Britain and Ireland Highlights

Britain and Ireland Highlights

Sign post with landmarks in the city of York, with view of York Minster in the background, UK
York

Sign post with landmarks in the city of York, with view of York Minster in the background, UK

Day 1
William Shakespeare's birthplace, Henley street in Stratford upon Avon, UK
Stratford-upon-Avon

William Shakespeare's birthplace, Henley street in Stratford upon Avon, UK

Day 1
Knaresborough Viaduct, Harrogate, UK
Harrogate

Knaresborough Viaduct, Harrogate, UK

Day 1
Gretna Green Village, UK
Gretna Green

Gretna Green Village, UK

Day 2
George Square, Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow

George Square, Glasgow, Scotland

Day 2
Lake District National Park

Aerial view of Lake Windemere, Lake District, UK

Day 2
Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland
Edinburgh

Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland

Day 3
George Square, Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow

George Square, Glasgow, Scotland

Day 3
Temple Bar Street, Dublin, Ireland
Dublin

Temple Bar Street, Dublin, Ireland

Day 4
Custom House and Lagan River, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast

Custom House and Lagan River, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Day 4
Dublin

Penny Bridge, Dublin, Ireland

Day 5
Kilkenny, Ireland
Kilkenny

Kilkenny, Ireland

Day 6
Waterford, Ireland
Waterford

Waterford, Ireland

Day 6
Cardiff

Aerial view of Cardiff Bay, Wales, UK

Day 7
London

London's Millennium Bridge with a view to St Paul's Cathedral, UK

Day 8
Stonehenge

Stonehenge at sunset, UK

Day 8
Bath

Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon in Bath, UK

Day 8

Map
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Britain and Ireland Highlights

8 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom

Visiting: Stratford-upon-Avon, York, Harrogate, Yorkshire Dales National Park, Lake District National Park, Gretna Green, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Belfast, Dublin, Kilkenny, Waterford, Cardiff, Bath, Stonehenge, London

Tour operator:

Trafalgar

Tour code:

BBIHZM20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

UK tours by Coach

Activities:

Sightseeing

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes and rich histories of Britain and Ireland with the "Britain and Ireland Highlights" tour. This adventure takes you from the bustling streets of London to the enchanting cities of Edinburgh, Belfast, and Dublin. Discover the cultural treasures of York, Glasgow, Cardiff, and Bath, and visit iconic landmarks such as Shakespeare's Birthplace, Edinburgh Castle, and the Roman Baths. Experience the charm of the Irish National Stud and the craftsmanship of Waterford Crystal. Travel in comfort aboard a luxury air-conditioned coach, with ferry crossings across the Irish Sea, and enjoy stays in carefully selected hotels. Delight in local dining experiences, including a sustainable meal at Glasgow's Mharsanta restaurant and a warm Welsh welcome at a family vineyard in Cardiff. This tour promises a perfect blend of sightseeing, cultural immersion, and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to explore the best of these storied lands.

Highlights

  • Explore Edinburgh, Belfast, and Dublin.

  • Discover York, Glasgow, Cardiff, and Bath.

  • Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon and Edinburgh Castle.

  • Experience the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin and the Roman Baths in Bath.

  • Admire the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge.

  • Enjoy a dining experience at Mharsanta restaurant in Glasgow.

  • Meet the Norris family at their vineyard in Cardiff.

