Best of UK & Ireland Tour with 103 Reviews by Expat Explore

13 daysDuration

Group TourJoin a group of travelers

51 peopleMaximum group size

10 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

London, England

Ends

London, England

Highlights

Experience the incredible Cliffs of Moher and Giant's Causeway

City tours in Belfast, Edinburgh and Liverpool

Try to spot the Loch Ness monster and revel in the Scottish Highlands

See Blarney Castle and Shakespeare’s birthplace

Optional excursions to the Roman Baths and Stonehenge

Itinerary

Journey through rolling hills, legendary castles, and storied cities on the “Best of UK & Ireland” tour, a 13-day adventure beginning and ending in London. Designed for experienced travelers and seniors, this moderate-activity trip weaves through England, Wales, Ireland, and Scotland, revealing natural wonders and centuries of history.

Delight in the Georgian elegance of Bath, the vibrant streets of Dublin, and the mystery of Loch Ness. Marvel at the Giant’s Causeway, traverse the windswept Scottish Highlands, and stroll atop the Cliffs of Moher. Along the way, visit Shakespeare’s birthplace, enjoy a traditional punt in Cambridge, and kiss the famous Blarney Stone for luck.

The main activity centers around city sightseeing and cultural immersion, with comfortable accommodations and included transport and meals ensuring a worry-free experience. The unique selling point of this tour package is its comprehensive itinerary: a seamless blend of iconic landmarks, folklore, and breathtaking landscapes across four countries.

For those craving an enriching tour that captures the spirit and beauty of the British Isles, this journey is as captivating as it is complete.

day 1 - London - Stonehenge - Bath - Cardiff

Your adventure in the UK and Ireland starts in London today! Journey to the enigmatic Stonehenge where you can choose to marvel at this ancient world wonder up-close. Learn more about the mysteries of this archaeological site and the region's fascinating history. The tour then proceeds to Bath. Your tour leader will guide you through the key attractions of this picturesque city, including the well-preserved Roman baths. Next, journey into Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. Experience a driving tour of the city before checking into the hotel for the night.

Meals:Dinner

Others:See the historic sights of Bath, Enjoy a driving tour of Cardiff

day 2 - Cardiff - Stratford-upon-Avon - Liverpool

The first stop today is Stratford-upon-Avon, the town where William Shakespeare was born. This town is over 800 years old and boasts beautifully maintained Tudor architecture. Proceed to Liverpool, a British port city, renowned for being the birthplace of the Beatles and the home of football clubs Liverpool and Everton. See notable landmarks on a city driving tour* and enjoy free time in the evening to discover more of the city on your own. If you’re a music enthusiast, consider The Beatles Story & Museum optional excursion! *Please note the second half of the Liverpool driving tour will take place on the morning of Day 3.

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Visit Stratford-Upon-Avon; the birthplace of Shakespeare, See Liverpool’s top sights on a driving tour

day 3 - Liverpool - Dublin

Explore even more highlights of Liverpool on a morning driving tour before starting the journey to Dublin, Ireland by ferry. En route to the ferry, pause in Conwy to admire its stunning castle and visit Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, famous for having the longest name of any village in Europe! Upon reaching Dublin, choose how to spend your evening. Ireland’s capital city may be small but with over 1000 years of history, this city offers plenty of entertainment. Why not do as the locals do and visit a local pub?

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Explore Conwy; a Welsh castle town, Visit the village with the longest name in Europe

day 4 - Dublin

Today is a free day in Dublin which means the adventure is up to you! To discover Ireland’s fascinating history, join the “Ireland’s Identity” optional excursion. If you’re up for a pint, join the Whiskey & Guinness optional excursion to visit the Guinness Storehouse and learn all about the production of this beloved beverage. In the evening, you have the option to have a traditional Irish pub experience. Enjoy a wonderful night filled with Irish music, cuisine, and dance! Or, join the Full Irish Experience to combine all three excursions and save. Please note this optional excursion must be booked prior to the start of the tour.

Meals:Breakfast

day 5 - Dublin - Waterford - Blarney Castle - Killarney

Today, leave Dublin and journey to Ireland's oldest city, Waterford. This ancient city was established by Vikings in the 10th century and is famous for its stunning cut glass, maritime legacy and rich cultural history. Following this, visit one of Ireland’s most famous attractions, Blarney Castle. This castle is almost 600 years old and boasts the legendary Blarney Stone, believed to bestow the 'gift of the gab’ when kissed. Then, it's time to say goodbye to County Cork and head to County Kerry where a warm bed and included dinner await.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Others:Explore Waterford; the oldest city in Ireland, Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle

day 6 - Killarney

Soak up the beauty of the Kerry region with a full free day to explore! Why not join the Ring of Kerry Day Trip optional excursion for a day full of unforgettable adventures along this scenic route? Marvel at the scenery along the Iveragh Peninsula, stop at the Kerry Bog Village Museum and spectacular viewpoints! Top it all off in the majestic Killarney National Park with a jaunting (carriage) ride before enjoying some free time to explore Killarney town.

Meals:Breakfast

day 7 - Killarney - Cliffs of Moher - Galway - County Sligo

More picturesque views are on the itinerary today! Journey to Adare, known as ‘Ireland’s prettiest village’, via the Wild Atlantic Way, the world's longest coastal drive. Then, pay a visit to the vibrant city of Limerick on the way to one of Ireland’s most revered natural wonders. After spending some time marvelling at the towering Cliffs of Moher, head to Galway. Embrace the lively bohemian lifestyle of this student city by visiting one of its many bars or cafés, you could even listen to some live music or try some oysters! Alternatively, join the Tales of Galway optional excursion to learn about Galway’s folklore over a drink at a local pub. Finally, drive to the hotel in County Sligo.

