Britain and Ireland Highlights

Britain and Ireland Highlights

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

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

Day 1
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 2
The University of Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow

The University of Glasgow, Scotland

Day 3
Edinburgh

Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland

Days 4-4
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Palace of Holyroodhouse

Palace of Holyroodhouse

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

Custom House and Lagan River, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Day 5
Temple Bar Street, Dublin, Ireland
Dublin

Temple Bar Street, Dublin, Ireland

Day 6
Waterford, Ireland
Waterford

Waterford, Ireland

Day 7
Cardiff

Aerial view of Cardiff Bay, Wales, UK

Day 8
Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon in Bath, UK
Bath

Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon in Bath, UK

Day 9
London

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

Day 10
A Trafalgar Coach

A Trafalgar Coach

Map
171 Views
10 Days From

$3450

$3036

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

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 and enjoy scenic ferry rides across the Irish Sea. Stay in carefully selected hotels, savor local cuisine, and connect with locals for a truly immersive experience. This tour promises a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, ensuring a memorable exploration of these remarkable regions. ...more ...less

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

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

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

London's city skyline along the River Thames, UK

London's city skyline along the River Thames, 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

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

Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland

Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland

Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland

Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Military Tattoo Celebrations

Edinburgh Military Tattoo Celebrations

View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Belfast City Hall, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast City Hall, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Custom House and Lagan River, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Custom House and Lagan River, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Temple Bar Street, Dublin, Ireland

Temple Bar Street, Dublin, Ireland

Penny Bridge, Dublin, Ireland

Penny Bridge, Dublin, Ireland

Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland

Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland

Waterford, Ireland

Waterford, Ireland

Waterford, Ireland

Waterford, Ireland

Cardiff, Wales, UK

Cardiff, Wales, 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

Itinerary

tourhub | Trafalgar | Britain and Ireland Highlights | BBIHZN20 | Route Map

Not what you're looking for?

People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:

UK tours by Coach tours in England UK tours by Coach tours in Ireland UK tours by Coach tours in United Kingdom UK tours by Coach tours Tours in England Tours in Ireland Tours in United Kingdom Sightseeing tours Cultural tours
Expand All

Day 1: Welcome to London

London's city skyline along the River Thames, UK
Victoria Embankment with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, London, UK
Tower of London, seen from the south bank of the River Thames
Hyde Park
St. Paul's cathedral and double-decker bus, London, UK
Kensington palace and Monument to queen Victoria at sunset, London, UK
Tower Bridge, London, UK
A beautiful shot of London Eye and River Thames 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

A night view of The Shambles, a historic street in the city of York, UK
Sign post with landmarks in the city of York, with view of York Minster in the background, UK
York Minster
The city of York, its medieval wall and York Minster, UK
River Ouse, York
Shambles, York

Location: York

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

The University of Glasgow, Scotland
George Square, Glasgow, Scotland
Arial view of Glasgow
Glasgow Cathedral
Clyde Arc Bridge, Glasgow, Scotland
Kelvingrove Museum

Location: 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 4: Explore Enchanting Edinburgh

Dean Village
Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland
View of Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Royal Mile
Edinburgh city skyline from Calton Hill, Scotland
Dean Village
St Giles Cathedral
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle
Royal Mile
View of Edinburgh from Arthur's Seat
Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland
Edinburgh Military Tattoo Celebrations
Victoria Street in Edinburgh Old Town, Scotland
Princes Street Gardens
Palace of Holyroodhouse
View of Edinburgh from Arthur's Seat
Princes Street Gardens
St Giles Cathedral

Location: Edinburgh

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

Belfast
Belfast castle in Northern Ireland
Belfast City Hall, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Custom House and Lagan River, Belfast, Northern Ireland
Lanyon Building at Queen's University Belfast, Northern Ireland

Location: Belfast

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

Temple Bar Street, Dublin, Ireland
Penny Bridge, Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, Golden Hour
Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
Ariel view of Dublin

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 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

