Our founders are proudly British by birth and possess deep insider knowledge of these regions, especially in Scotland, Ireland, the Lake District, London, Oxfordshire and the Channel Islands. Journey across the landscapes of ‘Outlander’ and ‘Bond’, see ‘Bridgerton’- worthy castles by horse and carriage, or explore County Down where Winterfell’s ‘Game of Thrones’ was brought to life. With unrivalled access to the latest museum and gallery openings, together with longstanding relationships with exceptional private guides, we introduce you to experiences that remain beyond the reach of most visitors.
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The United Kingdom is a single sovereign state made up of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and we also specialise in the Republic of Ireland. The energy of London, the elegance of historic market towns and the dramatic landscapes of the Giant’s Causeway are only the beginning of what awaits our guests exploring these remarkable destinations.
Beyond famous landmarks, there is privileged access: secret libraries in Highland castles, islands accessible only at low tide, a dawn walk with an archaeologist across a five-thousand-year-old passage tomb before the gates open to the public and intimate dinners in Dublin townhouses hosted by Michelin-starred chefs. The distances are modest, but the contrasts are striking, from Edinburgh’s Georgian beauty to Connemara’s Atlantic edge, the iconic Sussex Downs to the Highlands’ loch-carved drama. Experience Glyndebourne opera, Islay whisky distillery tasting, sea eagles wheeling above the small Isles, Irish Guinness, and exclusive access to prestigious British castles, all in one continuous journey.
That is the essence of these countries: enormous variety, gathered close. Ancient and irreverent, formal and rain-swept, ceremonial and delightfully quirky. Woven together with the care and quiet access creating very special memories.
Wix Squared has some exceptional specialists to get you under the skin of the country, including:
- A royal historian to provide private tours of Windsor, Hampton Court, and the Tower of London after hours
- A peer who owns a castle, invites you to a candle-lit tour of his family’s art collection in the Scottish Borders
- A Cambridge literary guide specialising in the Brontës, Wordsworth, Austen and the Lake Poets
- A Gaelic-speaking Hebridean skipper who offers private boat trips around the smaller Isles
- A master distiller to lead a bespoke whisky helicopter flight in Speyside and Islay
- A rare-breed horseman in Ireland to organise private cross-country rides on Wicklow farms
- A behind-the-scenes meeting with a Savile Row tailor and bespoke shoemaker
- A falconer in the Cotswolds and a stalker in the Highlands specialising in private country pursuits
- A National Gallery curator who can provide after-hours access in London and Dublin
- A dedicated genealogist who can help trace your ancestry
- A sheepdog trainer to give you a private sheepdog demonstration
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Itinerary Starting Price
From £4,600 per person, for 5 days including accommodation, private guiding, entrance fees and private local chauffeur (not including flights).
Random Fact
Wales is home to the town with the longest place name in Europe – Lanfairpwllgw yngyllgogery chwyrndrobwlll lantysil iogogogoch.
Festival
Scotland’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe, attracts performers and audiences from all over the world during the month of August.
What to Eat
England’s classic fish and chips, Ireland’s hearty Irish stew, Wales’s Welsh rarebit and Scotland’s savoury haggis. Each plate is a tribute to the unique flavours and food traditions of the region, but don’t forget a traditional British afternoon tea.
What to Read
For the discriminating traveller, England has Jane Austen’s timeless “Pride and Prejudice”, Ireland has James Joyce’s groundbreaking “Ulysses”, Wales has the evocative “How Green Was My Valley” by Richard Llewellyn and Scotland has the edgy “Trainspotting” by Irvine Welsh.
What to buy
England is famous for its fine artisan teas; Ireland for sophisticated, super soft wool sweaters and beautiful Waterford crystal; Wales for handcrafted love spoons and fine Welsh slate; Scotland for iconic tartan, fine single malt whisky and Harris Tweed.
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Estates & Castles
In Scotland we love the all-encompassing family-friendly Gleneagles, the historic Inverlochy Castle, Loch Lomond’s Cameron House and the beautifully decorated interiors of the Torridon with jaw-dropping views. Ballyfin is a winner in Ireland as a luxury country house with Michelin-star meals, whilst in Wales, the historic Bodysgallen Hall is a wonderful getaway with spectacular gardens. Throughout England we have great connections with the famed Heckfield Place, Estelle Manor, The Newt, Beaverbrook, Thyme, Cowley Manor and Cliveden House, where each place offers a different interpretation of stately living.
Hotels of Distinction
Edinburgh’s Rocco Forte Balmoral Hotel has a timeless elegance whilst on the outskirts of the city, Prestonfield has a theatrical glamour and The Fife Arms in Braemar has a world class art collection displayed throughout the hotel. In London, it is hard to choose between the majesty of The Raffles at The OWO, The Claridge’s art-deco style and the family-owned Goring Hotel. We also love the boutique Firmdale hotels and townhouses around the West End. The Merrion in Dublin combines Georgian grandeur with modern elegance, whilst The Grove at Narberth in Wales is a magnificent rural hideaway.
