Essential Britain & Ireland
See the very best of Ireland, Scotland, England & Wales
From bustling cities, to lush countryside, to quaint medieval villages - explore Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales front to back. See Stonehenge, Cardiff Castle, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, and much more. This 10-day journey is the perfect blend of guided tours, convenience, and free time for exploration.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class air to London (LHR)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- Accommodations in hotels listed, or similar:
- 1 night in London, England at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge or the Hilton London Metropole
- 1 night in Newport, Wales at the Coldra Court Hotel by Celtic Manor
- 1 night in Waterford, Ireland at the Granville Hotel or Tower Hotel
- 2 nights in Dublin, Ireland at the Gibson Hotel or North Star Hotel
- 2 nights in Edinburgh, Scotland at the Marriott Courtyard or Holiday Inn Edinburgh
- 1 night in York, England at the Mercure York Fairfield Manor or the Holiday Inn York
- 1 night in London, England at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge or the Hilton London Metropole
- Full breakfast daily
- 1 lunch and 3 three-course dinners with wine and choice of menus, including welcome dinner
- Transportation by private first-class air-conditioned motorcoach with complimentary Wi-Fi
- Ferry transportation across St. George's Channel and the North Channel
- Irish Coffee demonstration in Waterford
- Guided tours of: Cardiff Castle, House of Waterford Crystal, the Avoca Handweaving Mill, Glendalough
- Visits to: Stonehenge, the Roman Baths, Edinburgh Castle, Anne Hathaway's Cottage, Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Orientation tours of Cardiff, Dublin, Belfast; City tour of Edinburgh; Walking tour of York
- Services of a professional tour director
- Hotel taxes, porterage, tips, and service charges
Great Ways to Explore
- Experience the highlights of all of the countries that make up the British Isles.Â
- Enjoy guided tours, ferry rides, and the convenience of being driven to and from each destination in a luxurious motorcoach.Â
- Immerse yourself in history at the Roman Baths, Edinburgh Castle, and York Minster.
- See breathtaking natural beauty at Northumberland National Park and the Mountains of Mourne.
- Stop in Stratford-Upon-Avon, the fascinating Elizabethan hometown of William Shakespeare.
Pack your bags, charge your camera, and embark on the journey of a lifetime! This incredible 10-day guided vacation allows you to see the "must-see" highlights of the UK, as well as the extraordinary nooks and crannies that are nestled in-between. Stand in front of spectacular landscapes, stroll through bustling cities, and see fascinating architecture up-close. Begin your adventure in sophisticated London, then enjoy overnights in Newport, Wales; Waterford and Dublin, Ireland; Edinburgh, Scotland; and York, England.
Watch storybook pages unfold before your eyes as you explore 2,000-year-old Cardiff Castle in Wales and 12th-century Edinburgh Castle in Scotland. Enjoy detailed tours of these majestic castles, climb up their fairytale-like towers, and catch a glimpse of the Scottish Crown Jewels! Go even farther back in time during your visits to the Roman Baths, constructed around 70 AD, and to the mysterious wonder that is Stonehenge. Trace the footsteps of the one-and-only William Shakespeare in his birthplace, Stratford-Upon-Avon, and have lunch in this historic Elizabethan town! Next, see skilled craftsmen at work at the famous House of Waterford Crystal in Waterford, and then again at Ireland's oldest hand-weaving mill at Avoca. The fun doesn't end there. Enjoy visits to York Minster, Northumberland National Park, Hadrian's Wall, Glendalough, and more!
You may be thinking, "all of these tours and excursions sound amazing, but will I have time to explore the cities, themselves?" The answer is: absolutely. These cities are packed with culture, history, and art that one must see to believe. Enjoy orientation tours of Cardiff, Dublin, and Belfast, relax on a city tour of Edinburgh, and stroll through York on a fun walking tour. Was there a sight you hoped to spend more time visiting? Not to worry, you'll have tons of free time to explore at your own pace.
