Britain and Ireland Highlights
Britain and Ireland Highlights
$3450
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Britain and Ireland Highlights" tour, a captivating journey through the rich history and vibrant cultures of England, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Begin in London, exploring its regal traditions before venturing to Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon and the historic streets of York. Discover the scenic beauty of the Lake District and the cultural allure of Edinburgh. Cross the Irish Sea to Belfast and Dublin, where you'll delve into the story of Guinness and the craft of Waterford Crystal. Experience the warmth of Welsh hospitality at an award-winning vineyard in Cardiff, and marvel at the ancient wonders of Stonehenge and the Roman Baths in Bath. With expert guidance, luxury transport, and immersive cultural experiences, this tour promises unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of these iconic destinations. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to London
Location: London
Accommodation: Park Plaza Riverbank, Park Plaza County Hall
Accommodation Name: Park Plaza Riverbank
London bids you a warm welcome to its regal traditions and centuries-old heritage. Stroll through its Royal Parks to relax after your journey, or take to its streets to admire elegant façades merged with the modern verve of a global capital that marches to its own multi-cultural tune.
Day 2: Stratford-upon-Avon, York and on to Harrogate
Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, York, Harrogate
Accommodation: Crowne Plaza
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast, 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 Center, before embarking on your drive 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 3: Through the Scenic Lake District to Glasgow
Location: Yorkshire Dales National Park, Lake District, Lake Windermere, Gretna Green, Glasgow, Glasgow Cathedral, George Square
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 4: Explore Enchanting Edinburgh
Location: Glasgow, Edinburgh, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh Castle, 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 5: Cross the Irish Sea to Belfast and Dublin
Location: Ailsa Craig, 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 6: Discover Diverse Dublin Dive Into Culture
Location: Dublin, Guinness Storehouse, Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, Temple Bar, Dublin, Grafton Street, 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 colorful street performers. This evening, consider joining an Optional Experience to a rousing Irish cabaret performance.
Day 7: Journey to Kilkenny and on to Waterford Dive Into Culture
Location: Kildare, Kilkenny, Waterford
Accommodation: Waterford Marina Hotel
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 8: Ferry Across to Cultural Cardiff Connect with Locals
Location: Cardiff
Accommodation: Park Inn by Radisson City Center
Accommodation Name: Park Inn by Radisson City Center
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 Center, 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 9: Soak up Bath and Stonehenge then off to London
Location: Bath, Stonehenge, London
Accommodation: Park Plaza County Hall, Park Plaza Riverbank
Accommodation Name: Park Plaza Riverbank
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.
Day 10: Farewell London
Location: London
Meals Included: Breakfast
Say farewell to your traveling companions at the end of your vacation, as you prepare to travel home with wonderful memories.
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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Trafalgar Local Host in London
The services of a Trafalgar Local Host are available when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel.
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London Hotel Transfers
Pick-up and drop-off services are provided when you stay at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel, booked through Trafalgar.
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Cherry-picked Hotels
Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted.
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Porterage and Gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.
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Hotel Tips and Taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered.
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Sightseeing and Extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are part of the tour.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury Coach with Wi-Fi
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Ferry Across the Irish Sea
Ferry crossings are included from Scotland to Northern Ireland and from Ireland to South Wales.
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 for all travelers.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and experiences not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
Mode of Transport
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi, enjoy ferry crossings across the Irish Sea, and experience alternative transportation such as rail journeys, ensuring a seamless and comfortable travel experience.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels, including Park Plaza Riverbank in London, Crowne Plaza in Harrogate, Novotel in Glasgow, Clayton Ballsbridge in Dublin, and Waterford Marina in Waterford, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.
Dining Summary
- 9 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Dinner (D)
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.
Iconic Experience
- 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.
- Gretna Green: Visit the famous spot where runaway lovers were married.
- Lake District: Drive through the hauntingly beautiful Lakes District, immortalized by literary greats of the Romantic Movement.
- 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.
- Belfast: Join a Local Specialist to hear about the history of the city and learn of its progress and current prosperity. See the murals in different locations indicating the political sentiments of local residents.
- Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
- Cardiff: Learn more about Wales' capital and cultural hub, Cardiff, as you enjoy an orientation of this vibrant city with your Travel Director.
- Bath: Admire UNESCO-listed Bath, with its elegant Georgian facades and the bimillennial Roman Baths from which the city takes its name.
- Stonehenge: Walk around the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® dining experience at Mharsanta restaurant in Glasgow, where you can enjoy a meal made from locally sourced ingredients. Additionally, in Cardiff, you will have a Be My Guest experience with the Norris family at their vineyard, enjoying a homemade meal and learning about sustainable farming practices. ...more ...less
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What cultural experiences can I expect during the tour?
You will visit the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin to learn about the history of Guinness and enjoy a pint in the Gravity Bar. In Kildare, you'll explore the Irish National Stud Farm and its Japanese Gardens. In Waterford, you'll witness the craft of crystal making at the House of Waterford Crystal. ...more ...less
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Are there any special experiences related to sustainability on this tour?
Yes, the tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Roman Baths in Bath, which supports local educational programs. Additionally, the dining experience at Mharsanta restaurant in Glasgow focuses on sustainability by sourcing ingredients locally and reducing their carbon footprint. ...more ...less
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What historical sites will be visited during the tour?
The tour includes visits to several historical sites such as Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, Edinburgh Castle, the Roman Baths in Bath, and the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries. It also includes ferry crossings across the Irish Sea from Scotland to Northern Ireland and from Ireland to South Wales.
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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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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD 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 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Enquire for Extra Savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.
Britain and Ireland Highlights
10 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom
Visiting: London, Stratford-upon-Avon, York, Harrogate, Yorkshire Dales National Park, Lake District, Lake Windermere, Gretna Green, Glasgow, Glasgow Cathedral, George Square, Edinburgh, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh Castle, Ailsa Craig, Belfast, Dublin, Guinness Storehouse, Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, Temple Bar, Dublin, Grafton Street, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Waterford, Cardiff, Bath, Stonehenge ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BBIHZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided