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Britain and Ireland Highlights
10 Day UK and Ireland Tour of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales
Short on travel time but want to see all the Britain and Ireland highlights? This trip delivers the genius of Shakespeare, Waterford crystal creations in Ireland and a hearty Welsh dinner at a local vineyard, with a side of ancient history, in just over one week.
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Trip code
BBIH
Britain and Ireland Highlights
10 Day UK and Ireland Tour of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales
Short on travel time but want to see all the Britain and Ireland highlights? This trip delivers the genius of Shakespeare, Waterford crystal creations in Ireland and a hearty Welsh dinner at a local vineyard, with a side of ancient history, in just over one week.
London bids you a warm welcome to its regal traditions and centuries-old heritage. Stroll through its Royal Parks relaxing 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.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Park Plaza Riverbank
Day 2
Stratford-upon-Avon, York and on to Harrogate
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 we visit Stratford-upon-Avon and follow in the footsteps of Shakespeare. Visit his Birthplace and the Visitor Centre, before embarking on a scenic drive north to the Viking city of York, where we'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, we indulge in traditional pub grub at a Welcome Reception in the Victorian spa town of Harrogate, our home for tonight.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Crowne Plaza
We journey through the Yorkshire Dales National Park to the beautiful Lake District, which has inspired poets and writers for centuries. A highlight on our journey is England's pretty Lake Windermere, which we’ll pass as we continue through countryside made famous by the poet William Wordsworth. We'll cross the border, into Scotland, to the runaway wedding capital of Gretna Green. Here eloping couples would tie the knot over the Marriage Anvil. We drive through the Southern Uplands to vibrant Glasgow. Tonight, consider joining an Optional Experience to Braveheart Country for a fabulous dinner and Scottish entertainment.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Novotel
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
A Stirling Evening
See Stirling Castle and the Wallace Memorial by night. A truly local experience, you'll be piped in to your evening meal in the historic Scottish city and enjoy an evening of Scottish delights.
Adult Price: £44.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Private Cruise On Lake Windermere
Enjoy an exclusive cruise on a private boat on England's most beautiful and largest lake, taking in the northern coastline, beautiful houses, gardens and Wray Castle. You’ll see deserted islands, boats and birdlife as you explore the area loved by Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.
Adult Price: £18.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Windermere Cruise and Steam Train Ride
A chance to view the glorious scenery of the Lake District as we cruise across England’s largest lake. Then step back in time as we board the steam train for a short journey from Lakeside to Haverthwaite. Occasionally this experience will be operated in reverse.
Adult Price: £22.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 4
Explore Enchanting Edinburgh
From the cultural capital of Glasgow to enchanting Edinburgh, with its exquisite medieval façades, our encounter with Scotland will see us join a Local Specialist for a memorable sightseeing tour. We’ll visit Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city, and see the Royal Mile, the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse and the new Scottish Parliament. Admire the elegant Georgian architecture in the New Town and amble through the secret lanes of Auld Reekie before returning to Glasgow this evening. Enjoy views of Glasgow Cathedral and George Square before a delicious meal at a local restaurant.
You’ll explore this magnificent ship, which has played host to some of the most famous people in the world. Now berthed in Leith, you’ll be welcomed on board to discover the heart and soul of this most special of royal residences – the former honeymoon sanctuary for four royal couples.
Adult Price: £23.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 5
Cross the Irish Sea to Belfast and Dublin
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. We’ll view City Hall and the dock where the Titanic was built. This evening, we arrive in the vibrant capital of Ireland where we'll spend the next two nights.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Mespil
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Dinner in Dublin City
Come to one of Dublin's most locally-loved restaurant-pubs. You'll enjoy dinner and charming hospitality that this part of the world is renowned for.
Adult Price: €51.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 6
Discover Diverse Dublin
Dive Into Culture and gain insights into the centuries-old tradition of Guinness brewing, and enjoy a Storehouse tour and a tasting and pouring technique demonstration. 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 colourful street performers. This evening, consider joining an Optional Experience to a rousing Irish cabaret performance.
Enjoy an evening of fine food and fun as Ireland’s history unfolds with comedy, song and dance. You’ll be tapping your toes and joining in the show, all in the spirit of Irish humour. And you’ll even be served an Irish coffee to round off your dinner.