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Visit Adare; Ireland’s prettiest village, Visit Limerick; see the treaty Stone & King John's Castle, Marvel at the views at the Cliffs of Moher, Enjoy free time in vibrant Galway

day 8 - County Sligo - Derry - Giant’s Causeway - Belfast

Say goodbye to Galway and travel to Northern Ireland, making a stop in its second-largest city Derry, also known as Londonderry. Experience the history, art and culture of this city before heading to the Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s most popular attraction. Learn about the legend of the giant while marvelling at the untamed coastal scenery. Our last stop before leaving Ireland is Northern Ireland’s capital city, Belfast. A local guide will share some of the city’s fascinating history and showcase some of the city’s top landmarks on a combination driving and walking tour. End the day with an included group dinner. Please note: The Titanic Belfast Experience will either take place on this day or the next, depending on the time of year.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Others:Visit Derry; Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, Visit the Giant's Causeway, a true natural wonder, Enjoy a locally guided tour of Belfast

day 9 - Belfast - Highlands

This morning you will have some free time to experience Belfast on your own or join the optional Titanic Belfast Experience to delve into the often-forgotten history of the ship. Following this, board the ferry to the country of kilts, haggis, and bagpipes - Scotland! Stop at the quaint coastal town of Ayr where you will have time to take some photos. Then travel to tonight’s hotel, located in the stunning Highlands and end an incredible day with an included group dinner.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

day 10 - Highlands - Glencoe - Loch Ness - Edinburgh

Today, venture further into the scenic Scottish Highlands. Begin your exploration with a photo stop at the picturesque Glencoe. Following that, make your way to Loch Ness, home to the mythical Loch Ness monster. While there, enjoy an optional one-hour cruise to try your hand at ‘Nessie’ hunting! Enjoy a Scottish distillery tour before heading to Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh. Home to alluring landmarks such as the Royal Mile, Holyrood House and Edinburgh Castle, it is also famed for being the city where JK Rowling gained inspiration for the Harry Potter novels. Enjoy a whisky tasting at a local distillery before concluding the day with an included group dinner.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Others:Enjoy a photo stop at Glencoe, Explore the shores of Loch Ness, Visit a Scottish Whiskey distillery, Experience Edinburgh on a tour of the city

day 11 - Edinburgh

Look forward to a full free day to experience Edinburgh! As the cultural hub of Scotland, Edinburgh has no shortage of things to do from unique museums and fairytale architecture to world-class shopping and restaurants. A great way to delve into Edinbrugh’s top sights is to join the Conquer the Capital optional excursion which features a full day of activities! See the awe-inspiring Edinburgh Castle and stroll along the Royal Mile. Today also offers the opportunity to visit Stirling with an optional half-day sightseeing tour, the choice is yours. Why not join tonight’s optional dinner and storytelling experience? Enjoy a traditional three-course dinner while locals entertain with historic tales.

Meals:Breakfast

day 12 - Edinburgh - Alnwick - York

The tour makes its way back to England today. Visit the Duke of Northumberland’s home, Alnwick Castle, which you may recognise from Downton Abbey , Harry Potter , and many other movies and TV shows. Following this, travel to the historical city of York, Yorkshire’s county capital. York is home to York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe and a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts. Join your tour leader on an orientation walking tour to uncover the captivating tales of the city before travelling to tonight’s accommodation in Yorkshire. Wrap up the day with a farewell group dinner, a delicious traditional roast dinner at a local restaurant.

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

Others:Explore the historic city of York

day 13 - York - Cambridge - London

Today is the final day of your adventure through the UK and Ireland, but it's not over yet! Journey to Cambridge and experience a punting trip along the river while admiring the views. This time-honoured university town has hosted many inspirational academics including Charles Darwin and David Attenborough. After experiencing Cambridge, it’s time to head back to London where the tour ends. Don’t forget to swap contact details with the new friends you made along the way!

Meals:Breakfast

Others:Enjoy a punting trip along the River Cam in Cambridge

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What's Included

Accommodation

12 nights hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms. The majority of our accommodations are of a 3- and 4-star standard, offering excellent value, comfort and convenienceSingle travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room (subject to availability)

Meals

12 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners *Vegetarian options available for all meals on request

Transport

Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboardAny public transport used as part of the tour (excludes free days)

Guide

Enjoy a locally guided tour of BelfastFully guided tour with experienced tour leaderTour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details

Others

See the historic sights of BathEnjoy a driving tour of CardiffVisit Stratford-Upon-Avon; the birthplace of ShakespeareSee Liverpool’s top sights on a driving tourExplore Conwy; a Welsh castle townVisit the village with the longest name in EuropeExplore Waterford; the oldest city in IrelandKiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney CastleVisit Adare; Ireland’s prettiest villageVisit Limerick; see the treaty Stone & King John's CastleMarvel at the views at the Cliffs of MoherEnjoy free time in vibrant GalwayVisit Derry; Northern Ireland’s second-largest cityVisit the Giant's Causeway, a true natural wonderEnjoy a photo stop at GlencoeExplore the shores of Loch NessVisit a Scottish Whiskey distilleryExperience Edinburgh on a tour of the cityExplore the historic city of YorkEnjoy a punting trip along the River Cam in Cambridge

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Best of UK & Ireland

4.7

based on 103 reviews

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Highlights

Itinerary

day 1 - London - Stonehenge - Bath - Cardiff