Wonders of Britain and Ireland
Wonders of Britain and Ireland
Waterford, Ireland
Ross Castle, Killarney National Park, Ireland
Blarney Castle
The famous "Ladies View", Ring of Kerry, Ireland
Temple Bar Street, Dublin, Ireland
The Beatles statue, Liverpool, UK
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Sign post with landmarks in the city of York, with view of York Minster in the background, UK
William Shakespeare's birthplace, Henley street in Stratford upon Avon, UK
Oxford University, Oxford, UK
A Trafalgar Coach
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Wonders of Britain and Ireland
12 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom
Visiting: Stonehenge, Waterford, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Dublin, Liverpool, Edinburgh, York, Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BIBIZM20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the "Wonders of Britain and Ireland," exploring the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of England, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Discover iconic sites such as Stonehenge, the Roman Baths in Bath, and Edinburgh Castle. Experience the charm of cities like Dublin, Cardiff, and York, and enjoy scenic drives through the English Lake District and the Ring of Kerry. Delight in cultural experiences, including a visit to the Guinness Storehouse and a traditional Irish dinner with the O'Sullivan family. Stay in carefully selected hotels, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your adventure. With expert guides, flexible sightseeing, and a luxury coach, this tour offers a perfect blend of must-see highlights and local experiences, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to explore the cultural and natural wonders of these captivating regions.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Stonehenge and Bath and on to Cardiff
Location: Stonehenge
Accommodation: Leonardo Hotel Cardiff
Accommodation Name: Leonardo Cardiff
Meals Included: Dinner
Ponder the mysteries of the ancient megaliths of Stonehenge, before driving west to Bath to visit the Roman Baths on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Cross the Severn Estuary to Cardiff, then view the Wales Millennium Centre and the National Assembly at Cardiff Bay. Later, enjoy warm hospitality and traditional Welsh pub fare and drinks at a rousing dinner.
Day 2: Onwards to Waterford
Location: Waterford
Accommodation: Marina, Fitzwilton
Accommodation Name: Waterford Marina, Fitzwilton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, view the Principality Stadium during your orientation of Cardiff. Enjoy some leisure time in this modern capital. Perhaps visit the Victorian Gothic fantasy of Cardiff Castle at the heart of the city. Cross the Irish Sea by ferry to the 'Emerald Isle' and travel to historic Waterford, where you'll dine in your hotel tonight.
Day 3: Admire Blarney Castle and Journey to Killarney Dive Into Culture
Location: Killarney
Accommodation: Hotel Killarney
Accommodation Name: Killarney
Meals Included: Breakfast
Dive Into Culture and watch the master crafters of the renowned House of Waterford Crystal. Then, kiss the Blarney Stone to acquire the 'gift of the gab', before travelling to the picturesque town of Killarney.
Day 4: A Day on the Ring of Kerry Connect with Locals
Location: Ring of Kerry
Accommodation: Hotel Killarney
Accommodation Name: Killarney
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, experience the enduring beauty of Ireland's most scenic coastal drive around the Iveragh Peninsula – the emerald green hills, centuries-old stone villages and vivid blue seascapes provide an exquisite backdrop for your leisurely drive around what has become known as the Ring of Kerry. See Daniel O'Connell's Cahirsiveen, the fishing village of Waterville, the Black Valley and Moll's Gap with its panoramic views. Later, meet the O'Sullivan family at Molly Gallivan’s 200-year-old cottage, sharing a memorable Be My Guest experience.
Day 5: Journey to Cultural Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center.
Accommodation Name: Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center
Meals Included: Breakfast
Celtic art and history take centre stage this morning as you visit the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary, the seat of Irish kings for centuries. Perched atop a limestone outcrop in the Golden Vale, the historic ruins house one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture in Europe. Arrive this afternoon in Dublin, where you will join your Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour to see Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral and the stately Georgian Squares. This evening, consider joining an Optional Experience to enjoy the rousing sounds of an Irish cabaret.
Day 6: Dublin Your Way Dive Into Culture
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center.
Accommodation Name: Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center
Meals Included: Breakfast
Dive Into Culture to discover the fascinating 250-year-old story of Guinness at its original home, the Guinness Storehouse. Then, top it off with a taste in their Gravity Bar while you enjoy the panoramic views of Dublin. The rest of the day is yours to soak up the cosy atmosphere of the Irish capital. Ramble through the buzzing streets of Temple Bar or visit Grafton Street, famous for its colourful street performers.
Day 7: The Sights of Chester and Liverpool
Location: Liverpool
Accommodation: Leonardo Hotel Liverpool
Accommodation Name: Leonardo Hotel Liverpool, Leonardo Hotel Manchester Piccadilly
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Board the ferry to Wales. Admire the spectacular landscape of Snowdonia National Park as you travel to the ancient city of Chester, with its characteristic Tudor Rows and medieval walls. Arrive later in Liverpool, the haunt of the 'Fab Four', joining your companions for a tasty dinner.
Day 8: Through the Lake District to Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation: Apex City
Accommodation Name: Apex City
Meals Included: Breakfast
The beautiful landscape, which for centuries inspired the Romantic poets, provides a mesmerising backdrop for your scenic drive from the lush green hills of Lancashire to the Lake District. Skirt the shores of England's largest lake, Windermere, as you travel through countryside made famous by poet William Wordsworth. Cross the Scottish border and visit the runaway wedding capital that is Gretna Green. This evening, you arrive in beguiling Edinburgh, where you'll spend the next two nights.
