Road Scholar : Home
Crowns & Kilts: United Kingdom by Sea

Program Number: 19198RJ
Start and End Dates:
8/23/2012 - 9/5/2012;
Duration: 13 nights
Location: England/Ireland/Scotland
Price starting at: $6,645.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Adventure Afloat Study Cruise; Ocean Cruises
Meals: 33; 12 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 12 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Delve into the United Kingdom and Ireland’s layers of history, abundance of natural beauty and riches of culture on this voyage that takes you to grand cities (London, Belfast, Dublin, and Edinburgh) and utterly charming little corners like the Holyhead in Wales, Waterford in Ireland, and St. Peter Port on Guernsey in the English Channel.




Activity Particulars

Programs with Crystal Cruises are designed for the independent traveler. These programs offer a lower activity level and the ability to choose your own shore excursion based on your preferences and physical ability. Road Scholar will provide one exclusive shore excursion and private onboard lectures with our own Group Leader and lecturer.

Minimum physical requirements include the ability to handle one’s own luggage, get on and off a motor coach, walk a few blocks at a time and climb a small flight of stairs. Those who have difficulty standing for an hour at a time should consider bringing a folding cane with seat.



Itinerary At-a-Glance

London (England), 1 night; aboard Crystal Symphony, 11 nights.



Day 1:

Overnight flight from the U.S.A



Days 2-3:
Arrival London (England) / embark Crystal Symphony:

Spend a night in London then journey to the historic port of Dover to begin your voyage.
Lodging: Four-star hotel in the center of London.



Days 4-6:
At Sea / Edinburgh (Scotland):

Learn about life in the remote islands of the North Sea. Discover the architectural masterpieces found in Edinburgh, dominated by a medieval castle on a towering crag.



Days 7-8:
At Sea / Belfast (Northern Ireland):

On a special Road Scholar shore experience, delve into the history of Belfast in this bustling port city and Northern Ireland as a whole.



Day 9:
Dublin (Ireland):

Discover the legacy the arts has left in Ireland’s capital, the birthplace of literary figures including James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and George Bernard Shaw to name only a few.



Day 10:
Holyhead (Wales)

Explore the remote locale of Holyhead, on Holy Island in Wales.



Day 11:
Waterford (Ireland):

Set amid rolling green countryside, Waterford is world famous for the crystal it produces. At the crystal factory witness firsthand the time-honored skills of glass blowing, cutting and engraving.



Day 12-13:
At Sea / Guernsey:

Discover this tiny island’s mix of British and French cultures. Enjoy an expert-led walk through the charming town of Saint Peter Port or see a master goldsmith plying his trade in his workshop.