Dunmore East Cliff Walk
Mountain range on the border between Tipperary and Waterford, Ireland
Ardmore Round Tower
An aerial view of Dromana Gate and bridge, Waterford, Ireland
Waterford, Ireland
Waterford, Ireland

Location: 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

Aerial view of Cardiff Bay, Wales, UK
Cardiff, Wales, UK

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

Roman bath in Bath, UK
The Circus, the historic street of large townhouses in the city of Bath, UK
Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon in Bath, UK

Location: Bath

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

A beautiful shot of London Eye and River Thames London
Hyde Park
St. Paul's cathedral and double-decker bus, London, UK
Tower of London, seen from the south bank of the River Thames
London's city skyline along the River Thames, UK
Victoria Embankment with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, London, UK
Tower Bridge, London, UK
Kensington palace and Monument to queen Victoria at sunset, London, UK

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

  • 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

    Enjoy the services of a Trafalgar Local Host when staying at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel.

  • London: Pick-up and drop-off

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

  • Cherry-picked hotels

    Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted for comfort and convenience.

  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities

    All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour.

  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

    All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered in the tour package.

  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

    The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras to enhance your experience.

  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

    Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing during the tour.

  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi

    Travel in style with a luxury air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi for a comfortable journey.

  • Ferry across the Irish Sea

    Enjoy ferry rides across the Irish Sea from Scotland to Northern Ireland and from Ireland to South Wales.

show more

What's Not Included

  • Airfare

    International airfare to/from the start/end of your tour is not included in the tour price.

  • Visas

    Visas are not included and may be required for travel.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for coverage against potential risks.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with a luxury air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey across the UK and Ireland. Enjoy scenic ferry rides across the Irish Sea, enhancing your travel experience with breathtaking views and seamless connectivity between destinations.

Accommodation

Stay in cherry-picked hotels such as Park Plaza Riverbank in London, Crowne Plaza in Harrogate, and Novotel in Glasgow, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey. Enjoy the hospitality of Clayton Ballsbridge in Dublin and Waterford Marina Hotel, among others, for a memorable stay.

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

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey across the UK and Ireland. Additionally, scenic ferry rides across the Irish Sea are included, enhancing the travel experience with breathtaking views and seamless connectivity between destinations. ...more ...less

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

    You will stay in cherry-picked hotels such as Park Plaza Riverbank in London, Crowne Plaza in Harrogate, and Novotel in Glasgow, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey. The tour also includes stays at Clayton Ballsbridge in Dublin and Waterford Marina Hotel, among others, for a memorable experience. ...more ...less

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour includes breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals. Additionally, there are opportunities to enjoy locally-sourced meals, such as a delicious dining experience at Mharsanta restaurant in Glasgow and a homemade meal with the Norris family at their vineyard in Wales. ...more ...less

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes several 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 with the Norris family at their vineyard in Wales. ...more ...less

  • 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, view Glasgow Cathedral, and see the City Hall in Belfast. ...more ...less

  • 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

Apr
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Mar
2026 Apr
2026 May
2026 Jun
2026 Jul
2026 Aug
2026 Sep
2026 Oct
2026

Friday - Sunday

Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 10, 2025
$3475 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Aug 03, 2025 - Aug 12, 2025
$3475 $3058 (USD)

Operator discount: -$417 (USD)

Friday - Sunday

Aug 08, 2025 - Aug 17, 2025
$3475 (USD)

Friday - Sunday

Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025
$3450 $3036 (USD)

Operator discount: -$414 (USD)

Friday - Sunday

Aug 22, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025
$3450 $3036 (USD)

Operator discount: -$414 (USD)

Friday - Sunday

Aug 29, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025
$3450 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Aug 31, 2025 - Sep 09, 2025
$3450 $3036 (USD)

Operator discount: -$414 (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 Highlights

10 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom

Visiting: London, York, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Belfast, Dublin, Waterford, Cardiff, Bath

Tour operator:

Trafalgar

Tour code:

BBIHZN20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

UK tours by Coach

Interests:

Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $3450 $3036 (USD) Operator discount: -$414 -12%

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