Celtic Legends

Southampton

Southampton is a port city in the county of Hampshire, located on the south coast of England. Its historical and modern day importance is celebrated around the city through its museums, buildings, galleries, and other attractions and places of interest. This lively, multicultural city is home to a Premier League football club, two universities, and a wealth of places to eat, shop and entertain.

Fowey

Located on the south coast of Cornwall in England, Fowey is a picturesque little town known for its enchanting beauty, rich history, and vibrant maritime atmosphere. Nestled on the banks of the River Fowey, this charming destination is a haven for those seeking a peaceful and idyllic getaway.

Fowey's history can be traced back to the medieval era when it was an important port for the export of tin and copper. Today, the town retains much of its maritime heritage, with its narrow winding streets lined with whitewashed cottages and traditional inns. The town's most prominent landmark is the imposing St. Catherine's Castle, a coastal fortress dating back to the 16th century. It offers a glimpse into the area's history and provides stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

One of the main draws of Fowey is its natural beauty. The town is set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers breathtaking views of the river, estuary, and the English Channel. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the scenic coastal path, where they can spot seabirds and experience the tranquillity of the countryside. The nearby cliffs provide excellent vantage points for spotting dolphins and seals frolicking in the waves.

Fowey is also a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Adventure seekers can try their hand at paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing in the calm waters of the river. The town also hosts an annual regatta, attracting sailing enthusiasts from across the region. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, boat trips are available, allowing visitors to explore the scenic coastline or visit nearby attractions such as the world-famous Eden Project, a series of giant biomes showcasing diverse plant life.

Despite its small size, Fowey offers a surprising array of cultural activities. The town has been an inspiration for numerous authors, including Daphne du Maurier, who lived in Fowey and drew inspiration for her novels from the town's charm. Fans of her work can explore the Daphne du Maurier Literary Centre or take a guided tour of places featured in her books. The town also hosts an annual literary festival, attracting renowned authors who engage in thought-provoking discussions and book signings.

When it comes to dining, Fowey does not disappoint. The town boasts a wide range of restaurants and pubs, offering delicious seafood caught fresh from the surrounding waters. Whether you're in the mood for a traditional Cornish pasty or an elegant seafood dish, Fowey's eateries have something to satisfy every palate. After dinner, visitors can unwind in one of the cozy waterfront pubs, enjoying a pint of local ale or a glass of wine while taking in the scenic views.

With its charming atmosphere, rich history, and abundant natural beauty, Fowey is a delightful destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and picturesque getaway. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to soak in the laid-back Cornish culture, Fowey has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to this enchanting riverside town.

Ringaskiddy

Ringaskiddy is a small coastal village located in County Cork, Ireland. It is situated on the western side of Cork Harbour, which is one of the largest natural harbours in the world. The village is a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque scenery and the various attractions that it offers.

The name Ringaskiddy is believed to have originated from the Irish words ‘An Rinn’ (meaning ‘the point’) and ‘gascidí’ (meaning ‘cultivated land’). It is said that the village got its name from the fact that it used to be a point of land where seaweed was harvested for use as fertilizer. Today, Ringaskiddy is a hub for the pharmaceutical industry and is sometimes referred to as ‘Pill Town’ because of its concentration of pharmaceutical companies.

Ringaskiddy has a long history, dating back to the 11th century when it was a Viking settlement. In the 16th century, the village was a major centre of shipbuilding, with the renowned Long John Silver being built there in the 1500s. In the 19th century, Ringaskiddy was an important port for exporting butter and bacon produced in County Cork. Today, the village is a mix of modern industry and traditional Irish charm.

One of the main attractions in Ringaskiddy is the Cork Harbour Boat Hire, which offers visitors the opportunity to sail around Cork Harbour and explore the stunning coastline. Another popular attraction is the Ringaskiddy Martello Tower, which was built in the early 19th century as part of the British coastal defense system. The tower now serves as a museum and offers great views of the village and the harbour.

Ringaskiddy has a lively music scene, with many traditional Irish pubs hosting live music sessions. One of the most popular pubs in the village is The Ferry Boat Inn, which has been serving customers for over 200 years. The pub overlooks the harbour and has a warm and cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy a pint of Guinness.

Ringaskiddy is also home to several pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer, GlaxoSmithKline, and Novartis. The industry has been a major contributor to the village’s economy and has helped to create jobs and boost the local economy. In recent years, the pharmaceutical companies in Ringaskiddy have come under the spotlight due to concerns about environmental pollution.

In conclusion, Ringaskiddy is a charming coastal village that offers visitors a rich history, stunning scenery, and a range of attractions. From sailing around Cork Harbour to learning about the village’s shipbuilding history, there is something for everyone in Ringaskiddy. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a nice pint of Guinness, Ringaskiddy is definitely worth a visit.

