uk and scotland tour

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England and Scotland Tours & Trips

Located in the UK , England neighbours Wales and Scotland and is mostly known for its many cultural experiences. The capital city of London lies on the Thames river and is a popular adventure destination, as it hosts the Tower of London, Big Ben and Parliament House. Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and is famous for the hilltop castle, while Glasgow offers an enticing food scene. Read here ideas for one week in Scotland and England (for seniors) , for one week in Scotland or discover the best coach/bus tour operators .

244 England and Scotland tour packages with 6,070 reviews

Highland Fling

It was a great time! Steve was an excellent driver, funny, accommodating, and knowledgeable.

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Best of Britain (11 Days)

this tour exceeding our expectations, the Guide ( Jacquline Green )and Bus ( Lee ) driver went over and above to make sure every member of tour was included, comfortable and made this trip to UK even more memorable. The Guide gave us plenty of information regarding history and was extremely informative on every location we passed and stopped at. we loved the local treats supplied by the Guide as well. The bus was comfortable, the intinerary was perfect and kept us busy including as much as possible. The accommodation was excellent. I would definitely recommend this company and way of travel to others. and we would use Trafalgar again in the future.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 8 Days)

We had an awesome experience, made possible by our tour director Damian and driver Dave. Damian’s knowledge was exceptional and Dave was an amazing driver.

• Christmas & New Year

Aonghus Youth

Enjoyed the day in Scotland highlands. Enjoyed the tour of Belfast. Got to Durham too late to enjoy the town.

Best of Scotland (Summer, 7 Days)

A great snapshot of Scotland. All experiences were excellent. Great accommodation. Coach superb and driver very skilled. The director on this trip is a great asset to the company because he delivered excellent service in all areas.

Grand Tour of Britain & Ireland

The tour was very organised, we saw lots of fabulous places. Sometimes we could have received more information about different (buildings, castles etc) but on the most part it was good. Of course some places we wanted to stay longer but I do understand why that isn’t possible.overall I really did enjoy the experience.

Britain & Ireland Explorer (Classic, 13 Days)

We had a great holiday and highly recommend insight tours . We had lovely hotels and a fantastic tour guide who was very knowledgeable with places and the history.

England, Scotland & Wales

I was really nice tour which covered amazing locations.

• Sightseeing

United Kingdom and Ireland ( 10 days )

Great Britain

ExpatExplore tour guide (Peter W) and coach driver (Mintee) were exceptional on the Great Britain tour. All of the individuals on the tour were very accommodating and cooperative with respect to the schedule and personal interactions. We met many very good people from throughout the world who in reality are very similar to ourselves. The places visited were well selected and very informative.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

England and Scotland Heritage (8 Days)

Wonderful trip, everything was great

Highland Experience's Scottish Choice

My only complaint is that some of the lodgings were more than four or five minutes walking distance from eateries and thus difficult to access for elderly people.

Essential Britain

Superb experience. The guide, Martin and driver John were fabulous and very knowledgeable. Will definitely be booking another tour.

Bonnie Scotland with London

My husband and I very much enjoyed our tour through Scotland. The tour guide Tom was knowledgeable and kept us interested without drowning us in a myriad of dates and names of Kings and Queens. He was totally in control ensuring everyone was on the bus and at each event checking everything had been arranged and that our group was expected before he would let us off the bus. The Scottish driver Dave was excellent and we felt safe despite the narrow roads. On the down side, we wish we could have had more free time to explore in Glasgow, Aberdeen and Edinburgh. The guided tours of Glasgow and Edinburgh turned out to be pointing out various buildings on way to the castle or as we drove out of the cities on our way to the day's tour highlight rather than a proper city tour. The London part was disappointing with the aspect of being part of a tour. The hotel, although nice, was over 1 1/2 hours by bus away from King's Cross station. The tour director did not take the opportunity to point out the various historic sites along the way. Many key highlights were not included in the scheduled familiarization of London bus tour such as Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. Once the bus tour was over we were left to fend for ourselves. There was no concern/interest shown to ensure transportation arrangements at the end of the tour were in hand etc...a stark contrast to the Scottish part of the trip.

Scotland's Shetland Islands

This was a really enjoyable and comprehensive tour of Shetland, we had an amazing tour guide and had lots of good walking. A great mix of history, sightseeing, and culture.

What people love about England And Scotland Tours

Tom is a great guide. Would recommend the tour.

Because my original trip was cancelled by Trafalgar to rearrange a new tour was difficult I am giving a little more tolerance as the tourist industry was smashed my amended timetable cost me a lot of money The trip if your a new first trip bus tour user it’s ok far to rushed for us experienced lots 1 hour walk around s. Then bed. ie Liverpool Glasgow I won’t do another bus tour in the UK

I really enjoyed the trip

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11 Day UK Tour to England and Scotland

England, Wales, Scotland

London, Windsor, Bath, Cardiff, Chester, Liverpool, Lake District, Glasgow, Scottish Highlands, St. Andrews, Edinburgh, York, Bradford, Stratford-upon-Avon

10 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners

Faster paces with mix of 1–2-night stays in each location. Typically features 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve steep hills and uneven surfaces, such as cobblestones.

Costsaver trips are great if you are looking for a budget friendly, semi-independent vacation that is designed with just the basics in mind. Unlike classic tours, Costsaver includes just the essentials including 3-star accommodation (not always centrally located, but close to public transportation for easy access to the center of town), airconditioned motorcoach transportation, an expert Travel Director and Driver. With a basic orientation included in major cities, enjoy the freedom and flexibility to explore the destination at your own pace, or tailor your days on trip with Choice Optional Experiences unique to each itinerary and arranged by your Travel Director.  

Delve deeper into the history and heritage of Britain, from Windsor Castle and Stratford-upon-Avon to the bonnie birthplace of kilts and clans. Let centuries-old architecture inspire you, fall in love with the beauty of the Lake District and engage with the best of Britain when you visit Bath, York, Edinburgh and Glasgow, topping it all off with a leisurely stroll in the footsteps of the golfing gods at St. Andrews.

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Day-by-day itinerary

Begin and end your journey back in time on the busy streets of London. After check-in, you have the rest of the day to explore this multicultural city your way. March to the tune of God Save the King as you embrace all the pomp and pageantry of Britain's capital. Delve into London's royal heritage, stroll along the Thames or admire treasures from across the globe in one of its museums before retiring to your neighborhood 'local' for a pint or two.

What a treat! A full free day to explore all the surprises London has to offer in preparation for your epic adventure across England and Scotland. There's no shortage of places to go and people to see as you pound the pavements in search of the very best of Britain, from bacon butties to builder's tea, royal palaces to cathedrals, the London Underground to the mesmerizing world of monuments and museums that lies above.

This morning, meet your Travel Director and travel companions. The British capital won't keep you from your exploration of the island's colorful history. This morning you'll travel west for a memorable encounter with royalty and the Roman Empire. Start the day with a visit to Windsor, home to the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, then continue to UNESCO-listed Bath. View the city's beautiful Georgian façades before continuing to Cardiff for your overnight stay.

The Romans left their magic touch on the pretty town of Chester. You’ll view the city walls that they built in the first century to defend their fortress and the black and white half-timbered buildings, famously known as 'The Rows'. Take some time to explore Chester your way or join an Optional Experience to Llangollen in North Wales. Home of the International Eisteddfod, Llangollen has a tiny population but punches well above its weight when it comes to serene scenery and an array of cafés, bars and restaurants. Our home for the night is the haunt of the 'Fab Four', with an evening at leisure to explore Liverpool’s legendary nightlife.

Our excursion to North Wales takes us to the picturesque village of Llangollen, where you'll see charming sights including the River Dee and Victor ...

Optional Experiences

North Wales Scenic Excursion

Our excursion to North Wales takes us to the picturesque village of Llangollen, where you'll see charming sights including the River Dee and Victorian Railway Station. You'll also travel through the Valley of the Cross and up to the Horseshoe Pass to enjoy views of the rolling green hills and snap some enviable travel photos. 

Pricing Info

How to book.

Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.

Explore the iconic cultural landmarks of Liverpool on a guided tour led by our Local Specialist. From its glorious maritime past to its famous cult ...