Day 14:
Dover (England) / disembark / coach to London for departure




Crystal Symphony

This sleek 781-foot ocean liner is one of the most spacious at sea. It accommodates 940 passengers for whom it provides a spa, fitness facility, two pools, Jacuzzis and inspired dining options, including a restaurant, café and outdoor grill. Complimentary fine wines and premium spirits are available to you throughout the voyage.
Meals and Lodgings
   The Regency Hotel
  London, UK:England 1 night
   Crystal Symphony
  Aboard Ship, At Sea 11 nights
 The Regency Hotel
Type: Hotel
  Description: The Regency Hotel is the largest independent hotel in London with 199 air conditioned rooms and 10 conference rooms, and reflects the refined splendour of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea. The traditional Regency Style architecture compliments the relaxed town house atmosphere, combined with the highest levels of service, and an attention to detail make it a perfect choice for both leisure and business travellers. The very best of what London has to offer can be found not far from the marble doorsteps of the Regency Hotel. South Kensington & Gloucester Rd tube stations are a mere 5 minute walk away, and Earls Court is a 10 minute stroll. Heathrow International airport is 14 miles from the Regency Hotel and has fast & frequent connections to the centre of London.
  Contact info: 100 Queen's Gate
South Kensington
London,  SW7 5AG UK:England
phone: +020 7373 7878
web: www.londonregency.com/index1.asp
  Room amenities: Independently controlled air conditioning; Private bathroom; Flat screen TV; Satellite channels; Trouser press; Hairdryer; Direct dial telephone; Modem point; WiFi; Tea & coffee making facilities
  Facility amenities: Afternoon Tea; Terrace; Restaurant; Cocktail Bar; 24 hour Room Service; Gym
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Crystal Symphony
Type: Cruise Ship
  Description: With her sleek silhouette and shimmering elegance, the legendary Crystal Symphony finds a natural home in the world's most glamorous harbors and idyllic ports of call. Generous per-passenger space ratios have become a Crystal trademark, along with forward-facing observation decks, a Palm Court lounge, and a wide teak promenade encircling the ship. A makeover in 2006 refreshed the Bistro Café and shops, reconstructed the casino and Starlite Lounge, and added a new nightclub called Luxe. An even more extensive refurbishment in 2009 transformed the Crystal Penthouses, Lido Café, and Prego Italian restaurant. Accented by a lovely waterfall, the focal point of the central two-deck atrium is a sculpture of two ballet dancers created especially for the space. Crystal Cove, the lobby lounge, is the spot to meet for cocktails as you make your way to the nearby dining room. Throughout the ship, public rooms shine with low-key contemporary style and flow easily from one to the next.
  Ship Information: Ship's Registry: The Bahamas 781 feet long x 99 feet wide 51,044 gross registered tons 20 knots cruising speed 21 knots maximum speed 922 passengers capacity An international crew of 545 with 40 countries represented European-trained hotel and dining staff
  Contact info: 2049 Century Park East, Suite 1400
Los Angeles, CA 1400 USA
phone: 310-785-9300
web: www.crystalcruises.com
  Room amenities: Cabins: There are no inside cabins on Crystal Symphony. Still, relatively small stateroom sizes are cozy and chic with boutique-hotel-style decor. All cabins have ample closet and drawer/shelf storage, as well as bathroom shelves. Many have private balconies furnished with chairs and tables. Most suites and penthouses have a walk-in closet. Crystal Penthouse suites have guest powder rooms. Amenities: Rich wood cabinetry, 100% Eygyptian cotton sheets, feather beds and plush duvets, wood and padded hangers, a small refrigerator filled with complimentary bottled water and soft drinks, a personal safe, two hair dryers, a flat-screen TV with a DVD player, and a sitting area with sofa, chair, and table are typical standard features in all cabins. Suite and penthouse extras vary, but all have a DVD/CD player, butler service, personalized stationery, and stocked minibars with wine, beer, and choice of liquor. Bathrooms: Every bathroom has oval glass sinks, granite counters, a full-size tub, Aveda toiletries, plush towels, and bathrobes for use during the cruise. Many suites and penthouses have a whirlpool tub and separate shower.
  Facility amenities: Public spaces have a sophisticated and contemporary feel with fine Italian and French fabrics, Axminster wool carpets, oriental rugs, teak deck furniture and English mohair lap blankets. 8 passenger decks, 2 specialty restaurants, dining room, buffet, ice cream parlor, Wi-Fi, safe, refrigerator, minibar (some), DVD, 1 pool, Fitness classes, gym, hair salon, 1 hot tub, sauna, spa, steam room, 5 bars, casino, cinema, dance club, library, dry-cleaning, laundry facilities, laundry service, Internet terminal, library
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
This program begins on day 2 at 6:00 p.m. at Orientation at the program hotel in London, England. You will be staying at The Regency Hotel that night.
  End of Program:
This program ends on day 14 following breakfast and disembarkation from the ship at approximately 8:30 a.m. in Dover, England. You will be staying at Crystal Symphony the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required.
  Parking availability:
Driving to program site is not possible.
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
  Train or bus availability: The National Express buses run from Dover to Victoria Station and continue on to Heathrow or Gatwick; transfer time to Victoria Station is approximately 2 1/2 hours. Regular trains run from Dover Priory Station to Victoria or Charing Cross Stations.
To Start of Program
  Location:  London
  Transportation to site: Trains and buses run from the airport to the city center of London. Taxis can be found outside each terminal and charge 44-55 GBP for the trip into the city center.
  From End of Program
  Location:  Aboard Ship
  Transportation from site: All participants who have made their air arrangements with Road Scholar will receive a transfer on the day of the group departure. The National Express buses run from Dover to Victoria Station and continue on to Heathrow or Gatwick; transfer time to Victoria Station is approximately 2 1/2 hours. There are also regular trains that run from Dover Priory Station to London's Victoria or Charing Cross Stations. Approximate journey time is 1 hour 45 minutes. PLEASE NOTE: Avoid departure piror to 14:00 from London Heathrow airport. Dover is approximately 75 miles from London; there are public transportation options as well as taxis available.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Depart North America for London
(Thursday, August 23)
   
 Depart From: Depart from North America for London, England.

