The Irish culinary scene has evolved far beyond its traditional image, and Dublin now stands at the centre of that transformation. The city’s restaurants combine heritage ingredients with contemporary techniques, turning Irish cuisine into one of Europe’s most intriguing food movements. Establishments such as The Saddle Room and the Michelin-starred Greenhouse have helped position Dublin as a destination where classic flavours meet modern creativity.
Yet Ireland’s real gastronomic story unfolds beyond the capital. Abercrombie & Kent’s tailor-made tasting itinerary invites travellers to explore the landscapes that shape the country’s food culture. From the wild Atlantic coast to the fertile countryside of Cork, the journey connects visitors with the people and places behind Ireland’s most celebrated ingredients.
Stops include the legendary Burren Smokehouse, where traditional smoking methods transform Atlantic salmon into a delicacy recognised across Europe, and the renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School, long considered one of the intellectual homes of modern Irish cooking. Along the way, travellers encounter artisan producers, small coastal kitchens, and farm-to-table restaurants that reflect Ireland’s deep relationship with land and sea.
Starting from £3,929 per person, this nine-day self-drive adventure reveals a country where cuisine is inseparable from landscape — a journey through flavour, craftsmanship, and the quiet confidence of Ireland’s culinary revival.
Slow travel has found one of its most charming expressions on the UK’s historic canal network. A narrowboat journey along these waterways offers a unique way to experience the British countryside, where travel unfolds slowly between stone bridges, quiet villages and green towpaths.
Boutique Narrowboats operates stylish canal boats with modern comforts, departing from Union Wharf Marina. From here, travellers can explore sections of the Grand Union Canal, one of Britain’s most scenic inland routes. The journey connects several iconic destinations, including the medieval town of Warwick, the famous staircase locks of Foxton, the academic elegance of Oxford and the historic canals of Coventry.
Along the way, the experience reveals a quieter side of Britain rarely seen from the road. Early mornings often begin with mist drifting over the water, while afternoons pass beneath centuries-old bridges and alongside walkers and cyclists following the towpaths. In the evenings, many travellers moor beside traditional canal-side pubs — a small but beloved ritual of canal culture.
Boat rentals are available for three, four or seven days, making it easy to tailor the journey to different travel plans. Prices start from £504 for a three-day off-peak hire, offering an accessible introduction to one of the most relaxing and authentic travel experiences in the United Kingdom.
Pembrokeshire Coastal Adventure
Pembrokeshire’s dramatic coastline, volcanic headlands and Atlantic winds make this corner of Wales one of the UK’s most compelling destinations for outdoor adventure. Pelorus’s curated “Peaceful Pembrokeshire” itinerary transforms the region into a week-long exploration of cliffs, coves and coastal wilderness.
The seven-night experience blends high-energy activities — including abseiling, cliff jumping and surfing — with moments of slower immersion in Pembrokeshire’s secluded woodlands and coastal trails. Travellers stay in characterful properties such as Roch Castle Hotel and the elegant Penrhiw Priory, both set within landscapes that feel far removed from modern rush. From £6,000 per person, the journey offers a rare combination of adrenaline and tranquillity along one of Britain’s most spectacular coastlines.
Sailing Serenity to the Isle of Wight
Just across the Solent, the Isle of Wight remains a favourite escape for travellers seeking a blend of maritime scenery, relaxed sailing and refined coastal dining. Chartering Borrow A Boat’s Allegro — a 45-foot motor cruiser departing from Southampton — offers a private way to explore the island’s hidden coves, harbours and sailing routes. Days unfold between open water and quiet anchorages, while evenings bring the island’s thriving restaurant scene into focus. Popular stops include Thompsons in Newport, where contemporary British cuisine reflects the island’s strong culinary reputation. Charters begin from £1,150 per day, making the Isle of Wight one of the most accessible luxury sailing experiences along England’s southern coast.
Hebridean Hiking Extravaganza
For travellers drawn to raw landscapes and remote island culture, the Hebrides offer some of the most extraordinary hiking routes in the British Isles. Black Tomato’s Hebridean Hiking Adventure spans several islands, combining rugged coastal trails with carefully planned island crossings.
The journey begins on the Isle of Skye before continuing across the Inner Hebrides by private rigid inflatable boat, opening access to lesser-visited landscapes shaped by wind, sea and ancient geology. Routes vary from dramatic cliffside paths to sweeping Highland valleys where the sense of scale is unmistakable. The recommended itinerary spans ten nights and includes stays in luxury Highland lodges, with prices starting from £8,750 per person — a premium gateway to one of the UK’s most atmospheric wilderness regions.
Benbaun trek
Cruising the UK’s Diverse Coastline
With more than 7,700 miles of coastline, the United Kingdom offers one of Europe’s most varied maritime landscapes — from rugged Atlantic cliffs to remote island archipelagos. Hurtigruten Expeditions’ British Isles — Remote Islands, Natural Wonders and a Diverse Coastline voyage provides a rare opportunity to explore these environments from the water.
Departing from Dover, the 13-day expedition cruise traces a route through some of the UK’s most remarkable coastal regions, including the Pembrokeshire Coast, the Inner Hebrides and the Isles of Scilly. Along the way, travellers encounter dramatic sea cliffs, isolated harbours and wildlife-rich shorelines that are difficult to access by land. Prices begin from £3,040 per person, offering a distinctive perspective on the landscapes that have shaped Britain’s maritime history.
Wellness Retreat in the Lake District
For travellers seeking a slower rhythm, England’s Lake District provides one of the country’s most restorative settings. Surrounded by mountains, forests and glacial lakes, the region has long been associated with retreat, reflection and outdoor wellbeing.
At the Gilpin Hotel & Lake House near Lake Windermere, Health Travel curates a three-night wellness escape designed to reconnect visitors with nature. The programme includes a private spa consultation, personalised treatments and full access to the boathouse spa, swimming pool and relaxation facilities. Starting from £1,850 per person, the experience combines luxury hospitality with the calm landscapes that have made the Lake District a UNESCO World Heritage destination.
Together, these journeys reveal the remarkable diversity of travel experiences across the UK — from remote island coastlines to quiet lakeside retreats, where adventure, nature and wellbeing intersect.