Famous Sights and the Fab Four

Explore the iconic cultural landmarks of Liverpool on a guided tour led by our Local Specialist. From its glorious maritime past to its famous cultural present, you’ll discover the city's two magnificently different cathedrals before uncovering the legacy of The Beatles. Explore Mathew Street, birthplace of the Beatles, and admire the Merseybeat sounds of Liverpool.

Settle in for a scenic drive north to the Lake District. Here you’ll see first-hand why the rugged and untamed beauty of the Lake District inspired William Wordsworth to wander 'lonely as a cloud' in his acclaimed piece of poetry, 'Daffodils'. There’s no better way to embrace the area’s heritage than to join an Optional Experience and chug between Haverthwaite and Lakeside in an old-world steam train followed by a cruise on Lake Windermere. Crossing the Scottish border, you’ll stop at Gretna Green, where eloping couples would exchange their vows over the Blacksmith’s anvil and be bound to each other forever. Resist the urge to tie the knot yourself and continue to the bold city of Glasgow, where you’ll have an opportunity to join an Optional Experience for a night on the "toon".

Enjoy a cruise on Lake Windermere to discover the beauty of the lake shore admiring picturesque homes, gardens and the neo-gothic architecture of W ...

Scenic Cruise on Lake Windermere

Enjoy a cruise on Lake Windermere to discover the beauty of the lake shore admiring picturesque homes, gardens and the neo-gothic architecture of Wray Castle along the water. You'll be left inspired encountering unique wildlife and scenic vistas as you explore the area beloved by famous writers Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth.

Take in the glorious scenery of the Lake District as we cruise across England's largest lake, admiring beautiful homes, castles and more. Then, ste ...

Steam Train Ride and Windermere Cruise

Take in the glorious scenery of the Lake District as we cruise across England's largest lake, admiring beautiful homes, castles and more. Then, step back in time as we board the historic steam train from Lakeside to Haverthwaite, enjoying the thrill of riding the heritage railway and taking in scenic views as we travel.*

Discover the vibrant character and joy of Glasgow as the city transforms at night, heading out on the town with your Travel Director for an evening ...

Glasgow City Evening

Discover the vibrant character and joy of Glasgow as the city transforms at night, heading out on the town with your Travel Director for an evening of good food, drinks and unique experiences. Home to cozy bars, a famous live music scene and historic Victorian architecture; Glasgow offers a delightful mix of venues for travelers to explore.

Kickstart your day with an introduction to Glasgow’s industrial past and modern revival that has given the city its characteristic gallus strut. Channel your inner Highlander next, embarking on a journey north to the banks of Loch Lomond, where a cruise to Rob Roy’s cave could be on the cards should you choose to join this Optional Experience. Later, the breathtakingly beautiful scenery of Glencoe, 'Glen of Weeping', will stir all your emotions – not least as you remember the brave clansmen who fought relentlessly for their beliefs. Local shepherd Neil and his enthusiastic border collies are ready to welcome guests on their Highland sheep farm for an Optional Experience this afternoon. You can perfect your sheep-shearing skills before settling into your Highland hotel.

Discover the wild beauty of the 'Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond' as we set sail on one of Scotland's most impressive destinations. As we cruise along ...

Loch Lomond Boat Trip

Discover the wild beauty of the 'Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond' as we set sail on one of Scotland's most impressive destinations. As we cruise along the loch, the skipper will share mystical stories of the area and point to landmarks, such as Rob Roy's Cave, as you relax and savor the stunning scenery.

Travel to a real Highland Sheep Farm to meet Neil the Shepherd and discover the charms of local life in the Scottish Highlands. Meet his beautiful ...

Highland Farm Experience

Travel to a real Highland Sheep Farm to meet Neil the Shepherd and discover the charms of local life in the Scottish Highlands. Meet his beautiful border collies and learn how he uses different whistles to command each dog, before having the opportunity to feed the lambs yourself. This hands-on tour is one for the bucket list!

Robert Burns once wrote of his beloved hills of the Highlands. Your scenic drive through its mystical landscapes will leave you similarly inspired as you venture to picturesque Pitlochry on the banks of the Tummel. There’s time to explore this salmon fishing center on your own or join an Optional Experience to Blair Castle, home of the Duke of Atholl and Europe's last remaining private army. The fairways and greens of St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, beckon and you’ll have an opportunity to snap a selfie against the backdrop of the famous 18 th green.

Step inside the enchanting gardens and grand halls of Blair Castle, taking in 750 years of Scottish history spanning significant events such as the ...

Pitlochry, Visit of Blair Castle

Step inside the enchanting gardens and grand halls of Blair Castle, taking in 750 years of Scottish history spanning significant events such as the Civil War and hosting notable figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots. Home to the Dukes of Atholl for centuries, the historic castle is rich in cultural stories and artefacts for you to discover on your tour.

Kick back and relax as we enjoy a scenic drive to the ancient village of Torphichen, historically associated with Scottish Kings and Knights Templa ...

Dinner and Drive to Historic Torphichen

Kick back and relax as we enjoy a scenic drive to the ancient village of Torphichen, historically associated with Scottish Kings and Knights Templar. At the Torphichen Inn, your arrival will be toasted by our gracious host before enjoying an excellent dinner of local specialties and cultural entertainment. 

Experience the best of Scottish tradition at Ghillie Dhu, where we'll be welcomed by a Scottish piper and enjoy a welcome drink before settling in ...

Ceilidh Evening and Dinner at Ghillie Dhu

Experience the best of Scottish tradition at Ghillie Dhu, where we'll be welcomed by a Scottish piper and enjoy a welcome drink before settling in for a delicious three-course meal and live Ceilidh music. And you can't miss the iconic Piping in the Haggis ceremony, a true highlight of the Scottish experience. 

Tuck into a hearty Scottish breakfast with tattie scones and all the trimmings. Today you’ll need some extra sustenance as there’s much to see and do in Scotland’s hilly capital. The Georgian New Town, Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle all wait to be viewed in the company of your Local Specialist, so grab your camera and prepare for a memorable sightseeing tour revealing all the highlights of Auld Reekie. You’ll have plenty of time to explore on your own or consider joining an Optional Experience to Rosslyn Chapel or an in-depth tour of Edinburgh Castle.

Dominating the skyline of the city, Edinburgh Castle has stood strong on Castle Rock since the 12th century. Led by our Local Specialist, we'll pay ...

Edinburgh Castle Experience

Dominating the skyline of the city, Edinburgh Castle has stood strong on Castle Rock since the 12th century. Led by our Local Specialist, we'll pay a visit to the castle that is famous for being the most besieged place in Great Britain and one of the most attacked fortresses in the world. We’ll also see the crown jewels, known as the Honours of Scotland, and the National War Museum of Scotland.

We’ll drive out of Edinburgh to the tiny village of Rosslyn, where we’ll hear the inside story of the famous Rosslyn Chapel from a Local Specialist ...

Rosslyn Chapel

We’ll drive out of Edinburgh to the tiny village of Rosslyn, where we’ll hear the inside story of the famous Rosslyn Chapel from a Local Specialist. One of Scotland's most unusual 15th-century buildings, Rossyln is famed for its associations with the Knights Templar, the Masonic movement, and now 'The Da Vinci Code'.

Cheerio the noo and wave goodbye to Scotland. It’s time to venture south on your return journey through England to London, but not before you come face-to-face with Hadrian’s first-century attempt to keep the ‘barbarians’ out of his Roman Empire. You’ll not see an ancient Roman wall like it anywhere else on earth. Continue to the walled city of York, where an orientation tour will guide you through its narrow medieval streets to the 13 th -century Gothic cathedral, York Minster, which dominates the city. You’ll have some time to admire the structure’s beautiful stained glass before an evening on your own, although York’s alluring history may keep you on the edge of your seat. Delve into its tales of Romans, roses and ghosts. It’s the stuff great books are made of.

This is a chocolate tour, tasting and treat making. Explore how York Cocoa Works craft chocolate, followed by a hands-on chocolate-making activity, ...

York's Sustainable Cocoa Experience

This is a chocolate tour, tasting and treat making. Explore how York Cocoa Works craft chocolate, followed by a hands-on chocolate-making activity, crafting your own treat to take home and enjoy.

This morning, we visit Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of the famous bard, William Shakespeare, who became England's most beloved playwright. It's time for one last group picture as you say a fond farewell to your Travel Director and new friends as you return to London.

