The Best of Britain & Ireland
The Best of Britain & Ireland
The Best of Britain & Ireland
15 Days Starting in LONDON and ending in London, UK
Visiting: London, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Wetherby, York, Thirsk, Newcastle upon Tyne, Jedburgh, Edinburgh, Gretna Green, Lake District National Park, Chester, Wrexham, Betws-y-Coed, Holyhead, Dublin, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Ennis, Adare, Ring of Kerry, Killarney, Blarney, Dungarvan, Tramore, Rosslare Harbour, Cardiff, Bath, Stonehenge
Tour operator:
Tour code:
9010-2024
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 43
Physical rating:
Low
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
From:
$2796
$2671 (USD)
Operator discount: -$125
Tour Overview
On this Best of Britain & Ireland tour, see Britain’s and Ireland’s highlights—from the bustling cities to the small towns and from the breathtaking scenery to the ancient ruins. Traveling through the lands of queens, kings, and leprechauns, begin and end in London and pass through England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales.On this Britain and Ireland tour, stop in some historic towns and cities, including Oxford, home to some of England’s most famous colleges; York, England's most complete medieval city with its cobbled streets and the magnificent York Minster, England’s largest Gothic cathedral; Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of Shakespeare; Chester, where a walking tour highlights its Roman remains and black and white half-timbered buildings; Adare, founded in medieval times and known today as one of Ireland’s prettiest villages; and Bath, known for the excavations of Roman baths used for bathing and socializing 2,000 years ago. Britain and Ireland are known for their green countryside and stunning scenery, and on this Britain and Ireland tour, you’ll witness some of their gorgeous landscapes. Travel through the incomparable landscapes of Snowdonia National Park in Wales, with picturesque villages, mountains, and lakes. Follow Ireland’s Ring of Kerry, a 100-mile panoramic drive with sparkling seascapes, brightly hued farmhouses, and the breathtaking panorama of the Lakes of Killarney. Visit the spectacular 668-feet Cliffs of Moher, with breathtaking views of rugged cliffs dropping into the ocean. Drive through the Cotswolds, with the rolling hills and picturesque villages, Northumberland National Park, with its wide-open spaces, and the serene Lake District, England’s largest natural park.All of this and more—including time in Dublin and Edinburgh—await you on this brilliant vacation in Briain and Ireland!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In London,England
Location: London
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Novotel London West
Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, there’s time to rest or start exploring the lively British capital. Uniformed hosts are available to help you make the most of your stay.
Day 2 : London
Location: London
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Novotel London West
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is free for exploring on your own or enjoying our exciting program of optional activities. You may choose to join a Local Guide for an optional morning sightseeing tour of the city’s famous landmarks: the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall’s mounted horseguards and the Prime Minister’s Downing Street residence, Piccadilly Circus, and Buckingham Palace. The highlight is a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece built between 1675 and 1708. Later, maybe visit Windsor Castle or the Tower of London with its spectacular Crown Jewels. Tonight, we recommend our optional Taste of London excursion with dinner, followed by a guided illumination cruise on the Thames River.