Holyhead

Holyhead is a picturesque port town located on the Isle of Anglesey in Wales, United Kingdom. It is best known as the gateway to Ireland, with regular ferry services connecting the town to the Irish cities of Dublin and Dun Laoghaire. Blessed with stunning natural beauty and rich historical significance, Holyhead offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and a charming seaside atmosphere.

One of the major highlights of Holyhead is its coastal beauty. The town is surrounded by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. A popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking along the Anglesey Coastal Path, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Irish Sea. The nearby Breakwater Country Park is also worth a visit, providing opportunities for picnics, wildlife spotting, and leisurely walks.

For history buffs, Holyhead is steeped in rich cultural heritage. One of its most prominent landmarks is the Holyhead Maritime Museum, situated within the iconic Holyhead Breakwater. The museum displays fascinating exhibits on the town's maritime heritage, shipwrecks, and the influence of the Irish Sea on the local community. Another historical site not to be missed is the South Stack Lighthouse, a stunning Victorian lighthouse perched on a rocky island accessible via a suspension bridge. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Holyhead also offers a wealth of opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. The town's proximity to the Irish Sea makes it an ideal destination for sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. Boat tours are also available, allowing visitors to explore the stunning coastline and observe an array of marine life including seals, dolphins, and seabirds. Fishing trips can be arranged for those looking to experience the thrill of catching their own dinner.

In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Holyhead also boasts a vibrant arts scene and a variety of cultural events throughout the year. The Ucheldre Centre, a converted chapel, serves as a hub for the arts, hosting a diverse range of theater performances, music concerts, and art exhibitions. The town also hosts the Holyhead Festival, a week-long celebration of music, dance, and Welsh traditions that showcases the talents of local performers.

When it comes to dining, Holyhead offers a variety of options to suit all tastes and budgets. From traditional pubs serving hearty Welsh dishes to trendy cafes and restaurants offering a range of international cuisines, there is something for everyone. Fresh seafood, particularly locally caught fish, is a specialty in many of Holyhead's eateries, providing visitors with a true taste of the coastal region.

Accommodation in Holyhead ranges from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, offering visitors a comfortable and convenient base to explore the town and its surroundings. With its welcoming atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage, Holyhead is a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and memorable experience in Wales.

Dun Laoghaire

Liverpool

Whether they take the ferry cross the Mersey or a
stroll down Penny Lane, most visitors will find it difficult to
explore Liverpool without a song on their lips. From the Twin
Cathedrals with their striking views over the city to the
historical, Grade 1-listed Albert Dock and its Beatles museum,
there's certainly plenty to see and do in Liverpool. Famous for
football, music and shipping, Liverpool has steadily increased in
popularity with tourists over the last decade.

An important maritime centre and industrial port,
Liverpool was one of the great cities of the United Kingdom during
the Industrial Revolution, and much of its wealth came from its
dominance in the shipping of textiles, cotton, sugar, and
slaves.

The city was severely bombed in World War II and has
struggled to get back on its feet, experiencing alternating waves
of prosperity and depression. The 1960s saw the explosion of the
Beatles and pop music, while the 1990s saw an attempt to regenerate
the urban centre.

Liverpool's waterfront is now a UNESCO World Heritage
Site, and the city has achieved World Heritage Status, joining
Edinburgh and Bath as the only UK cities to carry the honour.
Millions of pounds were poured into the development of the city
when Liverpool was announced as the European Capital of Culture for
2008, including the £920 million Paradise Street development in the
city centre.

Belfast

The fortunes of Belfast have risen and fallen dramatically over
time: it began as a Bronze Age settlement; grew hugely in power as
well as size during the Industrial Revolution; suffered extensive
World War II bombings; and has famously been a hotspot in the
massive civil conflict which has split Ireland. Today, the capital
of Northern Ireland is a thriving city that has regained some of
its old charm and industry, and has begun to lure a stream of
curious travellers. City breaks in Belfast are becoming
increasingly popular, with a variety of low-cost European carriers
offering cheap flights to Northern Ireland's capital.

Belfast is situated near the mouth of the River Lagan, and
blossomed in the 17th century with an influx of English and
Scottish settlers. The port city grew in prominence during the
Industrial Revolution, with booming linen, rope-making, and
shipbuilding industries. The ill-fated Titanic was built here in
the Harland and Wolff shipyards, and today Belfast still boasts the
world's biggest dry dock, as well as a restored Waterfront Complex
that houses chic restaurants, shops, and ubiquitous Irish pubs.

