A Glimpse of Ulster's Rich Heritage
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Belfast International or City Airport, City Harbour or Larne Ferryport Arrival & Departure
- 4 Nights/5 Days

Day 1/Belfast & Down
Capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is an exciting mix of old and new - illustrate the contrast with firstly a visit to the Ulster Museum, a treasure house of past and present that tells the story of the North from the Ice Age to the 20th Century. For a glimpse of the 21st Century visit whowhatwherewhenwhy - W5, Irelands first interactive discovery centre located in the heart of Belfast. Head south of the City to Holywood in County Down to visit the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum which illustrates the way of life and traditions of the people of the north of Ireland. Enjoy a tour of the lovely Ards Peninsula and a memorable visit to the home of Lord Castlereagh at Mount Stewart House & Gardens, a fascinating 18th century country manor which includes one of the greatest gardens in these islands. On a more sombre note, also visit The Somme Heritage Centre which traces Ireland's role in the First World War and where the visitor is taken back to experience the tragic era through an exciting "time-tunnel". Overnight at the nearby fishing village of Portaferry.

Day 2/Down/Armagh & Fermanagh
First take the amusing tiny ferry across the Lough to visit Castle Ward, a superb Georgian mansion set in a 750-acre estate with breathtaking views over Strangford Lough. Journey on to historic Downpatrick and visit the acclaimed new Saint Patrick Centre located beside the reputed burial site of Ireland's Patron Saint. Continue the St Patrick's trail to Armagh to visit 3 inspirational exhibitions on the religous and cultural history of the City of Armagh: St Patrick's Trian. While in the city, take an opportunity to see the fascinating multi media presentation at the Armagh Planetarium and local history at the Armagh County Museum. On to Omagh for a fascinating visit to the Ulster American Folk Park a museum of emigration and folk life. Enjoy another night of Ulster hospitality in bustling Omagh town.

Day 3/Fermanagh/Donegal & Derry
Continue to Enniskillen for a wealth of interesting places to visit in this picturesque lakeside setting. Firstly visit Enniskillen Castle, dating back to the 15th Century overlooking Lough Erne, then Castle Coole, which is a fine, late 18th Century neo-classical mansion with lovely interior furnishings and plasterwork. In the same area, a very different experience is a visit to the Marble Arch Caves and
Cuilcagh Mountain Park, a contrast between underworld marvels and the rare habitat of the blanket bog. Taking the scenic drive along Lough Erne brings you to Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre where the skills and crafts of past generations are still carried on today. Crossing the border into Donegal for overnight in Donegal town.

Day 4/Derry/Giant's Causeway & Antrim
Depart via the lovely Barnesmore Gap to Letterkenny where you can visit the Donegal County Museum for a fascinating exhibition on the history of the region from the prehistoric period to the present day. Journey on to Derry and explore the old walled city, steeped in history, and stroll around its famous ramparts. Then take the coastal route via the old seaside towns of Portstewart and Portrush, perhaps stopping off to visit Bushmills Distillery, the oldest in Ireland. Visit the Giant's Causeway, the only World Heritage Site in Ireland and one of the geological wonders of the world, it is certainly one of the highpoints of any visit to Ireland. Return to Belfast via the scenic beauty of the Glens of Antrim. Overnight in Belfast.

Day 5/Belfast
Departure from Belfast air or ferry ports.