It's time to close the curtain on your epic adventure across England and Scotland. You'll say cheerio to new friends as you prepare for your return journey home. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Great Britain is made up of three countries: England, Scotland, and Wales. These countries are located on the island of Great Britain, which is the largest island in the British Isles
• The United Kingdom (UK) consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
• Languages across Great Britain: English is the dominant language throughout Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales). While the main language in Scotland is English, Scots and Scottish Gaelic are minority languages. In Wales, both English and Welsh Gaelic are spoken. If you're traveling through the UK and visiting Northern Ireland, you'll also hear English and Irish or Gaeilge .
• Currencies used in Great Britain: British Pound Sterling (£) is used throughout the United Kingdom.
• Capitals Cities: London (England), Edinburgh (Scotland), Cardiff (Wales), Belfast (Northern Ireland)
• Time Zone(s) in the United Kingdom: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and Greenwich Mean Time +1 (GMT+1) during daylight saving time

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage : Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag : *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

• *Please note : A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Passport and Travel Documents : Ensure you have your passport , travel insurance , and any necessary travel documents.

• Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable footwear.
• Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
• Layers: It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall.
• Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.
• Rain Gear: Depending on the season and the countries you're visiting, it's a good idea to pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella.

Sun Protection:

• Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
• Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly .

Medications and First Aid:

• Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
• Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

• Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
• Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
• A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

• A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone . However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
• Mobile phone.
• Chargers for each electronic you bring.
• Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
• Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
• Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

• A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
• Insect repellent.
• Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet , and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
• A small travel alarm.
• A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
• A travel pillow.
• Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
• Light sleepwear.
• A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here !
• Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

United Kingdom passport, visa, and entry requirement information for US citizens.

• Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
• Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter the United Kingdom.
• Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions .

The climate in the United Kingdom is generally classified as temperate maritime, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. The weather is known for its variability and can change frequently throughout the day. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with showers being common. The western parts of the UK, particularly areas like Wales and Scotland, tend to experience higher rainfall compared to the eastern regions. The UK is influenced by the warm Gulf Stream, which helps to moderate temperatures and prevent extreme heat or cold. Fog and mist are common in some areas, particularly in autumn and winter.

Electricity

• American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz.
• Type G outlets are used throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland. Adapters are used to change the plug style from American-style plugs with two flat prongs to fit into these outlets, which take three rectangular prongs.
• You will need a plug adapter and voltage converter to use your appliances in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.
• We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. Also, pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are standard accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

• Air conditioning is commonly available in European and United Kingdom hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.
• However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings.
• Most hotels in Europe or the UK can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport Transfers for Europe flights not arriving to or departing from London Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if:

• You are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold 
• Your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings

Airport Transfers for Europe flights arriving to or departing from London Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days are complimentary only if:

• You are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold
• You booked your land tour and flights as a land/air package through GET. If you book your flights independently via London Heathrow, you can *purchase a transfer through us.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications .

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD per person per half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

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The one that gives you trendy cities, charming landscapes, & the birthplace of The Beatles​

9 days, 2 countries

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8 nights in Hotels

8 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners

Average 35 people

Expert Trip Manager + Driver Team + Local Guides

From the birth of the Beatles to the creators of the kilt, this sojourn through England and Scotland is all about uncovering the best of Britain. Picture-perfect lands and charming cities make this a perfectly balanced way to spend your trip.

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What is Contiki?

Contiki are the world leaders in organized youth travel. We’ve been providing amazing travel experiences for young travellers, from 18-35 years old, since 1962. Imagine how good you would be at something if you had been doing it for more than 60 years?

Everything about Contiki is deeply rooted in our two values ‘Make Every Moment Count’ and ‘We’re About People’. We don’t just talk, we walk the walk and live by our brand philosophy of ‘ Travel.Together. ’ which means to travel with one another, with the destinations we visit, the people and cultures we enjoy and the environment.

You’ve never experienced travel like this.

Why only 18-35?

Focusing on 18-35 year olds allows us to tailor a dramatically more powerful travel experience and an itinerary so fun it feels like all of your best Friday nights combined.

Tailoring to select ages brings together like minded, likeable people, and allows us to use Social Travel planning to build great groups of people so fast you’ll wonder if you’ve been friends forever.

What destinations can I go to with Contiki?

A sunrise, shoreline or bright light for every whim. We are proud to offer more than 350 Global trips, intelligently designed for a seamless and simple social travel experience. Visit our search page to discover your perfect travel destination.

How does it work?

We’re reinventing hassle free travel. Whether you are a solo traveller or group you can be rest assured that there has been tonnes of planning behind every trip.

Booking with Contiki means you are saying yes to a smile inducing trip where the typically stressful elements just seem to magically happen.

No one does trips like Contiki, essential accommodation, transport, reservations and so much more is all taken care of. You can multiply the magic with trip add ons and numerous customisations for your free time.

Every single Contiki social travel trip is managed by one of our expert Trip Managers, who are there to provide hands-on support and ensure your trip runs smoothly whilst you stay in the moment.

From 2022 your good time will be good for the planet as all Contiki trips are carbon natural. Find out more here.

How many other travellers are on each trip?

Group sizes are completely dependent on where and how you choose to travel with Contiki. 

In Europe and in most of North America and New Zealand, group sizes can range between 24 – 53 awesome travellers. 

In regions like Asia, Australia, Africa and Latin America, and on some North America and New Zealand trips, our group sizes are considerably smaller – as low as 12 or up to 30 travellers max.

Detour trips offer a different type of experience and max out at 16 people led by a local host.

Wondering what is so great about travelling together? Check out the Contiki Social travel page.

Each group is administered according to our strict Covid policies which can be viewed here.

What’s included?

All essential trip elements have been catered to ensure a great time, with great people in great places. But you mean more specifically right?

Your accommodation, essential trip transport, and a good handful of meals are included in the cost of your Contiki trip (on most trips we offer breakfast every day, plus a hand-picked selection of authentic and tasty meals). 

To fill your days and Insta feeds we have Included Experiences, which are basically the sights and activities we think you just can’t afford to miss. Of course you also get our expert and highly trained team of Contiki staff to support throughout.

A day by day breakdown of inclusions and Free Time Add-Ons are available on the trip specific pages. 

We always try to accommodate special requests such as birthdays, proposals etc. Please chat to our team and we can explore how we may support the request.

What’s not included?

Contiki social travel trips have a large degree of flexibility built into them to enable you to truly own your experience. This means that some trip elements are not included in the initial cost and may require additional budgeting. 

Flights to and from your starting and ending points are not included in the cost of your trip. These can be added on during the booking process either online or via our contact center or booked independently by you.

Each trip contains the right amount of free time for you to explore or indulge your travel desires. We offer Free Time Add-Ons, which are additional experiences that are not included in the overall price. These add ons are highlighted on the specific trip page. Your Trip Manager will highlight these to you and organise their booking on trip. Exceptions may apply where pre booking is required but this will be made known to you in your pre departure information.

A number of meal times are left open for you to explore a region and its foodie offerings in greater detail, so budgeting for your taste in non-catered meals is important. 

Travel insurance and visas are also not included in the cost of your trip, and should be booked separately.

What are Contiki's sustainability credentials?

Travel comes with responsibilities. That’s why we’re determined to travel sustainably and consciously, and that’s why we’re willing to take a stand on issues closest to our hearts. Find out more details here . With the help of our four-point Climate Action Plan, we're now on a journey to Net Zero - committing to carbon reductions and evolving to support the transition to a low-carbon future. Find out more details here .

Do I need to purchase travel insurance for this trip?

Yes! It’s a requirement of traveling with Contiki that you take out comprehensive insurance cover for cancellation, personal injury, death, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, evacuation expenses, personal liability & loss of personal property and Covid related expenses before you travel with us. It’s also super important to check that your insurance covers all of the activities you’ll be trying out, particularly any adventure activities (for all you adrenaline junkies). For more information check out our full travel insurance FAQs.

Can I stay in my destination a few days before/after the trip starts/ends? And can Contiki help me arrange this?

Yes and yes! You can add pre- and post-trip accommodation to your booking in one of three ways:

When booking your trip online

In the 'My Travel Portal' after you've made your booking

By calling us any time on 0808 281 1120

In certain cities, you may even be able to secure a preferential rate for you pre- or post-trip accommodation.