Day 2: Welcome and Orientation in London
(Friday, August 24)
   
 Arrive To: Arrive in London and transfer to the program hotel.
 Afternoon: Program Orientation starts at 6:00 p.m. at the Regency Hotel, followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m.
 Dinner: Welcome dinner at the hotel
   
Accommodations: The Regency Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 3: London Free Time / England's Cultural History / Embarkation in Dover
(Saturday, August 25)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast buffet at the hotel.
 Morning: Free time to explore London and perhaps visit the British Museum, the Tower, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben or one of the many other museums and historic sites in the city.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own in London; settle down in a cozy English pub for meat pies, bangers and mash or fish and chips, or savor the cuisine at one of the city's many gourmet restaurants.
 Afternoon: Group coach transfer to Dover with an en-route lecture presented by your Study Leader: A description of the wonderful Kentish towns and villages and the characters and events that have shaped the history of this "front line" county. Hear fascinating anecdotes about the soldiers, the engineers, the explorers the sportsmen and the artists who contributed so handsomely. Embark on Crystal Symphony later in the afternoon.
 Dinner: Group dinner in the Crystal Dining Room and review of tomorrow's itinerary and options.
   
Accommodations: Crystal Symphony
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: At Sea - Scotland's Cultural History
(Sunday, August 26)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Morning: On board lecture presented by your Study Leader: "The Story of England and Her Writers."
 Lunch: Lunch aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon aboard Crystal Symphony. Then attend a lecture presented by your study leader: "The Story of The Battle of Brittan and the Americas".
 Dinner: First, join the Road Scholar Group for a cocktail party at the Palm Court. Group dinner will be served in the Crystal Dining Room.
   
Accommodations: Crystal Symphony
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Edinburgh, Scotland
(Monday, August 27)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Morning: The ship arrives in Edinburgh in the early morning; after breakfast choose to explore Edinburgh on your own, or select from an array of Crystal excursion options. Dominated by a medieval castle on a towering crag, Edinburgh is the celebrated capital of Scotland and boasts more than a thousand years of vibrant historical heritage. The Exchange building, the famous Royal Mile featuring St. Giles Cathedral and John Knox House, as well as Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queens official, are only a few of the architectural masterpieces found in this delightful Scottish city.
 Lunch: Lunch aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Afternoon: Continue your exploration of Edinburgh.
 Dinner: Group dinner in the Crystal Dining Room and review of tomorrow's itinerary and options.
   
Accommodations: Crystal Symphony
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Edinburgh
(Tuesday, August 28)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Morning: Continue your exploration of Edinburgh.
 Lunch: Lunch aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Afternoon: This afternoon is your final chance to delve into Edinburgh's history, explore its monuments, and soak in the essence of Scotland.
 Dinner: Group dinner in the Crystal Dining Room and review of tomorrow's itinerary and options.
   
Accommodations: Crystal Symphony
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: At Sea - Ireland's Cultural History
(Wednesday, August 29)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Morning: On board lecture presented by your Study Leader: A brief overview of Irish cultural history with in-depth discussion of a few of Ireland's greatest writers, artists and musicians throughout the ages. Hear fascinating anecdotes about cultural icons such as W.B. Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, Oscar Wilde, and James Joyce.
 Lunch: Lunch aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Afternoon: In the afternoon, attend a lecture presented by your Study Leader: A vivid portrayal of life in Britian during the 19th centure. Hear fascinating anecdotes about Horatio Nelson, Jane Austen, Charles Darwin, Charles Dickens, Louis Napoleon and many others.
 Dinner: Group dinner in the Crystal Dining Room and review of tomorrow's itinerary and options.
   