Day 3 : London-Oxford-Stratford-Upon-Avon-Wetherby
Location: London, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, Wetherby
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure Wetherby Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Meet your Tour Director and traveling companions and depart at 8 am for Oxford. A walking tour takes in the colleges where Britain’s elite receive their outstanding education. Then, travel through the lovely Cotswold Hills to Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon. Take photos of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and explore the town at your own pace. Your overnight destination is Leeds.Today’s Distance: 249 mi/ 400 km
Day 4 : Wetherby-York-Thirsk-Newcastle
Location: Wetherby, York, Thirsk, Newcastle upon Tyne
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Jurys Inn Newcastle
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, head north to York. Stand in front of the great structure of York Minster, then follow your Tour Director through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles. Leaving York, head north and spend some free time in the charming market town of Thirsk famous for its association with James Herriot. On the way to Newcastle, savor spectacular views of the North Yorkshire Moors. Today’s Distance: 108 mi/ 174 km
Day 5 : Newcastle-Jedburgh,Scotland-Edinburgh
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, Jedburgh, Edinburgh
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Murrayfield
Meals Included: Breakfast
See a section of Hadrian’s Wall, then motor through wild Northumberland National Park to the Scottish border. Stop for photos at Jedburgh before arriving in Edinburgh. Here, sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town.” In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels. A suggestion for this evening: a traditional Scottish night out with Highland dancers, bagpipers, and, of course, the Ceremony of the Haggis.Today’s Distance: 117 mi/ 188 km
Day 6 : Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Murrayfield
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your choice today: an optional morning excursion to Rosslyn Chapel, made world-famous by Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code, and also one of Scotland’s most remarkable buildings. You will have ample time to visit the 15th-century medieval chapel and the visitor centre, and to take photographs of the ruins of Rosslyn Castle. Later, join an optional tour with dinner. For departures July 28 and August 11, tickets are included for tonight’s performance of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Day 7 : Edinburgh-Gretna Green-Lake District,England-Chester-Wrexham,Wales
Location: Edinburgh, Gretna Green, Lake District National Park, Chester, Wrexham
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ramada Plaza Wrexham
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
South through the history-steeped Lowland Hills and a visit to Gretna Green, where the blacksmith used to wed runaway couples. Drive through beautiful scenery in the Lake District, considered to be the finest of England’s national parks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Chester, the historic county town on the Dee River, your walking tour takes in the Roman remains, black and white half-timbered buildings, and the two-tiered shopping arcades called the “Rows.” Today’s Distance: 268 mi/ 431 km
Day 8 : Wrexham-Betws-Y-Coed-Dublin,Ireland
Location: Wrexham, Betws-y-Coed, Holyhead, Dublin
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Bonnington Dublin Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
A scenic North Wales drive through the incomparable landscapes of Snowdonia National Park brings you to lovely Betws-y-Coed. Then, head over spectacular Llanberis Pass and, finally, across Britannia Bridge to the Isle of Anglesey. Take your photos at tongue-twisting Llanfairpwllgwyngyll. At Holyhead, board the ferry for the Irish Sea crossing to Dublin.Today’s Distance: 104 mi/ 167 km
Day 9 : Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Bonnington Dublin Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
A day in the “Fair City” starts off with an orientation drive through Eire’s capital and includes statue-lined O’Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy Dublin at leisure. Why not join an optional dinner evening at the Guinness Storehouse?
Day 10 : Dublin-Galway-Cliffs Of Moher-Ennis
Location: Dublin, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Ennis
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Auburn Lodge Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head for dairy-farm country in the heart of the “Emerald Isle.” Stop in Galway, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan district with vibrant shops and a busy café and bar culture. Then, cross the limestone plateau of The Burren to visit the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher before heading for Ennis, county town of Clare. Tonight, we offer an optional medieval-themed banquet. Today’s Distance: 214 mi/ 344 km
Day 11 : Ennis-Adare-Ring Of Kerry-Killarney
Location: Ennis, Adare, Ring of Kerry, Killarney
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Killarney Court Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Stop for photos in Adare, a village known for its prize-winning thatched cottages and monastic ruins. In County Kerry, join the road known as the Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile coastal panoramic drive. Focus your camera on sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly hued farmhouses, winding lanes, and views of the Lakes of Killarney from Ladies View. Later, in Killarney, discover why this is such a popular resort.Today’s Distance: 189 mi/ 304 km
Day 12 : Killarney-Blarney-Dungarvan-Tramore
Location: Killarney, Blarney, Dungarvan, Tramore