Guest Houses & Lodges
A choice of beautiful guesthouses, lodges and farmhouses across the UK & Ireland provide a personal touch. Dromoland Castle Lodge in County Clare offers estate living in modest but elegant surroundings. Kinloch Lodge on the Isle of Skye is a remote Scottish getaway, with sporting lodge tradition and quiet contemporary luxury, whilst Hope Lodge and Killiehuntly Farmhouse offer authentic and sustainable approaches. Plas Dinas Country House near Caernarfon has a friendly and quietly luxurious vibe and Gilpin Lodge in the Lake District has exceptional cuisine near Windermere.
Immersive Accommodation
The timeless romance of the Belmond Royal Scotsman or the British Pullman train winding through wild landscapes is a unique way to travel. Privately hire Aldourie Castle in Loch Ness or one of the Wildland cottages in the Cairngorms. In England, characterful Yorkshire cottages are scattered amongst the moors, whilst in Wales, exceptional glamping retreats offer a design-led connection to nature. For something a little out of the ordinary, take exclusive use of Henry’s Townhouse in London, a shepherd’s hut in Kent or a private boathouse on the water’s edge in the Lake District.
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Food & drink
Savour artisan cheeses and local salamis, embark on private truffle hunts, and unlock the secrets of the regional cuisine in hands-on cooking classes, some led by celebrity chefs. Indulge in Irish seafood on the coast or enjoy private single malt whisky tastings at distilleries in Scotland. Our custom excursions offer exclusive behind-the-scenes access, unique street-food walks with a local food fanatic – some Michelin focused, private chef’s tables, mixology classes and immersive cultural encounters, making every meal a celebration of local heritage, wonderful food and the ultimate in gourmet enjoyment.
Family Adventures
Uncover the real-life Harry Potter filming locations and step into the magical world of Game of Thrones in Northern Ireland. Explore the secrets of Mary King’s Close before visiting Edinburgh’s famous Camera Obscura. Kiss the famous Blarney Stone for luck, be amazed by the otherworldly Giant’s Causeway and reveal ancient legends in Snowdonia. Discover the historic castles of the UK and Ireland with a treasure map and travel the dramatic countryside by bicycle or on horseback. Then take in London’s Natural History Museum and Science Museum for an inspiring, hands-on insight into science, history and the natural world.
History, Culture & Art
Experience the dynamic streets of London, Dublin, Cardiff and Edinburgh where history and modern-day living blend effortlessly. We can arrange private walking tours of these cities to bring these places to life and step back in time to reveal hidden secrets and stories from centuries ago. From the treasures of The Victoria and Albert Museum, antiquities at The British Museum and dozens of smaller lesser-known museums, we have expert guides to show you the highlights, explain their importances and gain private access or skip the queues. Follow in the footsteps of Shakespeare, Joyce, the Beatles or Turner to add another dimension to your trip.
Nature Lovers
Our guides can help you navigate dramatic national parks such as the Lake District, Snowdonia or the Scottish Highlands, or try your hand at mountaineering and ghyll scrambling (a traditional form of stream climbing) in wild countryside. Explore scenic trails on a mountain bike or the excitement of road cycling routes which wind through rolling hills and rugged coastlines. Enjoy guided nature walks, meeting highland cattle and go partake in birdwatching expeditions. For something a little more unusual we can arrange a sheepdog demonstration, foraging or a seaweed and abalone experience.
Private Access
Our trusted network across the UK and Ireland unlocks experiences beyond the reach of most visitors. Enjoy private access to Trinity College and the Book of Kells after hours, an exclusive viewing of the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London, a private opening of Edinburgh Castle, dine in an elegant Georgian townhouse or treat yourself to a whisky tasting hosted by those who know the craft best. Many of our tailor-made journeys are accompanied by an experienced chauffeur-guide, whose local knowledge, trusted relationships and thoughtful storytelling provide continuity throughout your travels.
Sporting Events
For those seeking exceptional sporting experiences, we can arrange behind the scenes access, purchase ‘sold-out’ tickets or have an expert/retired champion give you a different insight into the sport. From Wimbledon and Premier League football in England to historic rugby fixtures in Wales and Ireland. Enjoy the best of equestrian sport at Royal Ascot or the Dublin Horse Show. Play golf at legendary courses including St Andrews, Royal County Down and Gleneagles. Fish for Atlantic salmon on pristine rivers or experience traditional stalking across the breathtaking estates of the Scottish Highlands.
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This seamless journey offers a sophisticated blend of culture, beauty and extraordinary experiences, from historic estates and lively towns to the breathtaking fjords and outdoor adventures of Norway. Now it’s easier than ever to link these two unique places with direct flights between 6 airports in Norway and numerous UK & Irish cities.