Please Note:
- July 29 - August 19 Departures - Edinburgh Military Tattoo ticket included (departures July 29, August 5, August 12, and August 19 will attend the Edinburgh Military Tattoo performance on Saturday)
- June 20 departure - Stonehenge will be closed due to Summer Solstice, and a visit to Salisbury Cathedral will be included instead.
- Round-trip economy class air to London (LHR)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- Accommodations in hotels listed, or similar:
- 1 night in London, England at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge or the Hilton London Metropole
- 1 night in Newport, Wales at the Coldra Court Hotel by Celtic Manor
- 1 night in Waterford, Ireland at the Granville Hotel or Tower Hotel
- 2 nights in Dublin, Ireland at the Gibson Hotel or North Star Hotel
- 2 nights in Edinburgh, Scotland at the Marriott Courtyard or Holiday Inn Edinburgh
- 1 night in York, England at the Mercure York Fairfield Manor or the Holiday Inn York
- 1 night in London, England at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge or the Hilton London Metropole
- Full breakfast daily
- 1 lunch and 3 three-course dinners with wine and choice of menus, including welcome dinner
- Transportation by private first-class air-conditioned motorcoach with complimentary Wi-Fi
- Ferry transportation across St. George's Channel and the North Channel
- Irish Coffee demonstration in Waterford
- Guided tours of: Cardiff Castle, House of Waterford Crystal, the Avoca Handweaving Mill, Glendalough
- Visits to: Stonehenge, the Roman Baths, Edinburgh Castle, Anne Hathaway's Cottage, Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Orientation tours of Cardiff, Dublin, Belfast; City tour of Edinburgh; Walking tour of York
- Services of a professional tour director
- Hotel taxes, porterage, tips, and service charges
- Experience the highlights of all of the countries that make up the British Isles.Â
- Enjoy guided tours, ferry rides, and the convenience of being driven to and from each destination in a luxurious motorcoach.Â
- Immerse yourself in history at the Roman Baths, Edinburgh Castle, and York Minster.
- See breathtaking natural beauty at Northumberland National Park and the Mountains of Mourne.
- Stop in Stratford-Upon-Avon, the fascinating Elizabethan hometown of William Shakespeare.
Pack your bags, charge your camera, and embark on the journey of a lifetime! This incredible 10-day guided vacation allows you to see the "must-see" highlights of the UK, as well as the extraordinary nooks and crannies that are nestled in-between. Stand in front of spectacular landscapes, stroll through bustling cities, and see fascinating architecture up-close. Begin your adventure in sophisticated London, then enjoy overnights in Newport, Wales; Waterford and Dublin, Ireland; Edinburgh, Scotland; and York, England.
Watch storybook pages unfold before your eyes as you explore 2,000-year-old Cardiff Castle in Wales and 12th-century Edinburgh Castle in Scotland. Enjoy detailed tours of these majestic castles, climb up their fairytale-like towers, and catch a glimpse of the Scottish Crown Jewels! Go even farther back in time during your visits to the Roman Baths, constructed around 70 AD, and to the mysterious wonder that is Stonehenge. Trace the footsteps of the one-and-only William Shakespeare in his birthplace, Stratford-Upon-Avon, and have lunch in this historic Elizabethan town! Next, see skilled craftsmen at work at the famous House of Waterford Crystal in Waterford, and then again at Ireland's oldest hand-weaving mill at Avoca. The fun doesn't end there. Enjoy visits to York Minster, Northumberland National Park, Hadrian's Wall, Glendalough, and more!
You may be thinking, "all of these tours and excursions sound amazing, but will I have time to explore the cities, themselves?" The answer is: absolutely. These cities are packed with culture, history, and art that one must see to believe. Enjoy orientation tours of Cardiff, Dublin, and Belfast, relax on a city tour of Edinburgh, and stroll through York on a fun walking tour. Was there a sight you hoped to spend more time visiting? Not to worry, you'll have tons of free time to explore at your own pace.