Adult Price: €72.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Experience the Ancient Monastic Site of Glendalough
Enjoy a visit to one of the most important monastic sites in Europe, which dates back to the 6th century. Your Local Specialist will tell tales and show you around this sacred area, famous for its tranquil beauty amidst the rolling countryside of County Wicklow, the garden of Ireland.
Adult Price: €25.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 7
Journey to Kilkenny and on to Waterford
We Dive Into Culture this morning and 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. Our next stop sees us Dive Into Culture yet again to witness the delicate craft of Waterford Crystal. We'll watch master craftsmen at work during a tour of the workshop and see the exquisitely crafted pieces in the showroom.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Marina
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Irish Folk Fun
Join a magical entertainment experience, where you'll get the chance to see Irish hospitality in the best folk tradition. Enjoy a drink while locals sing and play music for you.
Adult Price: €29.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Explore Waterford's History and Local Pub
Join us in Waterford, where the history dates back as far as the Vikings. Your Local Specialist will bring the historic area to life through stories and anecdotes; one guest even described the trip as the "best history lesson ever". Afterwards, we stop off for a drink in one of the area's oldest pubs for a pint or drink of your choice.
Adult Price: €24.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 8
Ferry Across to Cultural Cardiff
An early start to our sightseeing today sees us cross the Irish Sea to Wales by ferry and continue our journey to the Welsh capital of Cardiff to view the Wales Millennium Centre, National Assembly and historic Cardiff Castle, in the heart of the city. This evening, we Connect With Locals in the idyllic Welsh countryside, joining a local family for a Farewell Dinner Be My Guest experience. During your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, 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.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
TODAY'S INCLUDED HIGHLIGHT EXPERIENCE
Optional Experience
Cardiff Castle Tour
You’ll explore this unique castle on a private tour and hear tales about the eclectic refurbishments. Done in the 1800s by architect William Burgess, his influences included Islamic art, Hans Christian Anderson's fairy tales and even Aesop's fables. You’ll also walk on the battlements and climb the 1,000-year-old Norman keep for superb views over Cardiff.
Adult Price: £21.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 9
Soak up Bath and Stonehenge then off to London
Traversing the Severn Estuary into England, we arrive in the glorious UNESCO listed city of Bath, with its elegant Georgian façades and visit the world-famous Roman Baths from which the city derives its name. Journey across the scenic landscapes of Wiltshire, paying a visit to the mysterious monolithic stone circle at Stonehenge, then return to London where your memorable holiday in Britain and Ireland comes to an end.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Park Plaza Riverbank
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 10
Farewell London
Say farewell to your traveling companions at the end of your vacation, as you prepare to fly home with wonderful memories.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 3
A Stirling Evening
See Stirling Castle and the Wallace Memorial by night. A truly local experience, you'll be piped in to your evening meal in the historic Scottish city and enjoy an evening of Scottish delights.
Adult Price: £44.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 3
Private Cruise On Lake Windermere
Enjoy an exclusive cruise on a private boat on England's most beautiful and largest lake, taking in the northern coastline, beautiful houses, gardens and Wray Castle. You’ll see deserted islands, boats and birdlife as you explore the area loved by Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.
Adult Price: £18.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 3
Windermere Cruise and Steam Train Ride
A chance to view the glorious scenery of the Lake District as we cruise across England’s largest lake. Then step back in time as we board the steam train for a short journey from Lakeside to Haverthwaite. Occasionally this experience will be operated in reverse.
Adult Price: £22.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 4
Royal Yacht Britannia
You’ll explore this magnificent ship, which has played host to some of the most famous people in the world. Now berthed in Leith, you’ll be welcomed on board to discover the heart and soul of this most special of royal residences – the former honeymoon sanctuary for four royal couples.
Adult Price: £23.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 5
Dinner in Dublin City
Come to one of Dublin's most locally-loved restaurant-pubs. You'll enjoy dinner and charming hospitality that this part of the world is renowned for.
Adult Price: €51.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 6
Dublin Dinner and Irish Show
Enjoy an evening of fine food and fun as Ireland’s history unfolds with comedy, song and dance. You’ll be tapping your toes and joining in the show, all in the spirit of Irish humour. And you’ll even be served an Irish coffee to round off your dinner.