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• UK Package Tours from London (6-10 Days) >

England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland Tour - 10 Days

This 10 day England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland tour gives you the ultimate experience of Great Britain and Ireland. You’ll get to see many highlights of this magical land, including London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dublin and Cardiff. We’ll travel through the heart of the glorious English countryside, passing beautiful towns like Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon and the Roman city of York and into areas of outstanding natural beauty, including The Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales. This England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland Tour departs regularly throughout the year and includes accommodation, breakfasts, some evening meals, driver and more!

To see a full itinerary and available travel dates, see here .

what to expect:

Buckingham Palace

Day 1 – London

Arrive in London, the capital city of the United Kingdom. You’ll have some time to explore the city, perhaps with a walk along the bank of the River Thames or a visit to one of the museums in Kensington. You might also feel like visiting one of London’s diverse neighbourhoods such as Covent Garden, Westminster, Mayfair or Chelsea.

Hotel: Park Plaza Riverbank

Day 2 – Stratford & York

Roman Walls and York Minster

Leaving London, we’ll head right into the heart of the English countryside, known for its green rolling hills and beautiful landscapes. The first stop is the town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Visit the house where Shakespeare was born and grew up, as well as the nearby visitor centre. Departing Stratford, we’ll head up north to the city of York. Enjoy an orientation walk passing the ancient Roman city walls, York Minster and the collection of ancient narrow streets, known as The Shambles.

The evening is spent in the spa town of Harrogate.  Enjoy a traditional pub meal.

Hotel Crowne Plaza Harrogate including breakfast and dinner

On day three of this England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland Tour we’ll slowly work our way further North. We’ll drive through the Yorkshire Dales and into the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a beautiful part of England, known for its writers and poets. We’ll see Lake Windermere and travel through the countryside, which inspired the English poet William Wordsworth and writer Beatrix Potter. The drive continues until we head into Scotland, passing Gretna Green, where couples used to elope and tie the knot.  We continue on to Glasgow, the third largest city in the UK, with an orientation that passes many of the famous sites.  In the evening there is an optional extra to dine at a traditional venue featuring Scottish entertainment.

Novotel Glasgow Center, including breakfast

Day 4 – Edinburgh

A full day to explore all that Edinburgh has to offer! This is the capital city of Scotland, perched on a hill with stunning views all around. Led by a local specialist, highlights of the day include visiting Edinburgh Castle and seeing the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the beautiful new Scottish Parliament building. In the evening, we return to the same hotel in Glasgow and will have a delicious meal at a local restaurant (included).

Day 5 – Belfast

We’ll head down the Scottish coastline and take a short ferryride across to Northern Island, arriving soon after in Belfast. Belfast is the capital city of Northern Island and we’ll see the City Hall and the place where the Titanic was built. From here, it’s straight to our hotel in Dublin (either Ballsbridge hotel or Mespil hotel)

Day 6 – Dublin

St Patrick’s Cathedral

A full day to explore Dublin, the capital city of Ireland. Joined by a local specialist, you’ll get to see many of the highlights of the city including St Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College, the Guinness brewhouse and more! Spend the day soaking up the special and unique Irish culture.

Day 7 – Ireland

Departing Dublin, we head to the Irish National Stud Farm, famous for rearing racehorses. We’ll have a guided tour of the farm, followed by a walk in the Japanese gardens, considered the finest of their kind in the whole of Europe. From here, admire the medieval castle at Kilkenny Castle before some free time for lunch. We then head south to Waterford Crystal, the factory that produces iconic crystal gifts and high-quality glassware.

Evening accommodation at the Marina/Fitzwilton

Day 8 – Cardiff

Cardiff Castle

Day 8 of this England, Ireland, Scotland & Wales tour is spent in Cardiff. We start the day by taking the ferry over the Irish Sea, and head to Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. Highlights of the city include the Millenium Centre, National Assembly and Cardiff Castle. Dinner is also included, and we’ll eat with a local Welsh family in the beautiful countryside.

Day 9 – Bath & Stonehenge

Cross back into England, and head to Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage city that’s famous for its Roman Baths and Georgian period architecture. Having explored Bath, we head to Stonehenge, another UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its neolithic stone circle. In the evening we return to London, staying at the Park Plaza Riverbank/Park Plaza County Hall.

Day 10 – Depart London

The final day of this England, Ireland, Scotland & Wales tour – say goodbye to your fellow travellers and head home!

further details

Tour includes:

• Breakfasts every day (except day 1)
• Transportation via luxury coach with WIFI and train travel. (As well as a ferry to and from Ireland)
• Driver and separate travel director
• Audio headsets

Tour excludes:

terms and conditions

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Scottish Tours - The best choice for quality and value for over 100 years.

If you are planning to visit Scotland then you will find our range of one-day trips, short breaks and luxury escorted tours the best way to see the real Scotland - a land of fairytale castles , picturesque lochs and spectacular scenery   including the world famous Jacobite steam train used in the filming of Harry Potter.

Our city and Scotland tours depart from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and London. Our tours of Scotland are the perfect way to explore the real Scotland and convenient too with daily departures on the most popular Scottish Highland tours . We select the routes and tour guides.

With Scottish Tours you can choose to visit Loch Ness and Inverness or Stirling Castle and Loch Lomond - both popular one-day trips of Scotland. Or why not travel further afield, on one of our short break tours. The magical Isle of Skye and Eliean Donan Castle , the remote yet picturesque surroundings of the Applecross Peninsula and nature watching in a lonely Highland glen are just some of the delights that await you when you choose a short break tour with Scottish Tours.

Our extended range of sightseeing tours of Scotland is the most comprehensive available. You can select your Scottish Tour confident in the knowledge that the widest possible choice of tours of Scotland has to offer.

For a different Scotland tour experience check out our exciting range of Scottish train Tours . Speed comfortably from London by Express train to visit our great cities of Edinburgh or Glasgow. Then tour Scotland by luxury coach to visit Inverness, the Isle of Skye or even Scotland's Far North Coast! All in one convenient package.

Much of Scotland can be explored on a comfortable tour from Edinburgh or Glasgow. And there is only one way to see Scotland - with Scottish Tours.

Scotland's Must See Destinations

Isle of skye.

The Isle of Skye offers some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery. See the Cullins and visit the fairy pools.

Scotland's largest expanse of water is shroud in the mystery of 'Nessie' - the Loch Ness monster.

Jacobite Steam Train

Travel aboard the real Hogwarts Express to see mountains, lochs and, of course, the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Follow in Claire and Jamie’s time-travelling footsteps on our Outlander tours.

Scotch Whisky

Whisky (Whiskey) takes its name from the Gaelic for ‘water of life’. Malt or blended Scotch is the world leader. Visit distilleries in Islay and Speyside.

Scotland's Islands

Their natural beauty takes your breath away. Local prehistoric treasures and native wildlife are fascinating and rewarding.

Steeped in history and legend, the spectacular Highlands of Scotland, are one of the last unspoilt regions of Europe.

Scotland’s many historic castles and palaces are just waiting to be explored.

Harry Potter

Whether you’ve watched the entire series or are travelling with kids in tow, get to know the world’s favourite wizard on an exclusive tour. Go to famous filming locations with a Harry Potter day tour or extended Harry Potter tour from Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow and London.

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Quality Sightseeing since 1907

For over 100 years we've been making touring Scotland a quality experience for visitors from all over the World. Over the years our Scottish tours have been chosen by many thousands of travellers who want to tour Scotland in comfort and style.

Scottish Tours has a long and distinguished pedigree and we are proud to include the famed names of Scottish Motor Traction, Scottish Omnibuses and Eastern Scottish as part of our heritage.

Today we continue to offer our clients the highest standards of service and the very best value. You can tour Scotland with Scottish Tours confident in the knowledge that no one has more experience.

Tour Scotland with Scottish Tours. Discover the highlights of Scotland on a tour to Loch Ness, The Scottish Highlands, Skye and Loch Lomond.

Travel with Confidence ABTA approved travel provider

Best UK Tours 2023/4 – Reviews & Itinerary Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: June 13, 2023

Taking one of the many UK tours on offer can be a great way to explore the United Kingdom if this is one of your first trips in the UK. There are several advantages to taking a guided or self-guided tour for part (or all) of your time visiting the UK. 