Please Note:
- July 29 - August 19 Departures - Edinburgh Military Tattoo ticket included (departures July 29, August 5, August 12, and August 19 will attend the Edinburgh Military Tattoo performance on Saturday)
- June 20 departure - Stonehenge will be closed due to Summer Solstice, and a visit to Salisbury Cathedral will be included instead.
Learn More about London, Newport, Waterford, Dublin, Edinburgh and York
Day 1. Welcome to London!
Give London the royal wave hello! Once you land, enjoy a transfer to your hotel. Be sure to look out the window as you drive past the city's iconic landmarks for the very first time! Check into your hotel, then enjoy the rest of the day exploring this exciting city on your own.
Transfer to London hotel
Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London
Elegance, luxury, and sophistication - everything that makes the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London so quintessentially English. Relax in this swanky hotel that boasts chic decor, modern amenities, and stunning city views. Settle into your room and find large comfortable beds, free WiFi, a refrigerator, a flat screen TV, and much more. Its central London location makes this hotel your ideal base. Yes, it's true, you can see Big Ben from the hotel entrance!
After a fun day of sightseeing, head back to the hotel and take a dip in the large indoor pool. Didn't do enough walking during the day? Work all your stresses away in the on-site fitness center. Did too much walking? Not to worry. A relaxing massage at the on-site Mandara Spa should do the trick. Pampering yourself is what vacation is all about.
When you work up an appetite, indulge in mouthwatering French cuisine at the on-site Brasserie Joel. Feeling something a bit more exotic? Try the delicious on-site Ichi Sushi & Sashimi Bar. Be sure to check out the Patisserie for some tasty teas and treats. Spend your evening unwinding at the trendy Primo Bar. Dance the night away, sing along to the live music, and enjoy a delicious craft cocktail. Don't worry, the Espressamente Illy Coffee Bar will be there to make sure you're recharged for your next day of English adventure.
Hilton London Metropole
This hotel in London offers bright and spacious guest rooms, all with WiFi and modern comforting amenities. Choose a Suite or Executive Room for complimentary access to the Executive Lounge, with continental breakfast and refreshments. Superior Family Rooms, the largest double-double rooms in London, offer adjoining rooms and a babysitting service. Dine on international cuisine at Fiamma Restaurant. Savor Asian Fusion favorites and breathtaking views of London at Minako at the Met on the 23rd floor or enjoy exciting sports events in the Sports Bar. Send emails from the WiFi enabled Lounge Bar (charges apply) or sip a latte in the lobby-level Caffe Cino. Work out in the LivingWell Health Club gym and take advantage of Hilton Fitness by Precor weight machines and cardio equipment. Take a swim in the 12.5 meter heated indoor pool. Unwind in the sauna or steam room and treat yourself at Contrasti, the beauty salon.
Day 2. London - Stonehenge - Bath - Newport, Wales
After a restful sleep and an energizing breakfast, meet your tour director and traveling companions at 8 am for an exciting day of sightseeing. Attempt to unravel the mystery of prehistoric Stonehenge, see the magnificent monument up-close, then stroll through the exhibition-filled visitor center.
Make your way to the elegant Georgian city of Bath and see the fascinating excavations of the famous Roman Baths. Then, cross the Severn River and arrive in Wales! Clink glasses as you enjoy a welcome dinner with wine at your hotel.
Check In - Coldra Court Hotel by Celtic Manor
Escape to the elegant Coldra Court Hotel, located in a quiet suburb right outside Newport's center city. Admire its contemporary decor, soak up its ample natural light, and feel welcomed by its beyond-friendly reception team. Open the door to your room and fall into an immediate state of tranquility and relaxation. Sprawl out on your large cozy bed, catch up on some TV, or use the free WiFi to keep in touch with family and friends.
