Essential Britain & Ireland
Fully Escorted Tour
From bustling cities and 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 on this escorted vacation with guided tours, handpicked accommodations, and much more included.
Escorted tours offer expert guides who provide deep local insights and worry-free planned itineraries. Enjoy the company of like-minded travelers, visit hidden gems not found on typical tours, and enjoy peace of mind with a travel support system.
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 Tower Hotel
- 2 nights in Dublin, Ireland at the Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre
- 2 nights in Edinburgh, Scotland at the Marriott Courtyard or Mercure Edinburgh Princes Street
- 1 night in York, England at the DoubleTree by Hilton York
- 1 night in London, England at the Park Plaza London Waterloo
- Sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Tour of Stonehenge & the Roman Baths
- Visit to Cardiff Castle
- Guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal
- Visit to Kilkenny
- Orientation tours of Dublin & Belfast
- Edinburgh guided sightseeing tour including a visit to Edinburgh Castle
- Walking Tour of York
- Visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace and Anne Hathaway's Cottage
- Breakfast daily and 3 dinners
- Transportation by private first-class air-conditioned motorcoach with complimentary Wi-Fi
- Ferry transportation across St. George's Channel and the North Channel
- Services of a professional tour director
- Hotel taxes, porterage, tips, and service charges
Great Ways to Explore
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Experience the highlights of all of the countries that make up the British Isles.
- Enjoy guided tours, ferry rides, and the convenience of being driven to and from each destination in a luxurious motorcoach.
-
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.
This incredible 10-day guided vacation allows you to see the "must-see" highlights of the UK, as well as the extraordinary hidden gems 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! Enjoy visits to the Roman Baths, constructed around 70 AD, and the mysterious 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. You'll also enjoy visits to York Minster, Northumberland National Park, Hadrian's Wall, and more!
Experience orientation tours of Cardiff, Dublin, and Belfast, relax on a city tour of Edinburgh, and stroll through York on a fun walking tour. You'll also enjoy plenty 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.
- Your sightseeing may be moved to an alternate day due to events in the city.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- 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 Tower Hotel
- 2 nights in Dublin, Ireland at the Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre
- 2 nights in Edinburgh, Scotland at the Marriott Courtyard or Mercure Edinburgh Princes Street
- 1 night in York, England at the DoubleTree by Hilton York
- 1 night in London, England at the Park Plaza London Waterloo
- Sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Tour of Stonehenge & the Roman Baths
- Visit to Cardiff Castle
- Guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal
- Visit to Kilkenny
- Orientation tours of Dublin & Belfast
- Edinburgh guided sightseeing tour including a visit to Edinburgh Castle
- Walking Tour of York
- Visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace and Anne Hathaway's Cottage
- Breakfast daily and 3 dinners
- Transportation by private first-class air-conditioned motorcoach with complimentary Wi-Fi
- Ferry transportation across St. George's Channel and the North Channel
- 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.
- Enjoy guided tours, ferry rides, and the convenience of being driven to and from each destination in a luxurious motorcoach.
-
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.
This incredible 10-day guided vacation allows you to see the "must-see" highlights of the UK, as well as the extraordinary hidden gems 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! Enjoy visits to the Roman Baths, constructed around 70 AD, and the mysterious 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. You'll also enjoy visits to York Minster, Northumberland National Park, Hadrian's Wall, and more!
Experience orientation tours of Cardiff, Dublin, and Belfast, relax on a city tour of Edinburgh, and stroll through York on a fun walking tour. You'll also enjoy plenty 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.
- Your sightseeing may be moved to an alternate day due to events in the city.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Prices From:
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
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
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.
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 for an exciting day of sightseeing.
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.
Day 3. Newport - Cardiff - Waterford, Ireland
Spend the morning exploring Cardiff with a visit to Cardiff Castle.
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.
Check-in - 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.
Day 4. Waterford - Kilkenny - Dublin
Begin your day with a guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal. Afterward, immerse yourself in Kilkenny, often called the "Marble City" due to its distinctive black limestone architecture.
Explore one of Ireland's most charming towns, where medieval cobblestones lead you along the "Medieval Mile." This historic place is brimming with ancient landmarks, delightful shops, and inviting pubs.
Check-in - Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre
Enjoy picturesque Dublin mountain and River Liffey views
during your relaxing stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre. Located
just 10 minutes from the city center, this family-friendly hotel is the perfect
base for exploring Ireland's capital city! Start your days off with a stroll
alongside the river, a workout in the fully equipped fitness center, or an
energizing breakfast from the on-site restaurant. Once you’re ready to explore
the city, train and bus stops are just blocks away! If you’re in the mood to
shop, the luck of the Irish is already with you, because the shopping district
is just a short five minute walk away.
