Britain and Ireland Grandeur Reverse

Britain and Ireland Grandeur Reverse

253 Views
23 Days From

$8075

$7268

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Go behind the scenes on a grand exploration of Britain and Ireland – one that will see you circle islands, scale highlands and cross the seas. No corner of the British Isles will remain unexplored, from London and Liverpool to Edinburgh, Dublin and Belfast with a visit to Giant’s Causeway, the Ring of Kerry and the ever-elusive ‘Nessie’ all in between. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Explore London, Edinburgh, Dublin, Belfast, and Londonderry with a Local Specialist.

  • Visit Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon and the medieval Alnwick.

  • Experience the majestic Edinburgh Castle and the scenic Isle of Skye.

  • Marvel at the natural wonder of the Giant's Causeway and the Cliffs of Moher.

  • Discover the historic Roman Baths in Bath and the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge.

  • Enjoy a scenic drive around the Ring of Kerry and a Cornish excursion.

  • Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on select departures.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome to London

Location: London

Accommodation: The Tower

Accommodation Name: The Tower

The cosmopolitan capital that is London is yours to explore today - the perfect launch pad to discover what's great about Great Britain. Spend the day relaxing in the Royal Parks, amble along the Thames or visit one of the many museums showcasing the art, culture and antiquities of what was once the British Empire.

Day 2: Explore the Sights of London

Location: London

Accommodation: The Tower

Accommodation Name: The Tower

Meals Included: Breakfast

Join a Local Specialist today for a memorable encounter with London's most iconic sights. See Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey where Britain's kings and queens have been crowned for centuries. Spend the rest of the day exploring London on your terms - shop for the best of British on Carnaby Street, admire the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus or visit 'The City' with Christopher Wren's great St. Paul's Cathedral.

Day 3: Journey to Stratford-upon-Avon and York

Location: Stratford-upon-Avon, York

Accommodation: Leonardo Hotel Leeds

Accommodation Name: Novotel Center

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The 'Bard of Avon' and his legacy take center stage as you travel to Stratford-upon-Avon to view Anne Hathaway's picturesque thatched cottage and visit Shakespeare's Birthplace and Visitor Center before heading to York, where you'll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and get to know your Travel Director and travel companions.

Day 4: Onwards to Edinburgh

Location: Alnwick, Edinburgh

Accommodation: Holiday Inn

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn

Meals Included: Breakfast

Venture north to the medieval market town of Alnwick with its impressive castle and Tenantry Column, upon which the Percy Lion sits imposingly overlooking the town’s beautiful gardens. Enjoy a scenic drive north to the enchanting capital of Edinburgh.

Day 5: Explore Elegant Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Scottish Parliament Building

Accommodation: Holiday Inn

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn

Meals Included: Breakfast

Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour to see the quaint Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse and new Scottish Parliament building. Enjoy free time before a visit to Edinburgh Castle, overlooking the town from Castle Rock. Tickets to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that align with performance dates.

Day 6: Venture to the Scottish Highlands

Location: St. Andrews, Pitlochry, Scottish Highlands

Accommodation: Highlander

Accommodation Name: Highlander

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Continue north to the historic town of St. Andrews, home to the oldest golf course in the world. View the famous 18th green which the golfing greats have clamoured to play on for centuries, before heading to picturesque Pitlochry and our overnight stop in the Scottish Highlands.

Day 7: Culloden, Loch Ness and on to the Isle of Skye

Location: Culloden, Loch Ness, Eilean Donan Castle, Isle of Skye

Accommodation: Dunollie

Accommodation Name: Dunollie

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

View the site of the bloody Battle of Culloden, where Bonnie Prince Charlie and his army of Jacobites were defeated in 1746. Then meander through the scenic Scottish Highlands along the banks of Loch Ness in search of Nessie. You’ll view the 13th-century Eilean Donan Castle where three lochs meet before traveling to the Isle of Skye where you dine in your hotel tonight.

Day 8: Journey to Glasgow

Location: Glencoe, Glasgow

Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn City Center

Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn City Center

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey past the site of the tragic 1692 massacre at Glencoe, known as the ‘Glen of Weeping' before heading to the Scottish cultural capital, Glasgow, where your orientation tour includes views of the Cathedral and the magnificent George Square, lined with statues of Great Britain's most celebrated sons.