Places You'll See

Sunrise view of a narrowboat in Stratford upon Avon, UK

Sunrise View Of A Narrowboat In Stratford Upon Avon, Uk

Sign post with landmarks in the city of York, with view of York Minster in the background, UK

Sign Post With Landmarks In The City Of York, With View Of York Minster In The Background, Uk

Beautiful 15th Century almshouses in the historic town of Stratford upon Avon, UK

Beautiful 15Th Century Almshouses In The Historic Town Of Stratford Upon Avon, Uk

Clyde Arc Bridge, Glasgow, Scotland

Clyde Arc Bridge, Glasgow, Scotland

The University of Glasgow, Scotland

The University Of Glasgow, Scotland

George Square, Glasgow, Scotland

George Square, Glasgow, Scotland

Lake Buttermere, Lake District, UK

Lake Buttermere, Lake District, Uk

Ulswater, Lake District, UK

Ulswater, Lake District, Uk

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Palace Of Holyroodhouse

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland

Edinburgh City Skyline From Calton Hill, Scotland

Edinburgh Military Tattoo Celebrations

Edinburgh Military Tattoo Celebrations

Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland

Victoria Street In Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland

View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

View Of Edinburgh And Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Temple Bar Street, Dublin, Ireland

Temple Bar Street, Dublin, Ireland

Belfast City Hall, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast City Hall, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Penny Bridge, Dublin, Ireland

Penny Bridge, Dublin, Ireland

Custom House and Lagan River, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Custom House And Lagan River, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland

Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland

Kilkenny, Ireland

Kilkenny, Ireland

Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny

Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny

Kilkenny rope bridge, Ireland

Kilkenny Rope Bridge, Ireland

Waterford, Ireland

Waterford, Ireland

Waterford, Ireland

Waterford, Ireland

Cardiff, Wales, UK

Cardiff, Wales, Uk

London's Millennium Bridge with a view to St Paul's Cathedral, UK

London's Millennium Bridge With A View To St Paul's Cathedral, Uk

Stonehenge at sunset, UK

Stonehenge At Sunset, Uk

The Circus, the historic street of large townhouses in the city of Bath, UK

The Circus, The Historic Street Of Large Townhouses In The City Of Bath, Uk

London's city skyline along the River Thames, UK

London's City Skyline Along The River Thames, Uk

Victoria Embankment with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, London, UK

Victoria Embankment With Big Ben And The Houses Of Parliament, London, Uk

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Stratford-Upon-Avon, York And On To Harrogate

Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, York, Harrogate

Accommodation: Crowne Plaza

Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza

Meals Included: Dinner

Join your Travel Director today and delve into centuries of history - tales of star-crossed lovers, tragic kings and Roman emperors are brought to life as you visit Stratford-upon-Avon and follow in the footsteps of Shakespeare. Visit his Birthplace and the Visitor Centre, then continue north to the Viking city of York, where you'll enjoy an orientation walk around its historic streets. View the cobbled Shambles, see the ancient city walls and the magnificent York Minster. This evening, enjoy dinner in the Victorian spa town of Harrogate.

Day 2: Through The Scenic Lake District To Glasgow

Location: Yorkshire Dales National Park, Lake District National Park, Gretna Green, Glasgow

Accommodation: Novotel

Accommodation Name: Novotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey through the Yorkshire Dales National Park to the beautiful Lake District, which has inspired poets and writers for centuries. A highlight on your journey is England's pretty Lake Windermere, which you’ll pass as you continue through countryside made famous by the poet William Wordsworth. Cross the border, into Scotland, to the runaway wedding capital of Gretna Green. Here eloping couples would tie the knot over the Marriage Anvil. Drive through the Southern Uplands to vibrant Glasgow where your orientation will take you past Glasgow Cathedral and George Square. Tonight, consider joining an Optional Experience featuring a fabulous dinner and Scottish entertainment.

Day 3: Explore Enchanting Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh, Glasgow

Accommodation: Novotel

Accommodation Name: Novotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

From the cultural capital of Glasgow to enchanting Edinburgh with its exquisite medieval façades. Admire the elegant Georgian architecture in the New Town, see the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse, the new Scottish Parliament and the Royal Mile with a Local Specialist on a memorable sightseeing tour. Afterwards enjoy an included visit to Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city. Later, wander through the secret lanes of Auld Reekie before returning to Glasgow this evening for a delicious locally-sourced meal at Mharsanta restaurant during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience.