After an exciting day of sightseeing in Dublin, unwind in a
contemporary, spacious room that will make you feel right at home. Large,
comfortable beds and mini-refrigerators will create a relaxing retreat, while
40-inch HDTVs and complimentary Wi-Fi will keep you up to date. If work finds
you when you are away, be productive in this hotel’s 24-hour business center,
where you can find complimentary printing services, fax machines, photo copy
machines, and, of course, Wi-Fi. When
you work up an appetite, be sure to dine at Oly’s Bar & Restaurant, which
serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and while you’re there, grab a pint of
beer at the bar. Don’t worry about finding something the kids might like –
there is a special kid’s menu just for them! And if you forget something, run
out of toothpaste, or you just crave a midnight snack, not to worry; the 24-hour
Pavilion Pantry convenience store will be there to save you.
Guided Tour of the House of Waterford Crystal
This tour allows you to witness master craftspeople blowing, hand-marking, cutting, sculpting, and engraving crystal, showcasing the intricate and precise techniques that give Waterford crystal its distinctive sparkle and brilliance. The House also features the world's largest collection of Waterford crystal in its opulent retail store.
Day 5. Dublin
Soak up the spirit of Dublin today!
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!
Day 6. Dublin, Ireland - Belfast, Northern Ireland - Edinburgh, Scotland
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.
Stay in a fine 3-star Edinburgh hotel, ideally located in the city center’s popular Princes Street. Mercure Edinburgh Princes Street Hotel has great views of Edinburgh Castle. Complimentary high speed Wi-Fi is available in the 169 stylish guest rooms and throughout the hotel. Scott's on Princes Street is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; as well as for light snacks and drinks. Enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Edinburgh castle from the hotel. It’s a few minutes’ walk from the Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus and only 7 minutes walking distance from Waverley train station.
The Edinburgh Princes Street hotel is above the Princes Street shops near Edinburgh Waverley Station, with direct rail services to UK cities. Edinburgh bus station is 500 meters away, and the Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus stops 150 meters from the hotel. From Edinburgh Airport Shuttle bus-stop follow Waverley Bridge, walk up towards the Scott Monument on your left. Continue over the crossing towards the monument. The hotel is opposite you, between Jenner’s department store and Marks & Spencer.Orientation Tour of Belfast
Discover Belfast, a port city rich in history, where the Titanic was born and the Irish linen industry once reigned supreme. Today, this vibrant city showcases a remarkable revitalization of its arts and architecture, drawing visitors from across the globe to explore its captivating blend of historic castles, churches, and modern ingenuity.
Day 7. Edinburgh
Enjoy the morning exploring Edinburgh with your guided tour of the city.
Spend the remainder of the day exploring the Scottish capital at your own pace.
Edinburgh guided sightseeing tour including a visit to Edinburgh Castle
City sightseeing with a Local Guide includes the New Town, the Old Town, and a visit to Edinburgh Castle. Ascend to Castle Rock to explore Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important historical strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, with a 1,100-year history as "the most besieged place in Great Britain." Here you’ll find the royal regalia and Scotland’s Crown Jewels.
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 before partaking in your included guided walking tour of York.
Check-in - DoubleTree by Hilton York
Step into DoubleTree by Hilton York and into the adventure of a lifetime! Offering the ideal location for exploring the city, the hotel is located within walking distance to York Minster and overlooks the historic City Walls and Monk Bar - the city's largest Medieval gateway! Head out to discover dining near the hotel, or stay in and indulge in the on-site restaurant's seasonal dishes served in the courtyard garden or gorgeous main room. Guestrooms are well-appointed and offer amenities such as complimentary WiFi, air-conditioning, and other conveniences to make your stay comfortable.
Guided Walking Tour of York
Join your tour director on a walk through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles of York. The Shambles is one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe and said to have been the inspiration behind Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley – and today is a colorful gathering place with cheerful cafés and quirky boutiques brimming with the sweet aromas of chocolate, pastries, and pies.
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. Then, 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.
Check-in - Park Plaza London Waterloo
Walking distance from South Bank, Park Plaza London Waterloo is ideally located for a London getaway. With close proximity to top attractions such as Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, the National Theatre, Southbank Centre, and more, you'll never have to miss a thing. Get a good night's sleep in your stylish guestroom and wake up to breakfast in bed or stop by Illy Cafe for a full English breakfast or the continental breakfast buffet. The property also boasts an executive lounge, Mandara Spa, and several other convenient amenities.
Shakespeare’s Birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
Discover the charming Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the ancestral home where Shakespeare's beloved, and elder, fiancée was born and courted by young Will. This enchanting dwelling, over five centuries old, retains much of its original character, offering a glimpse into their early romance.
Then, immerse yourself in Shakespeare's formative years at his Birthplace and family home in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. Explore captivating tales of his personal life, marriage, and children, while admiring a world-class collection of artifacts meticulously preserved by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.
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.