Day 9: Continue to the Beautiful Lake District Dive Into Culture

Location: Falkirk, Gretna Green, Grasmere, Lake Windermere

Accommodation: Castle Green, Lancaster House

Accommodation Name: Lancaster House

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Visit Falkirk Wheel where you'll Dive Into Culture learning about the legacy of Scotland's canals and experience the world's only rotating boat lift. The runaway wedding capital of Gretna Green is your next stop today. See where eloping couples would make their vows over the Marriage Anvil before crossing the border and arriving in Grasmere, where famous Romantic poet William Wordsworth wrote his famous ‘Daffodils' poem. See Lake Windermere, England's largest lake, before arriving at your hotel.

Day 10: Off to Lively Liverpool

Location: Lake District, Liverpool

Accommodation: Leonardo Hotel Liverpool, Mercure Atlantic Tower

Accommodation Name: Leonardo Hotel Liverpool, Mercure Atlantic Tower

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel to the bold British city of Liverpool, hometown of the 'Fab Four'. Saunter through its edgy Scouse streets during your evening at leisure.

Day 11: Ferry Across to Dublin

Location: Chester, Anglesey, Dublin

Accommodation: Clayton Cardiff Lane

Accommodation Name: Clayton Cardiff Lane

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel to the ancient town of Chester where your orientation tour will take you past its Roman walls and famous Tudor 'Rows'. Continue along the scenic North Wales Coast to the island of Anglesey en route to Holyhead. Cross the Irish Sea to Dublin, the charismatic Irish capital.

Day 12: See the Sights of Dublin Dive Into Culture

Location: Dublin, Guinness Storehouse, Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, Grafton Street, Dublin, Temple Bar, Dublin, Phoenix Park, Dublin

Accommodation: Clayton Cardiff Lane

Accommodation Name: Clayton Cardiff Lane

Meals Included: Breakfast

Beat the crowds and gain entry to the Guinness Storehouse before general admission. Here you'll Dive Into Culture and embark on a tour and tasting technique demonstration. Later, join a Local Specialist to see St. Patrick's Cathedral and other iconic sights. The rest of the day is yours to explore the Irish capital. Amble along Grafton Street with its colorful performers, head to Temple Bar or stroll through Phoenix Park, Dublin's playground.

Day 13: On the Road to Belfast

Location: Belfast, Titanic Quarter, Belfast

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel Belfast

Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Hotel Belfast

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, cross the border to Northern Ireland. Meet your Local Specialist 'Cabbie' who will take you on a journey through the recent history of Belfast in their taxi. Spend the rest of the day at leisure perhaps exploring the Titanic Quarter to learn more about this ill-fated ship.

Day 14: Explore the Giant’s Causeway, Londonderry and County Donegal Make Travel Matter

Location: Giant's Causeway, Londonderry, County Donegal

Accommodation: Central

Accommodation Name: Central

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, visit Giant's Causeway, an area of about 40,000 interlocking ballast columns, a UNESCO World Heritage site in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and one of the most iconic natural wonders in the United Kingdom. In Londonderry, walk along the 17th-century walls with your Local Specialist and see the streets and murals of the Bogside. Known as the People's Gallery, the murals depict the history of the 'troubles'. Later view the Donegal castle that was once the stronghold of the O'Donnell clan before continuing to your hotel where you will enjoy a dinner tonight.

Day 15: Venture to Galway

Location: Galway

Accommodation: Connacht

Accommodation Name: Connacht

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, stop in Galway to see the stone Cathedral that was built on the site of an old prison, and stroll around Eyre Square with its tribute to John F. Kennedy.

Day 16: Off to the Majestic Cliffs of Moher, Limerick and Killarney Make Travel Matter

Location: Cliffs of Moher, Limerick, Killarney

Accommodation: The Rose Hotel Tralee

Accommodation Name: The Rose Hotel Tralee

Meals Included: Breakfast

Visit the dramatic Cliffs of Moher along the Wild Atlantic Way, where you’ll stop for an experience you’ll never forget. Your visit helps preserve the untouched beauty of this UNESCO-listed natural treasure and you’ll feel like you’ve been swept back to an ancient time with none of the distractions of the modern day. Visit the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center and watch enchanted how the extraordinary natural phenomena of this rare and stunning place comes to life in an interactive way you wouldn’t ordinarily get to see. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the cliffs, soaring above and around them, the quirky looking colonies of Atlantic Puffin that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies, and explore beneath the pounding Atlantic waves revealing the layers and layers of rock that have formed over 300 million years. Then continue to Limerick to view St. Mary's Cathedral, the Treaty Stone and King John's Castle, the tallest spire in Ireland. Your drive continues through picturesque Adare, one of Ireland's prettiest villages, before arriving in Killarney, your home for the next two nights.