Guided tours of England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland allow you to minimise the travel hassle as you’ll have a company to do most of the planning for you, and many of the United Kingdom tour package options we’ve included here allow you to see far more of the UK in a shorter period of time than it would be possible to do on your own. 

Guided tours of UK can also offer good value for money, and there are some great UK trip packages on offer. Unfortunately, choosing which UK tour to take is not so easy – as the choice of tours in UK can be really overwhelming. There are just so many, so where to start looking? 

In this guide I’ll walk you through some of my favourite UK tour itineraries and how to choose the best UK tour that’s right for you. Whether you’re looking for England tours, cheap UK tours, all-inclusive England vacation packages, or the best coach holidays UK has, you’ll find plenty of options in this blog. I’ve also included some of my recommended cycling and walking holidays UK has for those looking for an active break. 

Let’s get started with the best Great Britain tours 2023/4 options on offer! 

Best Tours of Great Britain – Comparison Chart

When is the best time to go on your uk trip , mode of transport, pace of travel, elegance of great britain – insight vacations – 11 days, castles & kilts – trafalgar tours – 10 days, great britain 7 days, uk by train – great rail journeys uk – 12 days.

• The Lake District & Scotland – Rabbie's – 9 Days

Highlights of Scotland – G Adventures – 7 Days

Country roads of scotland – insight vacations – 9 days.

• Best of Scotland 

8 Day Isle of Skye, Orkney & North Coast

Britain and ireland, essential britain & ireland – globus – 10 days, britain & ireland explorer – insight vacations – 13 days, walk hadrian’s wall, g adventures, globus journeys , great rail journeys, insight vacations, intrepid travel, indus travels , trafalgar travel, rabbie’s tours, extending your british tour with extra days in london.

If you want to compare even more of the best coach trips the UK has or other styles of tour, I recommend TourRadar as a great place to compare tours and read more UK tour reviews. 

When planning for your trip to England or the rest of the UK, it’s important to take seasonality into consideration. I go over all the details of the weather and the seasons in the UK here in this article . 

When comparing tour operator UK options and which trip to take, be aware that UK tours tend to run with reduced frequency during the winter months, with many of the best UK tour packages running more frequently in spring and summer (April – August).

While some British coach holidays run year-round, speciality outdoor trips such as cycling holidays UK options may only run during summer months. 

Best United Kingdom Tours – Choosing the Best Tour for you

When searching for the best UK travel packages and tours, there are many factors to consider. Here are some of the top things I recommend taking a few minutes to think about before deciding on the best tour of Britain for you: 

Many of the most popular UK guided tour options are small group tours. UK small group tours vary widely in size with what is deemed to be a ‘small’ group – with some having up to 50 in a group while others keep it to 12 or under. 

Coach tours UK options are a convenient way to travel around with the rest of your group and often allow more to be fitted into an itinerary than independently travelling by train.

These range in style and you can find plenty of luxury coach holidays UK options as well as budget bus tours UK.

If you want to take the train but also like the idea of a guided tour, you could consider one of the train holidays UK options listed below. 

This is the one most of us forget to consider! In order to fit as much in as possible, some of the popular coach holidays in England and the rest of the UK move very fast, taking in multiple cities and sights in a day and usually spending only 1 night in a place. 

This can get tiring, so if you prefer to spend at least a couple of nights in each place, check for itineraries that allow you more time or you could consider choosing one of the self-drive holidays UK options available. 

Also, see our tips at the end of this article for extending your stay in the UK by spending extra days in London, Edinburgh, or any of the other common UK tour starting and endpoints. 

England vacation packages and tours have different inclusions depending on the style of trip and company.

Most include transport, guide, accommodation and some meals, but check the small print so you know what you are and aren’t getting included on tours to England.

The entrance fees to many sights are often not included in tour pricing. 

Best Great Britain Tours (England, Scotland, Wales)

Below you’ll find our favourite United Kingdom trip tour packages that take in England, Scotland and in some cases Wales, too. For tours that also include Ireland, see the next section. 

Best for seeing England & Scotland at a more leisurely pace

Starting in Edinburgh and finishing in London, this 11-day journey through some of England and Scotland’s finest sights is a great option for those wanting to travel in comfort or who are looking for the best UK tours for seniors. 

This is one of our favourite England and Scotland tour packages if you prefer a tour that spends 1-2 nights in each place and allows you to relax more in the places that you visit.

Staying at 4* accommodations throughout the trip, this itinerary starts in Edinburgh and takes in Gretna Green, the stunning Lake District , historic York, Stratford-upon-Avon, the Cotswolds and Bath before finishing up in London.

Travel is by private coach. 

As trips to England and Scotland go, this Insight Vacations UK trip is one for those who want to see the best of the UK’s history, natural beauty and culture in comfort and style. If you have additional time, we highly recommend adding on extra days in London or Edinburgh (or both!). 

Click here for more info and pricing

Best for fitting lots of England in at a great price

Starting in London and finishing in Edinburgh, this 10 day London – Scotland tour by Trafalgar Tours England is a great option for those who want to see as much as possible during their trip and don’t mind travelling at a faster pace. 

One of the popular tours of England and Scotland, this itinerary spends 3 days taking in the sights of London at the start of the tour, so you don’t need to worry about booking additional time at the start of the tour (unless you want to).

From London, head north to Oxford and Bath before crossing the Welsh borders and exploring some fine Welsh castles . You’ll also visit Chester, Lancaster and Hadrian’s wall before finishing in Edinburgh. 

If you want to include a trip to Wales in your UK tour itinerary then this is a great tour to go for, and history lovers will enjoy every stop of this trip that showcases the UK’s history from the Wars of the Roses to Roman Bath – you even get to stay at Ruthin Castle in Wales – a 13th century castle with its original moat!

Best for seeing it all in seven days

If you only have seven days to spend in the UK, this whistle-stop tour will whisk you up and down the length and breadth of Britain to introduce you to the highlights. Included on the itinerary are a list of destinations for day trips outside London – and beyond. 

The cities of Bath, Cambridge and York in England, plus the Scottish capital of Edinburgh, are included. Stratford-upon-Avon is also visited as the home of the UK’s most revered playwright. Experiences to savour include seeing Britain’s highest peak, Ben Nevis in Scotland, and enjoying a traditional roast dinner in historic, compact York. 

In addition to Georgian Bath and the capital London, this seven day tour takes you to some other fascinating UK locations too. There’s sculptor Antony Gormley’s famous Angel of the North artwork, a Scottish border town, Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, and the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness.

Once you head down the west coast, the musical and sporting city of Liverpool awaits. You’ll also venture into Wales to see the city of Cardiff and a ​​mediaeval Welsh castle. After touring Bath, the last stop en route back to London is Stonehenge. This ancient site is shrouded in mystery – and a must on the itinerary of every visitor to the UK.

Best for train travel and rail holidays UK

There’s arguably nothing more quintessentially British than train travel – and if life on the rails in Britain is what you’ve been romanticising about, then this is one of the train tours UK for you.

This UK rail itinerary takes in the best of Scotland and England, with the chance to ride on one of the best-known steam train trips UK has to offer on the Jacobite steam train from Fort William to Mallaig.

You’ll travel on the West Highland Line, North East Main Line that links Edinburgh and York, and the West Coast Mainline south from Glasgow.

Travel is at a more leisurely pace with 2 nights spent in most cities, staying in mostly 4* hotels. You’ll also get to see Bath and Stonehenge before finishing in London. 

If you’re looking for guided tours of England and Scotland by train, this is a great itinerary to go for. You’ll get to experience many of the UK’s best-known railways and take in the country’s top historic and cultural sights along the way. Travel is by train and private coach. 

The Lake District & Scotland – Rabbie’s – 9 Days

Best for taking in the beautiful scenery of the Lake District & Scottish Highlands

Rabbie’s tours of the UK offer great value for money, and if you want to be immersed in some of the UK’s finest landscapes and are interested in guided walking holidays UK options, this is a great way to dip your toes in. 

Starting in Manchester, this itinerary is a ‘rail and trail’ combination of 2 Rabbie’s trips , meaning you’ll change minibus and guide half way through.

First you’ll explore the stunning Lake District in the beautiful north west of England, enjoying Windermere and Ullswater before taking the train up to Edinburgh for your Highlands adventure that visits some of the most scenic spots on Scotland’s west coast: Uban, Mull and Skye before heading back to the mainland to visit the iconic Eilean Donan castle. 