Accommodations: Crystal Symphony
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Exclusive Group Field Trip in Belfast: Meeting with Local Residents and the History of the Troubles
(Thursday, August 30)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Morning: The ship arrives in Belfast this morning. Meet your on-site coordinator who will welcome you to the city at the port of Belfast. Board the private motorcoach for a brief transfer to the city center. En route learn about the rich legacy of the Harland & Wolff shipbuilders where the Titanic was built. After an illustrated lecture, "The Mural Tradition & Political Transformation in Northern Ireland," depart by a fleet of former London black taxi cabs which will take you to see the colorful and evocative murals of East and West Belfast. It has been said that a city can be defined by its taxi drivers and nowhere is this more true than in Belfast. Your driver, having lived through the Troubles and an era of massive social change acts as your local expert, giving you a unique insight into the social history and daily life of the neighborhoods you visit. The Belfast wit and humor is renowned so expect a lot of laughs throughout the morning!
 Lunch: Lunch at An Culturlann, a community run arts and culture center on the Falls Road. An Culturlann is the center for the Irish Language community in Belfast. It is home to the Irish language Radio Station, "Raidio Failte," an Irish language theater company, and filmmaking company and Pobal, the umbrella organization for the Irish speaking community in Northern Ireland. You will hear the Irish language spoken by staff and customers alike at this lively center.
 Afternoon: Depart by private motor coach to Stormont. The building at Stormont served as the seat of Parliament in Northern Ireland and is now home to the Northern Ireland Assembly, the legislative authority for Northern Ireland established under the terms of the Belfast Agreement 1998 (the Good Friday Agreement). Learn about the workings and current challenges of the historic Power Sharing Assembly. Meet with a Member of the Local Assembly (MLA) who will lead a question-and-answer session on what the future holds for this formerly deeply divided society. Return to your ship by private coach with a new impression of Belfast.
 Dinner: Group dinner in the Crystal Dining Room and review of tomorrow's itinerary and options.
   
Accommodations: Crystal Symphony
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Dublin, Ireland
(Friday, August 31)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Morning: The ship arrives in Dublin this morning; after breakfast choose to explore the city on your own, or select from an array of Crystal excursion options. The Irish capital, Dublin, enjoys one of the loveliest settings in Europe. Craggy Howth Head shelters the natural harbor at Dublin Bay and the gurgling River Liffey flows through the center of town. The ancient Egyptians, as well as Norman and Viking warriors, visited Dublin. However, the city's most pervasive surviving influences come from the 18th and 19th centuries when elegant Georgian mansions were first built along the river and then outward from its shores. The arts also flourished during this period and Dublin served as the birthplace of some of our greatest literary figures such as Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw, and James Joyce.
 Lunch: Lunch aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Afternoon: Continue your individual exploration of Dublin, choose to join a Crystal shore excursion or simply relax on board this afternoon.
 Dinner: Group dinner in the Crystal Dining Room and review of tomorrow's itinerary and options.
   
Accommodations: Crystal Symphony
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Holyhead, Wales, and Welsh Cultural History
(Saturday, September 1)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Morning: The ship arrives in Holyhead this morning; after breakfast choose to explore the town and surrounding area on your own, or select from an array of Crystal excursion options. Located in the northwest of Wales on Holy Island, Holyhead might be considered a remote locale. But connecting it to the mainland is the Four Mile Bridge and a causeway, which in turn carries both the A5 road and local rail line. Such routes easily transport travelers to the charming half-timbered town of Chester and to Britain’s primary city, London. Yet there is much in Holyhead to keep visitors happily engaged right here. At the heart of Holyhead is St. Cybi’s Church, situated inside one of Europe’s only three-walled Roman forts. Indeed, local history stretches back to Roman times and before, with area settlements dating to prehistoric times. Maritime history is revealed in a museum where visitors can learn about the 100 or so shipwrecks that have occurred in the vicinity. Those who are feeling particularly energetic might make the trek to the South Stack Lighthouse, which stands guard over an area popular with birdwatchers.
 Lunch: Lunch aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Afternoon: Continue your exploration of Holyhead in the early afternoon before returning to board the ship. In the late afternoon attend an on board lecture presented by your Study Leader: A brief overview of Welsh cultural history with in-depth discussion of a few of Wales' greatest writers, artists and musicians throughout the ages. Hear fascinating anecdotes about cultural icons such as Dylan Thomas.
 Dinner: Group dinner in the Crystal Dining Room and review of tomorrow's itinerary and options.
   