Unpack your swimsuit and take a refreshing dip in the sparkling 18-meter pool! Unwind in the sauna or work all your stresses away in the fitness center. When you work up an appetite, enjoy relaxed brasserie-style dining at the trendy on-site Seasons restaurant. Clink glasses at the Court Bar as you feel the pleasant breeze on the patio, or cozy up with a coffee around the central fireplace.Â
Guided Sightseeing of Bath & Stonehenge
Visit the city of Bath, famous for its Roman baths and natural hot springs. The city was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its significant cultural importance, from the Roman baths daing back to the 7th century to the elegant Bath Abbey to the Georgian Royal Crescent.
You will then drive to Stonehenge, a stunning prehistoric monument believed to be a burial ground from its earliest beginnings. Explore the dazzling new visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions, then admire the magnificence of the standing stones from up close.
Day 3. Newport - Cardiff - Waterford, Ireland
Spend the morning driving through the Welsh capital of Cardiff. Snap photos as you stop at all the major attractions, then enjoy a guided tour of Cardiff Castle, famous for its long, dark history.Â
Take a scenic drive along the South Wales coast to Pembroke, then hop aboard your ferry and sail across the stunning St. George's Channel to Rosslare on the Emerald Isle. Spend the night in Waterford, a stronghold founded by the Danish Vikings in 853! Indulge in a delicious dinner this evening, then enjoy an authentic Irish Coffee demonstration.Â
Granville Hotel-Waterford
The Granville Hotel, Waterford offers all that is best in traditional style & grandeur. Justly proud of the Granville's heritage, Liam and Anne Cusack, owners since the late seventies, today vigorously pursue the hotels long tradition of hospitality, friendliness and comfort. From the moment you walk through the doors of the Granville Hotel in Waterford city centre you will experience the professionalism & hospitality that is the essence of the hotel. A dedicated team of management and staff are on hand to ensure that your stay in Waterford is a pleasant & memorable one
Tower Hotel-Waterford
The Tower Hotel is located across from Reginals Tower on the Mall, 300 feet from the House of Waterford Crystal and Waterford Museum of Treasures. The hotel is also just a short walk from stores and other local attractions. The Waterford Tower Hotel & Leisure Center is just a little over a 45-minute drive from Dublin and Rosslare Harbor. The hotel is close to some of the nicest golf courses in region, as well as the charming fishing villages of Dunmore East, Passage East and Cheekpoint.
In the heart of Waterford, with wonderful views of the Suir River, the hotel offers free Wi-Fi and parking, two restaurants, a riverside bar and swimming pool. The health and fitness center has a well-equipped gym, and a pool which has a separate kiddie's pool. It also boasts a sauna, jacuzzi, steam room and plunge pool. The beauty rooms offer a range of relaxing spa and beauty treatments.
Guided Tour of Cardiff & Waterford
Day 4. Waterford - Avoca - Glendalough - Dublin
Start your day with a guided tour of the famous House of Waterford Crystal - now that's a gift shop worth checking out! Keep the spirit of craft alive and visit Ireland's oldest hand-weaving mill at Avoca.
In the afternoon, travel on to Glendalough, the early Christian monastic site founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Enjoy a ride to Dublin, then spend the evening exploring this vibrant city on your own.Â
The Gibson Hotel-Dublin
The spacious rooms are beautifully designed with a modern, light and airy decor and floor-to-ceiling windows. The air conditioned rooms feature flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and some have private balconies with city views. Coda Eatery offers stylish yet informal dining with simple, good food made with locally sourced ingredients. The Wine Wall offers a wide range of wines from around the world. There is a fabulous bar terrace, where guests can enjoy a drink and stunning views, and also a modern grounds space for guests to relax in.
North Star Hotel
Escape to the cozy, yet elegant North Star Hotel. Opposite Dublin's Connolly Station and the IFSC, this hotel blends contemporary design with rustic brick and wood accents. Open the door to your room and fall into an instant state of tranquility and relaxation. Sprawl out on your large, plush bed and use the hotel's free WiFi to get in touch with family and friends.