If you’re looking for the best adventure tours UK has, then we recommend Rabbie’s who deliver great tours at a budget-friendly price point for those who love the outdoors.

Best for Scottish Highlands exploring and Solo Trips UK. 

If you’re looking to focus your UK trip on Scotland , then this 7 day Scotland tour from Edinburgh by G Adventures is well worth a look.

G Adventures also offer very reasonable single supplements if you’re looking for the best solo holidays uk options – or you can choose to share a room with another traveller of the same sex. Either way, G Adventures UK is popular with solo travellers. 

Starting in Edinburgh and finishing in Glasgow, this Scotland tour takes in Inverness and the famous Loch Ness, Culloden Moor (famous for the Jacobite rising of 1745), the beautiful Isle of Skye and Fort William, with a chance to snap the famous Jacobite Steam Train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct (a must for Harry Potter fans) en route.

Accommodation is on a twin-share basis in 3* hotels and travel is by private minibus. 

If you want the highlights of the highlands of Scotland, this is a good tour to go for, with the option to add on extra days at the start or end of your tour – you could easily spend more time in Edinburgh, or head down to London. 

Off the beaten-path Highlands of Scotland

One of our favourite Great Britain vacation packages for getting a little off the beaten path is this wonderful northern Scotland adventure by Insight Vacations. Perfect for those wanting to see more of the Scottish Highlands or try something different when it comes to the many UK holiday packages. 

Starting in Edinburgh, on this upscale tour you’ll take in Inverness and Loch Ness, the beautiful and remote Orkney Islands at the northern tip of Scotland – a part that few visitors see – before heading south down the west coast of Scotland to take in the Isle of Skye, the stunning Glencoe pass and Loch Lomond before finishing up in Glasgow.

Accommodation is in 4* hotels and travel is by private coach. 

This is certainly one of the best UK coach holidays 2021 has to offer if the Scottish Highlands have been calling to you. You’ll love this one if you want to see the full diversity of landscapes and richness of community and culture that Scotland has. 

Best of Scotland  

Best for uncovering all four corners of Scotland  

If you want to find the best luxury coach tours in the UK that cover much of what lies north of the border, then the Best of Scotland tour from Trafalgar is a popular option for summer. The adventure begins in the capital of Edinburgh on day one. You’ll then be transported around Bonnie Scotland for seven days before ending up in Glasgow. 

This vibrant city lies to the west of Edinburgh. It’s the biggest in Scotland in terms of both population and square mileage. The metropolis is renowned for its magnificent architecture and as a cultural hub for fans of music, museums and more.

After arrival and on the second day of the tour, you’ll delve deeper under the surface of the historic and breathtakingly beautiful Scottish capital. Key sights including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and Palace of Holyroodhouse are visited during your guided tour, and you’ll also enjoy free time to spend as you wish. 

Between leaving Edinburgh and arriving in Glasgow – both of which are in southern Scotland – you’ll head north. The first stop is St. Andrews, where Prince William met Kate Middleton, before overnighting at a hotel in the Cairngorms National Park. During day four, you’ll visit the site of the famous Jacobite uprising, see Eilean Donan Castle, look out for the Loch Ness Monster and head over to the Isle of Skye. 

The fifth day of the tour includes Ben Nevis and Glencoe en route to Glasgow. After staying overnight there, you’ll take a city tour before calling at Clydeside whisky distillery and Stirling Castle on day six. Day seven is departure day, unless you decide to stay on in Glasgow for longer. 

Best for touring unspoiled Scotland

If what appeals to you most about the British Isles is the chance to spend time in Bonnie Scotland, this tour to far northern Scotland might be the one for you. It’s what Great Britain vacations are made of for many – beguiling cities, beautiful coastline and of course a dazzlingly rich and varied history. 

Day one transports you from Edinburgh to Inverness, via the famous Forth Bridge, picture-perfect Perthshire, the peaceful village of Dunkeld, the fascinating Highland Folk Museum, the Cairngorms National Park, bloody Culloden Battlefield and the standing stones at Clava Cairns. 

Next up on the second day is the spectacular North Coast 500 trail, via French-style Dunrobin Castle, en route to the island of Orkney. Puffin territory and an astonishingly well-preserved Neolithic settlement await after overnighting on Orkney. 

Both the better-known and lesser seen sights of Scotland make up much of the tour’s second half. These include Smoo Cave in Sutherland, the harbour village of Ullapool, Eilean Donan Castle, the Isle of Skye, the Jacobite Steam Train from Mallaig to Fort William and Glencoe.

During the last day, you can also choose to take an optional side trip to one of the Western Isles – namely Iona, Kerrera, Mull or Staffa. Alternatively, climb up Battery Hill in Oban or call into the 

 local Whisky Distillery. Finally, before heading back to Edinburgh, visit the Kelpies and Stirling Castle. 

Best England, Ireland, Scotland Tour packages

Some of these itinerary options include the best England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales tours for a comprehensive circuit of the British Isles, while others combine Ireland and Scotland to get a fuller taste of the Celtic lands. 

Best for a whistle-stop tour of the UK and Ireland

If seeing England and Scotland isn’t enough for you, then you might like to add on Ireland. This ten day trip is arguably the best way to see England, Scotland and Ireland in one hit. It lasts for ten days, and packs far more into that time than you could feasibly manage on a self-guided basis. 

First up after departing London is Shakespeare country and Stratford-upon-Avon, then it’s the Yorkshire cities of York and Bradford. The Yorkshire Dales, Lake Windermere, Gretna Green and Glasgow are then on the agenda for day three. 

There’s a day in Edinburgh for the fourth day, before heading to Ayrshire, Belfast, Dublin, Kilkenny and Waterford on day five and six. Cardiff, Bath and Windsor are the final stops before the tour winds up back in London. 

This tour offers incredible value for money, and really maximises each and every day when time in the UK is tight. 

Best for trips to England and Ireland that include the main highlights

If you’re looking at tours of England, Scotland and Ireland, then this 10 day trip by Globus may tick all the right boxes. 

Start and end in London on this tour that takes in the English highlights of Stonehenge and Bath before exploring Newport and Cardiff in Wales en route by ferry to Waterford and Dublin in Ireland.

Head north through Ireland towards the up-and-coming city of Belfast and crossing back into Scotland to take in the sights of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh.

On the final leg you’ll head south through York and Stratford upon Avon to London to soak up the best of English history. Travel is by coach. 

This is one of the best tours of England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland if you’re tight on time and don’t want to forgo any of the countries of the British Isles. The travel is at a fairly fast pace though – so you may wish to add on a few days to relax at the end of your trip. 

Best for combining Scottish Highlands & Ireland

One of the comprehensive UK tours from London options in this list, this itinerary works well if you want to start in London and have a few days before your trip starts to explore the UK’s capital – either through an extension booked through Insight or under your own steam. 

Leaving London, this ultimate UK tour takes in the historic English highlights of Stratford and York before heading past Hadrian’s Wall to Edinburgh and circling the Scottish Highlands.

Take in the legendary sights of Loch Ness, Glencoe and a boat trip on Loch Lomond before heading back south into England and Wales, and crossing over into Ireland.

Travel is by private coach and accommodation is at 4* hotels. 

On this grand UK tour, you’ll spend a total of 5 nights in Ireland and 7 in England & Scotland, making this the perfect UK tour packages from London when you just want to see it all! 

Best for English countryside and Roman history

Following the route of Hadrian’s Wall makes for one of the best road trips in the UK. Though the wall is quite justifiably famous, the route along it is far less touristy than other parts of the British Isles. The wall stretches from near Newcastle-upon-Tyne in the east to the compact city of Carlisle in the west. 

Hadrian’s Wall can be found within the more peaceful parts of England’s two most northerly counties. As this is a walking tour you’ll need a reasonable level of fitness, but this also means you’ll get up really close to the sights of Cumbria and Northumberland. And of course the unspoiled English countryside, with its dry stone walls and sheep-dotted emerald fields. 

To give you some idea of the distances, the first day’s walk is around eight miles, between Carlisle and Irthington. Other walks include the six mile trek between Lanercost Priory and Gilsland, the three-and-a-half Walltown Crags to Haltwhistle route and seven miles from Once Brewed to Brocolitia Fort. It’s also nine miles from Chollerford to East Wallhouses, and about five from East Wallhouses to Wylam. 