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Majestic Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the Kerry Mountains and through County Cork to Blarney, famous for its magical Stone of Eloquence. Time to see the castle, and shop for Irish crafts and handmade crystal. Drive past Cork, the country’s second-largest city, and via Dungarvan to Tramore. Why not join an optional pub tour before dinner at your hotel?Today’s Distance: 131 mi/ 210 km
Day 13 : Tramore-Cardiff,Wales
Location: Tramore, Rosslare Harbour, Cardiff
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Novotel Cardiff
Meals Included: Breakfast
An early start for the short drive to Rosslare. In just under four hours, you cross St. George’s Channel by ferry to South Wales. Continue through rich dairy farmland to Cardiff, where an orientation drive introduces you to the capital’s major attractions: Cardiff Castle, Cathays Park, Millennium Stadium, and the stately civic buildings. Tonight, why not join an evening of Welsh entertainment and dinner?Today’s Distance: 159 mi/ 257 km
Day 14 : Cardiff-Bath,England-Stonehenge-London
Location: Cardiff, Bath, Stonehenge, London
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Novotel London West
Meals Included: Breakfast
A day packed with highlights begins as you cross the spectacular Severn Bridge into England. Stop in the elegant Georgian city of Bath, famous for its Roman relics, before visiting Stonehenge, still an intriguing mystery. Explore the visitor centre with its imaginative exhibitions, then admire the magnificence of the monument up close. After returning to London around 3:30 pm, how about celebrating the success of your tour with a night out on the town? Today’s Distance: 171 mi/ 275 km
Day 15 : London
Location: London
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Meals
As detailed in the itinerary
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Fully Guided
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Transport
Private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi
What's Not Included
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Airport Transfers at Destination
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Insurance
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International Travel
UNESCO Sites
City of Bath|Frontiers of the Roman Empire|Old and New Towns of Edinburgh|Stonehenge|The English Lake District|The great Spa Towns of Europe - Bath
Meals
Full English breakfast daily; 4 three-course dinners with choice of menus
Notes
Headsets available on tour except for London
Accommodation
Copthorne Tara Hotel London
*Ask Alfred children's concierge;
* Multilingual staff;
* Free WiFi access;
* Disabled access including 10 adapted rooms;
* 5 family rooms;
* Gift shop;
* Laundry and dry cleaning services;
* Fully equipped fitness room;
* Extensive onsite parking outside the London congestion charge zone;
* Artist Corner - à la carte dinner menu offering modern European cuisine and sumptuous afternoon tea;
* The Brasserie Restaurant & Bar - serving an extensive buffet breakfast each morning and traditional pub fare for lunch and dinner with a great selection of beers and wines;
* Bugis Street Brasserie - authentic Singaporean, Mlaysian and Chinese cuisine, open for lunch and dinner;
* Cafexpress - freshly made sandwiches, soups, pastries and drinks to go.
Holiday Inn Leeds - Garforth
Set among fields, the Holiday Inn Leeds Garforth is situated just a short drive from Leeds city centre. The hotel features the Aioli Restaurant for breakfast and dinner and Aioli Bar and Lounge for light meals and snacks. The 144 rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with all modern amenities including hairdryer, iron and ironing board, complimentary toiletries and more. The hotel also boasts an indoor swimming pool, fitness center and spa. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout.
Leonardo Hotel Newcastle
Located in the city center, Jurys Inn is one of the most convenient hotels in Newcastle - perfectly placed to enjoy all the city has to offer.
Leonardo Hotel Edinburgh Murrayfield
Three-story Hotel set 3 miles west of city center in quiet residential area.
Ramada Plaza Wrexham
Wrexham's premier four star hotel has been designed to offer luxurious accommodation with superb amenities and service with those extra touches to make your stay more pleasurable.
The Bonnington Dublin Hotel
Modern Business-oriented hotel comprising an 18th-century Manor House, located 3km north of Dublin City center.
Auburn Lodge Hotel
Gracious Stone Lodge situated amid landscaped gardens, 1 mile from town center.
Killarney Court Hotel
Bedrooms boast tasteful neo-gothic style decor w/modern facilities; friendly efficient svc; ideal venue for a conference/seminar.
Majestic Hotel
Welcome to the award winning AA*** Majestic Hotel in the sunny South East of Ireland, overlooking Tramore Bay with its impressive 5km stretch of golden beach and sand dunes and less than 10km from the historical city of Waterford.
Novotel Cardiff
Redbrick Victorian-style Hotel located near Cardiff Bay & city center.
Novotel London West
Concrete and brick commercial hotel in modern nine-story complex located at Hammersmith, 1/4 mile from train station.
Check out our Q&As
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What is the maximum group size?
Usually max 43 people
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Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?
Yes
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
Yes
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Yes, 5 years or above
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Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?
Yes
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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May 05, 2024 - May 19, 2024Sunday - Sunday
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Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 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 cosmos charges.
Up to 65 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 64 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.