Day 17: A Day on the Ring of Kerry

Location: Killarney, Ring of Kerry

Accommodation: The Rose Hotel Tralee

Accommodation Name: The Rose Hotel Tralee

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today, you'll stop in Killarney on your way to the enchanting Ring of Kerry where Ireland's enduring natural beauty is your welcome companion as you circle past the fishing village of Waterville, Black Valley and Moll's Gap.

Day 18: Onwards to Blarney and Waterford Dive Into Culture

Location: Blarney, Waterford

Accommodation: Fitzwilton

Accommodation Name: Fitzwilton

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

In pursuit of the 'gift of the gab', kiss the Blarney Stone, before continuing to the House of Waterford Crystal where you will enjoy a fascinating Dive Into Culture demonstration with a master crafter.

Day 19: Cross the Irish Sea to Cardiff

Location: Cardiff

Accommodation: Holiday Inn City Center

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn City Center

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cross the Irish Sea to Wales and continue your journey through beautiful countryside to arrive in its capital. Explore Cardiff’s iconic sights – the Principality Stadium, Millennium Center and Victorian fantasy Cardiff Castle at its heart.

Day 20: Soak up Bath and on to Plymouth Connect with Locals

Location: Bath, Somerset, Plymouth

Accommodation: Copthorne

Accommodation Name: Copthorne

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Arriving in Bath, admire the city’s elegant Georgian façades and ancient Roman Baths from which it derives its name. This afternoon head to Somerset for a Be My Guest experience with Ian & Ann Dyer on their modern-day dairy farm. Later continue to Plymouth, your home for the next two nights.

Day 21: Discover the Cornish Peninsula

Location: Plymouth, Looe, Polperro

Accommodation: Copthorne

Accommodation Name: Copthorne

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on an orientation tour and see the Royal Citadel and Mayflower Steps, where brave pilgrims embarked on their epic voyage to the New World centuries ago. Explore the Cornish peninsula and visit the seaside villages of Looe and Polperro.

Day 22: Journey to Stonehenge and Return to London

Location: Stonehenge, London

Accommodation: The Tower

Accommodation Name: The Tower

Meals Included: Breakfast

The mystical ancient megaliths at Stonehenge are your first stop. Ponder their myths that remain largely unsolved before traveling to London.

Day 23: Farewell London

Location: London

Meals Included: Breakfast

Say goodbye to your fellow travelers as you leave London and return home with special memories.

What's Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

    The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional driver.

  • 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.

  • 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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What's Not Included

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included in the tour.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.

  • Visa fees

    Visa fees and any related travel documentation are not included in the tour.

Dining Summary

  • 22 Breakfast (B)
  • 7 Dinner (D)
  • 1 Lunch (L)
  • Dive Into Culture

  • Falkirk: Visit Falkirk Wheel to learn about Scotland's canal system at the world's only rotating boat lift.
  • 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.
  • Belfast: Experience Belfast from the comfort of your dedicated Black Cab with expert 'Cabbie' commentary.
  • Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
  • Mode of Transport

    Travel in style with a luxury air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi in most countries, and enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the Irish Sea from Ireland to South Wales.

    Accommodation

    Enjoy stays at cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted, including The Tower in London, Novotel Center in York, and Holiday Inn in Edinburgh, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.

    Dive into Culture

  • Falkirk: Visit Falkirk Wheel to learn about Scotland's canal system at the world's only rotating boat lift.
  • 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.
  • Belfast: Experience Belfast from the comfort of your dedicated Black Cab with expert 'Cabbie' commentary.
  • Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
  • Iconic Experience