Much of the city's architectural heritage was destroyed during
repeated bombings in World War II, as well as during The Troubles -
a period of civil conflict between Roman Catholic nationalists and
Protestant unionists that raged from 1969 until the late 1990s.
Several exquisite Victorian and Edwardian buildings still remain
and have been filled with trendy bars, boutiques, galleries,
museums, and restaurants in an attempt to regenerate the city's
image. Evidence of The Troubles can still be seen in the many
murals that line Falls Road and Shankill Road, and the Europa Hotel
has become famous as one of the most-bombed buildings in Europe,
having being targeted no less than 33 times.

Belfast is often overlooked as a tourist destination, but its
fascinating history, ongoing struggles, numerous attractions, and,
above all, the warmth and acerbic wit of its inhabitants, make it
an interesting stop on any tour of the United Kingdom. It also
serves as an excellent base from which to explore the many natural
wonders of Northern Ireland.

Glasgow

Start your adventure in Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow which is overflowing with historic landmarks and a vibrant culture. The distinct architecture is reminiscent classic 19th-century fused together with modern early 20th-century dubbed ‘Glasgow Style’. The checkerboard layout makes the city easy to navigate with lively street entertainment around every corner.

Sailing the Atlantic Ocean

Kirkwall, Orkney Islands

The name Kirkwall comes from the Norse name Kirkjuvágr (Church Bay), which later changed to Kirkvoe, Kirkwaa and Kirkwall. Kirkwall was formerly the site of an ancient Norse town founded approximately 1000 years ago. Today, it is a transport hub with ferries to many locations.

Aberdeen

Drenched in fresh, salty air and bright, clean light, the
seaside city of Aberdeen is the perfect manifestation of all of
one's romantic imaginings of Scotland. Here the rugged natural
beauty of wide oceans and rolling mountains merges with rich
history and fascinating culture. It is unsurprising that it has
been praised by National Geographic as "one of the world's
top-rated coastlines". Aberdeen's history seamlessly melds with its
contemporary, industrious nature. Doric; an original Scots
language, can still be heard in the streets, and gothic towers rub
shoulders with sleek, modern structures. Lose yourself amid the
city's enchanting streets and towering buildings, which glitter in
the midday sunshine due to the prized Aberdeenshire granite.

History buffs will be delighted by the Old Town, which flaunts a
university founded in 1495, and by stories of the legendary Picts
who once used to inhabit the region. Pay a visit to the seemingly
endless beach, where it is possible to catch a glimpse of dolphins
frolicking in the expansive bay and to view local fisherman hauling
in their catch of the day. Sample this fantastic local produce at
one of the many welcoming eateries in the city, not forgetting to
finish off the meal with a 'wee dram' of the region's finest
whiskey. There are spectacular coastal golf courses to put to the
test and unparalleled natural beauty of the nearby Cairngorm
mountain range to take in with a hike or by bike.

Leith

Presenting a distinctly Gothic cityscape as it spreads out below
its ancient castle, reaching out to the port of Leith, Edinburgh is
far from dour. The canny Scots have crafted a capital with
enthralling culture and festivity, veneered with sophistication but
seeped in history. It's a heady combination that never fails to
charm visitors to the city.

The first thing that catches the eye in Edinburgh is the looming
battlements of the castle, sitting atop sheer granite cliffs that
can only be accessed from one steep ridge. Today the castle heads
up the Royal Mile and a linear set of streets making up the 'New
Town', created when Edinburgh was re-designed in the 1700s, after
the Act of Union with Britain. The New Town; named a UNESCO World
Heritage Site along with the Old Town, is the artistic heart of the
capital, with an abundance of galleries, shops, cafes and
historical sites.

When it comes to sightseeing, many of Edinburgh's attractions
are based on historic stories and legends, from the churchyard
where Greyfriar's Bobby, the terrier, refused to leave his master's
grave, to the grand royal apartments of Holyrood House, where Mary
Queen of Scots watched her husband kill her lover back in the 16th
century. Although, unquestionably engaging from historical and
cultural perspectives, Edinburgh also has a strong culinary
presence, with five restaurants sporting Michelin stars and a
growing fine-dining and bar scene.

A spirited city at any time of year, Edinburgh's eclectic nature
is never more pronounced than during the summer months, when the
Edinburgh Festival fills the city with drama, creativity and
colourful visitors from around the world. Another occasion when
Edinburgh pulls out the stops is during the traditional Hogmanay
New Year festival, when jovial festivities are celebrated with
Scottish malt whisky and ales in the many local pubs.

Edinburgh is perhaps best summed up by one of its famous sons,
the novelist Robert Louis Stevenson, who described it as 'a
profusion of eccentricities; a dream in masonry and living rock'.
Rich in culture, with modern and medieval architecture woven
together and a burgeoning music and nightlife scene, Edinburgh
provides a captivating experience for travellers from all walks of
life.