Wonders of Britain and Ireland
Wonders of Britain and Ireland
$5075
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. Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of London, then marvel at the ancient mysteries of Stonehenge and the Roman Baths in Bath. Discover the cultural treasures of Cardiff, Chester, and York, and experience the scenic beauty of the Ring of Kerry. Visit iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, Blarney Castle, and Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon. Enjoy unique experiences like a traditional Irish dinner with the O'Sullivan family and a tour of the Guinness Storehouse. With expert guides, luxury transportation, and carefully selected accommodations, this tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, culture, and relaxation. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Dublin or the serene landscapes of the Lake District, this tour promises memories to last a lifetime. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to London
Location: London
Accommodation: Park Plaza Riverbank, Park Plaza County Hall
Accommodation Name: Park Plaza County Hall
The cosmopolitan capital of London rolls out its red carpet with all the pomp and pageantry you're unlikely to encounter anywhere else in the world. Spend the day ambling along its grand boulevards and past iconic sights as you familiarize yourself with the city's bustling atmosphere.
Day 2: Discover the Sights of London
Location: London
Accommodation: Park Plaza Riverbank, Park Plaza County Hall
Accommodation Name: Park Plaza County Hall
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join a Local Specialist today to explore the city's favorite landmarks. See Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace, before spending the rest of the day at leisure to delve into the city's history, culture, art and architecture.
Day 3: Stonehenge and Bath and on to Cardiff
Location: Stonehenge, Bath, Cardiff
Accommodation: Leonardo Hotel Cardiff
Accommodation Name: Leonardo Cardiff
Meals Included: Breakfast, 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 Center and the National Assembly at Cardiff Bay. Later, enjoy warm hospitality and traditional Welsh pub fare and drinks at a rousing dinner.
Day 4: Onwards to Waterford
Location: Cardiff, Waterford
Accommodation: Waterford Marina Hotel, 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 5: Admire Blarney Castle and Journey to Killarney Dive Into Culture
Location: Waterford, Blarney Castle, 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 traveling to the picturesque town of Killarney.
Day 6: A Day on the Ring of Kerry Connect with Locals
Location: Ring of Kerry, Cahirsiveen, Waterville, Black Valley, Moll's Gap
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 7: Journey to Cultural Dublin
Location: Rock of Cashel, Dublin, Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral
Accommodation: Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center.
Accommodation Name: Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center
Meals Included: Breakfast
Celtic art and history take center 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 8: 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 cozy atmosphere of the Irish capital. Ramble through the buzzing streets of Temple Bar or visit Grafton Street, famous for its colorful street performers.
Day 9: The Sights of Chester and Liverpool
Location: Snowdonia National Park, Chester, 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 10: Through the Lake District to Edinburgh
Location: Lake District, Windermere, Gretna Green, Edinburgh
Accommodation: Apex City
Accommodation Name: Apex City
Meals Included: Breakfast
The beautiful landscape, which for centuries inspired the Romantic poets, provides a mesmerizing 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 11: Discover Remarkable Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh's New Town
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 12: Venture to York
Location: Alnwick, Newcastle, York
Accommodation: Novotel Center
Accommodation Name: Novotel Center
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 13: 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 Center 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 travelers for dinner.
Day 14: Journey through the Cotswolds to Oxford and London
Location: Cotswolds, Bladon, Oxford, London
Accommodation: Park Plaza Riverbank, Park Plaza County Hall
Accommodation Name: Park Plaza County Hall
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to the Cotswolds this morning and visit 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.
Day 15: Goodbye London
Location: London
Meals Included: Breakfast
For now, it's time to say farewell to your travel companions at the end of a memorable holiday as you prepare to return home with treasured 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 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, all 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
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Irish Sea Ferry
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 for all travelers.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours and activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
Dining Summary
- 14 Breakfast (B)
- 5 Dinner (D)
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 style with a luxury air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi in most countries. Enjoy scenic drives and ferry crossings, including a return ferry across the Irish Sea between Wales and Ireland, ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey throughout your tour.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels throughout your journey, including the Park Plaza County Hall in London, Leonardo Cardiff, Waterford Marina, and Apex City in Edinburgh. Enjoy comfort and convenience with trusted accommodations that offer a welcoming atmosphere and excellent service.
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, immortalized 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 experience is offered in Kenmare during the tour?
In Kenmare, you will join the O'Sullivan Family and their Kerry Cows for a dinner of Irish Stew at Molly Gallivan's 200-Year Old Cottage.
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What is the significance of the Roman Baths visit in Bath?
The visit to the Roman Baths in Bath is part of a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, where you can discover 2000 years of history and learn about the site's educational investments that benefit the community, supporting local schools and students.
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Are tickets to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo included in the tour?
Yes, tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates.
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What cultural experience is included in Waterford?
In Waterford, you will dive into culture by watching the master crafters at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
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What can you expect during the Ring of Kerry drive?
During the Ring of Kerry drive, you will experience Ireland's most scenic coastal drive around the Iveragh Peninsula, with views of emerald green hills, centuries-old stone villages, and vivid blue seascapes.
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What is the highlight of the visit to Dublin?
In Dublin, you will visit the Guinness Storehouse to discover the 250-year-old story of Guinness and enjoy a taste in their Gravity Bar with panoramic views of the city.
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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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Book with Confidence
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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
Wonders of Britain and Ireland
15 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom
Visiting: London, Stonehenge, Bath, Cardiff, Waterford, Blarney Castle, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Cahirsiveen, Waterville, Black Valley, Moll's Gap, Rock of Cashel, Dublin, Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Snowdonia National Park, Chester, Liverpool, Lake District, Windermere, Gretna Green, Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh's New Town, Alnwick, Newcastle, York, Stratford-upon-Avon, Cotswolds, Bladon, Oxford ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BIBIZN120
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