After a quick nap, begin exploring Dublin! Stroll on over to Trinity College, the O2 Arena, and the Temple Bar District - all within a 10-minute walk from the hotel. When it's time to eat, relax in the cozy atmosphere of McGettigan's Cookhouse and Bar. Start with a pint, then indulge in modern Irish cuisine that consists of only locally sourced ingredients.
Tour of the House of Waterford Crystal
Located on the Mall in the heart of the Viking Triangle in Waterford City, the House of Waterford Crystal brings a visit to Waterford to a whole new level. Visitors can witness the creation of crystal stemware, giftware and masterpieces right before their very eyes.
The Waterford Crystal factory tour promises a magical journey reflecting on 200 years of crystal manufacturing. See exquisite pieces of crystal created before your very eyes during the guided factory tour.
Day 5. Dublin
Soak up the spirit of Dublin today! Begin your day with an orientation drive through Ireland's capital city, on which you'll see statue-lined O'Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Trinity College, and more.Â
The rest of the afternoon is yours. Mosey down Grafton Street, visit Dublin Castle, and treat yourself to a pint at a traditional pub in the Temple Bar district!
Orientation Drive Through Dublin
Day 6. Dublin, Ireland - Belfast, Northern Ireland - Edinburgh, Scotland
Today, cross the River Boyne, then weave through the majestic Mountains of Mourne. Continue on to Northern Ireland and arrive in beautiful Belfast, where the Titanic was built! Walk through this vibrant city, gawk at its stunning City Hall, then board your ferry to cross the North Channel to Cairnryan on Scotland's southwest coast. Snap tons of priceless photos as you travel through Scotland's scenic countryside and make your way to Edinburgh.Â
Courtyard by Marriott Edinburgh
Relax in style at the contemporary Courtyard Edinburgh, just steps from Cartlon Hill, Regent Gardens, and Edinburgh's New Town. Walk through the doors of this welcoming hotel and admire its sleek design and modern, yet cozy decor. After checking in with the friendly reception team, head up to your room and open the door to serenity. Sprawl out on your large, plush bed, catch up on some TV, and use the hotel's complimentary WiFi to say hello to family and friends.
Restless from the flight? Burn off some energy in the hotel's immaculate fitness center, then freshen up with an invigorating shower in your sparkling bathroom. When you work up an appetite, make your way down to the Lantern Room Bar and Restaurant, which offers delicious, locally sourced dishes in an elegant, yet relaxed environment.
Holiday Inn Edinburgh
Guided Sightseeing In Belfast & Ferry Ride to Cairnryan
Day 7. Edinburgh
Enjoy a full day exploring Edinburgh! Start your day sightseeing in the company of a local guide, who will first introduce you to the 200-year-old "New Town." Travel through time and find yourself in the "Old Town," where you'll drive up the narrow Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle and admire Scotland's Crown Jewels. Spend the remainder of the day exploring the Scottish capital at your own pace.
*July 29 - August 19 Departures - Edinburgh Military Tattoo ticket included (departures July 29, August 5, August 12, and August 19 will attend the Edinburgh Military Tattoo performance tonight).Â
Morning Sightseeing of Edinburgh
Day 8. Edinburgh - Jedburgh - York, England
This morning, take a drive past the amazing abbey ruins at Jedburgh and into the wild at Northumberland National Park. Enjoy breathtaking rolling greenery, see a section of Hadrian's Wall, then hop back on the coach and travel to York, England.
In York, England's most complete medieval city, stand in awe in front of the towering York Minster. After that, join your tour director on a walk through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles.Â
Mercure York Fairfield Manor Hotel
Relax in this elegant 18th century Georgian manor house, which blends modern amenities with old-world style. Settle into your spacious room, take a nap on your large bed, or use the hotel's free high-speed WiFi to map out your day. When it's time to explore, hop on the train and be at York Minster in just minutes!