Heritage, culture and contrast make a compelling pairing in the UK & Ireland and Morocco. This well-connected journey is a seamless combination of tradition, adventure and refined relaxation in one unforgettable itinerary, taking you from windswept coasts and historic estates to bustling souks, desert landscapes and the energy of Marrakech.
The UK & Ireland and Iceland make for an interesting combination of heritage and raw natural beauty. With direct flights to Reykjavik, it is an effortless connection from historic cities, countryside, volcanoes, glaciers and waterfalls in Iceland with a sophisticated mix of culture, adventure and unforgettable landscapes.
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Wix Squared can curate experiences in historic castles, chic country houses and contemporary venues in bustling cities across England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Think private meals in remarkable mansions, the exclusive use of a Lake District lakeside property or celebrations against spectacular backdrops of the Scottish Highlands and Ireland’s untamed coastline. We can transform a castle into a stage to build an unforgettable story with actors positioned around the estate, treasure hunts in the grounds or a murder mystery party complete with theatre, costumes and make-up.
From London’s iconic venues to the national parks of Scotland and Dublin’s rich cultural pulse, every location has its own distinct character. Layer in traditional music, world-class performers or bespoke culinary experiences built around regional delicacies, and what you have is an event that people will talk about for years. Our deep local knowledge and trusted relationships mean every detail, however small, is taken care of.
Find out more about Events by Wix Squared
Weather
The United Kingdom and Northern Island are year-round destinations.
Winter (December–February) across the regions is crisp, often wet and atmospheric, with frost and occasional snow.
Spring (March–May) is a riot of colour when gardens burst into blossom and days get milder.
Summer (June-August) is the time of long, golden days, though watch out of the midges in Scotland.
Autumnal colours make this a beautiful time of year to visit (September – November).
- In January, the climate is often cold and damp. England has gentler weather, whilst Scotland can encounter snow and icy conditions. Wales and Ireland can have overcast skies, with some rainfall. Warm layers are advisable, as conditions can change quickly. New Year celebrations, Burns Night and Hogmanay are fun festivities to join in with.
- February is expected to be cold and unpredictable. Rain is frequent, with occasional snowfall, particularly in Scotland and northern regions. Daylight hours are brief with often grey skies, coastal and western parts are windy. Half term family breaks in snowdrop covered gardens, countryside walks and the Six Nations rugby are highlights at this time of year.
- In March, temperatures begin to rise, with average highs between 4°C and 11°C, but there is still plenty of rain and showers. There will be occasional frost and cold winds, particularly in the north and west. Longer days begin to bring brighter spells with daffodils coming into bloom. Dublin is a great place to be on St Patrick’s Day.
- Spring arrives in earnest during April, and milder weather is becoming more frequent with rain and bright sunny spells. The days are appreciably longer, and the trees are in blossom with bluebell woods to explore during the Easter holidays. You can expect the landscapes to be fresh, leafy and green, particularly in the Cotswolds and the Lake District.
- In May, the regions experience milder, more settled spring weather. Rainfall drops and sunny spells increase, encouraging outdoor activities including the Chelsea Flower Show. Days are much longer and warmer, with gardens and the countryside in full bloom. It is a great time to visit the Isle of Skye before the busy summer descends but avoid the May bank holidays.
- Long daylight hours particularly in Scotland, but there are still showers from time to time and cloudy spells. The longer daylight hours encourage festivals, outdoor dining and countryside exploration. Wildflowers are blooming and Royal Ascot, Glastonbury and Trooping of the Colour are fun events to visit.
- This is the peak summer month with social sporting events such as Henley Royal Regatta and Wimbledon. Temperatures typically range from 14°C to 22°C with the warmest, sunniest days of the year. Pembrokeshire and Cornwall are at their best and family holidays are popular, so advance booking is advised.
- August is the final summer month, though a little less predictable. It is often warm and sunny but there can be showers and brief cool spells. The beaches and countryside are attracting visitors taking advantage of the lingering daylight and colourful landscapes with the Edinburgh Fringe festival’s energy being a key event for Scotland.
- Early autumn arrives across the UK and Ireland in September. Temperatures gradually cool, ranging between 11°C and 18 °C. Rainfall increases, but mild, pleasant days continue. Harvest festivals take place and it is a quieter time to visit once the schools have reopened and the hotels offer some great deals.
- Expect to experience the best of real autumn weather this month especially in the Scottish glens and the Lake District. London Fashion week is in October and Halloween is best celebrated in Irland (Samhain). Colder temperatures and misty mornings and log fires create atmospheric castle stays. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the last of the crisp, fresh air outside before the colder months ahead.
- The climate often becomes wetter and colder. Rain, fog and frost are common, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 10°C. The trees are shedding their leaves, the days are growing short and grey, and communities are beginning their winter preparations with early Christmas markets and bonfire night celebrations.
- December brings winter in earnest with cold, damp weather, snow sometimes and frosty mornings. Towns are lit up with festive lights, pantomimes, and Christmas themed events can be found across the country. It is a time for holiday markets, seasonal events and preparations for Hogmanay and the New Year.