Highlights of this tour include the pretty Cumbrian village Crosby-on-Eden; Birdoswald, Housesteads, Brocolitia and Vindolanda Roman Forts, Walltown quarry, Sycamore Gap, the site of the victory of Oswald and the historic old Military Road. 

Best Tour Companies UK Reviews

Not sure which of the best travel agency UK options you should pick? Below you can find a short review of what to expect when travelling with any of the UK tour companies mentioned above. 

G Adventures tours are known for their good value and experience-rich approach. They attract travellers of all ages, both couples and solo travellers, thanks to their twin-share policy where single travellers can travel at no extra cost if they share with another traveller of the same sex.

Travel is in small groups (max 12) and includes a local tour guide “CEO”. Accommodation is in mid-range hotels and guest houses, and typically breakfasts and entry to some sights are included.

Travel in the UK is mostly by private mini-bus unless otherwise stated. 

Popular for coach tours in the UK and around the world, Globus Journeys offer guided coach tours in the UK and Ireland, either with smaller groups (max 24) or larger groups (up to 50) depending on the style of the trip.

Accommodation is typically in tourist class hotels (3* and 4*) with well known brands. Globus is popular among travellers aged in their 50’s, 60’s and up for the convenience of travel by coach and their tours have more meals and excursions included than some.

Expect itineraries that pack places in, so you’ll see a lot, and stays are typically 1 night. 

GRJ are the go-to for UK steam tours and railway journeys around the UK and beyond, so if travelling the UK by train is what you’re hoping to do, look no further.

Itineraries are designed to take in iconic lines and to provide the best steam train holidays UK has (or ‘regular’ trains). Journeys are escorted by a Tour Manager, and the majority of travellers are either solo travellers or couples aged between 45 – 80.

Accommodation is in 3* hotels or higher. The maximum group size on any trip is 50, or you can opt for a tailor made travel experience. 

Insight Vacations are an upscale tour company offering luxury UK coach tours with up to 40 people per group.

Travellers are typically 45 and up, and itineraries are a little more relaxed than many other tour companies, including 2 night stays at many destinations and “relaxed starts” in the morning spread out through the trip allowing time to catch up on rest if you need it.

Accommodation is in 4* hotels and trips are accompanied by a tour manager. 

Famous for great value adventures around the world, in the UK Intrepid offer a range of shorter ‘retreat’ style trips – so if you’re after hiking trips UK or a guided walking and cycling holiday, look no further.

Accommodation is in local guest houses and you’ll be accompanied by your own Intrepid Travel guide for the duration of the trip.

Maximum group size is 12, and rooms are on a twin share basis with the same sex if you’re a solo traveller, or you can pay a supplement to have your own room. 

Offering a mix of small group tours, independent adventures, cruises and self-drive vacations, Indus Travels allows you to set your own pace of travel with flexible itineraries when you choose one of their ‘unbundled tours’ or self-drive trips.

Self-drive trips are just you, your car rental, itinerary and accommodation, whereas group tours have up to 22 travellers, English-speaking local guides, deluxe accommodation and air conditioned coaches included.

Indus is popular with younger and older travellers alike, with many travellers in their 30’s, 40’s and 50’s. 

Well known and popular Trafalgar Tours England have been offering coach travel around the UK for many years and have many happy customers behind them.

Group tours have a maximum of 50 people, travelling by coach to the most popular destinations. They are popular for England tours for seniors (and younger people), and on any of their England tour packages you’re guaranteed to have a lot packed into your itinerary. That’s one thing to bear in mind – this is definitely not slow travel – but it’s a good way to get an overview of the British Isles.

All tours are accompanied by a guide and accommodation is tourist class 3* or 4* international standard hotels. 

Rabbie’s tours have some great England travel deals (and beyond). They’re a small group tours company providing great value breaks that help you get off the beaten track in the UK and Europe.

Rabbie’s aim to support local communities and promote responsible travel, by keeping tour groups small (10 people). They also work differently to other tour companies in that accommodation is not included in the tour price – once you book your tour you can choose your accommodation from a selection offered by Rabbie’s to suit your budget and preferences.

The name Rabbie’s comes from the nickname for famous Scot, Robert Burns! 

If you have a day, two, or more aside from your tour, we highly recommend taking advantage of those to explore London, or another city if your tour is starting from elsewhere – Edinburgh is another popular starting point for the UK tours mentioned in this guide. 

While some tours include sightseeing in London (or another departure city), not all do – or they include a very shortened version – and trust us that 1 day is definitely not enough to see London in, especially if you’re jetlagged. 

If you can, arrive a few days before your tour begins to enjoy the top London sights and get onto UK time if you’re flying in from far away. You can find our complete London travel guide here to get you started.

If you have specific questions about a destination in the UK why not join my UK and London Travel Planning Group on Facebook where you can chat with others planning their trip.

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Exploring Scotland & Ireland

About this tour.

Bask in the warm Celtic culture and majestic scenery of two remarkable lands. Come to know the regal city of Edinburgh on a panoramic coach tour or by foot – it’s your choice! Learn the secrets of making Scotch whisky and enjoy a tasting. Cruise famed Loch Ness and explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle. Enjoy a traditional evening of Scottish food and entertainment. Visit the Titanic Experience in Belfast and remember the century-old tragedy that shook the world. Walk the Giant’s Causeway (UNESCO) and soak up incredible views of the Causeway Coast, one of the world’s most breathtaking rail journeys. Visit Ireland’s bustling capital city of Dublin and tour historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. From rugged natural beauty to vibrant and historical cities, the diverse charms of Scotland and Ireland await.

Your Tour Includes

• 6 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Choice on Tour
• Whisky Distillery

Your Tour at a Glance

11 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $75.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel exploring scotland & ireland.

While just about any month is great to visit Scotland and Ireland, there are a few prime times of the year for the Exploring Scotland & Ireland tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Spring: Springtime is a wonderful time to visit the region! The countryside comes alive with flowers and shades of green, and the days of sunlight are growing just a bit longer, giving you more time to explore.

Summer: August is the perfect time to visit Edinburgh, as the Military Tattoo and Edinburgh Festival both take place then. It’s crowded, but the city is alive with many cultural events. And generally, it’s good weather (fingers crossed for not too much rain!).

Fall: Daylight hours grow shorter, and the weather is not quite as hospitable as summer, but the changing colors of the landscape are truly lovely. Fewer crowds make it easier to navigate sites and take your time to enjoy them.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Tour the "Fair City" of Dublin with a local guide.

Embark on a scenic cruise on beautiful Loch Ness.

Set out on a walking tour of Derry featuring its medieval city walls.

Cultural Experiences:

Embark on one of the world’s most breathtaking rail journeys along the Causeway Coast.

Explore the Titanic Experience in Belfast.

Discover the heritage of Glasgow with a local guide.

Culinary Inclusions:

• Sample the "Water of Life" at a Scottish whisky distillery.

Taste apple cider at a family-run farm.

Join in the fun during a night of traditional Scottish food and entertainment.

• Urquhart Castle
• Highland Evening
• Titanic Experience
• Giant's Causeway
• The Causeway Coast Rail Journey

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

After visiting Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, choose how you’ll explore Scotland’s hilly capital. For your first choice, get acquainted with the regal city via panoramic tour on your motorcoach. The route will take you through Old Town, including the Royal Mile – a traditional processional route for royalty.The coach will also take you through the Georgian-style New Town, full of elegant squares, terraces, and gardens, including Charlotte Square,and the charming local cafes and shops of Princes Street. For your second choice, explore Edinburgh on foot. Focused on the Old Town, walk along the winding cobblestone streets learning about sites such as the medieval John Knox Houseand the iconic St. Gile’s Cathedral — an integral site during the Scottish Reformation. The walking tour will also show you the vibrant Grassmarket neighborhood, a marketplace dating back to the 15th century that still hosts standing shops and visiting vendors today.

Start your trip with 3 nights in London – the capital of England and the United Kingdom. Use your included Oyster card to navigate the city with a local expert – hopping on the Tube and taking a walking tour along the River Thames, where you can see St Pauls' Cathedral, the Tate Modern Art Gallery, Shakespeare's Globe and the food stalls of Borough market. Take advantage of your included Tower of London pass. You’ll have ample time at leisure to make your stay in London exactly what you want it to be. Your other option is to book a pre night?