Adult Price: €72.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 6
Experience the Ancient Monastic Site of Glendalough
Enjoy a visit to one of the most important monastic sites in Europe, which dates back to the 6th century. Your Local Specialist will tell tales and show you around this sacred area, famous for its tranquil beauty amidst the rolling countryside of County Wicklow, the garden of Ireland.
Adult Price: €25.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 7
Irish Folk Fun
Join a magical entertainment experience, where you'll get the chance to see Irish hospitality in the best folk tradition. Enjoy a drink while locals sing and play music for you.
Adult Price: €29.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 7
Explore Waterford's History and Local Pub
Join us in Waterford, where the history dates back as far as the Vikings. Your Local Specialist will bring the historic area to life through stories and anecdotes; one guest even described the trip as the "best history lesson ever". Afterwards, we stop off for a drink in one of the area's oldest pubs for a pint or drink of your choice.
Adult Price: €24.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 8
Cardiff Castle Tour
You’ll explore this unique castle on a private tour and hear tales about the eclectic refurbishments. Done in the 1800s by architect William Burgess, his influences included Islamic art, Hans Christian Anderson's fairy tales and even Aesop's fables. You’ll also walk on the battlements and climb the 1,000-year-old Norman keep for superb views over Cardiff.
Adult Price: £21.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
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Trip details
Trip details
What's included
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon
9 nights
Accommodation
Trip Summary Meals Icon
12 Meals
1 Be My Guest, 1 Regional Dinner, 1 Welcome Reception, 9 Breakfasts
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On-trip Transport
All transport shown
The Trafalgar difference
Connect With Locals
Enjoy a hearty Be My Guest Welsh dinner with a farming family and their animals in the beautiful award-winning vineyards of Wales.
Dive into Culture
Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
Dive into Culture
Admire Ireland's finest thoroughbreds at the Irish National Stud Farm.
Dive Into Culture
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.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Visit the oldest and largest vineyard in Wales where you’ll learn how the Norris family are using environmentally friendly and sustainable farming practices.
Sightseeing highlights
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Explore Edinburgh, Belfast and Dublin with a Local Specialist
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Discover York, Glasgow, Cardiff and Bath
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Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, Gretna Green, Edinburgh Castle, Guinness Storehouse, the Irish National Stud and Japanese Garden, the Waterford Crystal Showroom, the Roman Baths in Bath and the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge
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View York Minster, Glasgow Cathedral and George Square, City Hall in Belfast, Kilkenny Castle and Gardens
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
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Ferry across the Irish Sea from Scotland to Northern Ireland
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Ferry across the Irish Sea from Ireland to South Wales
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
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Optional Experiences and free time
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Pick-up and drop-off when you stay at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel, booked through Trafalgar
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The services of a Trafalgar Local Host when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel.
Live, unedited & independent traveler reviews
Britain and Ireland Highlights trip reviews
Our guests are at the heart of everything we do, their feedback fuels our innovation, inspiring us to improve continuously and craft Simply The Best vacations. That's why we ask each of our guests to leave a third-party verified, independent review after every trip. As testament to our commitment we have been given the Trusted Service Award from Feefo, recognising we deliver exceptional experiences as rated by real guests.
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Kimberely Thompson My Account Icon
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Well organized and informative tour
Trip Rating
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5
I enjoyed all the areas we were able to see. There were some areas that I would have liked to spend more time at but we had chosen to do some of the optional activities. I liked the freedom of seeing the locations without having to worry about driving and getting directions, etc.
The tour was very well organized. The tour director was very informative and provided history of the areas we were seeing. The local specialist were wonderful. The driver did an excellent job and we never worried about our safety. I would and have already recommend this tour company to others.
We had a great time on out journey. Over 8 days, we saw far more than we ever could have expected. Out tour leader, Christian was great. He was able to answer any question we threw at him, and he made the trip well worth it Our driver and health director did a fantastic job as well. If there was one downside, it was the beds in the hotels we stayed at. With the walking and bus ridding, there needs to be a soft spot to land at the end of the day, and they weren't it.
The Opitmal Tour Experience to England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales!