Day 9: Discover Remarkable Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation: Apex City
Accommodation Name: Apex City
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join a Local Specialist this morning for a memorable sightseeing tour of this captivating capital, including a visit to Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city on Castle Rock. See Auld Reekie's Royal Mile and the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse in the shadow of Arthur's Seat, and admire the Georgian façades in Edinburgh's New Town. Tickets to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that align with performance dates.
Day 10: Venture to York
Location: York
Accommodation: Novotel Center
Accommodation Name: Novotel Centre
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey south to the medieval market town of Alnwick with its impressive castle and Tenantry Column, upon which the Percy Lion sits and surveys the town. Marvel at the magnificent scenery as you cross Northumberland and the River Tyne at Newcastle en route to York where you’ll walk through the charming Shambles, see the medieval walls and York Minster, one of the greatest cathedrals in the world.
Day 11: On to Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon
Location: Stratford-upon-Avon
Accommodation: Mercure Warwickshire Walton Hall Hotel and Spa, Stratford Manor
Accommodation Name: Mercure Warwickshire Walton Hall Hotel and Spa, Stratford Manor
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace and Visitor Centre in Stratford-upon-Avon to see where the 'Avon Bard' was born and raised. View Anne Hathaway's thatched cottage. This evening, join your fellow travellers for dinner.
Day 12: Journey through the Cotswolds to Oxford and London
Location: Oxford
Accommodation: Park Plaza Riverbank, Park Plaza County Hall
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to the Cotswolds this morning and the little churchyard at Bladon where Sir Winston Churchill is buried. Arriving in Oxford, the oldest university city in the British Isles, you'll enjoy an orientation tour of the city to view the Radcliffe Camera and the Bodleian Library and visit one of the university’s famous colleges (when open). Return to London this afternoon and bid a fond farewell to your Travel Director and newfound friends at the end of a wonderful holiday.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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London: The services of a Trafalgar Local Host
The services of a Trafalgar Local Host are included when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel.
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London: Pick-up and drop-off
Pick-up and drop-off services are included when you stay at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel, booked through Trafalgar.
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Cherry-picked hotels
Stay in cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted, throughout your journey.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are included.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are included in the tour.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Return ferry across the Irish Sea
Return ferry across the Irish Sea between Wales and Ireland is included.
What's Not Included
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Optional excursions
Optional excursions not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels throughout your journey, including the Leonardo Hotel Cardiff, Waterford Marina, Hotel Killarney, Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center, Leonardo Hotel Liverpool, Apex City in Edinburgh, Novotel Centre in York, and Mercure Warwickshire Walton Hall Hotel and Spa. Enjoy comfort and convenience with all hotel tips, charges, and local taxes included.Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 11 Breakfast (B)
Dive Into Culture
- Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
- 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.
Mode of Transport
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries, and enjoy a return ferry across the Irish Sea between Wales and Ireland. Optional experiences and free time are included, with pick-up and drop-off services available when staying at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel.Dive into Culture
- Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
- 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.
Iconic Experience
- Stonehenge: Walk around the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.
- Bath: Admire UNESCO-listed Bath, with its elegant Georgian facades and the bimillennial Roman Baths from which the city takes its name.
- Cardiff: Learn more about Wales' capital and cultural hub, Cardiff, as you enjoy an orientation of this vibrant city with your Travel Director.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts! Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
- Ring of Kerry: Admire Ireland's enduring scenic beauty on one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
- Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
- Cashel: See the Rock of Cashel where St. Patrick preached.
- Chester: See the Jubilee Clock, cathedral, city walls, and famous black and white Rows.
- Lake District: Drive through the hauntingly beautiful Lakes District, immortalised by literary greats of the Romantic Movement.
- Gretna Green: Visit the famous spot where runaway lovers were married.
- Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Specialist as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
- Alnwick: See the impressive Alnwick Castle and Tenantry Column during a visit of this traditional county town.
- York: Your Travel Director will show you the York Minster, the city walls and the medieval Shambles during your orientation of the city.
- Stratford-upon-Avon: Learn about the life of William Shakespeare, arguably history's most famous writer, when you visit his birthplace. Then enjoy some time to explore this pretty town with its iconic Tudor houses.
- Oxford: See the spires and colleges of this world-famous university town.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Roman Baths in Bath, a Be My Guest dinner with the O'Sullivan Family at Molly Gallivan's 200-year-old cottage, and a Dive Into Culture experience at the House of Waterford Crystal and the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin.
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Are there any special events included in the tour?
Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in cherry-picked hotels throughout the journey, including the Leonardo Hotel Cardiff, Waterford Marina, Hotel Killarney, Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center, Leonardo Hotel Liverpool, Apex City in Edinburgh, Novotel Centre in York, and Mercure Warwickshire Walton Hall Hotel and Spa. All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are included.
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What meals are provided during the tour?
The tour includes breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals. Specifically, there are 5 dinners and 11 breakfasts included.
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What transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries, and a return ferry across the Irish Sea between Wales and Ireland.
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What is the starting and ending point of the tour?
The tour starts and ends in London, with pick-up and drop-off at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel.
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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.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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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.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Transfer as credit for 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.
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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.
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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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