• Overnight Flight
• You’re on your way to the United Kingdom. Begin in England and enjoy a 3-night stay in London.
• London, England - Extension Begins
• Experience London, the esteemed capital of the United Kingdom. Often described as a world within a city, London is a sophisticated metropolis with a timeless style all its own.
• Navigate the city with a local expert. Using your included Oyster card, hop on the famous underground Tube. Take a walking tour along the Thames River, where you can see St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tate Modern Art Gallery and Shakespeare’s Globe. End at Borough Market, London’s premier food market, with history dating back around 1,000 years. You will love independently strolling the small, specialty produce stalls and sumptuous street food traders. Enjoy the afternoon to further explore the city.
• See London your way today! Be sure to take advantage of your included ticket to the Tower of London to peek into the city’s storied past and uncover the secrets of this 11th-century fortress.
• London - Edinburgh, Scotland
• Wish London goodbye as you take a high-speed train through the English countryside to Scotland.

Hotel-Radisson Blu Edinburgh

Hotel-Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge

Explore one of Ireland's best-kept secrets. Enjoy a fun and engaging evening with a local singer/songwriter and discover how the tale of Derry is intertwined with many of Ireland's most important events. Come and experience a three-course dinner at a restaurant serving pub-style food. See first-hand why Derry was named the UK City of Culture in 2013.

Join us for a rollicking evening of tastes, sights and sounds that are classically Scottish. Feast on a banquet prepared from a selection of local recipes. Your taste buds will savor the true flavor and goodness of this distinctive country. Tonight will be filled with entertainment including Highland pipers and dancers who deliver the very best in Scottish music, song and dance. Be prepared for a Scottish night of food, fun and many fond memories!

Enjoy a traditional pub lunch at a historic pub where you will soak up the atmosphere of days gone by. After lunch, continue on to the nearby Guinness Storehouse, Ireland's top international visitor attraction. Learn about the brewing process that creates this beloved beverage and discover the technique needed to pour the perfect pint! Classic Guinness ads and memorabilia create a nostalgic ambiance as you indulge in a complimentary pint and learn about a different yet key part of Ireland's history.

Tour the "Fair City" of Dublin with a local guide.

Sample the "Water of Life" at a Scottish whisky distillery.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Radisson Blu Edinburgh From $180 per night

Radisson Blu Edinburgh

Best western palace hotel inverness, hilton glasgow, ac hotel by marriott belfast, city hotel derry, clayton hotel ballsbridge.

Nights 10-11

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Post Night: Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge From $140 per night

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King Charles opens Balmoral Castle to the public for the first time amid cancer battle

King Charles III is making a royal move that's never done before: opening the doors to Balmoral Castle .

For the first time since the Aberdeenshire, Scotland, castle was completed in 1855, guests will be granted behind-the-scenes access to the landmark. Queen Elizabeth II , the United Kingdom's longest reigning monarch, died at the private estate at the age of 96 in September 2022; the residence was where the queen and her family would spend summer holidays.

Tickets for the historic event – with tours scheduled between June 1 and Aug. 4 – sold out this week within a day of being released, according to the BBC .

According to its official website , Balmore is the Scottish castle that serves as a beloved home for the royal family, which was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852.

Historic opening of royal residences to the public comes amid royals' health battles

The monarch's unprecedented decision to open up royal residences comes amid changes within the monarchy.

The East Wing of Buckingham Palace is set to open to the public for the first time this summer, like Balmoral Castle. Guided tours of the palace's principal floor are scheduled from July through August, per the BBC .

The guided tours also come as seniors members of the royal family are battling health issues . After Catherine, the Princess of Wales, was notably out of the public eye for several months, Kensington Palace  shared a video  of Princess Kate in which she revealed she had been diagnosed with cancer .

"In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful; however, tests after the operation found cancer had been present," Princess Kate said. "My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventive chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment."

The princess said she was "well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal in my mind, body and spirits."

Looking back at the last century: A timeline of the royal family's biggest moments

Prior to this revelation, in early February, Buckingham Palace announced King Charles III's cancer diagnosis .

"During The King's recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have  identified a form of cancer ,"  Buckingham Palace said  in a Feb. 5 statement.

Before his diagnosis was revealed, Charles underwent a "corrective procedure" at The London Clinic after the palace had previously announced that the monarch, 75, was seeking treatment for an enlarged prostate.

Contributing: Pamela Avila

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20 Day UK and Ireland Tour of England, Wales, Ireland and Scotland

20 days, 5 countries and 35 cities

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19 Breakfasts, 1 Welcome Reception, 7 Dinners

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There’s more to most UK and Ireland trips than the iconic sights. On this journey, you’ll trace the footsteps of giants and feel the salty spray of the Cliffs of Moher, smell the mossy walls of medieval castles and enjoy a toe-tapping, heart-stirring Gaelic song along the way.

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20 days itinerary trip from London to London visiting 5 countries and 35 cities

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England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales

20 Day UK and Ireland Tour of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Londonderry, Belfast, Dublin and Edinburgh with a Local Specialist

Discover  Plymouth, Bath, Cardiff, Limerick, Galway, Sligo, Chester, Glasgow and York

Visit the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge, the Roman Baths in Bath, Waterford Crystal Showroom, Blarney Castle, the magnificent Cliffs of Moher, the Giant's Causeway, Guinness Storehouse, Falkirk Wheel, Isle of Skye, Edinburgh Castle, Alnwick and Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon

View the Mayflower Steps in Plymouth, the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, St. Mary's Cathedral and King John's Castle in Limerick, the scenic Lake District, the 18th hole at St. Andrews, Eilean Donan Castle, Culloden Battlefield and York Minster

See Galway Cathedral

Scenic Drive on a Cornish Excursion, experience the Ring of Kerry

Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates

See Glencoe

Drive through this Highland village on Loch Leven.

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

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The services of a Trafalgar Local Host when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel

Pick-up and drop-off when you stay at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel, booked through Trafalgar

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All porterage and restaurant gratuities

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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Return ferry across the Irish Sea between Wales and Ireland

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.

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Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Tea and a tour of Balmoral Castle? That will set you back £150

For the first time visitors will be able to see areas of the Scottish castle used by Charles and Camilla – if they have deep pockets

Parts of Balmoral Castle used by the royal family will open to the public for the first time – for those who have deep pockets.

For £100 for an adult ticket – and an extra £50 for those wishing to partake of afternoon tea – guided summer tours of the castle in Aberdeenshire are being offered, limited to 40 people a day and in groups restricted to 10 people.

It is the first time since the castle’s completion in 1855 that visitors will be shown two dining rooms, the drawing room, the page’s lobby and the red corridor, where King Charles greeted Rishi Sunak.

The tour also includes access to the ballroom with a collection of Charles’s watercolour collection depicting scenery at Balmoral, Highgrove and Sandringham as well as a selection of outfits worn by Charles, Camilla, the late queen and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. Previous tours, which will continue, have been of the grounds and gardens with access to the castle itself limited to the ballroom.

The tours, from 1 July until 4 August, before the king and queen arrive for their annual break, are being run for a trial period so estate staff can judge how the fragile building copes with increased footfall.

The £150 a head price tag for tour and high tea makes it the most expensive royal residence for visitors wanting the exclusive experience.

Buckingham Palace, which has long been open to the public during the summer months, charges £95 for an exclusive guided tour away from the crowds, though general summer admission with the masses costs between £32 and £35. Afternoon tea is not included, but at the nearby Ritz, the “afternoon tea experience” costs from £64.

St James’s Palace, which started guided tours in 2022 limited to 30 people, costs £80 for an adult. At the cheaper end of royal residence visits, Windsor Castle offers general adult admission at £30 in advance, while Sandringham House in Norfolk costs £24 and the Castle of Mey, the queen’s mother’s former Scottish home, is £14.50.

The Balmoral Castle website said experienced guides on the interior tour “will take you on a historical journey through several of the beautiful rooms within Balmoral Castle”.

It adds: “Travel through time from the purchase of the Balmoral by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, through to present day, where you can see how rooms within the castle are used today.”

• King Charles III

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