Back at the hotel, indulge in a delicious meal at the sophisticated on-site brasserie. Choose from a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes that are made with only fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. After dinner, sip on a crisp glass of wine in the Garden Lounge, then take a stroll through the lush grounds of this beautiful hotel.
Holiday Inn York
Enjoy a stay at Holiday Inn York, set within lush leafy grounds next to York Racecourse. Wireless Internet is accessible throughout the property including the lobby which is appointed with oak furnishings or the beautiful, tree-lined outdoor patio. The modern, redbrick hotel is 1.4 miles from York's city walls and 2.1 miles from York Minster cathedral.
146 modern rooms come with satellite TV, free Wi-Fi and minibars. Enjoy a hot buffet breakfast, or a pizza or salad for dinner, in Junction Restaurant's contemporary dining room. Relax over a chilled glass of wine or a Starbucks coffee in the open-plan bar, or unwind in your room with 24-hour room service. Other amenities include a tree-lined terrace, kids' playroom, business center and free parking. Kids (ages 12 and under) stay and eat for free.
Day 9. York - Stratford-Upon-Avon - London
Spend your last full day in the UK gallivanting through England. After leaving York, stop at the fascinating Elizabethan town of Stratford-Upon-Avon! Take photos of Anne Hathaway's Cottage, visit Shakespeare's Birthplace, and follow his footsteps throughout this quaint town. After an enjoyable light lunch, return to London.
Enjoy one last evening at leisure in London, and make sure you've seen everything you'd hoped to. Treat yourself to a last night meal of fish & chips, paired with a pint, of course! You might want to take a nighttime ride on the London Eye for an unforgettable view of this magical city.Â
Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London
Elegance, luxury, and sophistication - everything that makes the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London so quintessentially English. Relax in this swanky hotel that boasts chic decor, modern amenities, and stunning city views. Settle into your room and find large comfortable beds, free WiFi, a refrigerator, a flat screen TV, and much more. Its central London location makes this hotel your ideal base. Yes, it's true, you can see Big Ben from the hotel entrance!
After a fun day of sightseeing, head back to the hotel and take a dip in the large indoor pool. Didn't do enough walking during the day? Work all your stresses away in the on-site fitness center. Did too much walking? Not to worry. A relaxing massage at the on-site Mandara Spa should do the trick. Pampering yourself is what vacation is all about.
When you work up an appetite, indulge in mouthwatering French cuisine at the on-site Brasserie Joel. Feeling something a bit more exotic? Try the delicious on-site Ichi Sushi & Sashimi Bar. Be sure to check out the Patisserie for some tasty teas and treats. Spend your evening unwinding at the trendy Primo Bar. Dance the night away, sing along to the live music, and enjoy a delicious craft cocktail. Don't worry, the Espressamente Illy Coffee Bar will be there to make sure you're recharged for your next day of English adventure.
Hilton London Metropole
This hotel in London offers bright and spacious guest rooms, all with WiFi and modern comforting amenities. Choose a Suite or Executive Room for complimentary access to the Executive Lounge, with continental breakfast and refreshments. Superior Family Rooms, the largest double-double rooms in London, offer adjoining rooms and a babysitting service. Dine on international cuisine at Fiamma Restaurant. Savor Asian Fusion favorites and breathtaking views of London at Minako at the Met on the 23rd floor or enjoy exciting sports events in the Sports Bar. Send emails from the WiFi enabled Lounge Bar (charges apply) or sip a latte in the lobby-level Caffe Cino. Work out in the LivingWell Health Club gym and take advantage of Hilton Fitness by Precor weight machines and cardio equipment. Take a swim in the 12.5 meter heated indoor pool. Unwind in the sauna or steam room and treat yourself at Contrasti, the beauty salon.
Day 10. Depart London
Enjoy breakfast, then squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage. After being transferred to the airport, relax on your return flight home.Â