train to London Kings Cross, after which they were transferred to the gorgeous Goring hotel.
After time to settle in, the couple enjoyed a sumptuous dinner at the Goring’s Dining Room.
Hotel Spotlight: The Goring
At Poe Travel, we think of The Goring as our home-away-from-home in London. The city’s last family-owned luxury hotel, The Goring is grand with impeccable manners—everything you’d expect from a longstanding British icon. With its 69 beautifully appointed suites and bedrooms, the hotel is nestled in Belgravia. Its Michelin-starred Dining Room serves the best British food, and the hotel is home to London’s favorite Afternoon Tea.
Photos courtesy of Virtuoso
Poe Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent food & beverage credit to be utilized during stay
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Day 12
London
Today was all about exclusive experiences in London, thanks to our partnership with our pals at NoteWorthy, who are able to open all the doors in this iconic city. DeeAnn and Mike started the day with their private guide, the daughter of a former army guard who served as an usher at the wedding of (then) Prince Charles and Princess Diana.
First, the pair enjoyed exclusive behind-the-scenes access at the Changing of the Guard, including time before the ceremony to get up-close and personal as well as a viewpoint for the Changing of the Guard itself that is not accessible to the public. Afterwards, they visited the Guards Museum to try on some of the iconic outfits, including the bearskin hats, for themselves!
Next, they visited Westminster Abbey with their expert guide before a stop for lunch.
The afternoon was spent at the Churchill War Rooms with skip-the-line entry and special access to rooms closed to the public, including the off-limits Map Room and Cabinet Room, along with “Room 58,” whose mysterious function isn’t fully known but is speculated to have been a meeting place between Churchill and his top advisors.
Dinner this evening was at Maggie Jones in Kensington.
Day 13
London
The only thing on the itinerary today was a delightful afternoon tea at trendy Sketch. Otherwise, DeeAnn and Mike spent this day exploring London at their own pace.
Photo courtesy of the Harn family
Day 14
London
Their last day in London was spent discovering the treasures along the storied Thames River. The day began at the Tower of London, with special early access for their opening ceremony. Joined by their private NoteWorthy guide, DeeAnn and Mike observed a short daily ceremony that takes place each day as the Tower opens and then enjoyed access to the popular landmark before the crowds arrived, viewing the Crown Jewels in a much more intimate setting.
Afterwards, they hopped on a river boat to make their way down the Thames, passing iconic landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, and Tower Bridge before making their way to the London Eye, where they enjoyed fast-track access.
Dinner for their final night was served at Jacuzzi, an Italian restaurant in Kensington.
Day 15
Departure Day
After over two weeks of discovering the delights of Ireland, Scotland, and England, DeeAnn and Mike were privately transferred to London Heathrow for their onward travels home.
To Go Away to the UK & Ireland, contact us. We will create a customized itinerary to suit your particular travel wishes and set you on your way.