Day 4: Cross The Irish Sea To Belfast And Dublin

Location: Belfast, Dublin

Accommodation: Clayton Ballsbridge, The Address Hotel Connolly

Accommodation Name: Clayton Ballsbridge, The Address Connolly

Meals Included: Breakfast

Follow the rugged Ayrshire coast, past the island of Ailsa Craig, the stepping stone from Ireland to Scotland. Board the ferry to Northern Ireland, then join a Local Specialist to explore the crossroads of British and Irish culture in Belfast. You’ll view City Hall and the dock where the Titanic was built. This evening, arrive in the vibrant capital of Ireland where you'll spend the next two nights.

Day 5: Discover Diverse Dublin Dive Into Culture

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Clayton Ballsbridge, The Address Hotel Connolly

Accommodation Name: Clayton Ballsbridge, The Address Connolly

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dive Into Culture and discover the fascinating 250-year-old story of Guinness at its original home, the Guinness Storehouse. Top it off with a taste in their Gravity Bar while you enjoy the panoramic views of Dublin. Drive through the pretty streets of Dublin with a Local Specialist to admire the stately Georgian Squares, Trinity College and St. Patrick's Cathedral, the tallest church in Ireland, before spending the rest of the day exploring the sights alone. Ramble through Temple Bar or Grafton Street, famous for its colourful street performers. This evening, consider joining an Optional Experience to a rousing Irish cabaret performance.

Day 6: Journey To Kilkenny And On To Waterford Dive Into Culture

Location: Kilkenny, Waterford

Accommodation: Marina

Accommodation Name: Waterford Marina, Fitzwilton

Meals Included: Breakfast

Gain insights into rearing world-class thoroughbreds at the Irish National Stud established in 1946. Enjoy a guided walk through the farm and take some time to stroll through its tranquil Japanese Gardens, regarded as the best in Europe. Admire the imposing medieval castle at Kilkenny before some free time for lunch. The next stop sees you Dive Into Culture to witness the delicate craft of Waterford Crystal. Watch master crafters at work during a tour of the workshop and see the exquisitely crafted pieces in the showroom.

Day 7: Ferry Across To Cultural Cardiff Connect With Locals

Location: Cardiff

Accommodation: Park Inn by Radisson City Center

Accommodation Name: Park Inn by Radisson City Centre

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

An early start to your sightseeing today sees you cross the Irish Sea to Wales by ferry and continue your journey to the Welsh capital of Cardiff to view the Wales Millennium Centre, National Assembly and historic Cardiff Castle, in the heart of the city. This evening, join a local family for a Be My Guest experience in the idyllic Welsh countryside,. Visit the oldest and largest vineyard in Wales, you’ll learn how the Norris family are using sustainable farming practices and get to meet some of the resident animals that roam the land freely. You’ll enjoy a homemade meal, enchanting stories of rural life in Wales and warm Welsh hospitality, leaving with the knowledge that your visit supports the family in their efforts to farm sustainably.

Day 8: Soak Up Bath And Stonehenge Then Off To London

Location: Bath, Stonehenge, London

Meals Included: Breakfast

Traversing the Severn Estuary into England, arrive in the glorious UNESCO listed city of Bath, with its elegant Georgian façades and visit the world-famous Roman Baths for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Journey across the scenic landscapes of Wiltshire, paying a visit to the mysterious megalithic stone circle at Stonehenge, then return to London where your memorable holiday in Britain and Ireland comes to an end.

What's Included

  • Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver

    An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.

  • Trafalgar Local Host in London

    The services of a Trafalgar Local Host are available when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel.

  • Pick-up and Drop-off in London

    Pick-up and drop-off services are provided when you stay at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel, booked through Trafalgar.

  • Porterage and Gratuities

    All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.

  • Hotel Tips, Charges, and Local Taxes

    All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered.

  • Must-see Sightseeing and Surprise Extras

    Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are part of the tour.

  • Audio Headsets

    Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.

  • Luxury Air-conditioned Coach

    Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.