Trip Rating
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5
Trafalgar planned and chose very historical cities of interest! London was the best place to begin. Big Ben is a favorite site to see.The various castles had their own mystique and charm. I was very comfortable having a scone, cream and jam while waiting for the rain to stop in Edinburgh. Cardiff Castle was very exciting to me. It’s history of owners was rich and revealing of their family lifestyle. The castle has a ecumenical atmosphere! Stratford-Upon-Avon was intriguing in relation to learning so much about Shakespeare. Scotland had more statues and an exciting political history than I imagined. Belfast had a lot of murals by by by I. Dublin was great for shopping! Stonehenge was the perfect ending of places to visit.
Yes, I would travel with Trafalgar again and again! The Tour Director Mr. ************** was phenomenal! He was so educated in all the aspects of the history of each city we visited! He added his own personal enlightenment to the experience by being comical in good taste. We all respected and laughed with him. Mr. McLarney showed true concern in each person experiencing a wonderful tour. He interjected his personal association with the places we visited, making the time informative, exciting and memorable. His knowledge of people/statues was a learning experience! The points of interest and the mapping of traveling were well planned out by Trafalgar. The ferry trips, the boat and train rides were relaxing refreshing and fun! The actual variety in the meals were absolutely scrumptious. They truly depicted each persona of the individual country we were in! The hotel accommodations were acceptable. I especially loved the Park Palace it was very clean. It was very evident that Trafalgar spent time planning and assuring their clients were safe and protected while riding on the coach, staying at various hotels, dining at different restaurants and the many excursions, sites and exhibits that were attended! The coach drivers were all well qualified to drive the group through the UK and about. Johnny is a real expert driver! Our Well-Being person named Ollie was very caring and attentive. The team was a true TEAM!, they all worked very well together! I was so happy to have gone on this tour. I would do it again, and also plan other tours through Trafalgar. I have already shared my experiences and data with friends, family and strangers! Kudos to the whole Trafalgar Team! V. Elizabeth Namowicz
This was a very fast pace trip and a lot of road to cover for it to be only 8 days...perhaps making it a 10 day trip would be better and not so exhausting.
First and most importantly, this rating is solely on Trafalgar as a company, not our tour director. This was not our first tour vacation with the company, so some of the changes were disappointing. Our tour director, driver and wellness person were all wonderful!!! We would definitely take another trip with our tour director, driver and wellness guy in a heartbeat!!!! They were awesome!!
Gratuities: You have the option to pre-pay the gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. Please speak with your travel agent.
Your London Hotel: This trip departs from the Park Plaza Riverbank hotel.
Unused London Accommodation: Should you choose not to use the included nights in London, we give you the option to remove these at the time of booking and offer a reduction for this.
Special Rate Solo Rooming: Departures 25 March and 01 April 2022 will include 20 – 100% discount on our standard single supplement.
Drinking Water: Tap water is safe to drink in all of the destinations on this trip. Please remember to bring a water bottle.
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA). Does not apply to trips operated by Inspiring Journeys & our Mini-stays.
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless traveling as part of a family group.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange your flights to arrive on or before day 1.
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Your selected departure date will feature some seasonal itinerary changes to what is displayed. Click 'VIEW ITINERARY' below to see full details.
Active Trip Details
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What is an Active Trip? This is an "Active" lifestyle itinerary, with walks and hikes most days. Hikes will range from easy/moderate to strenuous. No technical climbing skills are required but a reasonable level of fitness is required to make the trip more enjoyable. Understanding that not all people want to hike at the same pace or even on the same trail we will, where possible, host map orientation and then let everyone disperse to enjoy the trails best suited to them. What to Pack Guests should bring lightweight hiking shoes or boots, broad brimmed sun hats, sunglasses, layered clothing, reusable water bottle(s), a hiking day pack and hiking poles (optional)
Weather & Altitude While the itinerary is laid out below, we are at the mercy of the weather and so reserve the right to adjust the program as necessary. Please keep in mind that the higher elevations and possible variations in weather and temperature can increase the perceived level of difficulty of our activities. Elevation ranges up to 9,000 feet for Utah’s Mighty Five and up to 11,000 feet for California High Country Adventure.
Everyone reacts differently to altitude and so if you do have any health issues you should check with your doctor that this trip is suitable for you.
