Highlights of Britain & Ireland
8 Days Starting and ending in London, United Kingdom
Visiting: London, Lake District, Edinburgh, Cardiff
Tour operator:
Tour code:
UK2
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
25 - 30
Age range:
18-70
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Highlights of Britain" tour, a captivating journey through some of the UK's most iconic destinations. Begin in the vibrant city of London, then explore the historic charm of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare. Discover the cultural richness of Leeds, the serene beauty of the Lake District, and the romantic allure of Gretna Green. Experience the dynamic cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, delve into Belfast's maritime heritage, and soak in Dublin's lively atmosphere. Visit the medieval wonders of Kilkenny and Waterford, and cross the Irish Sea to Cardiff, Wales. Conclude your adventure with the elegant Georgian architecture of Bath and the mystical Stonehenge before returning to London. Enjoy luxurious accommodations, guided tours, and a blend of cultural and historical experiences on this unforgettable tour.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: London, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Leeds
Location: London
Accommodation Name: Novotel Leeds Centre - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your journey in London, where the city's vibrant energy sets the stage for your adventure.
Depart from the capital and head to the enchanting town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare.
Discover Shakespeare's Birthplace to delve into the early life of the Bard, and visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the picturesque home of Shakespeare's wife, with its beautiful gardens.
In the afternoon, continue to Leeds, a city with a rich industrial past and vibrant cultural scene.
On arrival, join a guided city tour to explore Leeds' fascinating landmarks.
Highlights include the striking Leeds Town Hall, the historic Kirkgate Market, and other key sites.
After the tour, enjoy some free time to further discover Leeds' bustling streets, dine in one of its trendy restaurants, or simply relax and soak in the city's lively atmosphere.
Accommodation
Novotel Leeds Centre - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Stratford-upon-Avon Tour
Leeds City Tour
Day 2: Leeds, Lake District, Gretna Green, Glasgow
Location: Lake District
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a delicious breakfast, travel to the breathtaking Lake District.
Arrive at Lake Windermere, where you'll have time to soak in the serene beauty of England's largest lake.
Take a leisurely stroll along the lake's shores or simply enjoy the stunning views of this picturesque landscape.
Continue to Gretna Green, famous for its romantic elopement history.
Visit the iconic Gretna Green Marriage House, where countless couples have exchanged vows over the years.
In the late afternoon, journey to Glasgow, Scotland's vibrant and cultural capital.
Upon arrival, you'll have the evening free to begin exploring the city.
Whether you choose to experience its lively nightlife, dine in one of its excellent restaurants, or simply unwind, Glasgow offers a dynamic start to your Scottish adventure.
Accommodation
Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Lake District Visit
Gretna Green Visit
Day 3: Glasgow, Edinburgh, Glasgow
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with a departure from Glasgow as we head towards the historic and cultural gem of Edinburgh.
On arrival, embark on a guided tour of this enchanting city.
Discover the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, and wander along the Royal Mile, where you'll encounter charming shops and historic sites.
Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, and take in the stunning views from Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano offering panoramic vistas of the city.
After a day of exploring Edinburgh's rich heritage and picturesque streets, return to Glasgow in the evening.
Enjoy the rest of your night at leisure, giving you time to explore more of Glasgow's vibrant scene, relax in one of its numerous cafes or restaurants, or take a leisurely stroll through its lively streets.
Accommodation
Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Edinburgh City Tour
Day 4: Glasgow, Belfast, Dublin
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Dublin - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Say goodbye to Glasgow and embark on a journey to Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland.
Once there, enjoy a guided tour highlighting Belfast's rich history and culture.
Explore the impressive City Hall, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance, and delve into the maritime heritage at the Titanic Belfast Museum.
Here, you'll uncover the compelling story of the RMS Titanic, which was famously built in Belfast's shipyards.
In the afternoon, set sail across the Irish Sea to Dublin, the lively capital of the Republic of Ireland.
Arriving in Dublin, you'll have the evening free to begin discovering this dynamic city.
Wander through its charming streets, visit the historic Trinity College, or enjoy a traditional Irish meal in one of its many pubs.
With its rich cultural scene and warm hospitality, Dublin welcomes you with a vibrant atmosphere and a wealth of experiences to explore.
Accommodation
Radisson Blu Dublin - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Belfast City Tour
Day 5: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Dublin - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, immerse yourself in the captivating charm of Dublin with a guided city tour that takes you through the heart of Ireland's capital.
Begin at Trinity College, home to the famous Book of Kells, a beautifully illuminated manuscript dating back to the 9th century.
As you stroll through the cobbled courtyards, soak in the history and academic heritage of this iconic institution.
Next, explore the impressive St.
Patrick's Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Ireland, which boasts stunning Gothic architecture and a rich history dating back to 1191.
Continue your tour with a visit to Dublin Castle, once the seat of British rule in Ireland.
As you wander through the vibrant streets of Dublin, don't miss the bustling Temple Bar district, famous for its lively pubs, street performers, and colourful atmosphere.
The tour will also take you along the scenic River Liffey, offering picturesque views of the city's bridges and waterfront landmarks.
Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Accommodation
Radisson Blu Dublin - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Dublin City Tour
Day 6: Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Waterford
Accommodation Name: The Fitzwilton Hotel Waterford - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave the vibrant streets of Dublin behind and set off for Kildare, a region known for its lush landscapes and equestrian heritage.
Here, you'll visit the famous Irish National Stud, a thoroughbred horse breeding facility, where you can explore the beautiful Japanese Gardens and learn about Ireland's storied horse-racing history.
Next, we will journey to the medieval city of Kilkenny, renowned for its well-preserved historic buildings and charming streets.