  • London: See London's iconic sites with a Local Specialist.
  • 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.
  • Alnwick: See the impressive Alnwick Castle and Tenantry Column during a visit of this traditional county town.
  • 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.
  • St. Andrews: Visit the university town where the famous beach scene from 'Chariots of Fire' was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created.
  • Pitlochry: Visit Pitlochry, famous for its salmon leap.
  • Inverness: At the exciting Culloden Visitor Center, discover why the Battle of Culloden lasted only an hour yet changed the Highland way of life forever.
  • Scottish Highlands: Admire picturesque lochs and glens as you travel through the Scottish Highlands.
  • Eilean Donan: Stop for a photo of this gorgeous castle.
  • Glencoe: Drive through this Highland village on Loch Leven.
  • Glasgow: See the grand public buildings of Glasgow, including George Square.
  • 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.
  • Chester: See the Jubilee Clock, cathedral, city walls, and famous black and white Rows.
  • Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
  • Bushmills: In Northern Ireland you'll discover the legend of the Giant's Causeway as you explore this iconic natural landmark.
  • Londonderry: Explore London’s famous landmarks with a Local Specialist, including Buckingham Palace, The Mall, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. Get the stories behind the city’s royal and political traditions on a guided sightseeing tour.
  • Galway: Explore the historic heart of Galway. See landmarks such as the Spanish Arch and the cathedral, or perhaps admire the distinctive Claddagh rings.
  • Lahinch: Help preserve the Cliffs of Moher for generations to come and learn about its extraordinary geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
  • Limerick: See Limerick's iconic landmarks during an orientation with your Travel Director.
  • Ring of Kerry: Admire Ireland's enduring scenic beauty on one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Cornwall: See Plymouth's famed landmarks and explore typical seaside villages during an orientation of the Cornish peninsula.
  • Stonehenge: Walk around the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.
  • Check out our Q&As

    • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

      The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as visiting the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin for a tour and tasting, exploring the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland, and a Be My Guest experience on a modern-day dairy farm in Somerset. Additionally, there is a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal for a crafting demonstration and a journey through Belfast's history with a local 'Cabbie'. ...more ...less

    • Are there any special events included in the tour?

      Yes, tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates.

    • What cultural experiences are part of the itinerary?

      Cultural experiences include visiting the Falkirk Wheel to learn about Scotland's canal system, exploring the history of Belfast with a local guide, and learning about the crafting of crystal at the House of Waterford Crystal. The tour also includes a visit to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. ...more ...less

    • What natural landmarks will be visited during the tour?

      The tour visits several natural landmarks including the Cliffs of Moher, the Giant's Causeway, and the scenic Ring of Kerry. There is also a drive through the picturesque Scottish Highlands and a visit to Loch Ness.

    • What historical sites are included in the tour?

      Historical sites on the tour include Edinburgh Castle, Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge, and the Roman Baths in Bath. The tour also includes a visit to the site of the Battle of Culloden and the medieval Alnwick Castle.

    • What is the 'Make Travel Matter' experience included in the tour?

      The 'Make Travel Matter' experience includes a visit to the Giant's Causeway, where the tour supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. The visit helps conserve this iconic natural landmark.

    • 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. ...more ...less

    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

    1 Select your preferred date

    Thursday - Friday

    Aug 07, 2025 - Aug 29, 2025
    $8075 (USD)

    Thursday - Friday

    Aug 14, 2025 - Sep 05, 2025
    $8075 $7268 (USD)

    Operator discount: -$808 (USD)

    Book with Confidence

    • 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.

    • 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.

    Britain and Ireland Grandeur Reverse

    23 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom

    Visiting: London, Stratford-upon-Avon, York, Alnwick, Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Scottish Parliament Building, St. Andrews, Pitlochry, Scottish Highlands, Culloden, Loch Ness, Eilean Donan Castle, Isle of Skye, Glencoe, Glasgow, Falkirk, Gretna Green, Grasmere, Lake Windermere, Lake District, Liverpool, Chester, Anglesey, Dublin, Guinness Storehouse, Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin, Grafton Street, Dublin, Temple Bar, Dublin, Phoenix Park, Dublin, Belfast, Titanic Quarter, Belfast, Giant's Causeway, Londonderry, County Donegal, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Blarney, Waterford, Cardiff, Bath, Somerset, Plymouth, Looe, Polperro, Stonehenge ...more ...less

    Tour operator:

    Trafalgar

    Tour code:

    RIGTZN20

    Guide Type:

    Fully Guided

    Physical rating:

    Low

    Tour operated in:

    English

    Activities:

    Sightseeing

    From: $8075 $7268 (USD) Operator discount: -$808

    NB: Prices correct on 25-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

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