Accommodations: Crystal Symphony
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Waterford, Ireland
(Sunday, September 2)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Morning: The ship arrives in Waterford this morning; after breakfast choose to explore the city on your own, or select from an array of Crystal excursion options. The port city of Waterford, founded in the 9th century, lies on the banks of the River Suir (pronounced Shure) and is the regional capital of Ireland's southeast. It is the perfect gateway for a host of sightseeing opportunities, from rolling green countryside to traditional villages, castles and abbeys. During the period of rule by the Norman and the English, this city was a focus for international trading and local development, particularly with regard to the celebrated Waterford Crystal. Although the original Waterford Crystal Factory was closed in 1851, its revival in 1947 has brought a new wave of prosperity to this region. Today, visitors from around the world marvel at the factory's award-winning displays and witness first hand the time-honored skills of glass blowing, cutting and engraving.
 Lunch: Lunch aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Afternoon: Continue your exploration of Waterford before returning to board the ship.
 Dinner: Group dinner in the Crystal Dining Room and review of tomorrow's itinerary and options.
   
Accommodations: Crystal Symphony
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Portland, England / Franco-English Relations
(Monday, September 3)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Morning: The ship arrives in Portland this morning; after breakfast choose to explore the town and surrounding area on your own, or select from an array of Crystal excursion options. In some ways, the “Isle” of Portland is a misnomer. Measuring about four miles long by one-and-a-half miles wide, the small land mass located in the English Channel is limestone tied, connected to the mainland by both a beach and bridge. Discussions of whether Portland qualifies as an island aside, there is no doubt as to its historic significance. Part of the Jurassic Coast, Portland is a World Heritage Site, so designated for its geology and landforms. Important manmade forms include Portland Castle, built by King Henry the VIII in 1539. The structure remains one of the best preserved castles of the period. Portland’s famous white limestone, meanwhile, has found its way to London, with iconic buildings such as St. Paul’s Cathedral and the eastern front of Buckingham Palace constructed with the Portland limestone Sir Christopher Wren used to rebuild London after the Great Fire of 1666.
 Lunch: Lunch aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Afternoon: Continue your exploration of Portland in the early afternoon before returning to board the ship. In the late afternoon attend an on board lecture presented by your Study Leader: A brief overview of the historic relationship between France and England with in-depth discussion of cross-Channel cultural exchange.
 Dinner: Group dinner in the Crystal Dining Room and review of tomorrow's itinerary and options.
   
Accommodations: Crystal Symphony
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Guernsey / St. Peter Port, Channel Islands
(Tuesday, September 4)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Morning: The ship arrives in Guernsey this morning; after breakfast choose to explore the St. Peter Port and the surrounding area on your own, or select from an array of Crystal excursion options. Charming Guernsey, a mere 25 square miles in size, offers a host of enticing visitor attractions. Although geographically closer to France, it has remained staunchly British through the ages. Today, its diverse culture reflects the best of both worlds. Pastel-colored houses rise layer upon layer behind St. Peter Port, the island's picturesque main town. Beyond, you discover a wealth of activities centering around goldsmiths, silversmiths, wood carvers and clockmakers. Important: Please read: Although the best available equipment has been requested, guests should be aware that transport may not be of international standard. Motor coaches are not air-conditioned. Your understanding is appreciated.
 Lunch: Lunch at a restaurant of your choice.
 Afternoon: Continue your exploration of Guernsey before returning to board the ship.
 Dinner: Group dinner in the Crystal Dining Room and review of tomorrow's itinerary and departure logistics.
   
Accommodations: Crystal Symphony
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 14: Disembark in Dover and Departure from London
(Wednesday, September 5)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast aboard the ship; you may individually choose from among Crystal's dining options.
 Morning: Disembark the ship in Dover and transfer to London Heathrow Airport for return flights. PLEASE NOTE: Please avoid any flight arrangements from Heathrow Airport prior to 14:00 hours.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Aboard Ship Crystal Cruise Line Shore Excursions
Participants enrolled in program 19198-082312 Crowns & Kilts: United Kingdom by Sea, wanting to pre register for the Crystal Adventure shore excursions using their shipboard credit should contact the program provider at 1-866-359-5966 to secure their individual reservation number and may do so online (link below). To view the most up to date Crystal Adventure shore excursion offered by Crystal cruise line please visit the link below and once the page has fully loaded select Crystal Adventures. PLEASE REMEMBER that as part of your Road Scholar program we have included a full day exclusive Road Scholar shore program in Belfast. For additional information, visit www.crystalcruises.com/VoyageDetail.aspx?CID=0220&RK=NE
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


A Writer's House in Wales


Author: Jan Morris


Description: In this extended essay, Morris uses her much-loved 18th-century house as a point of departure for a meditation on Welsh identity.