On a guided tour, you'll discover the impressive Kilkenny Castle, a grand fortress dating back to the 12th century, and stroll through the cobbled lanes of the Medieval Mile.
In the afternoon, continue to Waterford, Ireland's oldest city, known for its Viking roots and crystal-making tradition.
Take some time to explore Waterford Crystal, where master craftsmen create stunning crystal pieces, or wander through the historic Viking Triangle, where you can discover remnants of the city's ancient past.
End the day by enjoying the local atmosphere, with a chance to relax before tomorrow's adventures.
Accommodation
The Fitzwilton Hotel Waterford - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Kildare City Tour
Kilkenny City Tour
Day 7: Waterford, Cardiff
Location: Cardiff
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Cardiff City - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a heart breakfast at the hotel and board the ferry for a scenic crossing of the Irish Sea, heading towards the capital of Wales, Cardiff.
Upon arriving in Cardiff, enjoy a guided tour of the city's key highlights.
Visit the majestic Cardiff Castle, a unique blend of Roman, Norman, and Gothic architecture, and learn about its centuries-old history.
Explore the impressive Millennium Stadium, a modern icon of Welsh sporting culture, and take a stroll through Bute Park, a beautiful green space at the heart of the city.
As the day winds down, you'll have free time to experience Cardiff's vibrant city centre, with its buzzing nightlife, charming Victorian arcades, and diverse restaurants.
Relax and enjoy your evening in this lively Welsh capital.
Accommodation
Holiday Inn Cardiff City - or similar - 4 Star
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Cardiff City Tour
Day 8: Cardiff, Bath, Stonehenge, London
Location: London
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your final day begins with a journey from Cardiff to the elegant city of Bath, known for its stunning Georgian architecture and ancient Roman Baths.
Explore the Roman Baths, where you'll delve into the history of this beautifully preserved site, once a centre for relaxation and healing in Roman Britain.
Wander the streets lined with striking 18th-century buildings, including the iconic Royal Crescent.
Next, head to the mystical and awe-inspiring Stonehenge, one of the world's most famous prehistoric monuments.
Take in the impressive stone circle, learn about its significance as a ceremonial site, and uncover the mysteries that have intrigued people for centuries.
After soaking up the history and atmosphere at Stonehenge, continue your journey back to London, where your incredible adventure across Britain concludes.
Say goodbye to your fellow travellers—until we meet again!
Meals Included
Breakfast
Included Activities
Bath City Tour
Stonehedge Visit
What's Included
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Accommodation
8 Nights in 4 & 5 Star Hotels. 3 Nights in Traditional Turkish Gulet.
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Meals
10 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners.
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Transportation
Modern Air-conditioned Coaches with Wi-Fi, Traditional Turkish Gulet.
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Airport Transfer(s)
Arrival Airport transfer on first day of the tour.
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Tour Guiding
Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.
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Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary hotel and coach Wi-Fi (where available).
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Included Activities
Stratford-upon-Avon Tour, Leeds City Tour, Lake District Visit, Gretna Green Visit, Edinburgh City Tour, Belfast City Tour, Dublin City Tour, Kildare City Tour, Kilkenny City Tour, Cardiff City Tour, Bath City Tour, Stonehenge Visit.
What's Not Included
Local Payment: £
Mode of Transport
Travel in modern air-conditioned coaches with Wi-Fi, and experience a traditional Turkish Gulet for a unique transportation experience.
Accommodation
Enjoy 8 nights in luxurious 4 and 5-star hotels, and 3 nights aboard a traditional Turkish Gulet, ensuring comfort and style throughout your journey.
Add Ons
Local Payment: £
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 8 nights in 4 and 5-star hotels and 3 nights in a traditional Turkish gulet.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses modern air-conditioned coaches with Wi-Fi and a traditional Turkish gulet for transportation.
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Is airport transfer included in the tour package?
Yes, an arrival airport transfer is included on the first day of the tour.
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Are there any guided tours included in the itinerary?
Yes, the tour includes guided tours in various locations such as Stratford-upon-Avon, Leeds, Lake District, Gretna Green, Edinburgh, Belfast, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Waterford, Cardiff, Bath, and Stonehenge.
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Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in hotels and on the coach where available.
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What activities are included on the first day of the tour?
On the first day, the tour includes a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon, exploring Shakespeare's Birthplace and Anne Hathaway's Cottage, followed by a guided city tour of Leeds.
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What can I expect to see in Edinburgh during the tour?
In Edinburgh, you will visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and Arthur's Seat.
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What are the highlights of the visit to Belfast?
In Belfast, the tour includes a visit to the City Hall and the Titanic Belfast Museum.
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What attractions are covered in the Dublin city tour?
The Dublin city tour includes visits to Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin Castle, and the Temple Bar district.
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What is included in the visit to the Lake District?
The visit to the Lake District includes time at Lake Windermere, where you can enjoy the serene beauty and take a leisurely stroll along the lake's shores.
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What historical sites are visited in Kilkenny?
In Kilkenny, the tour includes a visit to Kilkenny Castle and a stroll through the Medieval Mile.
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What can I expect to see in Cardiff?
In Cardiff, the tour includes visits to Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium, and Bute Park.
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What are the main attractions in Bath?
In Bath, the tour includes a visit to the Roman Baths and a walk through the streets lined with Georgian architecture, including the Royal Crescent.
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What is the significance of the visit to Stonehenge?
The visit to Stonehenge includes exploring the impressive stone circle, learning about its significance as a ceremonial site, and uncovering the mysteries that have intrigued people for centuries.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Over 20 years
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Free Date Changes
Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.