  • Ferry Crossings

    Ferry crossings across the Irish Sea from Scotland to Northern Ireland and from Ireland to South Wales are included.

  • Optional Experiences and Free Time

    Optional experiences and free time are available during the tour.

show more

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    International airfare to/from the start/end of your trip is not included.

  • Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included.

  • Optional Experiences

    Costs of optional experiences are not included.

  • Incidentals

    Incidental expenses, such as room service, laundry, phone calls, and internet access, are not included.

  • Additional Meals

    Meals, other than those included in the itinerary, are not covered.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses, such as souvenirs and tips, are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi, enjoy ferry crossings across the Irish Sea, and benefit from pick-up and drop-off services at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel.

Accommodation

Stay in cherry-picked hotels such as the Crowne Plaza in Harrogate, Novotel in Glasgow, Clayton Ballsbridge in Dublin, and Park Inn by Radisson City Centre in Cardiff, ensuring comfort and quality throughout your journey.

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 7 Breakfast (B)

Dive Into Culture

  • Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to see how the world’s most famous stout is created then enjoy the distinctive taste of a perfectly chilled pint of Guinness.
  • Kildare: Admire Ireland's finest thoroughbreds at the Irish National Stud Farm.
  • Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.

Dive into Culture

  • Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to see how the world’s most famous stout is created then enjoy the distinctive taste of a perfectly chilled pint of Guinness.
  • Kildare: Admire Ireland's finest thoroughbreds at the Irish National Stud Farm.
  • Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi, and includes ferry crossings across the Irish Sea. There are also pick-up and drop-off services at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will stay in cherry-picked hotels such as the Crowne Plaza in Harrogate, Novotel in Glasgow, Clayton Ballsbridge in Dublin, and Park Inn by Radisson City Centre in Cardiff, ensuring comfort and quality throughout your journey.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour includes breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals. Additionally, there are specific dining experiences such as a locally-sourced meal at Mharsanta restaurant in Glasgow and a homemade meal at a vineyard in Wales.

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as visiting the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, exploring the Irish National Stud and Japanese Garden near Kildare, and witnessing the craft of Waterford Crystal. You will also have a 'Be My Guest' experience at a vineyard in Wales.

  • What cultural sites will be visited during the tour?

    The tour visits several cultural sites including Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, Edinburgh Castle, the Roman Baths in Bath, and the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge. You will also explore the historic streets of York and view landmarks such as York Minster and Glasgow Cathedral.

  • Is there any focus on sustainability during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Mharsanta restaurant in Glasgow, which focuses on sustainability by sourcing ingredients locally and reducing their carbon footprint. The Roman Baths in Bath also support educational investments for the community.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1947

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Renato Arrieta  

Best tour I joined so far

14-Jan-2023

My first time with Trafalgar and I see no reason why I should not join them again.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
King Ng, Lafayette, California  

Very well planned trip with timely breaks during the coach ride..

08-Nov-2021

It was a well organized tour group and we hit lots of interesting and beautiful scenes. Like our previous trips with Trafalgar, tourists were treated with well manner and professional tour guide/director, making our trip very enjoyable and delightful!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Egypt

14-Jan-2023

We really did see the best of Egypt and beyond. Our tour guide, Mohammad, guided us through the rich history and the urban and rural life of such a unique and delightful country. We felt very safe and pampered.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Marshal Daguio  

Wonderful Best Of Turkey

06-Nov-2021

It was my first time with Trafalgar Tour and I had a wonderful trip from day 1 till the last day. The Tour Director, Yocel Atik is very knowledgeable and Excellent. The health director and coach driver are helpful and supportive as well. The hotels selected were comfortable especially Rixos Hotel and Movenpick Hotel. The Best of Turkey is better than I expected.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Barbara, Canada  

Irish Experience

09-Nov-2021

I am single and travel alone. I always feel secure and well-looked after when I travel with Trafalgar

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Trafalgar allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform trafalgar, 90 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

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