Angry Island, Hunting the English


Author: A. Gill


Description: A comic manual to the English by a splendidly irreverent London critic. Gill includes scathing chapters on voice, humor, drink, animals, garden, sport and class.



Eyewitness Guide Great Britain


Author: Eyewitness Guides


Description: With 1,400 photos, maps and excellent introductory chapters, this guide is both a general introduction to Great Britain and a region-by-region look at its attractions.



Eyewitness Guide Ireland


Author: Eyewitness Guides


Description: A compact and profusely illustrated guide to the country's history, culture and attractions.



Fodor's Exploring Scotland


Author: Gilbert Summers


Description: With its many photographs, detailed descriptions and practical information, this compact guide covers Scotland in style.



Fodor's London's 25 Best


Author: Louise Nicholson


Description: This slim guide to London (with handy full-color maps) has everything you need to know for a short visit to the city, including recommended sightseeing, restaurants, hotels and shops.



Great Britain and Ireland Map


Author: HEMA Maps


Description: A nicely detailed map showing both Great Britain and Ireland at a scale of 1:750,000.



How the Irish Saved Civilization


Author: Thomas Cahill


Description: This best-selling history tells the generally unknown story of Ireland's preservation of classical learning in the Dark Ages.



In Search of England


Author: H.V. Morton, James Morris (Introduction)


Description: The much-beloved, enduring account of Morton's ramblings through the English countryside in the early days of the motorcar. Morton charmingly mixes a deep appreciation of the art, culture and history of the place with his own keen observations.



Irish Fairy and Folk Tales


Author: W.B. Yeats


Description: Edited by the Nobel Prize-winning poet who spearheaded the Celtic Renaissance in the early 20th century, these enchanting stories introduce a cast of changelings, ghosts, mermaids, demons, saints, priests and fairies.



Kingdom by the Sea


Author: Paul Theroux


Description: This time, the prolific writer recounts a coastal journey around the British Isles in 1982, displaying his occasional ill temper alongside his celebrated ability to combine social history with a good old-fashioned traveler's tale.



Outposts, Journeys to the Surviving Relics of the British Empire


Author: Simon Winchester


Description: Winchester's fascinating, globe-trotting account of scattered, mostly oceanic, outposts of the British Empire shows his usual flair for anecdote in describing Hong Kong, Diego Garcia, Tristan de Cunha, St. Helena, As-cension, Pitcairn, Antarctica and the Falkland Islands.



Scotland, A Concise History


Author: Fitzroy MacLean, Magnus Linklater (Contributor)


Description: With 250 well-integrated illustrations, this lively and authoritative history covers the romantic figures and bloody battles from the early clans up to the present.



Seamanship, A Voyage Along the Wild Coasts of the British Isles


Author: Adam Nicolson


Description: Nicolson offers an engrossing account of a coastal voyage from Cornwall, along the western coast of Ireland, out to the Faeroes and to Orkney in this brief hymn to the sea.



The Book of Kells


Author: Bernard Meehan


Description: Written by the keeper of manuscripts at Trinity College, this book features 110 color illustrations, including enlargements, of some of the more spectacular decorations in this most famous of medieval manuscripts.



The British Isles, A History of Four Nations


Author: Hugh Kearney


Description: The Celts, Romans, Vikings, Normans and modern immigrants all make an appearance in Kearney's elegant and revisionist history of not just the English but also of the Scots, Welsh and Irish.



The Mother Tongue, English and How it Got That Way


Author: Bill Bryson


Description: An indispensable guide to the language that divides us, this book is an informative linguistic history which showcases Bryson's wry wit.



The Story of England


Author: Christopher Hibbert


Description: Beautifully illustrated with color pictures, chronological charts, royal genealogies and maps, this popular history of English politics, economics and culture from the Neolithic age to the 1990s is an excellent traveler's companion.



Wildlife of the North Atlantic, A Cruising Guide


Author: Tony Soper, Dan Powell (Illustrator)


Description: This compact, illustrated guide covers the many petrels, ducks, gulls, terns and other seabirds along with whales and dolphins of not just the British Isles but all the way across the Atlantic to Iceland, Greenland and Newfoundland.





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